Pioneering AI: My Story at ZF
Mark Schutera – Head of Industrial AI
My story starts at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology where I studied mechanical engineering and then focused on cognitive technical systems, such as autonomous driving. As a doctoral student, I did dive deeper into the world of autonomous driving in collaboration with ZF.
My Focus?
Researching unsupervised deep learning for perception systems. I spent a research year abroad at the ZF Innovation Hub at Sunnyvale, California where I was part of the UC Berkeley Deep Drive Consortium for ZF. I came back to Friedrichshafen, as a Senior Machine Learning Developer, which then allowed me to make the transition to become an AI Product Owner and team lead within validation for autonomous driving functions for our autonomous shuttle.
"As head of industrial AI within Passive Safety Systems my heart beats for global road safety."
By now it is the beginning of 2024, and ZF is mounting an impressive digitalization effort in operations and production. Given my experience and background this is something I wanted to shape and contribute to – and I am more than happy to be now entrusted with the responsibilities as Head of Industrial AI.
My Office?
May be in Alfdorf, but my work spans the globe. With production sites worldwide and as software development embraces remote work, I collaborate with colleagues from Germany and beyond.
My Team's Vision?
Building the Industrial AI Operating System for ZF's passive safety systems. We are like a central hub for all things AI in production and operations, making processes more efficient and increasing quality.
My job comes with its challenges. We are always pushing the boundaries of technology, integrating it into our already optimized production lines. Plus, we are pioneering a software-defined future, which means constant adaptation, alignment and innovation.
What I love most about my Job?
Is that I have the privilege to work, learn and progress with the smartest, driven, and curious people I can think of – And knowing that our work is enhancing the industrial workforce is truly rewarding.
What ZF is for me?
A place where everything comes together: A comprehensive mobility portfolio, cutting edge research, the tradition of German Engineering and its love for detail, and the clear vision to become a software-driven company built upon automation and digitalization at scale.
My most memorable Experience with ZF?
Immediately, I think of all the moments where I was entrusted with responsibility – this is where I grew most. My PhD, the ZF Innovation Award, and all the friends I made here are experiences I would’t want to miss.
And ZF as an employer?
That’s everyone of us, every day.
