Efficient work in the morning, conversations with friends on the other side of the world in the afternoon, and then a nice evening with a series on a VOD platform. Sound familiar? This is yet more proof that fiber-optic networks are becoming indispensable in everyday life. Maciej Szumacher, who graduated in electronics and telecommunications in English and Polish from Lodz University of Technology, knows this very well. Today, he is developing his skills while working for a manufacturer of fiber-optic networks on European markets – the Corning Optical Communications Polska Sp. z o.o. He talks about the challenges in fiber optic technology and why it may soon be impossible to function without it.
You studied electronics and telecommunications. What did you learn during your studies and how do you assess the usefulness of this knowledge in your current job?
I believe that this subject should be in the TOP10 of studies in time, because of the comprehensive knowledge you gain and the opportunities for development after graduation. In the first year, mathematics and physics were the basis. Later on, we focused on topics strictly related to electronics, i.e., the construction of electronic circuits, the principles of semiconductors, digital circuits and telecommunication networks. For me, classes in optoelectronics and fiber-optic networks, which are the basis of the technical part of my professional work, were particularly important. I particularly value my studies at the IFE. It is an interdepartmental unit, which allows interaction between students not only from different faculties, but also countries and cultures. Studying in such an environment is great preparation for professional work.
Fiber-optic networks are becoming more and more popular in our homes, and the Corning factory is supplying them to the largest telecommunications companies in Europe. What demand is the company in Strykow responding to?
I think it would not be an exaggeration to say that fiber-optic networks will soon be no less necessary to our lives than bread or water. It is thanks to such networks that we can work efficiently during the day, communicate with friends on the other side of the world in the afternoon and watch a TV series on a VOD platform in the evening. At Corning, we are developing solutions for the passive part of fiber-optic networks, i.e., all kinds of infrastructure components and fiber-optic cabling. Corning is growing together with the market, which is constantly increasing its requirements for the density and number of fiber connections in its Data Centers. These are complex projects where ensuring delivery of products without delays or quality issues is key. That's why Corning's nearly 3, 000-employee and ever-expanding facility in Strykow, right in the middle of Europe, is so important in times of disruption in supply chains, ensuring that products reach our European customers on time and in perfect condition.
You work in the position of Hyper Scale Data Centre Program Manager EMEA, where engineering skills are combined with management. What exactly do you do?
I deal extensively with Hyperscale Data Centre customer support in EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa). I supervise and manage orders, provide training on the installation of Corning products, and work with the customer to develop new fiber solutions. In fact, my job is to do everything to make the company's collaboration with the European Data Centers work as well as possible.
What was the path to your current position like? And what would you like to say to the current students of Lodz University of Technology?
Actually, I have been working in similar positions, related to my education, since my second year at university. I started in my current company as an R&D engineer, where I was in charge of developing and implementing new fiber optic products. Later, I started as a technical support engineer and gained experience working directly with customers.
If I can offer any advice to university applicants and current students at the University of Technology, I would say to take advantage of internship opportunities during your studies. My internship at Corning showed me the reality of working in a large international company, I had the opportunity to actively participate in various technical projects. These are experiences that allow you to make great use of the knowledge you gained during your studies at Lodz University of Technology.
Interviewee: Dr Aleksandra Pawlik
Graphics: Filip Podgórski
Photographs: Corning Optical Communications Polska Sp. z o.o.
We are a global leader in optical solutions for industry. What do we do in Poland? We revolutionise communication! We design and manufacture fibre optic cables and soon also optical fibre. Find out more at www.corning.com.