Insights and outlooks at Stadler Service Switzerland, Frauenfeld site
On September 6, 2024, Beat Keller, Head of Department 3R (Revision, Repair and Refit) at Stadler Service Switzerland, gave us a deep insight and outlook into the processes from damage to rail vehicles to damage assessment, transport and refurbishment to recommissioning.
For two hours, we were able to experience in the workshops what it means to repair damage of all kinds and at the same time carry out planned overhauls in the available space.
A big thank you in advance
The Senior Pool and the future of technology - a strategy for success between know-how, complexity and creativity
The world of technology is constantly changing. The knowledge of experienced specialists is becoming increasingly valuable. To ensure that this knowledge is not lost, Stadler is setting up a senior pool. The experienced technicians, engineers and mechanics not only contribute decades of experience, but also ensure that complex challenges can continue to be mastered. After all, the knowledge of why a specific technique was required for a specific screw 35 years ago cannot simply be written down - such subtleties must be passed on personally.
Complexity of repairs and creative solutions
Technical repairs are no less demanding today. The complexity of machines and vehicles is constantly increasing, and the requirements are growing. Sometimes it takes real creativity to find solutions. Who would have thought that a former vegetable picker would suddenly become an outstanding technical employee? With a steady hand and a keen eye for detail, he solves problems that make even experienced engineers break out in a sweat.
From the racetrack to the rails
A former technician from the Formula 1 racing circuit is now bringing his expertise to the rail industry. Speed is also a decisive factor here - albeit more during repairs than during the journey itself. Rethinking processes and maintenance in a new and different way: this requires lateral entrants. The understanding of the life cycles of components was initially quite different: gearboxes in rail vehicles last much longer than those in racing cars. This technician was able to further optimize their maintenance.
Nerds and screwdrivers: the perfect combination
Not to be forgotten are the many nerds who take on every technical challenge with passion and enthusiasm. It is often said that true innovations are created when people not only approach their work logically, but also with a certain enthusiasm. So, the workshops are not only staffed by experienced technicians, but also by tinkerers who delve into the smallest details - and find solutions that are sometimes unconventional, but always effective.
Challenges posed by geopolitical developments
The geopolitical tensions and wars have also left their mark on Stadler. A new plant in Minsk, which originally employed 1,500 people, now only has 100 to 200 technicians on site. The war in the region has severely hampered expansion and presented the company with new challenges. Planning has to be rethought, supply chains adapted, and security aspects taken into account.
Transportation challenges: Trains on the road
Damage repair poses a particular challenge. Damaged trains often must be transported over long distances by road, which is not only time-consuming but also cost-intensive. A great deal of planning is required to get the expensive and bulky vehicles from the accident site to Frauenfeld. The logistics behind this are impressive, but also a constant source of headaches for those responsible. It often takes months for the damaged trains to arrive on site.
Skilled workers urgently needed
The company is looking for 40 engineers to strengthen the existing teams. Career changers are also welcome. Not only is specialist knowledge required here, but also the willingness to work creatively and in a solution-oriented manner.
Conclusion
With the right mix of experience, creativity and innovative approaches, the technology sector is well positioned to master the challenges of the future. The senior citizen pool, the former vegetable picker and the Formula 1 technician are examples of how diverse the solutions can be. After all, it's not just knowledge about screws that counts, but also how you pass this knowledge on and use it to shape the future. At Stadler, you can make a difference.