Not every business relationship stands the test of time, and even fewer become the foundation of a company operating successfully for decades. The story of Ewald Felgenhauer and Ryszard Buczek proves, however, that when cooperation is built on trust and a shared vision, it can evolve into something truly lasting.
From Germany to Jasień
Hagen, a German town located near the industrial hub of Dortmund, is where the professional paths of two ambitious individuals – Ewald Felgenhauer and Ryszard Buczek – crossed in the 1970s. Together, they began gaining experience and getting to know the mining industry from the inside. This period was marked not only by intensive work and learning, but also by the development of a friendship based on mutual respect and trust, which would later become the foundation of a major undertaking. It was there that the idea emerged that their skills and visions could move in the same direction. All that was needed was the right space.
The breakthrough came in 1994. One day, Ryszard called Ewald and said words that can now be seen as a turning point in the company’s history: “There is a great place in western Poland to create something exceptional.”
It was not an easy decision. Relocating to Poland, starting almost from scratch, and entering a market undergoing significant transformation required courage and determination. They knew, however, that they possessed something many new companies lacked: experience, a proven partnership, and trust. This is how a company was established whose DNA was built on quality, responsibility, and the belief that success is created by people – not by one-off opportunities.
From Equipment Repairs to Modern Manufacturing
Today, Felgenhauer operates on a completely different level. It has become a modern manufacturing company producing steel structures and components for:
- mining
- the material handling industry
- railways
- the renewable energy sector
- construction machinery manufacturing and many other industries
In this way, a service-based company transformed into a production facility delivering projects for clients with high quality requirements and strong market positions. New technologies are being implemented, processes are continuously developed, and the team keeps growing with new specialists.
These two photographs say more than words. The first shows Ewald and Ryszard meeting in Jasień to set the direction of their shared vision. The second captures them standing next to a project that has become both a culmination of their many years of work and proof of how far they have come together. The production of the 500th powered roof support cover for the mining industry, carried out in cooperation with PS Systems, is not only a return to the company’s roots, but also a symbolic summary of Felgenhauer’s journey so far.
It is the best proof that with the right people by your side, it is possible to go truly far.
