Wiener explains what this means in concrete terms as follows: “We now have a technology to protect users at level crossings – both for people travelling on trains and for road users – which is entirely digital and therefore maintenance-free for our customers.” However, there is another crucial factor: “Since we started using the product in Austria, we have never had an accident due to a technical fault.”

Every level crossing in Austria is secured by law: some with stop signs, many with technology – that is, traffic light systems – and, on busier roads, additionally with barriers. This is one of the core products of the Linz site. Added to this is the signal box technology that controls rail traffic in the first place: “A complete package.” Behind it all lie timetables and train paths that need to be managed. Anyone who directs 300 trains a day along a track and has to secure numerous level crossings in between needs a system in which everything works together seamlessly.

None of this is visible, and that is precisely the point. “It must not only provide security, but also ensure that the system remains available,” emphasises Thomas Wiener. What happens when the technology fails can be seen during a widespread radio blackout: if trains are held up for hours, it affects not only passengers but also everyone who relies on freight transport. “A functioning logistics system is absolutely essential for a healthy economy.”

Images: Scheidt & Bachmann Österreich GmbH / City of Linz

Arriving at Südpark – and staying for good reason

The fact that Scheidt & Bachmann is based in Linz today has historical roots: it all began with a team from VA Technologie AG. After a brief stop-off in St. Florian, the decision to return to Linz was made quickly. “The plots of land on which we’ve built our premises today belonged to the City of Linz back then. The company’s establishment was supported through favourable land prices – and we took advantage of that at the time.” What began as a catalyst became a lasting connection: the site has been expanded several times and is now operating at full capacity.

The company has stayed for very practical reasons. “We generally manage to recruit the staff we need,” says Wiener. Many of the electrical engineers come from the HTL on Paul-Hahn-Straße. The relationship with the city also counts: “In my view, the city of Linz still has a great relationship with the business community and with companies.” So the right environment is certainly in place in Linz.

“A Heart of Steel”: Why Linz needs the whole package

When considering what is needed for the city to remain competitive in the long term, Thomas Wiener looks beyond the business world and makes no secret of his attachment to the city: “I have a heart of steel – something you’re allowed to say as a child of the ‘Steel City’.” Educational institutions and a suitable range of services for businesses form the basis, but the whole package is what matters most. “Linz is a vibrant city. But that doesn’t happen by itself.” This includes affordable housing – an area where, in his view, much has been done right with social housing in Linz – and a lively cultural scene. After all, anyone who cannot afford to live in a city won’t come in the first place and won’t be available as a member of the workforce later on.

He gives a counter-example: in Germany, consideration is being given to relocating an operations control centre from Munich to the surrounding area because it is no longer possible to find train dispatchers there. “In that respect, we’re in a very good position here in Linz.” It is therefore no wonder that Scheidt & Bachmann intends to establish itself even more firmly in Linz in future and sees itself continuing to be so successful on the Austrian market.