IVW says goodbye to Harald Weber

The Leibniz-Institute for Composite Materials (IVW) bids farewell with a wistful but grateful heart to one of its most long-standing employees, Harald Weber. After almost 33 years of dedicated work, Harald Weber has left the institute and retired.

Born in Meisenheim, Harald began his professional career with a vocational training at the United Aircraft Technical Works. He demonstrated his social commitment during his civilian service at the State Youth Ministry of the Protestant Church in Rockenhausen. This was followed by stints in toolmaking at Keiper Rockenhausen and later in Kaiserslautern, where he specialized in research and development.

Prof. Dr. Albert Meij, Harald's first supervisor at IVW, recalls: "Harald was not only an excellent workshop manager but also a valuable member of our team. His commitment to IVW and his colleagues was tireless, and his contribution will be remembered for a long time."

Upon joining IVW in 1991, Harald took over the management of the mechanical workshop, which he built up with great skill and dedication. His colleagues appreciated not only his technical know-how but also his warm personality and his ability to inspire and support others.

In his farewell address, IVW Scientific Director Prof. Dr.-Ing. Ulf Breuer said: "Harald Weber has supported the IVW with his work as head of the mechanical workshop since the early years. Countless devices, apparatuses, test benches and prototypes from generations of students and doctoral candidates would not have been possible without him."

During his time at IVW, Harald Weber also engaged in activities for the common good, including the founding of the works council and his membership on the board of the "Freunschaftskreis des IVW" association.

As a token of appreciation and recognition, IVW presents him with an electrically heated vest for his rides on the vintage motorcycle, symbolizing the warmth and connection he leaves behind at the institute.

Harald, the entire IVW team wishes you all the best for your retirement. You will be missed, but your legacy will always be part of our history. We bid farewell with both a smile and a tear, and look forward to meeting again.