Pioneering Drive Technology in Focus
Interview with Martin Kroschk, Managing Director and Gunther Budig, Managing Director of EAAT GmbH Chemnitz
Since its foundation, EAAT GmbH Chemnitz has developed into a leading provider in the field of electrical automation and drive technology. The company is known for its customized solutions and series productions that meet the highest quality standards. In discussion with the managing directors Gunther Budig and Martin Kroschk, it becomes clear how strongly EAAT focuses on innovation and customer proximity to remain successful in an ever-evolving industry.
EAAT GmbH Chemnitz celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2023. Since its foundation in 1993, EAAT has established itself as an important player in the industry with a turnover of 4.5 to 5 million EUR and 32 employees through customer-specific developments and innovative solutions despite its manageable size. Under the management of Gunther Budig, who has been the owner since 2012 and took over as CEO in 2016, and Martin Kroschk, who joined EAAT in 2010 and has been in the management since 2022, the company has undergone an impressive development. The CEOs place great value on solutions that are specifically tailored to the needs of their customers. As a recognized research institution, EAAT offers a wide range of products and services, including electrical automation and drive technology as well as customer-specific developments.
50% of the business consists of standard products, with the other 50% being customized solutions. There is a particular focus on the integration of new technologies such as drive systems for high-vacuum applications or active magnetic bearings for energy storage systems.
Target Groups and Market Focus
The target groups of EAAT include the machine tool and testing equipment industry as well as special machine construction. Even though the main market is in Germany, the company operates internationally and has successfully implemented projects in countries including Mexico, the USA, and China.
Digital transformation plays a key role in the future of EAAT, with IT security and remote maintenance becoming increasingly important.
Challenges and Future Strategies
Recruiting qualified professionals is a major challenge, particularly in the areas of development and workshop operations. To counter this, EAAT has started its own training programs last year and is working closely with schools and universities. At the same time, the management is developing a new strategy to create new product ideas and enter into strong partnerships. Despite the increasing de-industrialization in Germany and the lack of political will that drives many companies into insolvency, EAAT remains optimistic and determined to future-proof the company.