The scope of tasks at the Technische Hilfswerk (THW) is diverse, for both volunteer operatives and full-time staff. Numerous different core and specialist units cover a wide range of specific capabilities and tasks, from rescue and recovery through bridge building to drinking water supply. Duties of the full-time staff range from personnel recruitment through property management to operational control. THW research also makes a significant contribution to civil protection in Germany by examining issues such as how civil and disaster relief will look in the future, and how technical assistance can be provided faster and more efficiently. Examples include the use of drones and artificial intelligence.