Magdalena Neuhauser
Head of Hydraulic Laboratory in Vevey, Switzerland
From developing digital solutions for predictive maintenance in hydropower to leading model test campaigns and projects: Magdalena Neuhauser demonstrates what is possible when you seize opportunities, continue to grow, and give your all.
Hydropower is a technology that has existed for around 200 years and still holds significant technical and societal relevance. I am convinced that hydropower is a necessary ingredient to successfully transition to renewable energy sources, and it makes me proud to contribute. The site where I am based in Vevey, Switzerland, has existed for more than 160 years and has a long tradition of innovation, research, and development. I am proud of the work the whole department is doing to make Pelton turbines perform better and more efficiently, support our customers in the maintenance and operation of their plants through predictive maintenance, and contribute to turbine development in general through scale model tests. Our team is part of an international R&D organization, and I especially appreciate collaborating with people from different backgrounds and expertise, as it fosters a rich exchange of ideas and innovative solutions.
"I appreciate collaborating with people from different backgrounds and expertise, as it fosters a rich exchange of ideas and innovative solutions."
Reaching my 15-year milestone this year at ANDRITZ Hydropower offers a profound moment for reflection. My journey – from Project Engineer focused on timely commissioning, troubleshooting, and contract fulfillment; to Site Commissioning Coordinator overseeing resources and schedules; and more recently stepping into the role of Site Manager driving value through efficient operations and cost control – has fundamentally shaped my growth.
Professionally, this progression expanded my responsibilities from technical execution to comprehensive site management and taught me core business truths about the challenges and power of earning, the necessity of wise spending, and the competitive edge that saving can deliver.
Personally, it strengthened my adaptability in the ever-changing field environment, enhanced my ability to communicate effectively, shifting my perspective from component-level focus to holistic operational success.
This experience has equipped me to create real value and succeed in complex business settings.