Insight Elpro: Anna Gleißner,
Technical Draftsperson

Hi Anna, thanks for taking the time. Could you briefly introduce yourself? Who are you and what’s your professional background?

Hi, happy to! I’m Anna Gleißner, originally from Weiden in the Upper Palatinate, near Nuremberg and Regensburg. I trained as a technical draftsperson with a focus on product design for plant and mechanical engineering. I did my apprenticeship at SGB in Regensburg, and that’s actually how I came to know Elpro, as the two companies have been working together for some time.

So you already knew about Elpro before you joined?

Yes, I was familiar with the name and had some idea of the products, especially since I had been specializing in transformers. When I started looking for a new challenge, I remembered Elpro and thought it might be a good fit.

And you moved to Berlin for the job, right?

I was already living in Berlin at the time, initially working remotely for my former employer. After some time in home office, I decided I wanted something new – and that’s when I found my way to Elpro.

What was the application process like?

It was quite quick. About two weeks after applying, someone called me. I had an online interview first, and during the second meeting on-site I was introduced to my future workspace and met the team. Overall, it was a smooth and fast process.

How was your start at Elpro?

At first, I worked closely with a colleague who walked me through everything. The onboarding process was quite challenging because I hadn’t worked with these types of systems before. But the team supported me really well – especially the collaboration with the production and electrical departments.

What exactly is your role at Elpro?

I work in design engineering, specifically on DC switchgear (GS) for commuter rail systems like the S-Bahn in Berlin and Hamburg, as well as for local public transport. That means I work with 3D designs in SolidWorks and create 2D drawings based on them. It’s exciting to follow the entire process – from modeling on the computer to the finished part.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

My day usually starts at the computer, working in SolidWorks. Depending on the project phase, I also order individual parts through our ERP system Navision, create parts lists, or coordinate with the production team. There are always internal meetings – for example, when there are technical questions or changes that need to be made.

Has there been a project that you particularly enjoyed?

Many projects are quite similar, but I especially enjoy when I can manage a full project from start to finish. For instance, when a city like Jena needs a complete system, and I get to adapt it to their specific requirements – that’s really exciting and rewarding.

What do you enjoy most about your work at Elpro?

I like that I have a broader area of responsibility here than in my previous jobs. At Elpro, I oversee a project from A to Z – it’s challenging but also very fulfilling. You get the full overview and carry more responsibility, which really suits me.

Have you noticed any differences between working in Bavaria and in Berlin?

People in Berlin are more direct and sometimes a bit rougher, but you learn to stand your ground. In Bavaria, things are often a bit more polite and less direct, but here in Berlin, I appreciate the openness and clear communication – even if it comes across as a little harsher at times.

Thank you, Anna, for the interview and the insights into your work at Elpro!

My pleasure – thank you!