The supply of tantalum and niobium is a hidden force fueling numerous future technologies: from high-performance electronics and biocompatible medical technology through to applications in the aerospace industry. As such, it is most important, to have a global network represent the industry. The Tantalum-Niobium International Study Center (TIC) has been the central forum of the global tantalum and niobium industry since 1974. It unites companies throughout the entire value chain and provides a platform for exchanging ideas on technical standards, regulatory trends, and sustainability. The TIC’s 66th General Assembly in Cape Town this year will be centering on new elections and future-oriented topics in the sector. One key figure in these developments is Silvana Fehling, Senior Director Global Materials Management at TANIOBIS. Fehling is the first woman to head the TIC and an individual who is actively helping shape the sector and its further development. In an interview, she talks about her year in the post, renewed momentum in the sector, and her expectations of the gathering in South Africa.

Ms. Fehling, how do you regard the TIC’s role in the sector and also for TANIOBIS?

The TIC forms a fundamental pillar for our entire industry. It brings companies together throughout the entire value chain, creating a platform for open dialog, cooperation, and common standards. This is absolutely invaluable in a highly specialized sector spread across the globe such as the tantalum and niobium industry. The network is extremely important for TANIOBIS. As a company with a global reach and high standards in quality, responsibility, and innovative capacity, our participation in the TIC helps us to identify trends at an early stage, shape regulatory changes, and further develop our sustainability strategy. It gives us a voice and the chance to make an impact.

How are you able to combine your work at the TIC with your role as Senior Director Global Materials Management at TANIOBIS?

My work at TANIOBIS and the TIC complement each other perfectly. At TANIOBIS, I’m responsible for global material management and purchasing. This affords me deep insights into the industry’s requirements and the urgency for new developments and sustainable solutions. I bring this expertise directly into my role as President of the TIC. Our work at TANIOBIS is intrinsically linked to the TIC’s goals, especially with regard to responsible sourcing of raw materials and our working relationship with suppliers.  It is also worth noting that TANIOBIS’s membership of the TIC dates back to the days of our predecessor organizations. This long-standing affiliation with the association is not only visible in our active participation in technical developments, regulatory processes, and sustainability standards, it also forms the basis for our strong commitment to transparency, traceability, ethical procurement, and technological advancements. All these matters define both my day-to-day activities at TANIOBIS and my work at the TIC. The synergy between these two roles is extremely important to me and enables me to actively help shape change in the sector.

You are the first female president in the TIC’s history. What does this role mean to you and how do you look back on your tenure as it draws to a close?

For me personally, it was a great honor to take on this position. It was a special moment; not only because I’m the first woman in this role, but also because it shows that the industry has changed. Greater diversity means more perspectives. I regard the tenure not only as a personal milestone but also as a reflection of the change which many have achieved together. The role also comes with responsibility. I’d like to further develop the TIC as a platform for transparency, sustainability, and innovation and look beyond my own company with a clear focus on the entire sector. This presidency is also important for TANIOBIS. It highlights our long-standing commitment on a global scale and shows that we not only participate in the market but also help shape it. This brings us valuable networks, insights, and innovative ideas, such as responsible raw material procurement or further development of new applications. Looking back, one of my key priorities was to reinforce the TIC as a platform for exchanging ideas and addressing relevant topics such as sustainability, supply chain transparency, and innovations in the use of tantalum and niobium. At the same time, I wanted to expand the TIC’s role as a reliable partner for industry, research, and policy makers.  I’m proud of the progress we have made, especially in creating a stronger network between members and advancing the development of new standards for the sector.

How do you think the TIC will evolve over the next five to ten years?

Moving forward, I see the TIC becoming more closely networked and more active on an international level. Its role as a bridge between industry, science, and policy makers must be expanded as the challenges – be they related to sustainability, regulatory issues, or technological innovations – require collective responses. A key topic from me is supply chain digitalization. New traceability and transparency technologies throughout the value chain not only increase trust in our products but also improve processes. Furthermore, I’d like to strengthen collaboration with scientific institutions to advance new fields of application for tantalum and niobium. Connecting with young professionals is something I deeply care about in this regard. Nurturing young talent is vital if we wish to secure the future of our industry.