A central theme of the discussion was the transformation of leadership in the digital age. Doris Weyer, Managing Partner at HRdiamonds, opens an external URL in a new window and long-time MBA lecturer, emphasized that choosing to lead remains a conscious and essential decision. At the same time, modern leadership requires the ability to build trust and create psychological safety—especially in a world shaped by digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), globalization, speed, and unpredictability.

The panel also explored the question: What skills do future leaders need? The ability to tolerate contradictions and strike a balance between ambiguity and clear decision-making was identified as a key competency in complex and ambivalent environments.

Another focal point was the growing influence of AI and technology on leadership processes. AI is no longer just a tool—it increasingly acts as a virtual team member. Leaders must learn to integrate AI meaningfully into their decision-making, while maintaining an ethical foundation and a human-centered approach.

Prof. Dr. Wolfgang H. Güttel, Dean of the TU Wien Academy and Professor of Leadership & Strategy, highlighted the importance of strategic thinking and adaptability. The challenges of recent years have profoundly shaped the Executive MBA in General & Technology Management and reinforced its relevance for leaders navigating change.

Petra Aigner, Head of Operations Management & Corporate Impact Solutions at TU Wien Academy, looked back at key figures and milestones of the General & Technology Management MBA: "A quarter-century of concentrated management and technology expertise, exciting careers, and valuable networks," she said. "It has been a rewarding journey since I joined in 2005—from the early days with my mentor Prof. Adi Stepan to the current successes alongside Prof. Wolfgang Aussenegg."

The discussion concluded with a clear message: leadership is a conscious choice—one that must be based on a strong ethical foundation, especially at the intersection of people and machines.

In closing, Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Aussenegg, Academic Director of the program, summarized the guiding principle: "The challenges of the past 25 years have continuously shaped and evolved the program and its teaching methods. It’s inspiring to see how the General & Technology Management MBA continues to play a key role in preparing leaders for the future."

Another highlight of the evening was the grand raffle—25 prizes were drawn to mark the 25th anniversary. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our many sponsors who made this raffle possible and celebrated with us. Your support plays a crucial role in sustaining the program’s innovation and success.

The evening ended with lively conversations, where many participants shared their experiences and visions for the future. The spirit of networking was at the heart of the event—an element that has defined the program from the very beginning.

A Quarter Century of Future Skills – And Counting

Over the past 25 years, the TU Wien General & Technology Management MBA program has cultivated not only expertise but also networks and innovations that have had a lasting impact on leaders around the globe. The anniversary evening served as an inspiring reminder of the importance of continuous learning and actively shaping the changes of tomorrow.

Panelists:

• Prof. Dr. Adolf Stepan: Founding father of the General & Technology Management MBA. As a professor at TU Wien, he played a key role in the design and establishment of the program.
• Prof. Dr. Wolfgang H. Güttel: Professor of Leadership & Strategy at TU Wien and Dean of the TU Wien Academy. His research focuses on strategic change and organizational ambidexterity.
• Mag. Petra Aigner, MSc: Head of Operations Management & Corporate Impact Solutions at the TU Wien Academy.
• Doris Weyer, MSc: Founder and Managing Partner at HRdiamonds. Leadership development and organizational culture expert with extensive experience in corporate consulting.
• Verena El-Rayes, MA MBA: Founder and Managing Director of CETEO GmbH and alumna of the General & Technology Management MBA. She advises companies on executive search, leadership, and digital transformation.

Find out more about the new Executive MBA in General & Technology Management at TU Wien Academy – for leaders ready to drive change:

→ Executive MBA General & Technology Management

Special thanks to our sponsors:

Cerznin Verlag, opens an external URL in a new window- Dom Museum Wien, opens an external URL in a new window - Edition Atelier, opens an external URL in a new window- Gartenbaukino, opens an external URL in a new window - Hollerei, opens an external URL in a new window - Kärcher, opens an external URL in a new window - Kunst &  Kultur - ohne Grenzen, opens an external URL in a new window - MAK - Museum für angewandte Kunst, opens an external URL in a new window - mumok - Museum moderner Kunst - Stiftung Ludwig Wien, opens an external URL in a new window - Polyfilm, opens an external URL in a new window - Rita bringt’s, opens an external URL in a new window - Schubert Theater, opens an external URL in a new window - Sprachenzentrum der - Universität Wien, opens an external URL in a new window - Stadtsaal Wien, opens an external URL in a new window - Theater Drachengasse, opens an external URL in a new window - Vienna City Marathon, opens an external URL in a new window - Vienna‘s English Theatre, opens an external URL in a new window - ZEISS, opens an external URL in a new window - Zsolnay Verlag, opens an external URL in a new window

Very special thanks to the Hauptprostamt - Hans Fuchs, opens an external URL in a new window for the generous sponsorship of the catering.