Hannes Auer explains why Tinkering Outranks Titles

On 17. June 2025, Hannes Auer, founder and CEO Managing Director of the mechanical engineering company 3CON from Ebbs, was a guest at the FH Kufstein Tirol. At the Management Forum Kufstein, he gave the many students and guests exciting insights into his journey from a garage company to a global player with 900 employees worldwide.

From machine manufacturer to innovation driver

Born in Tyrol, Auer began his career with technical college training in Jenbach and his first jobs in Bavarian mechanical engineering. He impressively demonstrated how deep passion and technical interest can form the basis of a global technology company. “I never had a monetary goal—I just wanted to be intellectually challenged,” says Auer. His passion for software, physics, and technology has always driven him—not the desire for greatness or profit.

INNOVATION FROM THE COFFEE BREAK

In his passionate presentation, it became clear that innovation at 3CON is not a product of chance, but is rooted in a corporate culture that is lived and breathed. Auer speaks openly about how many of his best ideas have come from spontaneous conversations with employees – without any formal innovation processes. “I have 580 friends in the company. They come to me when they want to try something out,” he explained with a smile. The personal, empathetic way he treats his team is a key factor in the company's success – and one of the reasons why there is virtually no staff turnover.

ERRORS AS PART OF THE JOURNEY

Setbacks were also discussed openly. Two of 80 development projects failed – including a driverless transport system and a battery project that was undercut by Asian competitors. “We get over failures quickly – it's only money,” said Auer, emphasizing the importance of a strong equity base and a constructive culture of learning from mistakes.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AS A NEW PASSION

Auer was particularly enthusiastic about the role of artificial intelligence in his work: “I spend 70% of my time working with AI – because I love software. It's a blessing.” Whether it's data analysis, process optimization, or self-learning machines, one thing is clear to Auer: those who refuse to embrace AI will be left behind. At the same time, he advocates using the technology wisely: “AI is only as good as the people who guide it.”

LIVELY DISCUSSION AND STUDENT QUESTIONS

The keynote speech was followed by an open discussion. The students' questions ranged from leadership and innovation processes to the role of artificial intelligence in education. The event was moderated by Prof. (FH) Dr. Peter Dietrich, Head of the International Business & Management degree program.

INSPIRATION FOR PRACTICE

For students of business and communications-oriented degree programs at the Kufstein University of Applied Sciences, the evening offered practical insights into entrepreneurial thinking, innovation culture, and future strategies. Hannes Auer impressively demonstrated that passion, authenticity, and trust in people are the true drivers of sustainable success.

Links:

• Management Forum Kufstein | Event series
• 3CON | Website
• Marketing & Communication Management | ft

This article was written by students of the full-time bachelor's degree program in Marketing & Communication Management as part of their practical project.