Whether it's start-ups, research, or networking – HPI thrives on its community. In the latest employee interview, David Hahn, Head of Entrepreneurship Program at HPI Engine, tells us how his time as a student at HPI shaped his view of technology, education, and collaboration, what HPI Engine's current focus is, and what a typical workday feels like for him.
Hasso Plattner Institute: David, you've been at HPI since 2013 and also studied here yourself. What influenced you most during your time as a student—and how does that influence your work today?
David Hahn: For me, HPI has always been a special place with a unique community. We supported each other and had the freedom to try things out—a real playground for the future. This experience shaped my view of technology, education, and collaboration, and it still guides me today in my work at HPI Engine.
HPI: What are your current program priorities?
David: Our programs can be roughly divided into two types of learning formats: formats that teach entrepreneurial skills and economic understanding, and formats that provide practical support and in-depth knowledge of the start-up process. This allows us to cover the entire journey from idea to implementation. In short, learning and doing go hand in hand with us.
HPI: Over 300 startups have already emerged from the HPI ecosystem. Is there a story that particularly inspires you?
David: I can think of two. One is voize, which was created in a very classic way in a student dormitory – with the idea of making it easier to document the care provided to the founder's own grandfather in a nursing home. The other is Cula, a startup that tackles climate change with technical means and tracks CO₂ removal certificates to achieve a real positive impact.
HPI: If you had to describe a typical working day at the Engine in three words, what would they be?
David: Versatile, chaotic, fun.
HPI: Who—real or fictional—would you like to have coffee with and why?
David: Barack Obama. He has met so many people and has so many stories to tell. It's a cliché answer, but that's fine with me...
HPI: Is there an HPI value that is particularly important to you in your work?
David: All values are central—but if I had to pick one, it would be collaborative problem solving. That's exactly what the HPI and the HPI Engine are all about for me.
