Pfäffikon, Schwyz, 12 June 2025 – The Swiss Association for Technical Inspections (SVTI) held its 156th General Meeting in Pfäffikon, Schwyz. Top of the agenda were the presentation of the successful 2024 financial year, the strategic outlook, and recognition of achievements and innovative projects in the field of technical safety.
The SVTI Group is in a good position
Despite a difficult geopolitical situation marked by myriad uncertainties, risks and changes, the SVTI Group remains well positioned, stable and agile. Measures for developing the management and fostering talent were successfully implemented.
Strong annual result and forward-looking projects
For the SVTI, 2024 was a successful financial year. All Inspectorates achieved positive operating results and inspectors were kept constantly busy. Despite challenges such as a shortage of skilled workers and a volatile market situation, the Swiss Safety Center subsidiary achieved record sales and an excellent result. Particularly noteworthy are the advances made in hydrogen technology and digitalisation. For example, technical requirements for the construction of new hydrogen pipelines were successfully incorporated into the FPI Guideline. In the field of non-destructive testing, crawlers were used to test welds from the outside.
Focus on innovation and sustainability
In 2024, the SVTI Group increased its focus on innovative projects and sustainable developments. One highlight was the promotion and implementation of the ‘New Working Environment for the Nuclear Inspectorate’ pilot project, which aimed to create a visionary workplace. An innovation fund and corresponding measures such as innovation days and circles seek to tap into development potential and turn it into successful projects.
Strategic focus and outlook
The SVTI and the SVTI Group are planning to further expand their technical safety activities, with greater emphasis on digital solutions. In addition, collaborations with international partners are to be stepped up with a view to promoting the exchange of expertise.
Change in the executive committee
After 24 years on the Board, 11 of them as president, Udo M. Bäckert passed the baton to Dr Christian Plüss, who was a member of the Executive Board at Swiss Post Ltd until the start of 2025. He is already a member of the SVTI Board. SVTI Director Dr Raffael Schubiger commented: ‘During his term, Udo Bäckert has provided important impetus and played a decisive role in shaping the strategic direction of the SVTI Group. For this he deserves our sincere thanks and utmost recognition. In Dr Christian Plüss, we have gained someone with a strategic vision and professional expertise. I look forward to an inspiring collaboration and fresh momentum.’ Dr Schubiger also thanked the em-ployees of the SVTI Group for the solid financial result.
Keynote presentation by Dr Bernhard Heusler
With his presentation ‘A team always wins – human excellence between tradition and innovation’, Dr Bernhard Heusler demonstrates that success is the result of well-functioning teams.
