ETH Zurich: 150 Years of Meticulously Training World Leaders of Tomorrow

The world knows Switzerland for its world class products that are a symbol of precision and excellence. Be it Swiss watches or dairy produce, the small yet mighty nation of Switzerland lives and breathes excellence. Naturally, the educational institutions of the country impart a similar ethos to its students. One of the premier seats of higher education in Switzerland is ETH Zurich. Founded in 1855, the educational institution has been a seat of international standing, attracting talent from all over the world. For over 150 years, ETH Zurich has been a driving force behind Swiss industry.

The institute has had a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and innovation, renowned for its contributions towards advancing knowledge and shaping the future through cutting-edge research, fostering collaboration across disciplines.

Exemplifying the impact that a strong educational foundation can have on shaping global leaders, Alumni Women Leaders from ETH Zurich are using their world-class training to push boundaries, drive technological advancements, and contribute to societal progress. The current edition of GWL magazine highlights a few such women leaders.

Gracing the cover of the magazine is Pascale Vonmont, the CEO and Director of Gebert Rüf Stiftung, Switzerland's largest private science and innovation foundation. With over 25 years of experience, she bridges science, business, and society to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. She has significantly contributed to Switzerland’s innovation landscape through her work with initiatives like 'Venture Kick' and her role as a jury member for the 'EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.'

In this edition we also feature an insightful interview with Dr. Julia Kuark, Founder and CEO, of JKK Consulting, a Mechanical Engineer with a doctorate in Work Psychology from the ETH Zurich. She is also a lecturer at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts and specializes in interdisciplinary workplace design, coaching, leadership development, and integrating engineering and psychology to create human-centered organizational solutions.

Mette Roti Egli, Group Technology & Innovation Director, NG Nordic joins the roster of noteworthy alumni women leaders from ETH Zurich. An experienced leader, Mette has previously worked for major global corporations like ABB, Alstom, and GE, delivering environmental technologies through EPC contracts across industries such as waste incineration, fossil power plants, and aluminum production. Over the years, she has held various roles in engineering, sales & tendering, project management.

In this magazine edition also read about Birgit Breitschuh, Partner, Oliver Wight EAME. An experienced business leader with expertise in change management, commercial and supply chain management. Armed with two decades of experience working for major FMCG companies, Birgit currently spearheads multifaceted international enterprise shifts through strategic focused planning and governance, enabling tactical execution with excellence.

Read about these elite group of women leaders who are redefining Switzerland’s economic landscape through their skill and innovation.

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