“Hardware is so out“ — an opinion that Katharina Kreitz often encounters. But success proves her right. Because things are going well at Vectorflow, the startup she founded in 2015 together with Christian Haigermoser and Florian Wehner, right after completing her studies in aerospace engineering at the Technical University of Munich. In a short interview, she shared with us why this felt like the right time to start her business and whether she considers being a female founder an advantage or disadvantage.
What motivated you to start the company?
I simply wanted to do better than the solutions that were on the market at the time.
Did you have any role models when you started your business?
Dad, he has his own company.
When and where do you get the best ideas?
With my team, outside.
Your greatest talent?
The sales department.
The biggest mistake you have ever made?
That I can do everything on my own.
Your secret weapon when networking?
Simply approach people openly and constantly throw yourself into new situations, even if they are uncomfortable at first.
Does this seem like a good time to start a business? If so, why?
I don't know, but it was good for me to start a business right after graduating, as I didn't have any responsibilities like children or an expensive apartment.
“As a woman, you have to do more in the technical field”
A prejudice that you have often encountered in your everyday life as a founder?
Hardware is so “out”.
What’s on top of your desk right now?
3D-printed probes.
What makes you happy?
At work: When I see that my customers can generate added value for themselves with our products.
In my free time: skiing.
Is being a female founder an advantage or a disadvantage for you?
It is certainly easier to get attention, but as a woman in the technical field you always have to achieve more than men to be perceived as equal.
