Stage 15: Between rain, roads, and the future of engineering
Michael Poepke | 23. March 2026
The final day of the igus:bike journey in Santa Catarina began with light rain, grey skies, and that kind of atmosphere that invites you to slow down — but not to stop.
In the morning, our destination was UFSC – Federal University of Santa Catarina.
More than just a visit, it was a meeting with the future. Between laboratories, classrooms, and conversations with students and professors, we reinforced something that is part of igus’ DNA: staying close to universities and continuously supporting the development of new engineers.
We believe that this is where everything begins.
Where ideas take shape.
Where theory starts to become real-world application.
And that is exactly why initiatives like the YES program (Young Engineers Support) are such a meaningful part of our journey — connecting students with hands-on experience, industry, and real opportunities for growth.
Because in the end, technology cannot exist without people.
After that, we took the opportunity to ride within the Perini Business Park.
One of the largest industrial hubs in Latin America — where innovation and production move side by side.
It was there that we visited the igus facility in Joinville, showing in practice how solutions move from concept to reality within an industrial environment. Applied engineering, motion, and reliability in action.
And to close the day, SENAI.
A symbol of the technical education that supports and drives Brazilian industry. An important reminder that knowledge is not only theoretical — it is built, tested, and experienced every single day.
Between rain, visits, and meaningful encounters, this final stage in Santa Catarina was not just about the kilometers traveled.
It was about connections.
Between education and industry.
Between learning and application.
Between present and future.
And with that, we close another chapter of the igus:bike journey in Brazil.
Our riders:
Jenifer Quintino
My name is Jenifer Quintino and I have been working in the Marketing department at igus for 1 year and 11 months, supporting communication initiatives and the execution of internal and external company projects, with a focus on organization and activity follow-up.
I participated in organizing the materials for the igus:bike and I am motivated to take part in this tour across Brazil, making the most of every learning opportunity throughout this journey.
Mahyara Santos
My name is Mahyara Santos and I have been working at igus Brazil for almost eight months as a Marketing Intern at the Joinville (SC) unit.
In my daily work, I support the content and press areas, assist the team with field activities, events, and one team initiatives in Joinville, and also contribute to updating and organizing the CRM. This variety of activities allows me to gain a broad perspective of marketing in practice and understand how it integrates with other areas of the company.
What motivates me most at igus is the opportunity to constantly learn, participate in real projects and follow their results, while also contributing to a diverse and experienced team. Even as an intern, I have the chance to develop across different marketing activities, which greatly contributes to my professional growth and helps me understand how the marketing area supports the company’s growth.
Guilherme Brauhardt – Outside Sales igus do Brasil
My name is Guilherme … and more info will follow later on!
Gabriel Volpato – Marketing analyst
My name is Gabriel, and I have been part of the igus Brazil marketing team since 2020, when I joined the company as an apprentice. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to grow alongside the company and evolve within the marketing area.
Today, I work with graphic design, video editing, and digital marketing initiatives, helping transform ideas into visual experiences that communicate the igus purpose. I enjoy being hands-on, learning new skills, and taking on challenges with enthusiasm, whether behind a camera, at the computer, or on the road.
Accompanying the igus Bike Tour throughout its entire journey is a unique opportunity for me to tell real stories, capture meaningful moments, and showcase how our brand connects with people, places, and innovation.
I am truly excited to be part of this experience and to help ensure that every stage of the tour becomes a memorable chapter in our story.
Map of this stage:
