Mannheim, December 3, 2025
In August 2022, Jonas Spratte commenced his integrated degree program in industrial engineering at Caterpillar Energy Solutions. The student especially enjoyed his semester abroad in Dubai and working with colleagues there. In this interview, Spratte talks about what he experienced and learned during his three-month stay in Dubai.
Why did you choose the integrated degree program in industrial engineering at Caterpillar Energy Solutions?
“I was eager to get a placement on an integrated degree program in the technical field. Caterpillar Energy Solutions was my first choice as a leading international company in the field of mechanical engineering. I started the integrated degree program in August 2022 and completed it in October of this year. Since then I’ve been working as a Project Coordinator in the LEPS Strategy and Planning Team at Caterpillar Energy Solutions.”
During your degree program, you seized the opportunity to spend a semester abroad in Dubai. How did this come about?
“I really wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to study abroad for a semester during my degree program. Dubai was of particular interest to me, as it represents a highly dynamic and rapidly developing hub. It was also a nice coincidence that a colleague from the Product Definition Team, with whom I wrote my bachelor’s thesis, works there.”
What was your everyday life like as a student on an integrated degree program at the Dubai site?
“During my three-month semester abroad, I enjoyed taking on tasks in the Product Definition Team while completing my bachelor’s thesis. For example, I helped organize an event with our distributors. I also used the time to get to know the location, the employees, and the work culture in Dubai better.”
What did you like most about your semester in Dubai?
“During the time I spent in the United Arab Emirates, I really enjoyed getting to know the country and the culture. I also received a very warm welcome at the Dubai site. I got to know many of the colleagues working there and also came into contact with teams from other business units for the first time. I’m also very happy that I was given exciting tasks to work on.
Did you have experiences during your semester abroad that helped you in your career at Caterpillar Energy Solutions?
“Yes, the semester abroad was very helpful for my career development. Since October 1, I’ve been working on the Strategy and Planning Team at Caterpillar Energy Solutions, where I can apply much of what I’ve learned about the industry and our products. The semester abroad also helped me to get a broader picture of the company and improve my language skills.”
Would you recommend other students on integrated degree programs at Caterpillar Energy Solutions to spend some time overseas?
“Yes, definitely. A semester abroad really helps you to step outside your comfort zone. In addition, you gain a different perspective on the company and get to know a different culture. That’s why I would recommend a stay abroad to anyone who has the opportunity to do so.”