Where Technology Meets Craftsmanship: Our Visit to the Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon, Headquarters in Switzerland

DCMS Network Team
Aug 13
3 min read

Updated: Aug 14

News & Insights | Field Visit | Strategic Partnerships

Where Precision Begins:Inside Leica Geosystems Headquarters

On July 14, 2025, DCMS visited the Leica Geosystems headquarters and factory in Heerbrugg, Switzerland, a place where some of the world’s most advanced surveying instruments are built with a mix of high-tech engineering and hands-on expertise.

Our Field Operations Manager, Valeria Masías, was welcomed by Michelle Byrne, Principal Marketing Manager, Reality Capture, for a behind-the-scenes tour of how Leica Geosystems instruments are designed, assembled, and tested. Leica Geosystems technology supports industries ranging from architecture and construction to mining, energy, and even sports and entertainment, helping teams make better, data-driven decisions across the globe.

Valeria Masías, Field Operations Manager at DCMS, welcomed at Leica Geosystems Headquarters by Michelle Byrne, Principal Marketing

Manager, RealityCapture.

A Century of Innovation, Captured in Time

The visit began at the Leica Geosystems showroom, where decades of geospatial innovation are preserved from early surveying stations to cutting-edge LiDAR laser scanners. Every product on display represented a leap forward in measurement technology and a tribute to Leica Geosystems legacy since 1921.

The tour was led by a former Leica Geosystems team member with over 30 years of experience, offering deep insight into the facility’s inner workings. The pride, craftsmanship, and commitment to precision were palpable throughout every stage of the visit.

A look inside the Leica Geosystems showroom, showcasing a century of surveying innovation, from historic total

stations to today’s laser precision tools.

A Workplace Built on Loyalty and Diversity

Michelle shared how many Leica Geosystems team members have spent their entire careers at the company, some starting as young as 16 or 18. The Heerbrugg site brings together more than 1,200 people across departments like R&D, production, HR and marketing. With English as the shared language and more than 50 nationalities represented, it’s a uniquely global and inclusive workplace.

Inside Leica Geosystems production facility in Heerbrugg, where precision instruments are

assembled by a diverse, dedicated team.

How Laser Scanners Are Built: Human Hands Meet Robotic Precision

The production process at Leica Geosystems is a careful balance of automation and craftsmanship. Robots take care of the early stages, shaping aluminium housings and core components, while expert technicians handle the delicate optical and electronic assemblies by hand.

On the production line: robots handle the hardware, while skilled teams focus on fine assembly and calibration.

This is where Valeria saw something remarkable:

“What a pleasure it was to meet Michelle Byrne and see where the magic happens at Leica Geosystems. From the inspiring conversations to the attention to detail in each product, the visit was eye-opening. I was especially impressed by the craftsmanship behind every instrument. Big thanks to DCMS for making it happen.”

Valeria Masías, Field Operations Manager at DCMS

A Leica Geosystems technician assembling a BLK laser scanner at the company’s headquarters in

Heerbrugg, Switzerland.

From Factory to Field: Strengthening a Global Partnership

Seeing the process firsthand only deepened our confidence in Leica Geosystems. The same tools built in Switzerland power DCMS projects across Canada, the U.S., Latin America, and Europe, allowing us to deliver fast, accurate data that teams can trust.

With Leica Geosystems technology and DCMS’s expertise, we help our clients:

Capture As-Built Documentation with Millimeter Accuracy

From floor plans and elevations to sections and RCPs.

Create 3D Models and Scan-to-BIM Deliverables

Revit models from LOD 200 to LOD 400 that support real-world design decisions.

Build Digital Twins and Remote Access Tools

Immersive, measurable spaces for planning, collaboration, and facility management.

Deliver Fast Turnarounds Across America and Europe

Boots on the ground in 48 hours. CAD and Revit files in as little as 5 business days.

From Leica Geosystems showroom to real-world results. This point cloud, captured with the RTC360 laser scanner,

showcases a DCMS project in action.

DCMS + Leica Geosystems: Aligned on Precision, Innovation, and Speed

At DCMS, we’ve always admired Leica Geosystems, not just for their technology, but for the values behind it: precision, reliability, and a commitment to innovation. From Heerbrugg to Houston, and Honolulu to Montreal, this visit marked another step forward in a partnership that’s helping shape the built environment, one scan at a time.