Carrière Magazine 10 - maart 2024

 MAART 2024

Even voorstellen

SPECIALE UITGAVE VAN SLASH

MAGAZINE VAN DE TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITEIT EINDHOVEN IN SAMENWERKING MET EUFLEX / TECHNIFICENT

TU/e MY FUTURE EUFLEX TECHNIFICENT ASML CANON PRODUCTION PRINTING CBS EBUSCO NOBLEO TECHNOLOGY SAI 4TU SIOUX TECHNOLOGIES THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC TRINSEO VDL ETG WATT INFRA ZEELAND REFINERY

MO ARTI ST IN EN CLES GLIS H

The

next STEP in your career

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04

Introduction

06

MyFuture.tue.nl

08

EuFlex Technificent

10

ASML

12

CANON

14

CBS

16

EBUSCO

18

NOBLEO

20

SAI 4TU

22

SIOUX

24

THERMO FISHER

26

TRINSEO

28

VDL

30

WATT INFRA

32

ZEELAND REFINERY

35

Summary CBS

COLOFON

Carrière Magazine is een speciale uitgave van Slash - het magazine voor externe relaties en alumni van de Technische Universiteit Eindhoven.

Carrière Magazine verschijnt één keer per jaar. Het blad is een platform gericht op alumni en laatstejaars studenten van de TU/e, om hen en het bedrijfsleven met elkaar in contact te brengen.

De centrale redactie coördineert de uitgave; de bedrijven in deze uitgave presenteren zichzelf en zijn zelf de afzender van de artikelen.

Drukwerk Drukkerij Zalsman, Zwolle

Hoofdredacteur Han Konings Redactie en coördinatie Blad in Bedrijf, Leo Koomen 06 - 55 77 24 92 leokoomen@gmail.com Vormgeving Natasha Franc, www.visid.nl

Wilt u een bedrijfspresentatie of adverteren in Carrière Magazine?

Informeer bij Blad in Bedrijf, 06 - 55 77 24 92

Translations Englishproof.nl

KEEP IN TOUCH Interesse in samenwerking met de TU/e, in studeren, werken of promoveren aan de TU/e, of het contact onderhouden als alumnus? Alstublieft, onze contactgegevens.

Samenwerking (strategisch partnership, contract research) TU/e Innovation Lab, +31 (0)40 247 48 22, Innovationlab@tue.nl Werken of promoveren Dienst Personeel en Organisatie +31 (0)40 247 20 90, jobs@tue.nl Ontwerpersopleidingen Stan Ackermans Institute +31 (0)40 247 24 52, sai@4tu.nl Studeren (bachelor, master) Education & Student Affairs, +31 (0)40 247 47 47, studeren@tue.nl

Alumni +31 (0)40 247 34 90, alumninet@tue.nl Persvoorlichting en Communicatie Communicatie Expertise Centrum +31 (0)40 247 48 45, cec@tue.nl, www.tue.nl

INTRODUCTION

04 05

Vision for the future In 2020, Boris, the then-chairman of Wervingsdagen, highlighted the significance of a growth mindset in personal career development.

Rooted in the belief that hard work can overcome obstacles, a growth mindset stands as a powerful driver for success. While some may set out with a natural affinity for a particular subject, Boris emphasized that dedication and a willingness to learn plays a more pivotal role in shaping one’s path.

I fully agree with this perspective, as the belief that someone is limited because of their perceived lack of talent is not only detrimental to work habits, but also to one’s mental well-being. However, the question arises: what destination propels individuals to go above and beyond?

This can be a tough question, especially when broadened to an existential one, and there is no clear answer. But it compels us to ponder the intrinsic motivations justifying the effort invested in personal and professional development.

 The 2024 Wervingsdagen board. Back: Pruthvi Krishnamurthy, Nicky Beunen. Front: Cas van Sluis, Sam Reijs, Nils Jongejan and Stefanie Sturm.

Photo: Maud Staassen Fotografie

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Contrary to Prime Minister Rutte’s remark about vision being the elephant obstructing one’s view (which he himself later regretted!), a vision for the future provides the motivation to move towards it. The destination – whether a successful career or a desire to effect change, contribute to grand projects, reach the pinnacle of scientific research, or just to secure a decent salary – varies from one individual to another. What makes this journey compelling is that the destination is not constant, but constantly changing. The paths taken often wind through unexpected directions, occasionally leaving individuals at destinations not initially envisioned.

