Christoph Theuerkauf follows in Harald Gremmels’ footsteps in Bad Harzburg
Christoph Theuerkauf had never really considered becoming self-employed. But when Harald Gremmels, owner of GET-Systeme GmbH in Bad Harzburg, offered his 39-year-old employee a new career opportunity in 2019, Theuerkauf did not take long to consider it. Together, they founded GET-IT-Systeme GmbH in 2020, which they will continue to run together for several years before Harald Gremmels retires after a well-earned career.
Theuerkauf, who comes from Astfeld, completed his apprenticeship as an information electronics technician specialising in equipment and systems technology in 2005 and worked at the Goslar company where he trained until 2018. Computers and systems technology sparked his interest early on, and he continued to develop his expertise in this field. He also developed an affinity for telephone systems, as his father worked for a telecommunications provider for many years. Over the years, he gained expertise and specialised in these technical fields. In 2018, he moved to the new company in Bad Harzburg.
Harald Gremmels has been a well-known IT service provider in the region since 1988. The company offers a broad portfolio, including the design, planning, installation and maintenance of network technology and associated systems, printer and copier technology, and telephone systems. Its customers are primarily small and medium-sized businesses that buy or lease equipment and want competent support for their IT systems. The new partnership has expanded the telephone systems and systems technology areas (computers, hardware and networking).
Support for becoming self-employed
For Christoph Theuerkauf, the step into self-employment came as something of a surprise. He could imagine taking on a management role, but did not see the potential in running a business of his own. Joining an ongoing business and taking it over in the future is a win-win situation for both sides. Harald Gremmels is gradually involving Theuerkauf in the company’s operations, while Theuerkauf can deepen his company’s service portfolio at the same time.
The Goslar Region Economic Development Agency (WiReGo) encouraged him throughout this process. After initial discussions, Theuerkauf took part in the startup series, gaining essential information about starting a business and entrepreneurship. He also received support in preparing a business plan. “At WiReGo, I always got quick, competent and friendly answers,” says Theuerkauf. “That was important support as I started out in business.”
The future of IT systems
More than 30 years after the company was founded, Christoph Theuerkauf is now gradually taking over its management. He plans to expand the computer and server technology, telephone systems and document management areas in particular. He is supported by his co-shareholder Harald Gremmels, another technician and, since 1 August, an apprentice.
