In 1983, he obtained his PhD in Mechanical Engineering (robot programming) at the Machine Tools Laboratory (WZL) at Aachen's university.

From 1985 to 1991, he worked for German Lufthansa AG, where he held several management positions such as head of the aircraft maintenance department.

There, he founded the Center for Human-Machine-Interaction (ZMMI) in 1998 which provides research and services in the area of the design of human-machine-systems for industrial applications.

The technology initiative, supported by the active participation of its members, has already established pragmatic solutions, first products and common standards.

This association offers a platform for all european operators of research and demonstration facilities for smart manufacturing technologies in order to strengthen their cooperation and information.