In essence, the pursuit of personal fulfilment is often a dynamic and unpredictable journey. Few have charted their course without taking detours, which emphasizes the importance of adaptability and a willingness to embrace unforeseen opportunities. But what does remain constant is the necessary dedication and enthusiasm about the future to constantly improve. This highlights the importance of staying informed about all the possibilities. Even if one doesn’t ultimately choose a specific direction or opt for employment at a particular company, all these experiences significantly contribute to one’s motivation, propelling them further along the journey of continuous self-improvement.

This is the reason that we, as Wervingsdagen, are proud to participate in TU/e’s efforts to support students in their career orientation. It goes beyond finding the perfect company or securing a job; it’s about inspiring and motivating students to expand their horizons by showcasing the endless possibilities they can enjoy in the Brainport region of Eindhoven.

So, to conclude, my advice to all students remains the same as what Boris said four years ago: continue to learn about different career sectors, step out of your comfort zone and visit the Career Expo on 5 and 6 March where you can talk to companies you might not have heard of before. And remember that you have the potential to achieve anything you want!

Nils Jongejan, Chairman of Wervingsdagen

About Wervingsdagen Wervingsdagen is a foundation founded by TU/e’s study associations to provide students with career orientation and professional development. We do this by organizing three major events every year. Our first event, the Skill Sessions, is a workweek full of trainings and workshops that help you develop yourself on a personal and professional level.

The next edition of the Skill Sessions will take place from 9-13 December 2024.

On the 5 and 6 March, we organize the Career Expo, the largest technical career fair in the Netherlands.

This year, we’re hosting over 190 companies, including approximately 30 start-ups!

Our last event of this academic year is the Interviewing Days.

From 13-16 May, you have the opportunity to meet with recruiters face-to-face and have in-depth conversations with them. Bond with companies over lunch or dinner, or get some hands-on experience by working on a company case.

Find out more about this event at the Career Expo!

If you have any questions, feel free to mail me! chairman@wervingsdagen.nl

06 07

MYFUTURE.TUE.NL

STAND OUT Embarking on your academic journey at TU/e is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's a crucial stepping stone towards your future career. Recognizing the significance of career orientation, MyFuture is here to empower you on this exciting path. Your future success starts with informed choices and proactive steps. By engaging in career development activities, you not only gain valuable insights into potential career paths but also enhance your employability. @myfuturetue

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The core business of MyFuture is to intrinsically stimulate career development, integrate career orientation in the education the TU/e offers, increasing awareness on the importance of employability, enlarging employability options and reducing career uncertainty of students. MyFuture ensures a varied range of career activities on and around the TU/e campus and guides career parties with employability advice and information provision. Imagine having a roadmap that guides you through the myriad of possibilities, reducing uncertainty and opening doors to a world of opportunities.

The MyFuture platform boosts employability by giving the students a clear overview. Take charge of your future – scan the QR code provided and delve into a realm of career-enhancing activities, tailored to shape your professional journey at TU/e.

Did you know you need 7 MFA to obtain your Bachelor?

Did you know activities like company visits or workshops are worth 2 or sometimes 3 MFA?

EUFLEX TECHNIFICENT

08 09

On campus

Student Jobs

Off campus

Student Jobs

On Campus Student Jobs A student job on the TU/e Campus is the perfect combination with your studies. Would you like to go straight from your lecture hall to your workplace to start earning some money? Check out the vacancies on our online EuFlex Technificent Platform.

Off Campus Student Jobs

We’re a full subsidiary of TU/e.

We match TU/e students and graduates with the technical industry.

Our goal is to help students with relevant work experience that matches their studies.

According to the Brainport Monitor, Eindhoven is the fastest growing economic region in the Netherlands.

Take control of your own development and put your theoretical knowledge into practice at companies in the Brainport Region.

Starter Jobs

Starter Jobs

About EuFlex Technificent

EuFlex Technificent also offers full-time positions at renowned technical companies. Have your (almost) graduated and are you looking for your first job?

EuFlex Technificent helps you find the perfect entry-level position.

The starter experience Besides student jobs, we can also help you get the best starter experience. We explore your wishes and capabilities, no strings attached.

If you feel good about it, we guide you through the entire starter process: we advise you on your resume, coach you for interviews and we look for clients/partners that your knowledge and talent gets put to the best use.

Besides what you can do, it’s also about what you want to do and

What kind of jobs do we offer?

Anything from junior Construction Consultant, Laravel developer to Electrical Engineering positions. We offer jobs for all the disciplines taught at TU/e. But EuFlex Technificent is also the place to go for a Student Assistant job for a course or if you want to work short-term, for instance helping at MomenTum or an IMS project. We have vacancies for you!

