Jan Evler, Research Associate, Technische Universität Dresden

In order to help current students and recent graduates to find their way in the working world, many of our alumni shared their career story. Here the story of Jan Evler, Research Associate for the Technische Universität Dresden. USI Degree: Master in International Tourism, 2017.

How did you start your career?

I applied for traineeships and entry-positions in very different directions including mobility consulting, airport planning, destination management and transport research. After several frustrating interviews where I didn't feel any connection between the company and myself, I had two very inspiring interviews and went for the job which provided me with more opportunities for personal development.

Why did you choose a career at the Technische Universität Dresden?

I like the challenge of investing myself into a long-term research project on process analytics and the opportunity to learn scientific practice for obtaining a doctoral degree.

What is your current role/duties?

I am currently working at the Institute of Aviation and Logistics of TU Dresden on a Joint Research Project between Academia and Industry which focuses on Big Data Analytics in Aviation Management. Our main interest is the tactical control of airline ground operations in the event of schedule disruptions. In my dissertation project, which is funded by the European Air Traffic Management Institution “EUROCONTROL”, I aim to analyze the optimal behavior of airline operations controllers considering different decision paradigms, i.e., minimizing passenger misconnections, maximizing on-time performance or minimizing fuel burn. Additionally, I am co-lecturing the course in Airline Management.

In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career at the Technische Universität Dresden?

It is all about finding the appropriate research method for translating a real-world, hands-on problem into a scientific model in order to simulate different strategies for its solution/ optimization.

What are USI’s positive features and qualities?

Very applied teaching style, constant feedback on methodology and stimulation for critical thinking in a multicultural context.

What competences and/or skills acquired in your USI Study Program have been useful/are useful to your professional career?

Analytical mind-set for approaching business models and best-practices from the industry, presentation skills and intercultural communication.

What is your advice to USI students entering the job market?

Better wait for your first job to be the one where you feel a good fit rather than going for the first option - you always feel in the first interview whether its a match or not - unfortunately you cannot judge before that interview either, so test yourself with applications in different directions.