The TU Wien Academy for Continuing Education mourns the loss of emeritus Univ.-Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr. techn. Dr.h.c. Helmut Drobir, who passed away on May 7, 2026, at the age of 90.

Professor Drobir was a highly respected expert in hydraulic engineering whose career combined academic excellence with extensive practical experience in the fields of hydropower, water engineering, and renewable energy. Throughout his professional life, he contributed significantly to research, teaching, and the development of major infrastructure and energy projects in Austria and internationally.

At TU Wien, he served as Full Professor of Structural Hydraulic Engineering, River Engineering, and Inland Navigation and was deeply committed to connecting scientific knowledge with practical application. His work shaped generations of students and colleagues and reflected a strong dedication to academic quality, interdisciplinary thinking, and international collaboration.

For the TU Wien Academy for Continuing Education, Professor Drobir holds particular significance as the founder and long-time Academic Director of the postgraduate MSc program “Renewable Energy in Central and Eastern Europe”, which was established in 2004 in cooperation with the Energiepark Bruck/Leitha. With great vision and commitment, he contributed to developing an international and interdisciplinary educational program at a time when renewable energy education was still an emerging field.

Working together with partners from academia, institutions, and industry, he helped create a platform for knowledge exchange that brought together technical expertise, practical perspectives, and international cooperation. His engagement played an important role in shaping the program and supporting the education of future professionals in the renewable energy sector.

Professor Drobir will be remembered not only for his outstanding professional achievements, but also for his intellectual curiosity, international outlook, and dedication to education and lifelong learning. His contributions continue to be reflected in the values and spirit of renewable energy education at TU Wien Academy.

Our deepest sympathy goes to his family, friends, colleagues, and former students.

TU Wien Academy for Continuing Education