Off campus On campus

Student Student Jobs Jobs

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About EuFlex Technificent MAART 2024  CARRIÈRE MAGAZINE VAN DE

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10 11

ASML

Beginners only: How a fresh grad started their engineering career at ASML Mechatronics engineer Naveen shares how he landed at ASML fresh out of college and his exciting career journey, working at the heart of tech innovation.

W

orking for a semiconductor industry leader can seem daunting, especially for a new graduate. Is my degree suitable? Will the work environment be good? Will it help me develop my career? The stress is real for fresh graduates and at ASML we know that all too well. It’s the reason we host multiple student events every year, offer scholarships and work-study programs, next to masterclasses and opportunities for young professionals. Our colleague Naveen Venugopalan, a Design Engineer, was in the same position a few years ago, and he explains exactly how he figured it all out, with support from ASML.

“After the visit, I was floored and certain that I wanted to work here someday. To me, ASML seemed like the company that could make use of the skills I’ve obtained through my master’s and help me reach my maximum potential.”

“Beyond being one of the most technologically advanced companies in the world, ASML uses the latest technology in all fields, especially in Systems & Control.” After seeing a job opening at ASML through LinkedIn, Naveen decided to take his shot and apply. “It was for a Technical Graduate Program in Mechatronics, meant for new graduates.” After a couple of engaging interviews, as Naveen describes them, he was offered to start directly as a Design Engineer, instead of going through the graduate program.

Discovering ASML “After completing my bachelor’s in Electrical & Electronics engineering in India I chose to pursue my master’s in Systems & Control at the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). During the first week of my masters, we had the chance to visit different companies as part of the orientation and I chose ASML.”

Making an impact ASML is a large organization with almost 40.000 colleagues globally.

To ensure harmonious working ASML’s teams and departments work together to form an innovation hub, Naveen says.

“Depending on the group or project, I experienced either a wellestablished mature setup or a rapid innovation ecosystem with a bit of an ad-hoc workstyle. It is the same exciting dynamic environment you see at start-ups, that I see in the teams I work with.

Naveen experienced ASML first-hand and was impressed by the complicated technology and innovative lithography machines.

At ASML, you’re never bored, because “the machines we make here work with nanometer accuracy and that intrigues me to this day.

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Working on multiple projects where you communicate with different teams and stakeholders allows you to gain knowledge in many different domains. Though you are divided into several groups and teams, you are certainly connected at work towards a common goal.”

Working and developing Naveen also explains that ASML’s onboarding program also greatly helped him navigate his first months as a working professional.

“You are assigned a buddy for the first 3 months, to help you get acquainted with the team and its way of working.”

“Moreover, both your team and your managers support you in making an impact at work. Even when you’re new, you’re not going to sit idly in your first months. You’re assigned projects, you attend meetings, and you’re exposed to all kinds of tech challenges, but are also always welcome to speak up and offer input.”

He explains that there is also room for your personal development.

“Generally, you have a course list meant to improve your soft and technical skills. Moreover, along with your manager you’ll often set new career goals and even create a tailored course list that may help you advance your career.”

 Naveen Venugopalan

“There are also internal mobility events and career opportunities within ASML. With support from my managers, I got the opportunity to transfer to a new team. These transfers stimulate communication and cooperation among teams and are a nice way to exchange knowledge.”

Feeling at home Being an expat and working for a big company has it’s struggles, but Naveen says that ASML has offered him a friendly and easy-going environment. “Everyone is approachable, and willing to share information.

Knowledge sharing within and across teams is very appreciated.”

“We all stick to our values of Challenge, Collaborate and Care. You’re given space to grow and shine. Even if you’re not very well connected to a topic or a discussion, your opinions are equally valued. Inclusion is a core objective at ASML and speaking up is promoted. Whether it’s a random idea during a group brainstorm or a technical discussion or a safety and well-being concern, you’re always acknowledged and respected when you speak up,” Naveen concludes.

Discover the Future

ASML is a high-tech company, headquartered in the Netherlands. We manufacture the complex lithography machines that chipmakers use to produce integrated circuits, or computer chips. In almost 40 years, we have grown from a small start-up into a multinational company with over 60 locations in 16 countries and regions, more than 40,000 people of 143 nationalities, and annual net sales of €21.2 billion in 2023.

