The EDC development department in Pilsen specializes on the development of air conditioners and heat pumps, which are intended not only for the European market, but also for the Middle East and Africa. The name EDC – EMEA Development Center (EMEA = Europe, Middle East, Africa) reflects this wide scope of activity. One of the main challenges is to design products that can withstand climatically different regions – from cold Scandinavia to the hot Middle East.
The Pilsen development center began its activities in 2012 with the aim of creating innovative products that adapt to the rapidly changing needs of customers. Thanks to the emphasis on continuous development and modern, energy-saving solutions, Daikin manages to stay ahead of the competition.
The main headquarters of the EDC development center are in the Belgian cities of Ostend and Ghent. Other branches are in various parts of Europe – in addition to Pilsen, also in Güglingen (Germany), Istanbul (Turkey) and Mantua (Italy).
Development and production under one roof
The Pilsen development department of DICZ (Daikin Industries Czech Republic) has a great advantage – all the necessary processes take place “under one roof”. Product development is closely connected with production, planning, testing and quality control. Thanks to this interconnection, there is effective cooperation between the individual departments and simplification of work for all DICZ employees.
Team and testing facilities
More than 100 employees work in the Daikin development center in Pilsen, divided into several specialized sections. The development teams are based in modern office space, where they cooperate with colleagues from the System Control (system control logic) and Compliance (product compliance with legislation) sections. An integral part of the development is also the extensive testing facilities, where testing engineers work.
The test center has 13 modern test chambers, adapted to various types of tests. Some focus on noise measurement, others simulate different climatic environments, for example different temperatures and air humidity. Drop tests or vibration simulations that simulate the transportation of products by truck are also carried out here.
International cooperation
The development department in Pilsen closely cooperates with other EDC branches in Europe. Daily communication takes place with colleagues from Belgium, Germany and Turkey. In addition, DICZ employees participate in some projects together with the parent company Daikin Industries Ltd. (DIL) in Osaka, Japan.
Employee development
The diversity of activities in the development department also brings an emphasis on continuous education and skills development. Every employee has access to the wide range of training - whether in the form of internal online courses in the LMS system, or through trainings conducted by internal and external experts.
Professional development also includes business trips and participation in professional conferences or trade fairs, not only in the Czech Republic but also throughout Europe.
Trainee programs
At the development center, we give a chance to talented students and graduates who want to start their careers in the field. Our Trainee program allows them to gain valuable experience in the development of air conditioners and heat pumps and become an expert in a dynamically developing industry.
The program is designed to combine practical experience, mentoring and personal development. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, students participate in real projects and acquire key skills. At the same time, practice in the development department guarantees them support for writing bachelor's or master's theses, which is one of the main topics of cooperation between Daikin and the University of West Bohemia.
Social activities
In addition to work duties, EDC employees in Pilsen regularly enjoy several teambuilding activities. Various events are held throughout the year - for example, ice skating or summer barbecues. These activities contribute to a friendly atmosphere in the team and strengthen team spirit.