Carlo Gavazzi Malta Ltd ‘a clear example’ of how R&D key to further economic growth’ – Minister Owen Bonnici

Minister Owen Bonnici visited the international company Carlo Gavazzi, where he was given an overview of the work being undertaken by the Research and Development team within the same company. This team works to promote new technological solutions and innovations which improve the industry sectors in which they operate.

Minister Bonnici said that Carlo Gavazzi Malta Ltd is a clear and strong example of how research and innovation in the private sector is the key towards more competitiveness, job creation and economic growth. He said that this is a company which clearly believes in innovation, so much so that the Research and Development team amounts to 15% of the total workforce.

Bonnici said that children from a young age should foster an interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education and stressed that Carlo Gavazzi is testament to the need of having a workforce which is equipped with the skill-set needed in today’s and tomorrow’s economy.

The products are created, developed, manufactured, and tested locally. The company also collaborates with the University of Malta and MCAST for its staff training and apprenticeship. Recently, Carlo Gavazzi also participated in programmes offered by various entities, including the Malta Council for Science and Technology, as a means of aid assistance to their R&D products.

The company was established in Malta in 1978, and is responsible for the ‘Switches’ product line portfolio, having their main clients producing products for packaging, for food and beverage, for ventilation and for air conditioning. In turn, the Research and Development section of the company was established in 1998.

The visit included a Surface Mount Technology Production Tour, in which the Minister experienced the line of production in process. Subsequently, the Minister also had a Research and Development Tour which is done by the company itself, together with General Manager Ing. Noel Micallef and R&D Manager Ing. Roger Galea.

Carlo Gavazzi Malta Ltd. has been awarded various innovation awards over the years.