Ferdinand Redtenbacher

Ferdinand Jakob Redtenbacher (July 25, 1809 in Steyr, Upper Austria – April 16, 1863 in Karlsruhe) is regarded as the founder of science-based mechanical engineering.

After a short interlude as a technical illustrator in the "Baudirektion" (building authority) in Linz, he attended the Polytechnikum in Vienna from 1825 until 1829.

After 1860 the number of students fell again, which can be explained by Redtenbacher's stomach illness and his irritation and differences with his professor colleagues.

Working at the Polytechnikum Karlsruhe, he added a mathematical foundation to the previously empirical teaching.

His students include such outstanding engineers as Karl Benz, Franz Reuleaux and Emil Škoda.