Welf Wawers

Prof. Dr. Welf Wawers serves as Professor in the Department of Engineering and Communication at Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences (H-BRS), where he acts as Mechanical Engineering Study Coordinator and Deputy Chairman of the Examination Board. He leads the research group 'Resource-efficient Products and Processes' at the Institute for Technology, Resource Conservation and Energy Efficiency (TREE), focusing on translating engineering research into industrial applications.

His educational background includes:

• 1996-2002: Mechanical Engineering studies (Design and Development focus) at RWTH Aachen
• 2008: Dr.-Ing. doctorate from RWTH Aachen with thesis 'Precision Helical Drilling with Laser Radiation'

Wawers' research integrates three core domains through an engineering lens:

• Laser Technology: Material processing via laser radiation with emphasis on system engineering, process optimization, and optical simulation for precision manufacturing
• Additive Manufacturing: Metal and polymer 3D printing applications including supply chain transformation analysis
• Bionics: Bio-inspired design principles applied to mechanical engineering challenges

His publication portfolio reveals a strategic shift from fundamental laser research (2008-2011) toward analyzing industrial impacts of additive manufacturing (2016-2018), particularly examining how 3D printing disrupts traditional supply chains and retail models within Industry 4.0 frameworks. This evolution demonstrates applied research bridging laboratory innovation with real-world manufacturing transformation.

As Study Coordinator, Wawers oversees Mechanical Engineering curriculum development and student mentorship. His research group secured funding for the 'Campus to World' project through the federal-state 'Innovative University' initiative, which develops transfer mechanisms connecting academic research with business and societal needs.

He directs the 'Resource-efficient Products and Processes' research group at TREE, which develops sustainable engineering solutions through laser-based manufacturing and bionic design principles, with current work emphasizing energy-efficient production systems and circular economy applications.