Tailor-Made for the Mobility of Tomorrow
Interview with Ing. Bernhard Wagner, Managing Partner of Zoerkler Gears GmbH & Co KG
In the midst of the idyllic wine landscape of Burgenland, technology is developed that is used in high-performance vehicles, airplanes, and trains all over the world. Zoerkler Gears GmbH & Co KG develops and manufactures high-precision drive systems, distinguished by efficiency, complexity, and quality. In an interview with the Wirtschaftsforum, Ing. Bernhard Wagner, managing partner, talks about technological developments, long-term thinking – and why Europe needs more confidence.
The fact that Zoerkler is today one of the most innovative drive specialists in Europe is no coincidence. Rather, it is the result of a clear attitude, long-term decisions – and a consistent focus on quality. "We develop, produce and test everything in-house," says Ing. Bernhard Wagner, who leads the company. "Our strength lies in the combination of engineering expertise, manufacturing depth, and flexibility. This makes us a peer-level partner."
Specialized in high requirements
The company history of Zoerkler goes back almost 120 years. In recent decades, the company has transformed from a classic contract manufacturer to a highly specialized development company. A milestone was the move to Jois in Burgenland, where today, on approximately 8,000 m2 of production space, components for aviation, automotive industry, rail vehicles, and industrial applications are created.
The decision to specifically specialize in aviation was made for strategic reasons. 'In Europe, you can only survive if you deliver the highest quality for very specialized industries,' says Bernhard Wagner. 'Aviation is a market with extremely high demands, but it also offers long-term planning - which is ideal for us.' At Zoerkler, drives are created that are designed to be as light and efficient as possible. Testing is conducted on-site, supported by digital twins. 'We develop the systems virtually and then prove their functionality on our own test benches,' explains Bernhard Wagner. This interconnection of digital development and real validation is considered a benchmark in the industry.
In addition to aviation, Zoerkler is also intensively working on alternative drive solutions for the automotive industry. 'We develop electric and hybrid drive systems - and we also see that these technologies are gradually making their way into aviation,' says Bernhard Wagner. 'Sustainability is becoming not an option, but a necessity. Efficiency increase, lightweight construction, and CO2 reduction are at the top of our agenda.'
Europe Needs to Regain Its Confidence
Those joining Zoerkler or investing in a project need trust. The company is already developing components for aircraft that will not hit the market until 2040. "This demonstrates how long-term our thinking is," notes the managing director. "Our customers must trust that we will deliver stable quality and innovative strength over the years." Trust also plays a central role internally. With about 110 employees, the company is small but highly specialized. "We look for the best minds – and try to bring them together in a strong team," explains Bernhard Wagner. "Our corporate culture is based on values like quality, safety, joy in innovation, and responsibility. This applies not only to our customers but also in our dealings with each other."
Despite all technological successes, Bernhard Wagner sees the industry in Europe at a critical point. The experiences from the COVID pandemic and the increasing competitive pressure from China have left their marks. "Less is being developed in the automotive industry today," he observes. "Many are acting very cautiously – instead of boldly catching up." He advocates for Europe to show more self-confidence again and to strengthen its own industrial competence. "We have built up know-how over the years – it would be a mistake to outsource that carelessly," he warns. Especially manufacturing in one's own country is essential: "It's high time we say in Europe again: We can do it ourselves. And we can afford it, too."
"The Spirit of Precision" – this motto at Zoerkler is more than just a slogan. It describes an attitude: precision in technology, communication, and partnership. The company from Jois shows that industrial excellence is possible on a small scale – when one focuses on quality, personal responsibility, and long-term relationships.
"I hope that a certain new beginning arises again in Europe," says Bernhard Wagner about the future. "We must secure our technological independence and be ready to pay the necessary price for it. Because in the long run, that's the better path – for everyone."