Work with Lasse Schwarz

How long have you been with BIOTRONIK, and what program are you in? 

I've been with BIOTRONIK since September 1, 2022. I started with an apprenticeship as an IT specialist, which I completed in July 2025. After that, I worked as a software developer in the Business Solutions Development department before beginning my dual degree program in Business Informatics at the Berlin School of Economics and Law in September. 

How long does the dual degree program last? 

The program lasts three years. I began with a preparatory practical phase at the company, and since October 2025, I’ve been attending classes at the university for three months.  

What exactly are you learning here? 

During my apprenticeship, I learned how to program, solve IT problems at the hardware and software levels, and understand IT processes. I also learned about project management—specifically, planning, documentation, and teamwork. 

In the dual degree program, I want to further deepen my knowledge of computer science while also gaining an understanding of the business factors behind it. Business Informatics combines exactly that: using IT effectively within a company and improving processes. At university, I learn the theory; at BIOTRONIK, I see how it’s put into practice right away—for example, with new software tools or process optimizations. 

I especially like that I don’t just write code, but also understand how IT solutions benefit the company. 

Why an apprenticeship first, then a dual degree program? 

At first, I was just looking for an apprenticeship program that sounded exciting. I've always been interested in technology—and I found the idea of working for a company that develops complex technical products far more fascinating than, say, manufacturing ballpoint pens or inventing the 10th dating app. 

During my apprenticeship, I learned a great deal, but I also realized that I’m interested in business management topics as well. I discussed this idea early on with my instructor, who supported me from the very beginning. Together with our training coordinator, we explored various options—which is how I ended up in the dual degree program. 

With my degree program, I now have more personal responsibility: I have to keep track of my own schedule, assignments, and commitments. It's challenging, but that's exactly what appeals to me. 

How did you first learn about BIOTRONIK? 

I came across BIOTRONIK through an ad on Azubiyo. I'm particularly inspired by what BIOTRONIK does and what the company stands for. The vision "One Second. "One Life" won me over right away: To save and improve people's lives. 

What insights have you gained so far? 

During my apprenticeship, I was able to get to know many different areas: Working in IT support, I learned a lot about computers and how to interact with customers. In digital marketing, I had the opportunity to help with the relaunch of the company's website. That was really exciting because it gave me a sense of just how complex a project like that is. The site is international, and each country has its own requirements and product catalogs.  

I was also able to gain experience in HR IT. There, together with another business administration student, I helped design an internal platform for our apprentices and dual degree students—I really enjoyed that.  

Another real highlight was my time in the Digital Factory Systems department. There, I saw firsthand how my colleagues develop and maintain the software for our production machines—for example, so that robots and other equipment can move around on the production floor. That was really exciting to see. 

Tell us about your final project—what was it about, and what did you do? 

I completed my final project in the Business Solutions Development department. The project involved developing a web app for user management within an internal system used to record non-compliant products and document error analyses. 

Since the existing interface was very cluttered, I developed a new, more streamlined web interface. I defined the user permissions for various roles and designed the application to be intuitive to use.  

I found it particularly exciting that I was able to develop my own solution to a real-world problem encountered in everyday business operations. For me, this was a very fitting conclusion to my apprenticeship. 

I concluded the project by presenting it to the examination committee—with a presentation and a 15-minute Q&A session on project management, programming languages, and the frameworks used. The panel included both Chamber of Industry and Commerce examiners and my vocational school teacher. 

Did you have to go through the regular application process like everyone else? 

Yes, I went through the standard application process—with a cover letter, resume, and a digital aptitude test covering economics, math, computer science, and logical thinking. This was followed by a personal interview with the training coordinator and the instructor. 

The process was very similar to my apprenticeship, just without the group discussion. The only slight advantage was that I already knew a few coworkers going into the interview; other than that, everything went as usual. 

What does a typical day look like for you? 

My day starts with a quick look at my calendar and to-do list. We have short daily team meetings and weekly project reviews. 

I receive my assignments from my supervisor—but I plan how to carry them out on my own. To do this, I set my weekly and daily goals, often based on a project plan. After that, I start working on my daily goals; for example, I write code to retrieve data from a database and display it visually. Next, I'll test the code using software tests to make sure everything works. Sometimes I also write documentation so that others can understand later what I did. Every now and then, I also prepare presentations for project updates or results. 

During my lunch break and after work, I often meet up with other trainees or coworkers. It's important to me that we have a lot of fun and can laugh together. Some of them have become real friends by now. 

How are you supported in your learning? 

There are regular meetings for all IT trainees, feedback sessions after each department rotation, and the opportunity to work on your own projects. We also have access to Udemy, where we can take courses on our own. 

What are your plans for the future? 

I want to take the time during my studies to figure out which area of IT suits me best. In the long run, I could also see myself pursuing a master's degree, but I'll decide that later. 

What do you do in your free time? 

I like to be outdoors, go hiking or fishing, and sometimes play video games—that’s how I unwind from working on the computer. 

What advice would you give to high school or university students? 

Don’t be afraid to pursue an apprenticeship—it’s a great way to start your career. And for anyone interested in pursuing a university degree, I would definitely recommend a dual degree program. You gain practical experience, get to know different departments, and discover what you really enjoy doing.