Systems Engineering is the key to innovative solutions in an increasingly complex world. According to the INCOSE definition, Systems Engineering is a transdisciplinary approach that makes it possible to successfully realize systems while taking all perspectives into account. Actively incorporating these perspectives into systems design and seeing diversity as an opportunity generates innovation.
The Gesellschaft für Systems Engineering (GfSE) is committed to actively incorporate a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives into Systems Engineering. Our aim is to address people from all disciplines and social areas - from technology and computer science to the social and economic sciences - in order to develop the full potential of Systems Engineering.
We also want to specifically promote openness and diversity within the GfSE. After all, it is only by combining different skills and perspectives that Systems Engineering can unfold its full potential and contribute to solving complex challenges in all areas of life.
Systems Engineering at School
Systems thinking is a key skill that helps to better understand the world and solve complex problems holistically.
At a time when challenges - from climate change and social injustice to technological developments - are becoming increasingly complex, systems thinking is more important than ever for young people.
At the same time, children learn through Systems Engineering how systems are created and what specialist expertise is needed for this. This awakens their curiosity and encourages their enthusiasm for STEM subjects and Systems Engineering.
GfSE members are involved in various initiatives and projects to promote systems thinking in schools and beyond.


Study Systems Engineering
In German-speaking countries, Systems Engineering is being increasingly included in the curricula of universities and even have their own Systems Engineering programs.
Currently, degree programs that correspond to the international understanding of Systems Engineering (according to INCOSE) are being certified. In this way, we provide universities, students and companies with guidance. Students can pursue the SE-ZERT® program at level D following a certified program. The preparations are covered by the courses in university.
The GfSE promotes research in the field of Systems Engineering during the study programs with a study award. Graduates from all universities who write their final thesis (Bachelor, Master) in the field of Systems Engineering can apply for the study award. In addition to the prize money, students are given the unique opportunity to present their results and findings to a specialist audience at the annual TdSE conference, network with other experts and become part of the network.
Systems Engineering research
We are pleased that research in this field is becoming increasingly present in German-speaking countries and that young scientists are locating their research work in the field of Systems Engineering. The doctoral students are part of the network through their specialist areas, their institutes or universities and shape the topic with their research work.
The GfSE is involved in networking the scientists with companies and organizations as well as with each other through the doctoral student workshop and a LinkedIn group.


Systems Engineering in the Company
Sustainable success in Systems Engineering requires well-trained young talent. GfSE supports companies in specifically promoting young specialists and preparing them for their tasks in Systems Engineering.
With the SEYP network (Systems Engineering Young Professionals), we offer a platform for exchange, networking and mentoring. Career starters benefit from the knowledge of experienced Systems Engineers and receive valuable support when starting out in practice.
In addition, the SE-ZERT program enables in-depth certification in Systems Engineering. Continuing education points for recertification can be collected through GfSE events - and at the same time offer space for exchange, new impulses and professional development.
Systems Engineering research
We are pleased that research in this field is becoming increasingly present in German-speaking countries and that young scientists are locating their research work in the field of Systems Engineering. The doctoral students are part of the network through their specialist areas, their institutes or universities and shape the topic with their research work.
The GfSE is involved in networking the scientists with companies and organizations as well as with each other through the doctoral student workshop and a LinkedIn group.
Teaching materials and flowcharts are being developed to introduce children to the working methods of Systems Engineering. The aim is to use child-friendly language, convey the principles of Systems Engineering and consolidate an understanding of systems.
The working group aims to prepare ideas and concepts of Systems Engineering and systems thinking for the general public. The aim is to demonstrate a uniform understanding of systems thinking from the perspective of different systems.


The GfSE offers a wide range of opportunities for professional and personal networking.
Our networking opportunities at a glance:
International connection
Membership of GfSE automatically makes you an INCOSE member – with access to international events, services and publications.
Events & Formats
Exchange and knowledge transfer take place in formats such as the systems.camps, GfSE-Workshop, Working Group Meeting and the TdSE – Tag des Systems Engineering.
Involvement in Science & Research
GfSE works closely with universities, supports research projects and promotes standardization in the field of Systems Engineering.
Target group-specific networks
SEYP-Community (Systems Engineering Young Professionals)
Empower-HER – Network for women in Systems Engineering
Always up to date
Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for news, events and new opportunities to get involved.
Women remain significantly underrepresented in many STEM fields and in systems design. We strive for a balanced representation and the empowerment of women in systems engineering.
We are achieving this through active participation in INCOSE’s EWLSE (Empowering Women Leaders in Systems Engineering) initiative, as well as by fostering and promoting an EMEA-wide network and a DACH-wide network. The first and easiest way to get involved is through our LinkedIn group “Empower HER: Female Advanced Systems Engineering” and by participating in a monthly online networking meeting. Additional activities are being initiated and developed.
The goal of the INCOSE initiative “Empowering Women Leaders in Systems Engineering” is to create a world in which women and men are equally represented in leadership positions in systems engineering.
To this end, the initiative aims to promote the proven value of women as systems engineers and leaders, create an open environment that welcomes everyone, inspire women and girls at all levels of education worldwide to pursue careers in engineering and systems engineering, and enable greater participation and retention of women in leadership positions in systems engineering.
Similar to INCOSE’s EWLSE initiative, Empower HER in Systems Engineering (EHER in SE) aims to empower women working in the field of systems engineering. The goal is to build a network of women in German-speaking countries that provides a safe space for asking questions, sharing experiences, exchanging ideas, and offering support. In addition, the initiative aims to strengthen and support women in leadership roles in order to achieve greater acceptance and recognition of women in leadership positions.
LinkedIn Group
The LinkedIn group provides a space to share posts, facilitate broad discussion, and share events and information. We want to give women in systems engineering a platform to network, learn from one another, and grow together.
Women’s Network Meeting
Since May 2025, women from the systems engineering community have been meeting online once a month—a format that has quickly become an integral part of many participants’ lives. The meetings provide a space for personal conversations, professional dialogue, sharing experiences, and mutual support. Whether you’re just starting your career or an experienced expert, everyone contributes their perspectives, benefits from one another, and works together to build a network that has an impact far beyond individual meetings. The open and trusting environment makes it easy to get involved, ask questions, and take away new ideas. An annual in-person meeting takes place on Systems Engineering Day.
You can find the dates in the GfSE event calendar. There, you can register for the meetings without obligation to receive the link.

Hermann-Köhl-Straße 7
D-28199 Bremen
+49 (0) 421 9896639-0
office@gfse.org
Mo-Fr 8:00 - 12:00

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