Silvia Zepf talks to Katie Rose about supporting and inspiring young women to follow a profession in the trades.
KNXtoday: Tell us about your journey to becoming a master electrician and technical planner and the evolution of your family run business Elektro Zepf.
SZ: My CV is an exciting example of the opportunities women can enjoy in typically male domains. After graduating from school at the age of 16, I initially decided on a traditional career and completed an apprenticeship as an industrial clerk (1989-1992) but did not find it challenging. From 1996-1999, I trained as a state-certified accountant and business economist (GA) in the craft industry, whilst managing the office of my parents’ electrical business. I wanted to train as an electronics technician, but my father was against it.
After almost ten years working as an accountant and manager in various industrial companies, I took over my parents’ business following my father’s death and realized how important it was for me to train as an electrician. Working part-time, I qualified as an electronics technician for energy and building technology in 2007 and as a master electrician at the Chamber of Crafts in Reutlingen the following year. During this time I met my husband Michael Zepf, who was also self-employed and ran an electrical company with eight employees. We have been supporting each other since 2008 and our team has grown to 45 employees
KNXtoday: How, why and when did you became involved with KNX?
SZ: I love the daily challenges of my work – no two construction sites are the same, every customer has unique requirements and it fills me with joy when they are satisfied. As our projects expanded, the need to implement complex lighting controls and automated shading arose, which led me to KNX. This bus technology enables me to meet our customers’ requirements efficiently and precisely.
I trained as a lighting planner in Munich so I could offer our customers precise know-how. My aim is to create a sense of well-being in conjunction with functional technology so users can navigate systems without problem.
KNXtoday: Why do you feel the Women in KNX network is important?
SZ: At the Women in KNX kick-off at Light + Building 2024, I was amazed at how many women now hold management positions at well-known manufacturers. The network is beneficial for all of us, as it represents a dynamic collaboration between trade and industry – a perfect interaction.
KNXtoday: As a company that offers apprenticeships to trainee electricians, what support and encouragement do you aim to provide for younger women entering the industry?
SZ: In recent years, the picture on construction sites has changed considerably: more and more women are finding their place in the construction industry, which makes me particularly happy. At our company, we are lucky to be able to take on one to three apprentices every year. This year, from September, we will welcome our second female apprentice. We are very proud that our first female apprentice is currently training to become an electronics technician.
This shows that women can be successful in technical professions. I aim to set an example to young aspiring electricians and show them that everyone can pursue a profession they are passionate about. Everything is possible if we believe in ourselves and receive the necessary support.
Women have a valuable place in the trades industry and I would like to encourage them to follow this path. We aim to inspire and support younger women so that they can pursue a fulfilling career in our company or in similar apprenticeships.
Silvia Zepf is a master electrician for energy and building technology. Founded in 1997, Elektro Zepf is a modern, craft company with 45 employees providing expert support through every stage of projects from consultation to completion.
