Family-Friendly Workplace: FERNFH Takes 2nd Place in the Lower Austria State Competition
Ferdinand Porsche FERNFH is once again among the most family-friendly companies in Lower Austria. Its second-place finish in the Lower Austria “Familienland*Stars 2026” competition in the “Family-Friendly Companies” category confirms the company’s consistent commitment to flexibility—not only for students but also for employees.
St. Pölten, April 22, 2026 – As part of the 2026 Familienland*Stars awards ceremony, the State of Lower Austria honored the 15 companies that achieved top rankings in the “Family-Friendly Companies” category. Ferdinand Porsche FERNFH was awarded second place in the “Medium-Sized Companies (21 to 100 Employees)” category. Mag. (FH) Axel Jungwirth, MEng, AKKM, owner and managing director, commented on the award:“I am very pleased and honored to receive this award. I am not only the managing director but also a devoted family man. That is why it has always been a personal priority for me to focus on concrete measures that support work-life balance—not only for our students but also for all colleagues at FERNFH. My goal is to create and maintain an environment as a company where a balance between work and family is possible in all circumstances.”
Jury's assessment: The overall concept and flexibility are impressive
The jury’s statement highlights, among other things, the overall family-friendly concept:“Thanks to the high degree of flexibility in working hours and work location, a work environment is created that enables a sustainable work-life balance.”
The structured parental leave management program and comprehensive support services also received positive reviews. These include flexible child care, information and counseling services, and the“College & Family”information page. These offerings are complemented by the digital family room on the Online Campus and on campus.
Click here for a 360° tour of the family room on the FERNFH campus
Overall, the successful combination of flexibility and targeted support for employees is impressive.
Focus on Balancing Family and Career
By participating in the award program for family-friendly companies in Lower Austria— Familienland*Stars 2026—FERNFH demonstrates what is possible at a publicly funded university of applied sciences, even during challenging times in the education sector. At the same time, the university underscores its long-term commitment to family-friendliness and uses the platform to network and exchange ideas with like-minded companies.
Martina Mokricky, Head of Human Resources Management & Development at FERNFH: “As the HR manager, I hold discussions with employees from all departments, as well as with all job applicants, so I know that our measures to promote work-life balance are well-received and effective. What sets us apart is not only our high degree of flexibility regarding working hours and location, but also the pragmatic and solution-oriented approaches we take when everyday life catches up with our employees and exceptional situations arise. We find solutions together. It makes me personally proud to be part of a team that not only upholds these values but lives them every day.”
This award once again underscores FERNFH's commitment to providing a modern and family-friendly work environment where professional success and personal responsibilities can be sustainably balanced.
