Rethinking Infrastructure: Linda on Her Role at ALTEN
Linda
Senior Project Leader
For just over two years, Linda has been working in the infrastructure team at ALTEN Germany. She had already gained experience in the same fields at other companies before deciding to continue her career together with ALTEN.
This allowed her to quickly take on the role of Cluster Lead and, after about a year, step into a leadership position.
Read the full article to learn more about her journey and her perspective on the infrastructure sector.
What makes your role as a Senior Project Leader in the infrastructure sector particularly exciting?
Thanks to my many years of experience in the industry, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing changes firsthand and continuously adapting my teams from a technical perspective. Right now, we are facing major challenges: the energy transition requires decentralized, smart solutions, and the expansion of fiber optics will keep us busy for years to come. Both networks are increasingly converging. This is a unique opportunity to help shape not only the digital infrastructure but also the energy distribution of the future.
How do you manage to successfully lead teams in such a dynamic environment?
For me, two things are key: clear communication and solid structures. We have built a knowledge management system where all guidelines and project information are centrally bundled. This helps new colleagues in particular to get up to speed quickly. At the same time, I promote a constructive feedback culture, because nothing is more motivating than feeling that your work is valued and makes a difference.
How does ALTEN support you in achieving your professional goals?
Through internal training programs and motivated managers, ALTEN creates a strong foundation for the next steps. What I particularly appreciate is that people work in a solution-oriented way across all hierarchy levels—something that is not a given in every company culture.
What advice would you give to new employees who want to get started at ALTEN?
Take the time to explore the many opportunities beyond day-to-day project work. Looking beyond your immediate tasks is worth it! And: open communication is essential, even beyond your own team. Anyone who thinks in a process-oriented way and enjoys working in a structured manner will quickly find their footing here.
How do you maintain a balance between your professional and personal life?
I enjoy working and find it hard to leave tasks unfinished. That’s why fixed personal commitments are non-negotiable for me. When these time slots are protected, personal life happens regularly and meaningfully. It’s especially important to me that my time with my children is not interrupted by a laptop on the kitchen table.
Is there a skill from your job that you also use in your private life?
Documentation! I’ve stopped counting how many discussions—whether with contractors, service providers, or even accident counterparts—I’ve been able to avoid or de-escalate because of it. Clear agreements and written records save time and nerves.
Where would you like to develop professionally in the coming years?
I want to further expand my expertise in multi-project management and contribute even more to fostering international and interdisciplinary collaboration within our teams. The coming years will show how strongly energy and digital infrastructure networks merge—we want to be at the forefront of that development.
In your opinion, what sets ALTEN apart from other employers?
The consistent focus on solutions across all levels. People don’t spend too much time discussing—they act. And they do so in an environment where equal treatment, environmental awareness, and data security are truly lived values.