In the course of 21 years at the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, a major international research organization, Dr. Wenzel had addressed radiographic technology from the very start. Although he had obtained his doctorate in computer science, he didn't approach the subject from the purely scientific side: he concerned himself primarily with the usability of new processes to benefit the industry. Beginning with ADR, Automated Defect Recognition, he established a team of software developers and engaged in industrial CT as early as 1996. The first 3D CT system for applications in the non-destructive testing of materials originated in 1998.
Dr. Thomas Wenzel advanced activities in diverse fields and occupied several management positions during his employment at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, and since 2008 he held the position as Head of the Department for Process-Integrated Inspection Methods. He is involved in various committees, particularly at DGZfP, the German Society for Non-Destructive Testing, and is a visiting lecturer at OHT Amberg-Weiden, a university of applied sciences. As a result of various publications and specialized lectures at conventions, he made a name for himself worldwide in both science and industry. In 2001, Dr. Wenzel was awarded the Joseph-von-Fraunhofer Prize, together with two colleagues for developing an automatic X-ray inspection method with which cast parts can already be inspected during the production process.
"To me, the switch to industry was a logical step," explains Dr. Wenzel. "I have always worked together closely with the industry in my R&D projects. When I received the offer for this expert position from COMET/YXLON, I didn't hesitate too long. Supporting a global market leader in the further development of its core competencies is a new and intriguing challenge." Dr. Wenzel has additionally assumed a position as Vice President Technology COMET Group and is in charge of the technology fields across the segments.