15–19 February 2027 | Kufstein Tirol
Theme: Sustainable Urban & Community Development – Building the Future
How can we create university campuses that support better learning while using resources responsibly? And how can renewable energy help communities prepare for the future? Join EuroFM Winter School 2027 in Kufstein, Austria, to explore these questions with students and experts from international partner universities.
Under the topic Building the Future, you will work in small teams on one of two practical challenges: sustainable campus development or renewable energy with a focus on hydrogen. Online preparation, an intensive week in Kufstein and follow-up work will help you turn research into a concept you can present to experts.
Why attend
Topic 2026: Building the Future
Work on a real challenge, compare approaches with students from other countries and develop a proposal with support from coaches and experts. You will work on one of two project areas:
In Project A, you will engage with real-world facility and real estate management challenges. You will develop innovative concepts for campus expansion that integrate sustainable principles and explore how modern facility management contributes to creating inspiring learning environments. This project includes participation in the EuroFM and FMplus Conference 2027, held at our university, where you will gain insights from leading experts and establish valuable international networks.
Project B invites you to explore renewable energy solutions with a specific focus on hydrogen technology. Working within the framework of the ERASMUS+ Project H2CoVE – Hydrogen Centers of Vocational Excellence, you will develop future-ready ideas for implementing renewable energy systems in the energy sector. This project challenges you to think creatively about how hydrogen and other sustainable energy sources can transform our energy landscape.
- Learn through practical project work, coaching, interim presentations and feedback, and present your final concept to a jury.
- Build experience in international teamwork and bring together knowledge from different disciplines.
- Apply Education for Sustainable Development by considering the environmental, social and economic effects of your proposals.
- Connect your work to UN Sustainable Development Goals 4, 7, 9, 11, 12 and 13, covering education, clean energy, innovation, sustainable communities, responsible resource use and climate action.
- Take part without a participation fee. Plan and pay for your own travel and accommodation, and budget for meals and social activities.
Learning format and credits
The Winter School combines online preparation, on-site project work and follow-up activities. The module carries 5 ECTS credits and represents approximately 150 hours of work: around 50 hours of preparation, 50 hours during the block week and 50 hours of follow-up work. Assessment is based on your project and presentation. A certificate of attendance is issued after successful completion of all components.
The programme is taught in English. Participants should have basic knowledge of facility management, real estate management, sustainability management or energy technology. Check with your home institution how the credits can be recognised within your degree programme.
Program at a glance
| Date | Time | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| 12 January 2027 | 19:00–20:30 | Online Microsoft Teams pre-task kick-off |
| 10 February 2027 | 19:00–20:30 | Online Microsoft Teams pre-task meeting and final information |
| 15 February 2027 | 12:00–19:30 | On-site welcome and group work |
| 16 February 2027 | 09:15–18:45 | On-site group work |
| 17 February 2027 | 09:15–18:45 | On-site group work |
| 18 February 2027 | 09:15–18:45 | Project A: conference participation Project B: group work |
| 19 February 2027 | 09:15–15:30 | Project A: conference participation Project B: group work |
Full attendance is required for all scheduled sessions. The programme may be updated before the event.
Location & travel
The Winter School takes place at the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol (HOK), Andreas Hofer-Strasse 7, 6330 Kufstein, Austria. With its historic town centre, fortress and surrounding mountains, Kufstein offers plenty to explore during your stay.
Please choose public transport where possible. Kufstein has rail connections from Munich, Salzburg, Vienna and Innsbruck, as well as connections from Zurich via Innsbruck. The university is approximately a 5–10 minute walk from the railway station. Check current services before booking your journey.
Arrange your own travel and accommodation in good time, as affordable guesthouses can fill up quickly. For meals, the university cafeteria and nearby restaurants are available, and a microwave can be used to heat your own food during the lunch break.
Sustainability & accessibility at the heart
Sustainability runs through both the project work and the way participants are encouraged to travel. By examining the environmental, social and economic dimensions of campus development and energy systems, you will explore how practical decisions can contribute to lasting improvements.
The relevant event areas are accessible for wheelchair users, with space for accompanying persons. Tactile guidance and signage support blind and visually impaired visitors. A portable induction loop system with a microphone and headphones is available at the university’s main entrance Infopoint.
What to bring
- A laptop or tablet with internet access, presentation software and access to Microsoft Teams for sharing files and communicating.
- A headset for online sessions and teamwork.
- Warm clothing and waterproof, snowproof footwear for outdoor activities and excursions.
- A budget for meals and social evening activities.
Register now & get involved
Participation is free of charge, but registration means committing to the full programme, including the required online sessions and on-site activities. If you can no longer attend, please cancel your registration so the team can adjust the project groups.
For registration arrangements, availability and programme questions, contact Christian Huber. Book your travel and accommodation once your place and the final dates have been confirmed.
Got questions? Reach out to:
Asc. Prof. Christian Huber
Email: christian.huber@hok.ac.at
Phone: +43 5372 71819 0