This week, we spoke with Phume Kasetsunthon, who’s studying Asian Studies & Management/South and South-East Asia. He iscurrently interning at Detecon Asia Pacific Ltd. (Detecon APAC) in Bangkok, Thailand. Detecon Asia-Pacific Ltd. is the Asia-Pacific regional entity of Detecon, a global management and technology consulting firm that is part of the Deutsche Telekom Group. With a strong focus on engineering and telecommunications, Detecon APAC helps clients design, modernize, and scale next-generation connectivity. By bridging strategy with hands-on implementation, Detecon enables organizations to build secure, resilient, and future-ready digital ecosystems.
 

So, what do you do at your internship? As a Business Operations and Consulting Intern at Detecon APAC, my role goes beyond operational exposure. It actively focuses on contributing to the firm’s core consulting and internal strategic activities. I collaborate closely with both corporate functions and consulting teams, taking ownership of selected workstreams and providing analytical input for ongoing client projects. In parallel, I contribute to business development, HR, and marketing initiatives, supporting Detecon’s strategic positioning, content creation, and internal optimization efforts.

The position is intentionally designed as a hybrid role that bridges internal business operations with project-based consulting work. This enables me to understand how a specialized consulting firm operates while making meaningful contributions to real projects and strategic initiatives.

How did you find this internship? I became interested in consulting early in my studies after a professor of mine, Prof. Dr. Bernhard Wittek, shared his experiences in the field. I first learned about Detecon from an AS alumna, Dina Frei , who showcased the company at one of our annual AS Dialogues events, where alumni provide updates about their career paths. Since then, we have stayed in touch, and as my current mentor, she has been an incredibly valuable source of guidance and knowledge.

Do you use Bahasa Indonesia in your work? I occasionally use Bahasa Indonesia in documents and during client meetings, mainly for small talk. It is also very useful for connecting with Malaysian and Indonesian colleagues. The combination of Bahasa Indonesia, Thai, and English makes this internship especially valuable.

What do you love most about Bangkok? Beyond my personal connection to Thailand as a second home, what I love most about Bangkok is the freedom you feel in this vibrant city. There is always something new to explore, from countless places and activities to the many weekly events happening across the city. The large international community also gives Bangkok a truly metropolitan atmosphere, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. At the same time, the city offers an exciting mix of modern lifestyle, tropical temperatures, culture, and food, which makes everyday life feel energetic.

✨ More stories coming soon from across Asia!

This week, we spoke with our student Aylin Sogukcelik, who’s interning at Porsche Engineering in Shanghai, China. Porsche Engineering Shanghai is the technology subsidiary of Porsche AG, specializing in system software, and hardware development. Its newly opened R&D hub in Shanghai combines German engineering with China’s digital ecosystem under the “In China, for China” strategy – and I’m happy to be working here as an intern.

So, what do you do at your internship?

As an intern in the CEO Office, I support the team on projects closely aligned with Uwe Pichler-Necek , the CEO, contributing through research, analysis, and presentations while acting as a bridge between the German perspective and the Chinese market. Being part of such a close-knit team and getting a behind-the-scenes look at how things work is what makes this experience so special to me.

How did you find this internship? Honestly, it was a mix of being in the right place at the right time, and having the right people in my network. Opportunities like this often come through conversations, recommendations, and staying connected. Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to Pablo Fernandez and Marcel Mertin for their trust and for making this opportunity possible.

Do you use Chinese in your work? Yes, from time to time. I use Chinese when doing research. And of course, for the essentials – ordering lunch and a bit of small talk in the office

What do you love most about Shanghai? I love how vibrant the city is. Every day here feels a bit like an adventure, and the food definitely helps! Plus its cheery blossom season right now – the city looks absolutely beautiful.

More stories coming soon from across Asia!

This week, we spoke with Kateryna Sergiivna Lopushenko, who’s doing the International Management Asia-Europe Master at HTWG and interning at Steinbeis Sustainable Technology and Management (Beijing) Co., Ltd in Beijing, China.

About the company:

Steinbeis Sustainable Technology Management (Beijing) Co., Ltd. (SUTM China) is the Chinese subsidiary of SUTM Steinbeis Center of Sustainable Technology and Management GmbH, Germany. Established in February 2024, SUTM China is dedicated to promoting international technology transfer and innovation cooperation between China and global partners.

Leveraging the global Steinbeis network, SUTM China supports Chinese governments and enterprises by offering professional services in four key areas: collaborative innovation, consulting, education and training, and investment. Its mission is to help China build an international science and innovation ecosystem while assisting Chinese companies in global expansion.

Its long-term goal is to be a strategic bridge connecting Chinese and international innovation ecosystems—supporting the globalization of Chinese enterprises and assisting German technology companies and startups in entering the Chinese market.

So, what do you do at your internship?

As an intern in Technology Transfer Management and Innovation Services, my daily work involves extensive research on a wide range of topics. When clients require specific information, such as industry insights, relevant policies, or innovative projects, I gather and present the necessary data. I also help my colleagues stay updated on emerging trends and newcomers in key industries by sharing the latest developments and innovations.

Additionally, I regularly assist with translations between German, English, and Chinese to ensure that important information is accessible across languages.

A highlight of my internship has been the opportunity to present our company’s projects at two conferences, here in Beijing, as well as in Wuhan, which has been both exciting and a valuable experience for my personal and professional development.

