Guest article by proRWTH
Student Council Conference for Mechanical Engineering Held at RWTH
More than 200 student council members from across Germany and Austria came together in Aachen for the 2025 FaTaMa, the annual Conference of Mechanical Engineering Student Councils.The event was hosted by the Mechanical Engineering Student Council in Aachen and made possible through the dedicated efforts of the Aachen organizing team, with generous support from proRWTH, the University’s association of friends and supporters.
From May 28 to June 1, 2025, the RWTH campus welcomed representatives from around 40 universities and universities of applied sciences for a packed program of workshops, plenary sessions, and research institute tours – focusing on teaching, student advocacy, and the future of engineering education. Over the course of five days, student representatives exchanged ideas on education policy, curriculum development, exam regulations, and student engagement, both inside and outside the classroom. The conference also provided opportunities to visit research institutes, connect with peers, and return home with new ideas and renewed motivation for local student council work.
Thanks to the strong support of the RWTH community, the conference ran smoothly and professionally. Several departments in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering opened their doors to give students firsthand insight into ongoing research. ProRWTH played a key role in funding the event and fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
Building connections was another key focus. Alongside academic programming, participants visited local research centers and companies – including Printenbäckerei Klein, a bakery specializing in Aachen gingerbread (Printen), as well as Aixtron, Krafft Walzen, and the grounds of the CHIO World Equestrian Festival – offering behind-the-scenes insights into both industry and regional culture. Aachen impressed as both a vibrant city and a desirable place to study and live.
Evening social events rounded out the conference, giving attendees a chance to grow their personal networks and share experiences from their home institutions.
Key themes at this year’s conference included the role of artificial intelligence in engineering education, improving study conditions, and advancing curriculum reform. Discussions also explored how student voices can help shape higher education policy and governance.
The organizing team from Aachen looks back with pride and appreciation on a successful and inspiring event. The overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores the importance of student involvement in shaping the future of academia. With this year’s conference, Aachen positioned itself as a hub of both academic excellence and student life. The 2026 FaTaMa conference will be hosted by Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts.
– Author: Johannes Hermann