60 years with the masters of testing: Václav Pokorný

On the occasion of our sixtieth anniversary, we bring you the stories of the masters of testing who have been (and are) behind our reputation. Discover the stories of the people whose work contributes every day to safer products around the world, and who are shaping the tradition of honest Czech testing.    

"As long as I'm still sharp, I want to stay in the game."

Václav Pokorný, co-founder of the Certification Department at SZÚ, was interviewed by his colleague Ing. Lucie Straková, Head of COSM - about the beginnings of certification, professional mission and the joy of a job well done.

Václav, do you remember how you got into the SZÚ?

After graduating from the BUT, I worked in two state-owned manufacturing companies where product testing was a common part of the processes. When I was lured to the SZÚ by the former deputy economist, I did not hesitate. And I never regretted it, because working for us is a continuous never-ending process of “straining the brain coils”, which I have been training for 31 years.

What are you most proud of?

My colleague and I managed to put together a quality system at SZÚ according to accreditation standards and defend it with the Czech Institute for Accreditation (CIA), which supervises us.

Do you have any rituals?

I don't have a ritual. I enjoy multi-day business trips where I get to meet new people and places. I'm always learning something new.

What makes you happiest?

When I look back at all the companies we have audited, they are all successful and the people are really happy. So I think to myself, it was worth it!

Have you had a professional moment that you'll never forget?

I once audited a customer and asked their scheduler about the details of the production process. She was nervous and confused. So I strayed into personal topics, Easter, etc., and when we got back to work, she suddenly relaxed and was a brilliant professional. Since then, I've been saying to my colleagues, "Give space to humanity. Your customers understand their processes well - you just have to address them appropriately."

Have you had a real impact on anyone's life in your profession?

Apart from my family, which I have unfortunately neglected, I have certainly influenced the lives of my current colleagues, or so I think. I am constantly pushing them to learn, and I take it as my mission to push them to move forward, to do their work with joy, and to continue certification with the same passion that we once founded it with. It's true that the world and companies are different, more technologically advanced, and everything is moving fast. I believe that the young colleagues will not lose their breath.

Colleague Lucie adds to this: "He is constantly conducting and mentoring us. And he demands that we continue to take care of his professional child, whom he has dissected from diapers, with the same love as he once did himself."

Thanks to both colleagues for the interview!

SZÚ team