The GFZ ‘Technician of the Year 2023’ award went to Marcel Ludwig from Section 1.1 Geodetic Space Techniques for his exceptionally diverse and innovative technical solutions, which enable outstanding research results in various sections and departments of the GFZ. As an industrial mechanic specialising in precision engineering, he makes highly reliable and essential contributions to the GFZ's operational geodetic observation networks in the workshop area of the Geodesy Department. His initiative to develop and use unmanned small aircraft for scientific applications also led to significant deployments and results in 2023. In addition, Marcel Ludwig is a key driver of the use of 3D printing at the GFZ – since 2023 with a new 3D printer. This benefits both science and science communication.