ETH Future Engineers Go Underground
Curiosity, innovation, and a sense of adventure took centre stage as ETH students and young professionals descended into the Hagerbach Test Gallery. Thanks to the outstanding Hagerbach team for hosting an inspiring and immersive visit that brought theory to life—quite literally beneath the surface.
The event welcomed 95 participants, including civil engineering, planning, and architecture students from ETH Zurich, as well as interns and young engineers from Amberg Engineering. Together, they explored one of Europe’s most fascinating underground research environments and gained rare insights into the world underground.
Divided into three guided groups, participants received a first-hand look at the impressive breadth of activities at Hagerbach. From applied research to cutting-edge underground space development, the visit offered a behind-the-scenes perspective on how innovation, engineering expertise, and practical experimentation come together beneath the surface. After the tour, the atmosphere shifted from discovery to dialogue. Over coffee and chocolate, participants enjoyed lively conversations, shared impressions, and expanded their professional networks in a relaxed setting.
The highlight of the afternoon was a concise and engaging lecture by Felix Amberg on the design and construction of underground spaces. His insights connected practical experience with academic learning and sparked thoughtful discussion among the audience.
Participants left energised and inspired, carrying fresh perspectives and tangible ideas to apply to their upcoming semester projects. The visit served as a perfect complement to the spring-semester ETH lecture, “Planning Underground Space,” equipping the next generation of engineers and planners with both inspiration and real-world context.
A memorable journey underground—and a powerful reminder that the future of engineering is being built below our feet.
