Everyday work routine vs. disaster response
Since 2008, Pickal's everyday work routine as a firefighter in Garching has focused on the safety of the buildings, laboratories, technical equipment and, in particular, the people at the sprawling research complex. He is also responsible for training and continuing education of the TUM campus fire department. He and his colleagues are available around the clock to assist in case of accidents or fires, an enormously important job. But there's no comparison with the situation in a disaster area. "It brings you back down to earth, when you realize how small our problems really are."
Campus fire department chief Jürgen Wettlaufer supports the volunteer efforts: "This illustrates the high level of motivation among our colleagues in the campus fire department. To me, helping others is more than a professional daily mission, it's a personal philosophy."
More than anything, the reactions of the people he helps give Pickal strength. He has already been on NAVIS missions to Haiti, Pakistan and Kenya, among other places. "The people are so dependent on outside help and they're so grateful that we're there for them. These positive responses make it possible to bear the incredible suffering we see everywhere. We can really make a difference."
