*1975 | Germany
Field: Technology
Degrees in electrical engineering, business administration, and economics; | Ph.D. in electrical engineering
My Work:
President of Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences
Brief job description:
As a professor:
Explain the concepts of mobile communications to students, conduct simulations and calculations to improve mobile communications, and engage in discussions with others on academic matters or the university’s further development
As president:
Hold numerous meetings and discussions with colleagues, entrepreneurs, and politicians to jointly advance the university, represent it in public, develop strategy papers, and write reports
Kira Kastell
“If you're convinced that technology is your calling, don't let others talk you out of it.”
Her vision for “Women in STEM”
I would be delighted if more women chose careers in STEM, especially in engineering, just as I did. I followed my interests and inclinations, even though I was often asked if I really wanted to do that as a woman. There are many exciting careers in these fields, and they all benefit when diverse people bring different perspectives to the table.
And even if it doesn’t seem like it, female engineers often work on projects that improve or support people’s lives. Contributing to this through the advancement of technology is especially rewarding.
Did you have a clear idea of what your future would look like when you were a child?
No, in middle school, I wanted to study astrophysics and explore space. But because of the job prospects and the bleak outlook for funding in space research, I started looking around during my senior year of high school to see which applied fields of study would match my interests in math and physics. That’s how I came across electrical engineering.
Which person(s) or experience(s) had the greatest influence on your decision about what career to pursue, and why?
My decision to major in electrical engineering was solidified by a very persuasive professor at an information session, who encouraged me to pursue this field, especially as a woman. I didn’t have a specific career goal in mind at that point, as the range of career opportunities for female electrical engineers is very broad.
During my studies, I developed a desire to become a professor and to further develop the necessary skills and pass them on to young people. My professors (who were exclusively male at the time) inspired me in this regard. I eventually entered university administration after becoming involved in the university senate and being asked by the university president if I would be interested in joining the executive board.
Please tell us how your interest in your profession, field of study, or craft was sparked.
My interest in academia, both in research and teaching, was deepened by my studies. I have always been interested in the natural sciences and later in technology as well, and I found it exciting to explore new fields. My desire to make these fascinating topics accessible to others and to advocate for better conditions eventually led me to a leadership role at the university.
What do you like most about your current job?
As president of a university, my responsibilities are extremely diverse, ranging from issues of higher education policy and internal strategic planning with faculty, staff, and students to discussions about the day-to-day challenges of university life. It is precisely this wide range of responsibilities and the variety of tasks that make the role both exciting and challenging. Unfortunately, as president, I no longer have the time to teach my own courses and thus maintain regular direct contact with students and support their development.
These qualities have helped me along the way:
I set goals for myself and pursued them consistently, even when the path wasn’t always straightforward. In other words, determination and perseverance were important, but so was taking an interest in the people I worked with. Being a good listener and staying open to different perspectives helped me along the way.
If you could give young women some advice, what would it be?
If you’re interested in something, make sure you do your research. Once you’re convinced, don’t let others dissuade you from your path, and try to find allies who will support you even during difficult times.
Contact Information
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Kontakt
Tel. 069 / 713 79 69-0
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Fax 069 / 713 79 69-190
info@experiminta.de
