"We focus on employees over 50"
Interview with Benjamin Pastuszak, Managing Director and Aaron Knoblich, Managing Director of DTZ Dichtungs-Technik-Ziegler GmbH
Pump repairs and mechanical seals are their specialty: DTZ Dichtungs-Technik-Ziegler GmbH from Bünde has decades of experience in this field. In conversation with Wirtschaftsforum, managing directors Benjamin Pastuszak and Aaron Knoblich talk about diversity, trust, and responsibility.
European Business: Mr. Pastuszak, Mr. Knoblich, how would you describe your company today?
Benjamin Pastuszak: We are a repair shop for industrial pumps with our own production of mechanical seals. We are capable of repairing pumps up to 16 tons; that's something not many can do. Our customers receive a complete package including refurbishment, seals, installation, and on-site service. DTZ has stood for quality made in Germany for over 30 years.
Aaron Knoblich: Our strength lies in having all steps under our own control. We manufacture the seals in-house, provide consulting and fault analysis, and take care of the dismantling and reinstallation of the pumps. This creates flexibility and high reliability for our customers.
European Business: What sets DTZ apart from the competition?
Aaron Knoblich: We don't just replace parts, we refurbish them. This has become rare these days. It is important to us that our employees understand how the product works and which dimensions are crucial. This experience takes time – and we take it.
Benjamin Pastuszak: We want the customer to be satisfied at the end, even if it sometimes means more effort for us. Honesty pays off. A customer who realizes they can trust us stays loyal, often for decades.
Wirtschaftsforum: Who are your customers?
Benjamin Pastuszak: We operate in many industries, from food to steel and energy, wastewater treatment plants and waste incineration plants to swimming pools. Our clients include companies like RWE, Thyssen, HKM, Homann, or CSM. This diversity makes us independent of individual markets.
Aaron Knoblich: Especially in the steel industry and the energy sector, we have been a reliable partner for years. Our customers know they can rely on us – especially in emergency situations when plants are down.
Wirtschaftsforum: What challenges do you encounter in everyday business?
Aaron Knoblich: Finding skilled workers is difficult. Pump repair is not learned in a few weeks; it takes up to two years to train someone properly. We invest a lot of time in training and education.
Benjamin Pastuszak: We have had the best experiences with experienced colleagues around the age of 50 years or older. They bring practical knowledge and reliability, and they understand the value of fair cooperation.
Wirtschaftsforum: And what personally drives you both?
Benjamin Pastuszak: We are both family-oriented people. What we do, we do not for titles, but for the people behind the company – the employees and their families. We currently support 37 families.
Aaron Knoblich: That's exactly our motivation – to take responsibility so that everyone here enjoys coming to work and goes home satisfied at the end of the day.