By Thomas Møller Christensen, AAU Communication and Public Affairs. Translated by LeeAnn Iovanni, AAU Communication and Public Affairs.
Photo: Lars Horn, Baghuset

Two goals guide Ann-Louise Andersen's research: Strengthening the competitiveness of Danish manufacturing companies in a world of rapid technological development and changing demands while also building a research environment where ambition and collaboration go hand in hand.

"I believe that a strong, inclusive community in a research group is the key to creating the most innovative solutions. When we work closely together and have a good working environment, we produce results that can help Danish manufacturing companies adapt to the challenges of the future," says Ann-Louise.

Future manufacturing requires flexible systems

Ann-Louise is an associate professor in the Department of Materials and Production at Aalborg University where she conducts research on modular and flexible production systems. These systems enable companies to quickly adapt production by replacing or adding modules, allowing them to respond to changes in demand or technological requirements without large investments.

"You can think of it as a set of LEGO bricks where you can build, rebuild and expand, depending on what is needed," explains Ann-Louise, emphasizing how this approach allows companies to react quickly to market and technology developments:

"The flexibility makes it easier to integrate new technologies and materials while reducing waste and consumption or resources."

Modular and flexible production systems are therefore not only an option but a necessity in order to maintain competitiveness in the market of the future, Ann-Louise points out:

The world is moving faster than ever before. If Denmark is to be competitive, our production systems must keep up – without compromising on sustainability or quality."

From coincidence to passion

Ann-Louise's journey to research on modular production systems actually began as a coincidence. When she was choosing a topic for her PhD, she came across a MADE project (Manufacturing Academy of Denmark) that caught her interest. The project gave her the opportunity to dive into modular production systems, and it quickly turned out to be the perfect path for her curiosity and ambitions.

What started as a curious step quickly grew into a deep passion that characterizes both her professional and personal life. Her husband, who works in the same field, shares the fascination, and their home is often filled with discussions about sustainable production.

"We usually joke that our children will never choose an engineering career – they are simply saturated with technology and research at home. But for me, it is also important that they see how passionate I am about my work and how I thrive in it," says Ann-Louise with a smile.

Research and community in full bloom

Although Ann-Louise has high ambitions for her research, she does not measure success only by results and publications. This is evident when talking about her research group where collaboration is just as valued as innovation and efficiency.

"I think we have created an environment where we not only work together, but also lift each other professionally and personally. This makes a huge difference for me as a person and for what we create together," says Ann-Louise and elaborates:

"Having a team where we stand shoulder to shoulder in both challenges and victories makes all the difference. Our research is a joint project where we work for and with each other."

The engineering world is often male-dominated, but the strong community has meant that Ann-Louise has not had difficulty finding her place. But for her, it's not about gender – it's about creating an inclusive work environment that embraces everyone. 

"Regardless of gender, we all need a community where we can contribute, grow and feel welcome. If the university wants to attract and retain the best talent, we must offer an environment that is both challenging academically and supportive of people."