Carbon Kurt

Born and raised in Switzerland, I gained extensive hands-on experience working on our family homes. During college, I worked various jobs in the boating industry, combining my passion for sailing and surfing with restoring and building my own gear.  

 

I pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering at the Technical University of Zürich (ETHZ). During my bachelor's studies, I was part of a team that developed a record-breaking electric race car. Concurrently, I worked at Connova AG, a renowned Swiss composite manufacturer, where I contributed to producing 19,000 composite heat shields for a small-series race car. I also gained expertise in robotics, carbon watches, Formula 1, and helicopter components, specializing in prepreg materials and autoclave processes.  

 

Later, I joined Decision SA in Ecublens, Switzerland, where I contributed to building the wing of the Solar Impulse II—the first plane to circumnavigate the globe powered solely by solar energy. My work there also included components for the Volvo Ocean Race and other cutting-edge projects.  

 

I completed my master’s degree in 2016 while balancing part-time work rebuilding acrobatic airplanes. My master’s thesis marked the beginning of my independent career, leading the construction of a 45-foot sailing catamaran as part of a social and youth initiative, *oceanyouthsailing.com*.  

 

Since 2019, I have been involved in custom van construction in collaboration with Bullicamper.ch, while also working with X-Yachts Switzerland on stainless steel, composite work, and DC electronics. My expertise has expanded to complete DC system rebuilds on bluewater boats for clients transitioning to life on board.  

 

For the past 1.5 years, I’ve been working as a development and production engineer, specializing in the design and construction of carbon fiber masts for a 210-foot sailing yacht.