Safely reaching new heights
Get to know Anna-Louisa, member of the DEKRA testing team for wind turbines. Like many of her friends, she could have taken up a more down-to-earth hobby. But she didn't. Even as a teenager, she had her sights set high. Anna-Louisa was 14 years old when her persistence finally paid off. She was allowed – under strict safety precautions and with official permission – to climb her first wind turbine together with her father. Her father is a mechanical engineer and designs wind turbines. So he knew what he was doing. This experience left a lasting impression on Anna-Louisa.
Inspection of wind turbines as a profession
Now 34, she has turned her enthusiasm for wind turbines into a career and has been part of the DEKRA team since 2023. She is currently completing a dual degree in mechanical engineering at the Brandenburg University of Technology in Cottbus, which she will finish in April 2026. She gained the foundations for her studies during an apprenticeship as an electronics technician for devices and systems at the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) in Braunschweig, followed by further training as a technician in 2019. However, the job in the public sector was not what she had in mind for her career. She wanted to combine her knowledge and enthusiasm for wind power technology. In addition, the job was simply too office-based for the athlete, who loves hiking, gravel biking, and jogging.
My enthusiasm for wind power comes from my father. He taught me how important safety is.
Anna-Louisa, Member of the DEKRA testing team for wind turbines
Outdoor work at dizzying heights
And so today she is part of the wind turbine testing team at the DEKRA branch in Cottbus. From there, the student accompanies the eight-person testing team on field assignments throughout Germany. Her job: commissioning and performing recurring inspections on the giant wind turbines. They test everything from stability and the wind turbine's drive train to electrical systems, climbing aids, lightning protection, and fire safety.
Her highest assignment so far: 160 meters above the ground on one of the numerous wind turbines in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. She proudly documents every turbine she visits in an online map service.
Safety first – in all situations
Afraid? No, not at all. "My enthusiasm for wind power comes from my father. He taught me how important safety is. It has two dimensions. On the one hand, there is plant safety, which we continuously check at DEKRA. And on the other hand, there is personal safety. That is my responsibility. Safety equipment, training, compliance with all safety regulations, and certifications such as the height certificate are basic requirements for this job."