Three questions to ... Romy Dauer

This time, Romy Dauer is answering our three questions. The 66-year old engineer has been in charge of the company Dauer Aufzüge for 37 years; now she advises the company.

You have managed a lift company from 1988 to 2025 – as a woman in an absolutely masculine sector. What has your experience been there?
Dauer: Initially, it wasn’t always easy as managing director in a masculine sector. Some customers were surprised, in part even angry, that the ‘boss’ was a woman. At the same time, however, I experienced a great deal of openness and respect. Many even thought it was great that a woman was in charge of a lift company.

Why in your opinion is the sector so masculine-dominated?
Dauer: Because it’s technically-oriented – men are traditionally more strongly represented there. This has nothing to do with skills but rather with old thought patterns that persist stubbornly. Women often have a lack of visible role models they can emulate. If you hardly see anyone in your environment that resembles you, the hurdle is of course higher.

What advice would you give young women who today are thinking about setting up their own business in this sector?
Dauer: Just do it! Really. You should be able to take on responsibility and keep your team on your side. If you get involved with a clear head, passion and endurance, you can definitely hold your own here. It might not always be comfortable but it will be worth it. Particularly because you don’t match the cliché. Motto: Women power that motivates. :-) 

More informations:https://dauer-aufzug.de/

Three questions to …: We have so far asked our ‘three questions’ to Ulrich Brumm (Orba-Lift Aufzugsdienst), Detlef Klinkhammer (KLST) und Christian Dreßler (Meiller Aufzugtüren).