HISTORY

Trude Fortmann: Pioneer and visionary

A pioneer and visionary at ARDEX

This is Trude Fortmann, born Lange. Even at a young age, she played a crucial role in shaping the foundation of ARDEX.

At the beginning of ARDEX, she was still playing with the idea of becoming a teacher, but quickly realized: ARDEX was the right choice for her. On July 30, 1949, the day the company was founded, it was her and Günter Dirk who went to the Notary, becoming an integral part of ARDEX.

Trude, who holds a degree in Chemistry, completed her studies at the renowned universities Münster and Würzburg. At a time when women made up just under 20% of the entrepreneurship landscape, she showed determination and courage to rise above the male-dominated social structures.

Her self-confident, quick-witted and assertive nature made her an outstanding personality at ARDEX. As a partner and managing director, she led the research and development department with passion and competence, allowing it to grow magnificently under her leadership.

After 25 years of hard work, Trude left ARDEX on December 31, 1974, but her legacy lives on. Her vision, commitment and innovative spirit laid the foundation for the excellence that characterizes ARDEX today.