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Source: https://www.tuwien.at/en/ace/news/news/from-flight-simulator-to-boardroom-what-makes-tu-wiens-mba-different-1 Parent: https://www.tuwien.at/en/ace/news

1. February 2026

From Flight Simulator to Boardroom: What Makes TU Wien's MBA Different

How technical professionals develop strategic leadership skills through high-pressure simulations, global exposure, and cutting-edge technology education.

In an A320 flight simulator, when warning lights flash and seconds matter, you don't have time to Google "crisis management frameworks." You need decision-making processes so deeply ingrained that they become instinct.

This is exactly the kind of pressure our MBA Advanced Technologies & Global Leadership students learn to navigate - not just in theory, but through immersive experiences that mirror the high-stakes environments they'll face as technology leaders.

We spoke with one of our current students, Alexander Neuwirth, about his journey through the program, from choosing TU Wien to preparing for his Caltech Learning Journey that lies ahead.

Why did you choose this MBA program?

Alexander: To study at a university with such an excellent reputation as TU Wien, in combination with the opportunity for a learning journey to Caltech University, is more or less a once-in-a-lifetime chance I didn't want to pass up.

Since the program is taught in English, you find yourself in an international group of like-minded people from different countries around the world. Not only the lectures itself but also the discussions with and insights from fellow students greatly broaden your horizons. This goes hand in hand with the opportunity to build a great and lasting network that for sure will continue beyond the studies.

The Power of an International MBA Cohort

Our English-language curricula attract professionals from across the globe, and this international diversity means every case study discussion brings perspectives from different industries, markets, and cultural contexts - essential preparation for leadership roles in global technology companies.

What was the most impressive lecture in your MBA studies so far? And what were your key takeaways?

Alexander: Deciding and communicating under pressure held by Sabine Fürst, Hans Härting, Christian Flatschart from Asseku Risk.

No matter if things get nerve-wrecking in an A320 fligh tsimulater or you find yourself in a high-pressure situation at work. It's clear that time pressure, high cognitive load, and emotional stress significantly limit conscious decision-making capacity. This makes it essential to internalize decision-making frameworks (such as FORDEC) to the point where they can be reliably accessed under pressure. The automatic use of such tools provides clarity, reduces the risk of errors, and ensures that all relevant factors are systematically considered. As a result, situational awareness and control are maintained, risks are managed effectively, and decisions remain professional, consistent, and defensible even in critical conditions.

Why Crisis Management Training Matters for Technology Leaders

The FORDEC framework (Facts, Options, Risks, Decision, Execution, Check) originated in aviation but applies perfectly to technology leadership scenarios: system failures, security breaches, product launch complications, or organizational crises. For CTOs, engineering directors, and operations managers transitioning to executive roles, this kind of structured decision-making under uncertainty isn't optional—it's essential.

What are your personal goals that you would like to achieve with the MBA?

Alexander: With my specialization in Advanced Technologies and Global Leadership, I aim to deepen my understanding of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and robotics, and to better assess their impact on modern work environments, particularly in Operations/Manufacturing/Supply Chain Management. I am especially looking forward to the Caltech Learning Journey in February, as it offers valuable exposure to cutting-edge technological innovation.

In addition, I seek to further develop my leadership and management skills to make well-informed decisions in complex international business contexts and thereby create sustainable added value for the company.

About MBA Advanced Technologies & Global Leadership

Our MBA program combines strategic management education with deep technical expertise, preparing technology professionals for senior leadership roles.

To start your MBA journey, click here.