"The industry is continuously evolving and focuses on innovation."

Almut Rademacher, Managing Director of the the network owl maschinenbau, and Peter Oswald, Managing Director of BENTELER Maschinenbau, Glass Processing Equipment in Bielefeld, discuss challenges in recruiting skilled workers, mechanical engineering expertise from OWL, and the future of the industry.

Mrs. Rademacher, in your opinion, what characterizes the mechanical engineering industry in the East Westphalia Lippe region?

Almut Rademacher: I think this is well illustrated by the partners and members of our network: The local mechanical engineering and automation industry stands out due to its diversity—besides large companies and well-known names, there are many start-ups and smaller firms that represent this important branch of technological and industrial value creation. Furthermore, unlike other regions in Germany, we have a wide mix of industries that not only fosters innovation but also makes the region resilient. Additionally, these companies are, of course, important and reliable employers in the region and the innovation drivers that the economy needs.

Mr. Oswald, your company has been manufacturing specialized equipment for flat glass processing for over 70 years and operates internationally. Would you say that BENTELER Mechanical Engineering is still rooted in the region?

Peter Oswald: Yes, absolutely. Even though we now have production and sales locations in the Czech Republic, the USA, China, and India, Bielefeld remains our headquarter with over 160 employees and, in a way, the heart and brain of the company. As a global market leader in the field of complex washing and processing solutions for flat glass, BENTELER has earned the reputation of a hidden champion, with products in high demand. It is almost inevitable that the company adopts an international orientation to remain competitive.

The topics of skilled labor shortages and attracting young talent have been preoccupying the industry for a long time. How are you addressing these challenges specifically?

Almut Rademacher: These are, of course, issues that also concern us greatly within the owl maschinenbau network – after all, well-trained professionals are our most important resource! That's why we, for example, host an annual personnel forum to support companies in the strategic recruitment of skilled workers. Additionally, we have developed two corresponding programs: the "Mint Mentoring" for attracting young talent and the "Cross Mentoring" as a development program for talents and employees in key positions. At the same time, we also know that automation and artificial intelligence are now and will continue to be an important component for a future-proof production site in Germany.

Peter Oswald: Mechanical and plant engineering has a lot to offer – this must always be communicated. As an innovative industry, we need qualified and motivated employees. We at BENTELER take these challenges seriously. This begins with training, which we highly prioritize – according to studies and surveys, we are among the best training companies in Germany. Additionally, we support our employees with further education and training, and with balancing work and family life. BENTELER offers diverse advancement opportunities for a successful career, even internationally.

Would you dare to look into the future of the industry as we conclude?

Almut Rademacher: The mechanical engineering sector has repeatedly and impressively demonstrated its ability to continuously evolve and focus on innovation. Besides the current economic and political difficulties in Europe, the main challenges are related to digitalization and the use of generative AI. Moreover, we are confident that the sustainability transformation holds great opportunities, including new business models.

Peter Oswald: I believe the industry will help shape this transformation—there is already a lot happening in some companies, including ours, in terms of process and production optimizations through automation and digitalization. Additionally, there are questions of sustainability, such as the careful use of resources like water and energy, as well as the longevity and recyclability of machinery and equipment.

#skilledworkers #mechanicalengineering #OWL #BENTELER #GlassProcessing #FlatGlass #WeMakeItHappen #LifetimePartner #Sustainability #owlmaschinenbau