50 years “My mom just went to the boss”

Interview: Anja Wieder, Corporate Communications Manager, Leister Group

When Ruth Limacher took up her position at Leister, she was just 16 years old. The company was still a small family business in Kägiswil, the production figures were manageable and the distances short. Today, 50 years later, she is still working for Leister. An extraordinary story that is closely linked to the development of the company.

Ruth, you've been part of the Leister family for 50 years. How did it all start?

That was in May 1976. I was 16 years old at the time and lived with my family in Kägiswil. We were 13 siblings in total, and three of my siblings also worked for Leister. We lived right next to Karl Leister's house. After I had finished school, my mother simply went to Karl Leister and simply asked him if he didn't have a job for me. That's how I got the chance to start with Leister.

A job interview would probably be a bit different today...

Do you remember what your first tasks were?

I started out as a craftswoman and assembled equipment. In the beginning, I worked at HOTWIND. I realized early on that I was particularly fond of soldering. I always enjoyed this precise handwork.

You worked on the HOT JET for many years later. How did this come about?

Karl Leister became aware of my soldering work. He asked me personally if I would like to switch to production of the HOT JET. I was of course very happy about that. 

What fascinates you about your work so far?

The fine handwork. It requires a great deal of dexterity and accuracy, particularly with the engines. I've been working in the hot-jet sector for 36 years now — and I'm still doing basically the same thing: I'm still making engines for the previous generation of Hot Jet.

In 1998, production moved from Kägiswil to Sarnen-Ried. How did you experience this step?

That was a big change. The new production building in Sarnen-Ried was more modern, the working conditions were better, and everything looked much bigger. But despite all technical developments, a lot of manual work has remained to this day — and that is exactly what I like about my work.

You have witnessed Leister's development over five decades. What has changed the most?

Clearly the size of the company. When I started, Leister was a small family business. Today, it has become an international group of companies. A lot has also changed when it comes to machines. Many jobs are supported by modern tools today.

And what has remained the same?

The products are still manufactured with great care. Our work in particular still requires people who can work precisely. That hasn't changed.

Is there anything you miss from earlier times?

The family atmosphere was something special. Karl Leister knew all employees by their first names. He was very collegial, friendly and the 'you' was self-evident. Of course, this proximity no longer exists in the same form in a large company. 

What do you particularly remember about your time with Karl Leister?

His personal style. He was interested in people and was always close to employees. That left a lasting impression.

You've actually retired since May 2024. How did it come about that you still work for Leister?

My official last working day was on May 22, 2024. Shortly after, my boss Thomas Bütler asked me whether I could imagine continuing to work with a 30 percent workload. I didn't have to think twice about that.

What was the decisive factor?

I've always loved working for Leister. And, of course, it's also a nice addition to retirement. But above all, I still enjoy my work.

How do you spend your free time when you're not making engines?

I live in Kerns today, I like hiking and cycling a lot. This keeps you fit and clears your mind.

When you look back on 50 years of Leister: What are you particularly proud of?

That I was able to be part of this company for so long and that I always enjoyed my work. I have experienced many changes, met many people and was able to work on devices that are used all over the world.

And can you imagine continuing to work for Leister?

I'd love to. My current contract expires at the end of the year. Let's see how everything develops. As long as I'm needed and enjoy my work, I'm happy to continue working.