On September 17, 2021 chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel visited LASEROPTIK GmbH in Garbsen/Hanover region. The company, which has already received several awards, was chosen because of her interest in technology and LASEROPTIK‘s special field of activity. At first she was guided through the cleanrooms and around the production facilities for laser mirrors and coatings. As a physicist, she showed a keen interest in coating techniques and optical laser applications. Dr. Merkel was impressed by the expertise and the worldwide reputation of these specialized products from ”the middle of nowhere“, which occasionally are even used in space missions.
In addition, the chancellor showed special interest in LASEROPTIK‘s social and environmental engagement, such as running a company-owned childcare facility, the possibility of employment beyond retirement age as well as the creation of natural habitats for storks, owls and amphibians.
An outdoor group photo was taken with almost all employees, children from the childcare centre and the silhouettes of the LASEROPTIK founders visualized on glass panels before the chancellor retreated to a private meeting with a select group of employees and CEO Dr. Wolfgang Ebert. This face-to-face meeting provided the opportunity to get to know the human and personal side of the German chancellor. It was an exciting, fascinating and joyful day for the whole LASEROPTIK team!