The Courage for the Future
Interview with Thomas Block-Deponte, Authorized Officer of SCHIELICKE BAU Hoch-, Tief- und Ingenieurbau GmbH
For 120 years, SCHIELICKE BAU Hoch-, Tief- und Ingenieurbau GmbH has been shaping the construction industry in Beelitz and beyond with entrepreneurial vision and pioneering spirit. From a small craft business, the company has developed into a modern construction company that combines tradition with cutting-edge technology. Today it is led by Dipl.-Ing. Benjamin Schielicke and Dipl.-Ing. Thomas Schielicke in the 5th generation. Authorized officer Thomas Block-Deponte clarifies that it is primarily the courage for entrepreneurship that distinguishes SCHIELICKE BAU.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Block-Deponte, SCHIELICKE BAU has a long tradition. What makes the company special?
Thomas Block-Deponte: Our company is characterized by its openness to new developments and its courage for the future. Our founder Gustav Schielicke was innovative—he developed a small railway to efficiently supply materials to construction sites. Such bold ideas are our hallmark; they enable the implementation of sustainable, efficient construction projects. From planning to handing over the keys for specialist markets or in road and civil engineering—we cover it all.
Wirtschaftsforum: How does SCHIELICKE BAU use modern technologies today?
Thomas Block-Deponte: Digitalization has greatly advanced us. We work with Sharp, manage construction sites digitally, and use GPS-controlled excavators and 3D visualizations. Drone technology helps us monitor construction progress. Our connected machines increase precision and efficiency, saving time and resources.
Wirtschaftsforum: What role does innovation play in your company?
Thomas Block-Deponte: Innovation is the key to our success. We explore new paths that are shown to us by climate policy, market developments, and skilled labor shortages. We consistently utilize digital capabilities—no other company in the industry has a comparable digital potential for daily work. We invest in research and development to make complex construction projects more efficient. We are already using AI in surveying. Smart drones create terrain surveys and optimize planning processes. In the future, AI will play an even greater role in project management to make construction processes more efficient.
Wirtschaftsforum: SCHIELICKE BAU has managed to grow despite crises and skilled labor shortages. How did you achieve this?
Thomas Block-Deponte: We have diversified, focusing on renewable energy, and carrying out projects for wind farms, photovoltaic installations, and battery storage. Our GPS-controlled excavators make workflows more efficient—what used to require three people can now be done by a single excavator operator. We have established the ‘Team Azubi’ department to recruit young talents and retain them in the company long-term. We are present at trade fairs, utilize social media, and offer our employees an attractive working environment. Furthermore, we place great importance on training opportunities and career prospects within the company. Because only satisfied employees can deliver outstanding performance.
Wirtschaftsforum: Can you tell us about current projects?
Thomas Block-Deponte: We are currently realizing several projects, including the civil engineering for Germany's tallest hotel, the Estrel Tower Berlin. Here, we are handling the complete pipeline construction for district heating as well as specialized civil engineering with groundwater lowering and ammunition recovery. Another significant project is the construction of access roads for wind farms, as there are no wind turbines without roads. And we are working on large-scale infrastructure projects that focus on sustainable construction.
Wirtschaftsforum: What future visions are you pursuing?
Thomas Block-Deponte: We aim to further advance our digitalization and optimize processes. A particular project for the future is serial construction – the development of standardized, modular building elements for affordable housing. Sustainable building is also a major topic: We are developing concepts for CO2-reduced construction and environmentally friendly building materials.
Wirtschaftsforum: Does SCHIELICKE BAU also develop its own software?
Thomas Block-Deponte: Yes, we are launching our own construction software — the DAP. With it, we share our experience in process optimization with other companies. With this software, construction processes can be planned and controlled more efficiently.
Wirtschaftsforum: In conclusion: What makes SCHIELICKE BAU so successful?
Thomas Block-Deponte: We stand for tradition, innovation, and the courage to change. Our company impressively demonstrates how a long history can be combined with the most modern technology – a recipe for success that will continue to ensure growth and progress in the future. Our secret to success lies in the combination of experience, innovative strength, and a strong team that gives its best every day.