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150 years of engineering education in Winterthur: Anniversary with numerous events

The success story of engineering education in Winterthur began in 1874 with the founding of Switzerland's first technical college. The present-day ZHAW School of Engineering and the Department of Architecture, Design, and Civil Engineering at ZHAW originated from the former technical college. This year, the prestigious educational institution celebrates its 150th anniversary.

With the founding of the Technikum in Winterthur by the mathematics teacher and mechanical engineer Friedrich Autenheimer, the success story of engineering education in Winterthur began 150 years ago. In 1874, 72 students commenced their training in disciplines such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, commerce, arts, and at the surveying school. Soon after, additional departments were established, including the School for Chemists and the School for Electrical Engineers. In 1901, arguably the most famous teacher, Albert Einstein, briefly taught at the Technikum.

From the Winterthur School of Engineering to the ZHAW School of Engineering

In 1958, the Technikum counted more than 1000 students for the first time and enjoyed an excellent reputation as a training center for engineers throughout the country. In 1998, the Technikum Winterthur Engineering School (TWI) merged with the Zurich Interpreting School (DOZ) and the Zurich University of Applied Sciences in Business Administration (HWV) to form the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHW). With the establishment of the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) in 2007, the TWI was integrated into the ZHAW and divided into two departments: the "School of Engineering" and "Architecture, Design, and Civil Engineering." Today, the ZHAW School of Engineering, with ten bachelor's programs and a Master of Science in Engineering, is one of Switzerland's leading technical education and research institutions, tackling future challenges through its research and the training of professionals, making significant contributions to energy transition or the transformation of the economy through artificial intelligence.

Historical campus tours and special exhibition

The ZHAW School of Engineering celebrates the 150-year success story of engineering education in Winterthur with various activities and events. The Engineers' Day on March 4, 2024, kicks off the celebrations, dedicated particularly to our alumni. We'll hear from some of them, provide insights into recent developments at the School of Engineering, and offer a glimpse into the future. Various guided tours of selected labs and a reception for networking will complement the program.

For the anniversary event on June 25, invited guests will include Martina Hirayama, State Secretary for Education, Research, and Innovation (SERI) and former Director of the ZHAW School of Engineering, as well as Zurich Councilor and Director of Education Silvia Steiner as speakers.

The Night of Technology on July 5, 2024, is also dedicated to the 150th anniversary and offers insights into the rich history and diverse development of engineering education in Winterthur through a special exhibition. Additionally, historical campus tours will be provided, allowing visitors to learn many interesting facts about the university's history.

An overview of all events and detailed information about the 150th anniversary can be found on the homepage of the ZHAW School of Engineering: zhaw.ch/engineering/150Jahre

Contact & Downloads

Eva Tschampa, ZHAW School of Engineering, Marketing and Communications, Tel. +41 (0) 58 934 75 82, Email: eva.tschampa@zhaw.ch

David Bäuerle, ZHAW School of Engineering, Marketing and Communications, Tel. +41 (0) 58 934 68 61, Email: david.baeuerle@zhaw.ch

 

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Source: Winterthur Libraries, Winterthur Collection