Kevin Vocke: #SetYourFocus in Digitainability

Ready for exclusive insights? Learn firsthand from our consultants and business analysts about their journey to Detecon, the challenges they faced, and what makes their work special in our 'SetYourFocus in ...' interview series.

What is your academic background?

I completed my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at RWTH Aachen University, where I studied industrial engineering with a focus on civil engineering. In my master's degree, I then specialized in sustainability. Initially, I looked at sustainability in the construction industry. However, I was given the opportunity to gain my first professional experience at the newly founded Chair of Sustainability. As a classic career starter, I leapt straight from university into working life.

Why did you choose Detecon as an employer?

I applied to various sustainability-oriented companies. Despite having other offers, the interview with Detecon won me over. During the interview, I got to know the company culture and its employees. My interviewer was very straightforward, cool, and empathetic, which impressed me. The entire application process went smoothly, and I received an offer immediately after the assessment day. This convinced me that the company was interested in me. Detecon debunked all the stereotypes I knew about the consulting industry.

What challenges did you face at the start of your career?

The biggest challenge for me was transitioning from university life to the working life. The daily routine of a student differs significantly from that of a working professional. In university, I had the freedom to decide when to complete my tasks and how to structure my time. In the professional world, fixed deadlines demand more commitment. Another challenge was transitioning into the consulting industry, where things are more dynamic and much of the work is remote. However, I believe I've adapted well.

What is your focus area at Detecon, and how did you find it?

I focus on sustainability and work in this area at Detecon. This topic has always interested me. I'm particularly pleased to be part of the Digitainability Squat, where I work on projects to promote sustainability.

What guidance have you received at Detecon?

The guidance at Detecon exceeded my expectations, especially during the onboarding process, where I received a lot of valuable information. My buddy was very helpful, even answering project-specific questions, although he wasn't involved in the project. My People Development Leader offered meetings every 6 weeks to discuss my professional development and define my role in the company. I was surprised that I could contact anyone in the company at any time, regardless of their position, and always received helpful responses.

What are the perks of being employed at Detecon?

Thanks to remote work and the Workation program, I have the freedom to work from anywhere. When I moved from Frankfurt to Cologne, the location change was effortless. This flexibility gives me a lot of freedom. In addition, internal training sessions provide insights into new topics and boost my professional development. This allows me to explore different areas and continuously learn new things.

What tools and methods do you use in your daily projects?

I follow the MECE-framework to ensure a logical and structured approach to work without overlaps, making my work as effective and efficient as possible. The MECE framework is a problem-solving approach that organizes information into categories that are mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive. This allows me to allocate time for other tasks.

What advice do you have for graduates starting their careers?

It is important to reflect on yourself and decide which direction to take professionally as well as which field to pursue. If you have a clear vision, this is definitely an advantage when starting your career. It enables you to choose the company that best aligns with your journey and offers support.