How to be a (Startup-) CTO (Summer School) 2025

This three-day, hands-on summer program powered by HPI Engine and ELIAS brings together aspiring and current startup tech
leaders for an immersive journey through the heart of startup technology leadership. Guided by experienced founders who have
lived the challenges, every session combines practical talks, interactive workshops, and real-world scenarios from building MVPs to scaling teams, product strategy, security, and effective communication.

Join peers and visionaries in open discussions and deep-dives into the seven essential CTO responsibilities. Highlights include mock interviews, investor negotiations, practical checklists, and dynamic sessions on team building, product management, and prioritization under pressure. Network with future CTOs, learn to balance hands-on development with strategic leadership, and discover what it takes to thrive in the fast-paced startup ecosystem.

If tackling real-world tech challenges, sharing experiences, and leveling up your leadership with top minds sounds exciting, this event is for you. Get ready to network, learn, and fast-track your journey as a next-generation CTO!

The following speakers will be attending, among others:

• Eric Bowman, CTO @ King
• Stefan Krumnow, SVP Engineering @ SAP Signavio
• Peter Grosskopf, CTO/COO @ AllUnit
• Matthias Schmeißer, VP People & Organisation @ emnify
• Mona Faisst, CPO @ indicate
• Mali M. Baum, CEO @ WLOUNGE
• Agnieszka Michalik, CEO/CTPO @ Checkturio

This program is delivered in partnership with ELIAS, the European Lighthouse of AI for Sustainability.

How to register

Registration for External Students & PHDs By Mail to: program@engine.hpi.de

Your application should include:

1. your current certificate of study (Studienbescheinigung)
2. 3-5 sentences of motivation
3. a current CV

Note: Participants who do not require ECTS can apply by mail to program@engine.hpi.de without attaching the enrollment certificate, CV, or motivation letter.