How Christin Merzhäuser is changing role models

My path with Steuler

The Steuler Group opens up new perspectives for individual development and nothing proves this better than the real stories of the people at our sites.

One of them is that of Christin Merzhäuser, the first female industrial ceramicist to work in production and an inspiration for other female talents who want to gain a foothold in the refractory industry.

We had the pleasure of talking to her about her development with us.

Working for the Steuler Group: Christin Merzhäuser

Christin Merzhäuser | Industrial ceramist

Dear Christin Merzhäuser, before we start: We are delighted that you are sharing your story!

Thank you. It's a pleasure for me to do this, because I think it's incredibly important to break down barriers and be a role model for others. As the first woman in a “male domain”, I can show that talent is not a question of gender, age or other such factors.

You're absolutely right. How did your career at Steuler begin?

I started training as an industrial ceramist. Before that, I had been looking for something I really enjoyed for a long time. When I heard about the opportunity to try out my skills here, I applied straight away. From the first interviews and the introduction to the processes, I knew I was in the right place. The atmosphere and the opportunities I was offered won me over straight away.

How have you already thrived in your development?

I recently qualified as an industrial ceramist and am therefore still at the beginning of my professional journey. Nevertheless, I already have clear plans for my near future in the company. The challenges that lie ahead of me make me optimistic - I'm really looking forward to it. There is still a lot more to learn!

What was one of the moments when you felt you had really arrived?

I would say that I felt this for the first time after a month or two of my training. Although I initially had some concerns about how I would be received as a woman in this male-dominated industry, this quickly proved to be unfounded. My colleagues supported and integrated me right from the start, so I almost felt at home!

Just like at home - that sounds like a family atmosphere. Would you say that's what the Steuler community is all about?

Definitely. The team spirit among colleagues is something special. There is a very open and trusting relationship in which everyone supports each other. I noticed this as I went through every department. This community is an important part of what makes our company what it is and I am proud to be a part of it.

And what makes you particularly proud of your personal path?

How well I have mastered this! It fills me with pride to see how I have already changed in this short time and how I have grown both personally and professionally. With the support of my colleagues, I have become part of the team and have been able to develop further.

This is really an inspiring development for other women in the refractory industry too. One last question: What about your path did you not expect when you started your training?

What I didn't expect at the time was the variety of topics covered in the training. Getting to know every department and gathering knowledge from different areas helped me enormously. These experiences have shown me how complex and exciting our company is and how each area contributes to the further development of the company.

We are very pleased to hear this and thank you for the interview and your openness. Thank you for being part of Steuler!

This personal story is one of many special people who have made Steuler what it is today.

Would you also like to shape your own path? Then take a look at the vacancies on our job portal or send us an unsolicited application.