Dipl.-Ing. Mag. Peter J. Zehetner

• Why did you decide to attend the master degree program European Energy Business? What makes it such a special program in your eyes?
  The European energy business is a very exciting field that is characterized by very complex and tight interdisciplinary networks. When I saw the curriculum of the master’s program European Energy Business, I understood that it would give me some comprehensive insights into a number of relevant subfields. In other words, the program combines law, economics, and technology in a particularly interesting and challenging way. And now, as a student, I see how the program is giving us a practically oriented education by encouraging us to intensively deal with current issues in the industry.

• Which courses have you attended so far and what have you learned in or through them?I have attended almost all courses offered in the first two semesters and I have to say that I am very satisfied with the subject matter offered by the lecturers. By building on a fundamental understanding of the European energy business and relevant subdomains, I was able to deepen my knowledge about technology – for example, infrastructure and power plants – European energy law, as well as energy markets and regulations. We also covered appropriate themes connected with business administration and strategy development.It is especially interesting that almost all of the course instructors are also practitioners in the field, so they can present detailed accounts of their experiences to us students.

• Have you already worked on any projects at the FH Kufstein? What did the projects deal with? How did you contribute to the projects?Actually, we have worked in small groups and on small projects in numerous classes. The assignments have been varied: for example, we developed projects for energy utilities, such as the planning of high-voltage lines and a garbage-burning facility. In another small project, we valuated companies. These group tasks are so exciting and dynamic because they promote discussions and the exchange of experiences among the students and lecturers.

• In your opinion, to what extent is it possible to combine one’s studies, job, and private life?'

The combination of these three areas in life represents a unique challenge that should not be underestimated. This is especially true if you have a job that requires you to work more than the normal 40 hours a week. However, because the on-site phases in the program European Energy Business are blocked, it is possible to draw up a good schedule and accommodate all your responsibilities. Naturally, it is also important that your employer and your family develop an understanding for your undertaking. Still, I have to say that the interesting, practically-oriented study program more than makes up for the added efforts.

• What career prospects do you have as a result of your studies at the master’s level?
  This perhaps sounds a little idealistic, but the most important thing for me is that I continue learning and developing myself. But still the European energy business is, in my judgment, one of the most exciting fields of our economy, and in future its significance will continue to grow tremendously in all areas like commerce, technology, law, and politics. The comprehensive education that I get through the program will give me a solid foundation for my work in management and in actively shaping the future of the European energy business.