The solar collector manufacturer AKOTEC from Angermünde is taking new steps toward future sustainability. As the first company in Angermünde, AKOTEC is applying for a certificate that confirms its “future-proof corporate culture.” Management and employees work together in the audit to develop measures for a contemporary working culture. In doing so, the Angermünde company is preparing itself for the regional shortage of skilled workers and creating more satisfaction in the workforce through increased involvement. The first phase of the so-called audit by the Initiative New Quality of Work (INQA) from the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs has already been successfully completed. For this, the company received the Entry Certificate of the program.
AKOTEC has expanded significantly in recent years and is considered one of the most important employers in the region.
“In the past year alone, we were able to hire ten new employees. As a continuously growing company in the Uckermark region, it is extremely important for us to position ourselves for the future. This not only includes product development but also the challenge of finding and retaining qualified skilled workers. We want to give all employees a voice to actively contribute to the future of the company,” says Managing Director Katrin Sprenger about the reason for participating in the audit.
The audit began with a written survey of the entire team. Following this, eight projects were identified to guide long-term change in the company. The ideas range from an onboarding guide for new employees to the introduction of a satisfaction management system and reflect the interests of all team members.
The implementation of the measures is carried out in small working groups with employees from all company departments. Together, employees from production, sales, and technology develop measures related to leadership, knowledge, equal opportunities, and competencies. This cross-departmental exchange, especially during the pandemic, strengthens internal cohesion at AKOTEC.
Initial successes have already been recorded. In the area of health, the workflow on a production machine was optimized. By improving a control element, less effort is required to operate the machine, which helps protect the back.
After the entry phase, the development process follows, in which the established measures will be implemented. At the end of the audit, which is supported by external process facilitator Sabine Lipski, participants will be awarded a completion certificate by the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs.
By participating in the audit, AKOTEC secures a place in the competition for highly sought-after skilled workers. Especially in rural areas, the effects of the skilled labor shortage are strongly felt by companies. Therefore, it is crucial for the company to be visible and attractive to potential applicants in the region through forward-looking measures.
Funded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor and Energy with funds from the European Social Fund and the State of Brandenburg. Learn more.