Furthermore, I support the company in welcoming and accompanying international delegations, such as the recent visit from HTWG Konstanz and the University of Konstanz organized by Dr. Helena Obendiek (李娜), which allows me to actively contribute to international exchange and cooperation, while also meeting from experts from around the world.

How did you find this internship?

Prof. Dr. Sarah Hanisch introduced me to this opportunity. After learning more about the company, I became very interested and decided to apply.

Do you use Chinese in your work?

Since we work extensively with Chinese clients, I often use written Chinese for research reports and documentation. In daily work, using Chinese also helps improve efficiency when discussing tasks, although it's not strictly necessary—most of my colleagues speak either German or English. To ensure clear communication, we often switch between languages as needed.

What do you love most about Beijing?

I really enjoy living in Beijing because the city has such a rich culture, there’s always something fascinating to explore, from ancient temples and museums to vibrant art districts. You can truly feel the energy of a global capital, while also finding peaceful parks and historic neighborhoods to relax in. It’s also a great environment to improve my Chinese in everyday life.

Kateryna Sergiïvna Lopushenko would like to thank the wonderful people at Steinbeis who made this internship such a valuable and memorable experience: A special thank you to our CEO, for making this opportunity possible and for being so kind and supportive during my time here. I’m also incredibly grateful to her executive assistant, Fang Rui, who has been a guiding figure and a huge support throughout my internship. And to our Project Manager, Zhao Wanru—thank you for your patience and for showing me the ropes with such clarity and care. I'm also thankful to so many others in the company who welcomed me and helped me feel at home. 

This week we continue our series on what HTWG Asian Studies & Management China students. This week I spoke with Xu Xiao (Jakob), who is currently interning at AHK Greater China in Shanghai, China.

About the company:

AHK Greater China is part of the global network of the German Chambers of Commerce (Deutsche Auslandshandelskammer). As the official institution for the promotion of German foreign trades, its main goal is to facilitate bilateral trades and investments between Germany and China by providing consulting, support, and representation for German companies seeking to establish or expand their businesses in China.

So, what do you do at your internship?

As an intern in the Government Affairs & Advocacy Department, my primary responsibility is to monitor relevant policies on foreign affairs released by the Chinese government in real-time. My team and I analyze these policies that may impact German companies and compile our findings into reports for publication. Additionally, another aspect of my work involves attending and documenting meetings between AHK, German enterprises, and the Chinese government. I am also tasked with preparing knowledge briefings related to Chinese policies for AHK internal personnel before important meetings.

How did you find this internship?

I learned of AHK during my time in Constance and subsequently submitted my application through their official website.

Do you use Chinese in your work?

Due to the nature of my work, I need to use Chinese, German, and English daily. One challenging aspect for me is that I need to read numerous documents related to policies and economic data released by the Chinese government every day. These documents contain various political terms, and I must interpret each statement carefully.

What do you love most about Shanghai?

There are two main reasons why I like Shanghai. Firstly, Shanghai offers ample opportunities and values efficiency; as long as you work hard, you will see rewards. Secondly, Shanghai is inclusive and diverse, allowing me the freedom to choose my lifestyle, whether it is Eastern or Western, traditional or modern—everything is available here.

Xu Xiao would like to thank Dr. Constanze Wang (Head of Government Affairs & Advocacy) for the opportunities and support she has provided during my internship.

Mini Series: HTWG Students in Asia
Ever wondered what internships in Asia are like for students of Asian Studies & Management China? In this series, we’re catching up with HTWG students currently gaining hands-on experience across the region!

This week, we spoke with Cinthya Rodriguez, who’s currently interning at Würth Industry Service Taiwan in Taipei.

About the company:
Würth Industry Service Taiwan is a professional distributor of industrial fasteners and assembly components, offering integrated logistics and supply chain solutions. As part of the global Würth Group, it supports manufacturers in Taiwan with efficient C-Parts management tailored for Industry 4.0.

So, what do you do at your internship?
I’m an intern on the Supply Chain Management Team. My tasks include running MRP processes in SAP, managing purchasing activities, and handling import shipments — everything from shipment tracking to customs declarations — from our foreign Suppliers (mainly Germany). I also stay in close communication with suppliers and contribute to data analytics projects.

How did you find this internship?
I discovered the opportunity through the HTWG alumni network. A former student who interned here presented his experience during one of our AS-Dialog sessions.

Do you use Chinese in your work?
Yes, I use Chinese daily. Customs declarations and many forms are in Chinese or bilingual. I also use it to communicate with colleagues who don't speak English and when receiving emails that are entirely in Chinese.

What do you love most about Taipei?
Before moving to Taipei, I lived in Kaohsiung, where I completed an intensive Chinese language program. The two cities have very different vibes — Kaohsiung is hotter and more humid, and most people get around by scooter or car. In contrast, Taipei has a much more developed and convenient public transportation system, including buses, MRT, and local trains, which many residents rely on daily. I really enjoy how vibrant Taipei is — it’s full of history, culture, and great places to explore. Efficient transportation makes it easy to get around the city and makes short weekend trips very doable. I also love the beautiful parks and green spaces throughout Taipei, as well as its active international community and the variety of events happening all the time.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from HTWG students across Asia!

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