Moving Beyond Theory, Implementing with KIT
One of our initial steps into this fresh endeavor involves our collaboration with Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). Through our partnership with KIT, we have established a strong talent pipeline comprising both students and full-time staff members. This collaboration allows us to connect with exceptional talent from KIT’s innovative global network.
Simon Schafer – Transitioning from KIT to Torc Robotics
Simon Schafer is a prime example of the success of Torc’s Rising Talent approach. Starting as a KIT student, Torc software engineering intern, and a member of the KIT Racing Team, Simon smoothly transitioned into his position at Torc by contributing to the Vehicle Intent team. Simon has proven to be an exemplary employee and advocate for our autonomous driving technology, showcasing the hands-on engineering and teamwork skills instilled in him by KIT. As an ambassador, Simon continues to strengthen the bond between Torc and KIT, assisting in attracting and guiding the next wave of engineers.
Setu Namburu – Fostering Early Career Talent
As a Manager of Applied Data Science at Torc, Setu plays a crucial role in creating and implementing data-driven solutions for our self-driving technology. Leveraging her extensive expertise, she has successfully converted five data science/analytics intern students into permanent employees at Torc, underscoring her commitment to nurturing emerging talent. Setu’s leadership has been pivotal in guiding Torc’s transition into this innovative program. Through her mentoring, guidance, and support for early-career professionals, Setu sets a remarkable benchmark for our recruitment approach.
Christin Scheib – From Europe to Blacksburg
Initially a student at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology and a Torc co-op, Christin smoothly transitioned into a full-time engineering role, relocating from Europe to Torc’s HQ in Blacksburg, Virginia. Since joining the automated truck technology team, Christin’s efforts have streamlined the integration of our hardware and software components, demonstrating the potential that students bring when onboarded as permanent staff members.
Brent Papenfuse – Elevating Student Excellence to a New Level
Brent has played a pivotal role in reshaping the recruitment landscape at Torc. In his role as Program Manager, Brent not only develops certification programs and maintenance protocols for our autonomous trucking solution but also drives hiring initiatives from technical institutions and community colleges. He has collaborated with the Rising Talent community program to influence company positions in diesel mechanics, cultivating a new cohort of professionals who are tech-savvy yet grounded in traditional mechanical practices.
Alexia Tran – Driving Success Across Borders
Alexia commenced her journey at Torc as a research and development intern at Torc’s Montreal offices, where she designed cutting-edge test benches, reverse-engineered CAN bus messages, and more. After showcasing her exceptional skills in autonomous engineering, Alexia was brought on board as a full-time Systems Engineer. Alexia is a prime example of Torc’s network of internationally mobile professionals, transitioning from Montreal to Torc’s Stuttgart, Germany offices to contribute to the development of our self-driving solution.
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The Future of Rising Talent at Torc Robotics
Looking ahead, we anticipate that our new initiative will serve as a fundamental driver of our expansion strategy. Talent pipelines and software engineering internships like those developed with KIT will remain integral, ensuring a consistent influx of exceptional talent from around the world. In alignment with this approach, we are emphasizing inclusivity, adaptability, and competency-based recruitment practices throughout our organization. We are committed to attracting and retaining the finest talent available in the autonomous engineering realm, propelling our technology and our company forward in a competitive and dynamic industry.
