So, I’m Mario Hennenberger, born on November 9, 1973 (50.7 years ago), in Heidelberg, Germany.
Was involved in various projects, with the most noteworthy being the development of internet infrastructure for NC-Systems GmbH around 1997, as well as my involvement in the development and management of multiple internet shops and internet cafés.
Early life
Growing up as the fourth of five siblings, I spent my early years in Lobenfeld (now called Lobbach), Germany. In the late 1970s, my family relocated to Reichartshausen, a small village about 7 km from Lobenfeld, known for its sizable public bath that was a regional attraction.
Key Experiences (from living/being there (in no order))
- Scenic Beauty: Reichartshausen, nestled in the Odenwald, was incredibly picturesque.
Although I didn’t fully appreciate it at the time, I would love to revisit it. - Local Attitudes: The locals often made it clear that we were outsiders, referring to us as “Zugezogen,” which basically means “a foreigner”. This experience influenced my perspective on inclusivity and taught me not to judge people based on their origins or beliefs.
- Moving Day: One of my earliest memories is the moving truck getting stuck in snow and ice on Hielstrasse.
— a reminder of how climate change affects us all, since this type of snowfall is a thing of the past.
- Family Breakup: My parents’ divorce was a confusing period, compounded by my father’s new relationship.
— He could have done better, but hey, at least i know now where i got the shitty attitude from. - Friendships and Mentorship: I met my lifelong friend, Steffen Wurzer, and a mentor Bernhard Juhl.
- Family Business: I was involved in local family business operations at Bäckerei Karl-Heinz Schilling, Phillip Recycling & learned to drive heavy machinery and farming activities at the local turkey farm, “Weilerhof.”
Which also provided great hands-on experience in business operations. - Local Pub: The pub “Waldeck,” later renamed “Bistro Beo,” was a typical dark country pub at the edge of the forest. (“wald eck” literally means “edge of the forest) Despite its initial appearance, the owners and patrons turned out to be surprisingly kind and decent.
Education
- High School, attended GHS-Epfenbach (now Merian-Schule)
- College at Friedrich-Hecker-Schule (automotive engineering)
with practical training at at Autohaus Kobia in Sinsheim. - Further Activities: Engaged in various activities, including Funfare and Recycling with Bernhard Juhl, which deserves its own discussion.
- Diploma: I earned a diploma in Electrical Engineering from Berufsbildungswerk Neckargemünd (SRH Group, also known as “Reha Zentrum”), which was a pivotal and influential period in my life.
Professional Journey
Began my career at GRAWItech Computer & Electronics, a family company near Mannheim, specializing in SME solutions. This role eventually evolved into a freelance activity, leading me to pursue multiple ventures in internet applications & solution development.
Other Engagements in Germany
Professional: Du Pont (Östringen), Flip-inn GmbH (Mannheim), NC-Systems GmbH, Manpower (Mannheim)
The entrepreneurial activities also led to the formation of lasting friendships, including those with Alex, with whom I traveled to Thailand for the first time, as well as Thomas S., Ralf, and many others.
Personal: The Internet Relay Chat community fostered long-lasting friendships, including those with Ralf, Thomas, Maik, and many others. It was also in this environment that I met my first wife, Sandra.
Leaving to Thailand
The Kingdom of Thailand forms a different chapter of my life and has it’s own sections. You can read about moving to Thailand, or just check the “all about me” section.
This wraps up our “historical lesson” and exploration of my time in Germany.
(there may be some small Germany-related bits on other pages)Check out the sections on Thailand, Business, and others areas unrelated to the timeline.
more
- Entrepreneurial Path
- Trading
- Thailand
- Intermediate Family
- Bernhard Juhl
- Berufsbildingswerk Neckargemünd