Hans Beckhoff receives the Rudolf Diesel Medal for Most Successful Innovation Achievement

Hans Beckhoff: An innovative pioneer who shapes industry

Hans Beckhoff, founder and Managing Director of Beckhoff Automation, has been honored with the prestigious Rudolf Diesel Medal in the category of "Most Successful Innovation Achievement." This award, presented by the German Institute for Inventions, recognizes outstanding contributions to technological innovation and economic impact. The decision was made by the Board of Trustees, consisting of around 60 managing and technology directors from leading mid-sized global companies.

The jury highlighted Beckhoff as a visionary pioneer whose corporate values and strong social engagement embody the spirit of the award. Since founding Beckhoff Automation in 1980, Hans Beckhoff has led groundbreaking developments that have shaped the global automation industry. His introduction of PC-based control technology in 1985 marked a paradigm shift, establishing automation as a software-based discipline and positioning his company as a global technology leader.

Today, Beckhoff Automation employs around 5,300 people in 41 countries and achieved sales of €1.17 billion in 2024. Its innovations — including the Lightbus, bus terminals, EtherCAT and the new MX-System — have become industry standards. The company continues to push boundaries with its “Automation Brain” project, aimed at giving machines cognitive capabilities.

Prof. Dr. Gunther Herr, scientific advisor to the Diesel Medal Board of Trustees, praised Beckhoff's 45 years of technological foresight, his commitment to people-centered values, and his ability to turn visionary ideas into successful products.

Accepting the award, Hans Beckhoff emphasized the collective effort behind his achievements, crediting over 600 developers and 2,000 customer-facing staff, as well as customers who provide vital feedback and inspiration. His message to young engineers: “Inventing is fun. That eureka moment is worth the effort. Don’t give up.” The Rudolf Diesel Medal, established in 1953, is Europe’s oldest innovation award and honors achievements that provide sustainable, social and economic benefits.

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