Mini Spider Crane demonstration in Nitra

In May 2024, a demonstration event took place at the Technical College of Civil Engineering in Nitra in Slovakia, sparking great enthusiasm from students and teachers alike. The event began with a lecture on the latest trends and technologies in the construction industry, followed by a lively discussion full of questions.
The highlight of the event was a demonstration of the electric Mini Spider Crane, designed for handling large-format Silka and Ytong blocks. The Spider, equipped with integrated grips for low-profile pliers, allows for the precise placement of blocks under horizontal structures. This unique feature makes it an ideal solution for work in confined spaces where traditional mini cranes cannot fit due to their height.
By showcasing technologies like this, Xella tries to ignite the innovative spirit of the students, giving them a new perspective on the possibilities of modern construction technologies and their effectiveness on construction sites.

Augmented reality in our plant in Ostrołeka

Xella Polska has been a partner of the vocational school in Ostrołęka for many years, supporting the local construction technician course. Students are regularly invited to visit the Ytong plant in Ostrołęka.
This time, the audience consisted of primary school students eager to learn about vocational school education. Among other topics that were presented, Paweł Górski, BIM Manager at Xella Polska, talked about modern building design in BIM technology. He also presented the HoloLens 2 goggles, showcasing their operation in an augmented reality environment. When the young participants tested the goggles, they adapted quickly to the virtual construction tasks, demonstrating their proficiency with the technology.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for young students to gain a firsthand experience of the modern tools and technologies that are revolutionizing the construction industry. By introducing them to BIM technology and augmented reality, we are not only sparking their interest in construction and engineering but also preparing them for the future. Young people are often incredibly adaptable to new technology, and their engagement showed how naturally they can navigate these tools,” Paweł Górski explains.

Exoskeletons at the Kopernik School

Part of the the Mikolaj Kopernik vocational School in Ruda Śląska is dedicated to construction and architectural crafts, making it the ideal place for training future builders. In December, Xella Polska, prepared a day of training and competitions. Students were able to work with the support of an innovative exoskeleton. The activities took place under the guidance of Xella employees.
“Knowledge of new building technologies is very important in the work of a builder. Nowadays, we shouldn’t associate the profession of bricklayer with very hard physical work. We use modern construction machines, equipment, and systems, which allow us to work highly efficiently and make our work more comfortable and safer," says Wojciech Łasut, Director of Technical Sales Support at Xella Polska.

You can read more about this event here

We look forward to more such events that promote excellent collaboration between students, teachers, and industry professionals and will inspire and shape the future innovators of the construction industry.