Where Technology is Under Pressure
Interview with Markus Garlich, Managing Director of cam GmbH
The German machinery and plant engineering sector is under pressure: Global uncertainties, rising energy costs, and a shortage of skilled workers challenge companies. Flexible partners who provide individual solutions and at the same time meet the highest quality standards are in demand. This is exactly where cam GmbH from Calau steps in. Since 2004, the company has been convincing in machinery and switchgear construction with customized projects and close partnership with its customers.
With a clear focus on flexibility, partnership, and 'Made in Germany' quality, cam GmbH convinces with tailor-made solutions and close collaboration with its customers. Managing Director Markus Garlich describes the strengths of the company as follows: "We can very individually cater to our customers' wishes - and provide them with tested complete solutions from a single source."
Flexibility and Partnership as Success Factors
"Our strength lies in flexibility," emphasizes Markus Garlich. Together with caleg Schrank- und Gehäusebau GmbH, cam GmbH offers solutions from a single source - from cabinet construction to wiring, right up to complete plants. "This saves our customers many interfaces and provides them with plug-ready, tested switchgear," adds the Managing Director. Proximity to sheet metal production in Calau proves to be a strategic advantage. Whether a single piece or a large-scale plant: cam GmbH is capable of implementing even complex requirements. "We see ourselves not just as contractors, but as partners of our customers. Many business relationships have been maintained for over 20 years - a sign of trust and mutual development," says Markus Garlich.
From London to Overseas: Projects with International Impact
The references of the company speak for themselves. A special highlight was a major project for an elevator manufacturer that needed control cabinets for the London Underground in the run-up to the Olympic Games. "It was a huge challenge, both in terms of time and technology. In the end, it was a success experience for the entire team," recalls Markus Garlich. In addition to railway technology, cam GmbH is primarily active in mechanical engineering – from printing and packaging machines to special systems. With UL certification, the company can also realize projects for the North American market. "Although we mainly supply customers in the DACH region, our products go all over the world through their machines," explains the managing director.
Challenges and Opportunities in Change
The last few years have been marked by uncertainty for many medium-sized businesses – whether due to the pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, or the energy and education policies in Germany. "I see a great deal of uncertainty in the market. Many companies are holding back on investments because there is a lack of political guideposts and consistency," says Markus Garlich. Particularly the energy transition is a topic that requires planning security: "You cannot overturn everything every four years. For the industry, reliability is crucial." In addition to economic conditions, cam GmbH is also concerned about the shortage of skilled workers. As a mechanical engineer, this issue is particularly close to Markus Garlich's heart: "The number of engineering students has dramatically decreased. If we no longer train skilled workers, we jeopardize Germany's innovative strength and competitiveness." This is why the company has been promoting a culture that appeals to young people in the region and binds them in the long term.
Vision for the Future: Digitalization and Attractive Jobs
With the upcoming generational change in management, Markus Garlich sees the opportunity to set new impulses. "Now we have the opportunity to actively shape the company – so that we continue to be viable for the future." A key theme is digitalization. Connected processes are intended to increase efficiency and relieve employees of routine tasks. "Our goal is that employees can focus more on their core tasks. Digitalization is not an end in itself, but a tool to improve working conditions." Also, the attractiveness of the workplace is a central concern for the CEO. "I want young people in the region to say: My goal is to work at cam or caleg. We want to create a company culture where employees feel comfortable and stay in the long term." Modernized production halls, smart processes, and a family-like work atmosphere are meant to contribute to this. Over the past two decades, cam GmbH has established itself as a powerful partner for mechanical engineering and rail technology. With a clear focus on flexibility, partnership, and quality "Made in Germany," the company is well-positioned to withstand even challenging market environments. For Markus Garlich, the role of CEO not only entails responsibility but also the chance to actively shape the future: "We want to show that medium-sized companies like cam GmbH are not only reliable partners but also attractive employers and drivers of innovation."