After obtaining his diploma in mechanical engineering from the University of Stuttgart, Germany, Herbert Holik spent three years in R&D for cryogenics. He then worked for over 35 years in the paperrelated supplier industry holding responsible positions, mainly in R&D. He has taught as a lecturer and guest lecturer at various national and international universities. Herbert Holik is coauthor of several books and encyclopaedias related to paper science and authored a large number of technical and scientific papers. His numerous patents cover most areas of paper making. He was an active member of national and international working groups on paper technology, machinery safety, testing and standardization as well as education.