Even during the holidays, we don’t idle. In addition to completing administrative tasks and preparing for new challenges, we also dedicate time to self-development and establishing industry connections. Thus, on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, representatives from the Mechanical Engineering and Automation teams of the Moravian-Silesian Technology Academy ventured on a professional excursion to Elpro-Energo Transformers s.r.o. in Hnojník.
Representing the Automation team, Zdeněk Macháček from the VSB-TUO – Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Informatics participated, and Tomáš Kummer, a designer from IdeaHUB, represented the Mechanical Engineering team, accompanied by Jan Kelar, the coordinator of external cooperation.
The excursion was organized and personally hosted by HR Manager Mrs. Michaela Priesnitzová, who also introduced us not only to the history and present of the company but also to its architecturally prized building. The hall, which won the Main Prize in the Industrial Buildings category at the Moravian-Silesian Building of the Year 2021 competition, is the result of the company’s efforts to create not only a functional but also a healthy working environment. Thanks to Managing Director Mr. René Mrajca and his vision, a unique space was created where employees feel comfortable and can work effectively in pleasant surroundings, which undoubtedly contributes to the overall success and development of Elpro-Energo Transformers. You can also take a look inside the building through the video; just click and let yourself be guided directly by the Managing Director, Mr. Mrajca.
The excursion and technical lecture were led by Mr. Jan Czernek, the Project Quality Manager, who introduced us to the entire production process and the technologies used. During the tour, our colleagues’ specific questions indicated their high professional interest and engagement, allowing us to understand that one of the company’s main competitive advantages is mathematical proficiency, as measurements and calculations are encountered literally at every step.
The company is in a period of growth: from the original two modern halls made of wood, glass, and stone, it is currently expanding with a third hall, which will enable the launch of new production of dry transformers from the autumn. Plans are also in place to possibly construct a fourth hall, which would provide additional storage spaces and facilities for workers. From the original 50 employees, the company in Hnojník now employs around 110 workers, and if the planned expansion of capacities is successful, this number could increase significantly.
Elpro-Energo Transformers is open to collaboration with educational institutions, from elementary schools through high schools to colleges and universities. Starting in September, they are initiating a new partnership with the VSB – Technical University of Ostrava, specifically with the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science – Department of Power Engineering. Further collaboration with our academy is also shaping up.
We sincerely thank Mrs. Priesnitzová and Mr. Czernek for their willingness, time, and personal approach. This event was made possible by the TPA – Innovation Center for Educational Transformation – CZ.10.03.01/00/22_003/0000072, which allows us to continue our education and thus bring innovations to our educational programs.