Meet Cornelia Schneider, our lovely colleague from our office in Hannover. In May 2023, she celebrated a significant milestone: 20 years with the company. A small celebration was held, complete with flowers, cake, and heartfelt greeting cards. In a recent interview, Cornelia shared her journey, experiences, and insights during her two decades at LANCO.
How Did You First Join the Company?
In 2003, I joined LANCO after working in an engineering company for some time. Unhappy with my previous position, I was actively seeking a better opportunity. After coming across a newspaper advertisement, I had an interview with Mr. Abé (LANCO Group CEO, Ed.) and his father during the Tech Textile fair in Frankfurt. My hair was dyed blue at the time, so I think Mr. Abé sr. was not extremely enthusiastic about hiring me (she laughs). The rest, as they say, is history. (smiles)
What Had Been Your Work Experience Until Then?
My career started in civil engineering after completing my studies in 1995. I worked on designing sewage plants and working with bridges (check-ups due at different intervals depending on the bridge class), gaining valuable experience in various structural projects. I then worked on truss structures for events and old hospital refurbishments. My experience with static calculations and aluminum structures led me to LANCO in 2003.
Let’s Talk About What You (Dis)like About Your Job.
I truly enjoy my work. One aspect I like is seeing my designs come to life and witnessing the outcomes on-site. This keeps me connected to the practicality of my work. Additionally, the diversity of projects and the interaction with customers are highlights. There's not much I dislike about my job, except that I wish I could be more often present in the production plant so that I get to see more of my design coming to life.
So No Significant Dislikes? Isn’t Your Job Stressful?
While there are stressful moments in any job, I wouldn't categorize my job as overwhelmingly stressful. Challenges are a normal part of the process, and I believe they help me grow and improve.
What Can You Tell Us About the Benefits of Working at LANCO Compared to Other Companies?
As far as I am concerned, one of the greatest benefits is that LANCO has been incredibly family-friendly and flexible with my schedule. They've accommodated my needs, allowing me to balance my work with personal responsibilities.
Another thing I like a lot is the relationships we have as colleagues, even working across 6 different geographies. The sense of camaraderie and support among us is exceptional. We've formed strong bonds, and this positive atmosphere makes LANCO stand out compared to other companies. Work is so much more fun when you work with people you genuinely like.
What’s Your Favorite Place in Hanover?
My favorite place in Hanover would have to be the opera. I used to attend operas and ballets quite frequently before COVID and haven’t really gone back to my old habits, unfortunately. There's something enchanting about dressing up and enjoying a performance in such an elegant setting. I also love to dance. I don’t go that often these days, but I am still a big fan of ballroom dancing.
What Else Do You Do in Your Free Time? Do You Have Any Hobbies?
In my free time, I enjoy sailing and dancing, as I said. Sailing has been a passion of mine, and I'm grateful that LANCO supports my sailing endeavors.
I'm also a part of a literature circle that I founded 25 years ago. We meet every six weeks to discuss and share our thoughts on various books – we all read the same book at the same time. It's a great way to keep my love for reading alive.
Speaking of Which, Do You Have a Favorite Book?
One of my favorite books is "The Time Traveler's Wife" by Audrey Niffenegger. It's a captivating story about a man who involuntarily travels through time and meets his wife at different stages of her life. The intricate narrative and the mix of romance and drama make it a compelling read. I know there’s a movie, but I am usually disappointed by movies after I have read the book, so I didn’t watch it.
Do You Have a Favorite Quote?
One phrase that resonates with me is "Des Menschen Wille ist sein Himmelreich”, a proverb that would translate as A man's mind is his kingdom or Do what you want if it makes you happy. Basically, if somebody insists on doing something, although maybe unwise, let them be." It's a reminder to accept people as they are and not force changes upon them. This philosophy applies to various aspects of life, whether it's dealing with customers or personal relationships.
Would You Recommend LANCO to Someone Looking for a Job?
Absolutely. LANCO is not only committed to the well-being of its employees but also invests generously in the tools necessary for a seamless workflow. The company provides state-of-the-art equipment and up-to-date software programs. This commitment to keeping our technology current enhances our efficiency and effectiveness in delivering top-notch solutions to our clients.
LANCO's growth trajectory is inspiring, driven by its unwavering emphasis on improvement, innovation, and customer satisfaction. This creates a vibrant and dynamic work environment that encourages personal and professional growth. If you're searching for a workplace where your contributions are valued and where you can continue learning and advancing your career, LANCO is undoubtedly an excellent choice to consider.
With a remarkable 20-year journey, Cornelia has not only experienced the company's growth but also contributed significantly to its success. Her positive outlook, passion for her work, and appreciation for the LANCO team make her an inspiration to our colleagues and newcomers alike.
