35 Years of InfraTec
The vast majority of all companies in Germany are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Employing over 50 percent of the workforce, these companies create approximately 40 percent of the gross value added of the local economy (Source). To ensure sustainable development as an SME, innovative products and motivated employees are essential, among other factors. In its 35th year in business, InfraTec GmbH Infrarotsensorik und Messtechnik can boast both: Founded by graduates of the TU Dresden University of Technology as an engineering firm and registered as a GmbH in June 1991, the Dresden-based company now employs more than 240 people worldwide, operating in two business units that have successfully established themselves in the market.
The Sensor Division specializes in the development, manufacture, and sale of optoelectronic components that detect infrared or thermal radiation. These pyroelectric detectors are used in industrial and medical gas analysis, fire and flame detection, spectroscopy, and contactless temperature measurement. Components configured according to customer needs are manufactured in the required quantities at the company's headquarters in Dresden in a clean room covering more than 1,600 m². Their modular design and a wide range of types allow for the adaptation and development of detectors to customer specifications in the shortest possible time.
With its Infrared Measurement Technology Division, InfraTec is one of the leading providers of commercial thermal imaging technology for non-contact imaging temperature measurement in industry and science. InfraTec’s high-quality infrared cameras and turnkey automation solutions are used in the control and quality assurance of a wide variety of manufacturing processes, in the non-destructive testing of electronic and mechanical components and assemblies, in the monitoring of critical infrastructure, and in research and development in almost all fields. The ImageIR® camera family, developed and manufactured at the company's headquarters in Dresden, is one of the company's flagship products. These high-end infrared cameras offer excellent thermal and geometrical and spatial resolution and demonstrate their particular strengths in the recording of highly dynamic processes.
Motivated Employees Secure InfraTec’s Future
InfraTec’s success is driven not only by its continuously improved high-quality products, but above all by the strong commitment of its employees. Even with a growing workforce, nearly 50 percent of InfraTec’s employees have been with the company for more than ten years. Part of the reason for this is the family-like atmosphere, which provides a positive work atmosphere as a basis for open communication between colleagues. Shared activities such as summer and Christmas parties, full-day team events, and participation in events like Stadtradeln (a city-wide cycling event) or the REWE Team Challenge further strengthen team spirit.
Building on this sense of togetherness, InfraTec also provides opportunities for the personal and professional development of its employees. Numerous internal career paths illustrate this clearly. Dr. Robin Lehmkau, now Head of the Electronics Development Team for InfraTec detectors, started at InfraTec eight years ago as a student. InfraTec's excellent network with TU Dresden and other research institutions helped him get his career off to a strong start. “The regular scientific exchange and InfraTec's high innovation standards provided an excellent basis for my industrial PhD,” recalls Robin Lehmkau. “At InfraTec, I also had the time and freedom to contribute my own ideas, continue my education, attend conferences, and write my dissertation.”
Renata Safina started at InfraTec ten years ago as a working student. Today, as a project manager, she is responsible for thermography customers in Southern and Eastern Europe, France, and Australia, among others. “I work in an international environment – that's what I particularly like about my job,” explains the business economist. “My responsibilities include working with retail and OEM partners worldwide. My work involves frequent business travels, and I organize and attend international workshops and roadshows with my partners.“ Renata Safina also particularly appreciates the diversity of her role: “InfraTec's thermography systems are used for a wide variety of applications, and every project is unique. I am often able to immerse myself in new fields and connect with interesting experts.” She aims to use her experience to help open up new business areas and markets in the future.
When asked what they particularly appreciate about InfraTec, Renata Safina and Robin Lehmkau both agree: the trust placed in them, the collegial atmosphere among colleagues, as well as mutual support in both professional and private matters.
The founders and owners of InfraTec are proud of their employees' loyalty. “Our company offers a stable working environment and long-term prospects for all employees,” says Matthias Krauß, Managing Director and Head of the Infrared Measurement Technology Division. “Thanks to our motivated employees and their innovative strength, we will remain competitive on the market as a medium-sized company in the future,” says Matthias Heinze, Managing Director and Head of the Sensor Technology Division, with confidence.
Both managing directors view InfraTec's success as a commitment to engage beyond the company’s core business. Every year, InfraTec GmbH sponsors social projects, initiatives that promote knowledge exchange, and cultural events, among other activities.