The Techne Connect

Welcome to the TECHNE Connect Podcast, Behind the Power.

Today we’re joined by John Alper, Principal Technologist at VoltStorage – a Munich-based company developing cutting-edge iron salt batteries for grid-scale energy storage.

John shares his fascinating journey from academia to industry, including groundbreaking research at UC Berkeley, pioneering work on flow batteries for NASA, and now driving innovation at the heart of VoltStorage’s commercial strategy.

We explore his transition from R&D to market-facing roles, the leadership lessons that shaped his career, and his advice for aspiring engineers and scientists looking to break into the clean tech sector.

A must-listen episode for anyone passionate about energy storage, sustainable innovation, and the future of grid resilience.

The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧

Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.

From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.

Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology.

Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we’re joined by Chris Hauxwell, General Manager at Evolution Battery Systems – a growing UK startup designing advanced battery systems for the automotive, industrial and energy sectors.

Chris walks us through his journey from his time in power electronics to spearheading innovation in a dynamic startup environment. He reflects on how he's building a high-performing team, why the North East is fast becoming an engineering powerhouse and how he’s leveraging deep industry experience to shape the next generation of battery technology.

An insightful episode for anyone interested in power electronics, start-up growth and the future of clean energy systems.

The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧

Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.

From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.

Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology.

Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we’re joined by Jeffrey Glasson, Chief Technology Officer at TWAICE – a battery analytics company headquartered in Munich.

Jeff takes us through his journey from Silicon Valley to Germany, drawing on leadership experiences at Apple, VMware and Contentful. He reflects on his evolution from hands-on engineering to strategic leadership, driven by a passion for solving complex customer challenges.

We explore the transformative role of AI in software, the future of battery intelligence, and how to lead effectively through times of disruption. A powerful episode for those interested in the intersection of technology, leadership, and sustainable innovation.

The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧

Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.

From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.

Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology.

Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are joined by Sarath Nair, Chief Engineer at Changan UK, to explore his inspiring journey ABOUT how he’s helped shape the future of electrified powertrains.

Sarath reflects on his career beginnings, moving from embedded software engineering in India to building battery systems for the Nissan Leaf in Japan, and eventually leading hybrid systems integration at Jaguar Land Rover. He shares how living and working across Japan, South Korea, Germany, and the UK shaped his leadership philosophy.

We dive into building resilient multicultural teams and what it really takes to lead electrification projects in OEMs and Tier 1s

A must-listen for those passionate about Ev’s, embedded systems and leading with purpose in clean tech

The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧

Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.

From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.

Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology.

Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we sit down with Lisa Akerlund, Chief Technology Officer at Rivus Batteries. We explore her journey from environmental science to leading cutting-edge innovation in sustainable battery tech.

Lisa shares how she transitioned from academia to start up life, her passion for solving real-world problems and the mission behind developing metal-free stationary batteries using locally sourced materials.

We also get insights into building resilient supply chains, navigating R&D in a fast-paced environment and what it really takes to lead with purpose in the clean energy sector. 

A must-listen for anyone driven by sustainability and technological impact.

The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧

Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.

From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.

Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology.

Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we sit down with Nick Grundish, VP of Battery Technology at Energy Exploration Technologies – an Austin-based start up driving innovation in lithium extraction and domestic battery materials.

Nick shares his journey from mechanical engineering to materials science, including his time working under the legendary John Goodenough, and how that experience shaped his path toward building breakthrough battery tech in the heart of the US clean energy movement.

We also explore life inside a battery tech startup, the realities of cutting-edge R&D, and what it truly takes to lead innovation in one of the world’s most critical industries.

A must-listen for anyone passionate about batteries, sustainability, and the future of clean energy.

The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧

Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.

From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.

Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology.

Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we sit down with Fredrik Fürst from Volvo Group to explore his journey from aspiring pilot to leader in battery and electrification systems. 

Frederik shares how he transitioned through technical and leadership roles, the lessons learned along the way, and the importance of building strong team culture.

We also dive into the evolving world of battery technology, from BMS development and AI integration to the role of infrastructure in heavy-duty vehicle electrification. A great listen for anyone passionate about the future of mobility and energy systems.

The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧

Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.

From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.

Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology.

Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we’re joined by Matrishvan Raval, Head of Product at Turntide Technologies.

Matrishvan brings a wealth of knowledge earned through years of experience in the engineering industry, marked by his leadership in electrification and product strategy.

With extensive engineering experience, Matrishvan offers a deep understanding of technology development, market dynamics, and the crucial intersection of engineering and commercial strategy. 

This episode focuses on his career journey through aerospace, automotive, and into electrification, highlighting key transitions and valuable insights.

We’ll explore Matrishvan's experiences at various stages of his career, from developing jet engine control software to leading product strategy in the EV sector. 

We also delve into the importance of curiosity, continuous learning, and bridging the gap between engineering and commercial awareness, offering valuable advice for navigating a career in this dynamic industry.

The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧

Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.

From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.

Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology.

Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we have a truly insightful conversation with Ahmed AbuTabl, Engineering Director and Head of Global Software Engineering for Body Control at Forvia Hella.

Ahmed brings a wealth of experience, having navigated diverse cultures and complex engineering challenges in the automotive sector.

We delve into his journey, uncovering how he's built a robust career through continuous learning and a deep understanding of technological fundamentals.

He shares his unique perspective on the future of autonomous vehicles and the importance of creating your own opportunities for success.

The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧

Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.

From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.

Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology.

Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we’re diving into the cutting-edge world of autonomous driving and advanced automotive technology.

Our guest is Karim Mansour, an Autonomous Driving Expert and Technical Director at NXP Semiconductors. With a career spanning continents, Karim has been at the forefront of some of the most groundbreaking advancements in the automotive and electric vehicle industries. 

Guided by his inspiring life philosophy that 'anything is possible,' he has carved a path as a relentless innovator and problem-solver.

What truly sets Karim apart is his passion for this space—an energy that keeps him not only current but ahead of the curve in one of the fastest-moving industries on the planet. 

In this episode, we’ll explore how his love for technology has driven his success, why this is such an exciting time to work in autonomous driving, and what the future holds for this ever-evolving field.

The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧

Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.

From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.

Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology.

Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.