Klimer Štirn & Co d.n.o., a proud member of the Slovenian Cleanroom Society (SCS), played a pivotal role in organizing and executing the first-ever symposium on cleanroom technology in Slovenia, held on September 15, 2025, in Ljubljana. The event brought together over 120 representatives from industry, science, healthcare, and government institutions, marking a milestone in the country’s efforts to advance this strategically important field.
From left to right: Vesna Nahtigal, Director General of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia (GZS); Urban Kodrič, State Secretary at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation; Nataša Štirn, President of SCS; and Hasim Solmaz, President of ICCCS.
At the symposium, mag. Nataša Štirn, President of SCS and Managing Director of Klimer Štirn & Co d.n.o., highlighted the most pressing challenges facing the cleanroom technology sector. She emphasized the emerging industrial challenges, including the shortage of skilled professionals, the urgent need for specialized education programs, and the importance of building stronger collaboration between businesses, academia, and government to ensure sustainable development.
Selected excerpts and key highlights from the Slovenian translation of Dr. William Whyte’s book: Development of Cleanroom Technology
Participants agreed that it is crucial to provide access to specialized cleanroom knowledge and integrate it into the formal education system. This is especially important as significant opportunities are emerging in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare, with leading international companies planning development projects in Slovenia with a total value exceeding two billion euros. These large-scale projects will require far more qualified experts than are currently available in the country.
It was a special honor for the organizers and participants to host Mr. Hasim Solmaz, President of the ICCCS, whose presence gave the event additional international recognition and prestige. Additionally, the symposium was enriched by virtual contributions from Mr. William Whyte, Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Glasgow and author of the book Cleanroom Technology, which has been translated into Slovenian, and Mr. Conor Murray, President of the Irish Cleanroom Society (ICS).
Certificate of Appreciation presented also to our company
Acknowledgment to all reviewers of the Slovenian edition
A central goal set during the event was to establish a comprehensive knowledge ecosystem for cleanroom technology in Slovenia, fostering deep collaboration among stakeholders. To strengthen long-term cooperation, a formal commitment was signed between SCS and the Slovenian Energy Association (SZE).
Signing of the agreement between the Slovenian Energy Association and the Slovenian Cleanroom Society
The symposium, held under the working title "Establishing a Comprehensive Knowledge Ecosystem for Cleanrooms in Slovenia," was the first high-level event of its kind in the country. It underscored the strategic importance of cleanroom technology for Slovenia’s economic growth and the vital role that SCS will play in driving innovation, education, and workforce development in this rapidly evolving industry.
Interview with Dr. William Whyte, author of the book (online), and Hasim Solmaz, President of ICCCS, at the event
PANEL 1: Economic significance and strategic opportunities
The discussion was moderated by Klemen Škrlec (Novartis, SCS) with panelists: Iztok Dovnik (Krka d.d.), Luka Ušeničnik (Lek d.d. / Sandoz), Matic Rems (Novartis d.o.o.), Veronika Ule (University Medical Centre Ljubljana) and Gašper Hren (IMP Promont d.o.o.).
PANEL 2: Human resources, education and knowledge for the future
The discussion was moderated by Meta Resnik (Global Aseptic Practice Quality Expert, Lek/Sandoz) with panelists: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Matevž Zupančič (Vice-Dean for Undergraduate Studies, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ljubljana), Prof. Dr. Matjaž Hriberšek (Head of the Chair of Energy, Process and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor), Neža Prelog (HR Business Partner – STO Ljubljana, Lek d.d. / Sandoz), Prof. Dr. Rok Dreu (Dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana) and Mag. Nataša Štirn (President, Slovenian Cleanroom Society).
PANEL 3: Technologies, innovations and regulation
The discussion was moderated by Jan Močnik (Technical Services Engineer, Novartis) with panelists: Dr. Luka Lorbek (Program Manager Honeywell, Metronik d.o.o.), Janez Trošt (Director, Termoteh d.o.o.), Gregor Kustec (Director, Enekom – Institute for Energy Consulting d.o.o.), Gregor Jeglič (Commercial Director, Bossplast d.o.o.; Vice President, Slovenian Energy Association (SZE); Head of the Energy Use Section at SZE) and Prof. Dr. Alojz Poredoš (Retired Professor, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ljubljana; Honorary President, Slovenian Energy Association (SZE); President of the Energy Council at SAZU).