Lifelong learning in architecture: Insights into the TUM.wood program
In the everyday working life of architects, lifelong learning is a prerequisite for quality and future viability. Especially in timber construction – an industry that is rapidly evolving and constantly imposing new technical, legal, and design requirements – up-to-date specialist knowledge is a decisive competitive advantage.
In conversation with René Rissland, architect BDA at raum.land.architekten und stadplaner and graduate of our TUM.wood certificate program, it becomes clear that it is not only the in-depth content that sets the course apart, but also the special atmosphere, the practical teaching methods, and the strong network of teachers and participants.
In the following interview, you can read about what distinguishes the program from other continuing education offerings, why even experienced architects benefit from it, and what specific ideas they can take away from it for their everyday professional lives.
What motivated you to take part in our certificate program?
René Rissland, architect BDA at raum.land.architekten und stadtplaner Graduate certificate program TUM.wood – circular building with wood
As architects, we should constantly update and expand our specialist knowledge. We are lifelong learners, and this does not stop after our studies, but continues in our professional practice.
With every new project, we face new challenges and their current technical requirements. This is especially true in the constantly growing and evolving timber construction industry.
What was your personal highlight during the course?
The individual modules of the course were consistently interesting and built on each other. There was never a dull moment. The pleasant atmosphere in the Vorhoelzer Forum, which has a roof terrace, is very special. The perfect place above the rooftops of the city.
Which skills or insights have helped you the most?
The up-to-date knowledge of the technical and legal framework conditions in timber construction was very useful for us in our day-to-day office work. It gives us planning security and puts us on an equal footing with the executing trades.
In addition, TUM.wood is not only a certification program, but also opens up a comprehensive knowledge network on the subject of wood for the participants.
How can you apply what you have learned?
At the moment, we are implementing almost all of our projects in timber or timber-hybrid construction. The concept of circular construction is also part of our daily practice. A current update on the state of knowledge from teaching and research is essential and helps us a lot.
What would you tell other interested parties (especially colleagues from architecture firms) about the course? What do you think distinguishes our program from other offers?
The TUM.wood program takes a holistic approach to teaching wood construction. A team of lecturers and experts from theory and practice gives participants a comprehensive insight into the wood value chain.
This is particularly interesting for experienced architects. Because to understand the individual, you have to understand the whole, and to understand the whole, you have to understand the individual… and you are never finished understanding.
We would like to thank René Rissland for sharing his experiences with TUM.wood – circular building with wood.
Are you interested in participating in the program?
Find out more about course dates and content here.
