02.09.2025

Retiring after 31 years

Steen Rotwitt Petersen, the head of the Technical Department at Falcon spider lifts in Denmark, is retiring after more than three decades with the company.

Petersen started out in 1986 as an electrical automation supervisor for Linde, moving after four years to Danisco Sugar as electrical maintenance engineer, both of which proved a solid background when he joined Falcon – or Falck Schmidt as it was then - as a PLC programmer and electrical technician in May 1994.

The job at Falcon perfectly suited his background as a trained electrician with seven years practical experience and a passion for automation and machine control. As a result, he quickly began proposing and introducing new technology. He was among the first in the powered access business to work with PLC programming and introduced the first touch screen display in the 1990s, and at the start of the 2010s introduced the brand new Danfoss safety controllers into Falcon’s lifts long before others followed.

Within a few years of joining the company he was promoted to technical manager, a position he has held ever since, leading a team of engineers, technicians, and hydraulic specialists. As Petersen bows out Ali Saleh, will take over, having worked with him since 2017, initially in production before moving to technical support, taking over responsibility for pre-delivery inspection and the final testing, and then quality assurance.

Speaking of the changes Brian Falck Schmidt said: “Steen and Ali have worked closely together, ensuring that the invaluable knowledge that Steen has accumulated during his 31 years at Falcon is passed on to the next generation. He not only hands over his role but also a strong technical foundation and a culture of curiosity and professionalism. His contributions will be remembered and appreciated at Falcon Lifts for many years to come.”

“All of us at Falcon Lifts would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Steen, not only for his professional achievements but also for the person he is. A kind, extraordinary, and highly appreciated colleague, who will be truly missed. Enjoy your retirement, Steen - you have more than deserved it!”