Sebastian Birkl is an automotive diagnostician at Max Heidegger AG - a job that requires a great deal of expertise, concentration and sensitivity. He is responsible for diagnosing faults, intensive testing work and extensive repairs to the engine, gearbox and chassis. Nature is an important balance for him in his day-to-day technical work. This balance is also reflected in his everyday life.

"In December 2024, I completed further training to become an HV 3+ technician. This qualification allows me to work on electric vehicles and high-voltage components - even if they cannot be de-energized," explains Sebastian Birkl. "My colleagues are only allowed to work on a vehicle if it is considered intrinsically safe, i.e. if the system indicates 'high-voltage system switched off'. But if this status cannot be restored - for example in the event of accidents, flood damage or defective batteries - I am called upon."

The path to Max Heidegger AG

Sebastian Birkl lives in the greater Wangen im Allgäu area and commutes to Triesen in Liechtenstein every day. "If I use the less busy border crossings, it usually works well and I can make the journey by car in about an hour, depending on the traffic."

Family business with heart and soul

He became aware of the position at Max Heidegger AG through a recruitment agency. "Even before my visit, I was impressed by the friendly and professional communication. That gave me a good feeling. The company's history and tradition are present everywhere. The company tour made a deep impression on me, I knew immediately that this was the right place for me. I had previously experienced many changes in management and the corresponding changes in Lindau. I like a clear line and continuity, so I appreciate the values of a family business all the more."

Even though his commute has become longer, he takes it in his stride: "I phone friends, do my shopping on the way or visit friends and colleagues."

He loves the variety in his day-to-day work. "The BMW Group offers an impressive variety of models - from sporty to luxurious, from classic to fully electric," he says. Another highlight of his work: numerous classic cars and the Alpina brand. "I used to have maybe three or four Alpina vehicles a year. Today, they are part of everyday life because Max Heidegger AG is the official importer for Liechtenstein and Switzerland." Even though BMW and Alpina are not technically very different, Sebastian Birkl finds it special to work on vehicles that combine luxury, comfort and outstanding driving performance at the highest level."

A strong team and state-of-the-art technology

Teamwork is very important in the company. "If someone needs a helping hand, whether it's lifting, holding or pushing, it's a matter of course. The teamwork is really strong. Team events organized by Jasmin Collini Heidegger, from barbecues to winter sports days, contribute to the team spirit." He does not have direct customer contact on a daily basis, but when it comes to special customer concerns such as unusual noises or malfunctions, he goes for a test drive with the customer.

The demands of the job have changed: "The work used to be mechanical, today it's often about software, digital services and online functions. BMW is at the forefront of technology here. I regularly attend further training courses and I really enjoy it."

A passion for technology in the blood - and a heart for the mountains

Sebastian Birkl combines technical expertise and a love of nature - and this is a family tradition for him. "My grandfather had a forge, workshop and filling station, mainly for agricultural vehicles back then. I was already enthusiastic about technology as a child and started my apprenticeship at BMW in 2006. Back then, being a car mechanic was a dream job for many people. Today, it's no longer just about mechanics, but more and more about electronics and understanding systems. Technology has become more complex - small errors can have major consequences. You have to think for yourself and recognize connections, which makes the work exciting and varied."

In his free time, he likes to get out into nature. "My girlfriend and I are passionate about hiking. We hiked the Fürstensteig and the Three Sisters in one day. We also walked the E5 long-distance hiking trail from Oberstdorf to Merano together and even cycled as far as Venice. For us, it's not about the best times, but about great experiences and spending time together."

The Liechtenstein region appeals to him: "I like the down-to-earth attitude here, the quality of life is excellent and the gastronomy leaves nothing to be desired. When I drive to Triesen in the morning, I can see the mountains glowing in the sun - for many, that's a vacation image, and during my lunch break, I'm just a few steps away from the countryside, with a view of cows, sheep and alpacas. For me, this is the perfect balance to technology. I work in a real place of power - in the truest sense of the word."