"The right questions at the right time"

What excites you about your work as an Innovation Manager? 

Bernhard Fäßler: Above all, I’m excited by the opportunity to recognise new ideas early on and develop them into concrete projects for the future of energy. I find the intersection of technology, Business and Management particularly exciting, because the best innovations usually emerge when different perspectives come together. It’s simply fun to work on topics that still sound like a distant dream today but could become reality tomorrow.

Why should you never stop asking questions?

Bernhard: You should never stop asking questions because curiosity is the starting point for all learning and innovation. Often, the best ideas don’t come from answers, but from asking the right questions at the right time. I’ve also noticed that people who ask a lot of questions usually don’t know any less—they simply want to understand more. 

You studied at the FHV and also in Norway. How did these experiences shape your path?

Bernhard: Studying at the FHV and at the University of Agder in Norway greatly broadened my perspective on Engineering and Technology, innovation, and collaboration. At the FHV, I received a very hands-on education, while in Norway I learned to view challenges from an international perspective and to be open to new ways of thinking. Looking back, both experiences have helped me see change as an opportunity today and encouraged me to think outside the box, even when dealing with complex issues.

What projects are you currently working on? 

Bernhard: Right now, I’m primarily focused on future-oriented topics in the energy sector. These include projects related to artificial intelligence, battery storage, hydrogen, and the question of how we can design our energy system more flexibly and efficiently. In addition, I continue to conduct research and provide instruction at the University of Agder, which helps me directly connect current scientific developments with the practical challenges in the energy sector. I find it particularly exciting that you never stop learning—it feels like every week a new technology or idea emerges that’s worth taking a closer look at. 

How does an idea turn into a successful project?

Bernhard: An idea becomes a successful project when you test it against reality early on and keep its concrete benefits in mind. There are plenty of good ideas, but what matters most is bringing the right people together, having the courage to test them, and learning from setbacks. Innovation is therefore rarely a flash of inspiration, but rather the result of curiosity, perseverance, and a good dose of teamwork.

In your opinion, which skills will become more important in the future? Aside from technical knowledge, what else do young people need to bring to the table? 

Bernhard: I’m convinced that, in addition to technical knowledge, curiosity, critical thinking, a willingness to learn, and the ability to cope with change will become increasingly important. Technologies are evolving so rapidly today that no one can know everything, so you have to be able to contextualize, question, and evaluate information. Those who remain open-minded, ask the right questions, and collaborate well with others therefore often have a greater advantage than those who rely solely on existing knowledge. 

Thank you very much for the interview.     

Are you also interested in studying mechatronics at FHV? Then find out now about the curriculum, career opportunities, and study options—and take your next career step. Learn more about the bachelor’s degree programme and the master’s degree programme.      

About the person

Name: Bernhard Fäßler
Position: Head of Innovation Management at illwerke vkw
Degrees: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Mechatronics
Motto: never stop questioning