From Austria to Belfast: An Intern’s Journey Inside CATAGEN’s Engineering Team

At CATAGEN, we’re committed not only to developing technologies that help clean and decarbonise the air, but also to supporting the next generation of engineers who will shape a more sustainable future. This Autumn, we welcomed a mechanical engineering apprentice from Austria, Sophia Holzknecht, through the Intern Europe Programme for a six-week placement to CATAGEN’s Green Emissions Testing (G.E.T).

During her time with us, she immersed herself in our engineering environment, learned new methods, explored Northern Ireland, and became a valued part of the CATAGEN (G.E.T) team.

Here, she shares her experience, from cultural firsts to hands-on learning, in her own words.

What it the Intern Europe Programme and how did you get matched with CATAGEN?

My internship was arranged through the CFA in Austria, who work closely with Intern Europe to place students with companies abroad. I was matched with CATAGEN because I’m completing a 3.5-year apprenticeship in mechanical engineering. I’m now in my third year and will complete the programme in February 2026.

Have you been to Northern Ireland before? How did you find the people and culture?

No, I had never been to Northern Ireland before, which made this such a special experience. The people here are incredibly friendly, respectful, and welcoming. The culture is fascinating. I love the architecture and the vibrant street art. One of the highlights of my stay was definitely visiting the Giant’s Causeway.

Do you miss being back at home and if so what would you be doing there? Any activities?

Of course, I miss home a little, but I made sure to fully embrace this opportunity during my six weeks here and I really did! I explored a lot of Northern Ireland and made great use of my time outside of work.

One thing that you will remember from your time at CATAGEN

There are so many great memories, but what stands out most is the team. Everyone at CATAGEN was incredibly supportive and made my six weeks here unforgettable. I’ve also learned new working methods that I’ll be able to take home and apply in my apprenticeship.

Tell us about your apprenticeship in Austria and the work you’ve done at CATAGEN

At my company in Austria, I am a trainee in my fourth year of apprenticeship. I work in a department that deals with pneumatics and hydraulics. In my department, we build parts from our trains, such as brakes and compressors. We perform servicing or repairs and then test them. It’s similar at CATAGEN, because we also test things and repair machines there, just like I do the leak check at my company. The only difference is that we work with liquids such as oil and air, rather than gas.

Can you share a fun or quirky fact about yourself?

I am a very funny person. I love making people laugh! I try to bring positive energy wherever I go and keep the mood light.

Name two things you love

My family and cars especially Audis. They are smart, fast, and beautifully designed.

Name two things you dislike

Brown sauce since being here for 5 weeks! And when things aren’t clean. I’m a total clean freak! I even wash my car once a week. It’s an Audi😊

What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting an apprenticeship or joining the Intern Europe Programme?

You absolutely have to do it, it’s an incredible experience that stays with you for life. You’ll meet people from different countries, learn new ways of working, and grow both professionally and personally.

I’ve learned so much from the CATAGEN team and I hope to stay in touch with them in the future.

Quickfire Questions

Sun Holiday or Snow Holiday – Sun holidays
Night In or Night Out – Both
Android of iPhone – iPhone
LinkedIn or Instagram – Instagram
Music or Podcasts – Music

About CATAGEN
CATAGEN’s mission is to clean and decarbonise the air. We are a pioneering green emissions testing facility based in Belfast providing unrivalled metrics to optimise catalyst development and reduce harmful tailpipe emissions. Our expertise in the mobility sector and global emissions standards has led us to develop ClimaHtech technologies including renewable Hydrogen and E-fuels.

For more information about CATAGEN and its diesel aftertreatment accelerated ageing cycle services, please visit www.catagen.com

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