Behind ASML’s innovations are engineers who think ahead. Our researchers, engineers, and manufacturing specialists, as well as our high-tech hardware and software, all work at the edge of what’s possible. That’s why our customers include all the world’s leading chipmakers. Because ASML spends €3.3 billion per year on R&D, our teams have the freedom, support, and resources to experiment, test and push the boundaries of technology. They work in close-knit, multidisciplinary teams, listening to and learning from each other.

If you are passionate about technology and want to be a part of progress, visit www.asml.com/careers

CANON PRODUCTION PRINTING

12 13

EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVERY ENGINEER

 Tim van Zoggel.

Canon Production Printing produces high-end printers and workflow software for the commercial printing sector and is part of Canon, a leader in imaging technology. The company develops most of its own components, which means a wide variety of roles and lots of multidisciplinary projects for employees. As illustrated by Tim van Zoggel’s story, Canon Production Printing, headquartered in Venlo (in the province of Limburg), offers exciting opportunities for every kind of engineer.

H

igh-end printers and workflow software for the commercial print market and graphics industry call for not only a high-tech approach, but also a multidisciplinary one.

Besides mechanical engineering, every product – and every project – also requires input from chemistry, physics, electrical engineering, software development and other disciplines. As a result, a job at Canon Production Printing is very varied, based on extensive collaboration in multidisciplinary teams. Because you’re involved in the development process from start to finish, you can clearly see your own contribution to a new product. The work itself is technically

challenging with plenty of depth, while the need for teamwork means you have extensive interaction with multiple colleagues.

Data science In addition, Canon Production Printing offers various opportunities for engineers who are keen to follow their own path. Today, 23-yearold Tim van Zoggel is a data analyst in the R&D department. He did the new bachelor’s in Data Science, followed by the master’s in Data Science & AI. “That was also a completely new master’s; I was in the very first intake.

Data science revolves around handling large volumes of data effectively and accurately as

the basis for analysis and drawing meaningful conclusions. This field of science is becoming increasingly important due to the ever-growing amount of data available everywhere. Because ethics and legislation also play a role within data science, TU Eindhoven runs the bachelor’s course together with Tilburg University.

The master’s was mainly focused on AI, which can be applied in some very interesting ways within an R&D environment.”

“For example, at Canon Production Printing I’m currently working on the varioPrint iXseries, which is a huge commercial printer.

Each sheet of paper is measured by sensors

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in more than a hundred places to ensure the best printing quality. We can analyse all that data to identify potential problem areas and opportunities for further perfecting the machine.

But we also analyse data generated by printers operating on our customers’ premises. We share our findings with the service department for preventive and predictive maintenance purposes to keep those machines running optimally.”

Specialist knowledge Tim completed his master’s degree in summer 2023. “I could have decided to go to Facebook or Google, which employ a lot of data specialists. But I wanted to join a company where data science is still in its infancy, and where I could bridge the gap to other departments.

Thanks to the Career Expo, while studying for my master’s I’d found a one-day-a-week student job in data science at Canon Production Printing.

It was a good match, which meant I was also able to do my master’s thesis here. I then stayed on as a permanent employee at the end of my final year.”

‘Add color to your world’ “Although Canon Production Printing is a big company, you don’t feel like just a number here. Our employer branding slogan is ‘Add color to your world’, and the company’s philosophy is based on the Japanese concept of Kyosei, which means living and working together for the common good. The keywords in that philosophy are collaboration, innovation and ownership, and everyone’s contribution is important. I continually see those keywords reflected in the way we work here. When it comes to ownership, for example, if you don’t have all the necessary knowledge to solve a certain problem, you still make sure it gets solved by bringing in the right experts, taking

responsibility and coordinating things.

So you still feel a sense of pride when the problem has been solved.”

Warmth of a family business “I was initially surprised at the size of the company, but you soon get to know the people in your own department and there’s a very nice atmosphere here. It still has the warmth of a family business, even though those days are in the distant past. There are lots of exciting opportunities here for almost every kind of engineer, plus you have numerous chances to strike out in new directions during the course of your career.”

So what does Tim like most about working at Canon Production Printing? “This is a wonderful place for me to work. Data scientists normally sit at a computer all day, but here I also spend lots of time working with the printers to test new things. Specialist knowledge is important here; you have to understand the machines to be able to assess the data and share meaningful information with your colleagues.

That’s why a data science degree also teaches you the importance of understanding your stakeholders.”

Canon Production Printing Canon Production Printing develops and manufactures high-tech printing products and workflow software for the commercial printing market and is part of Canon, a global provider of imaging technologies and services. Canon Production Printing operates on three continents, with approximately 3,200 employees (as of late 2023) and has its global headquarters in Venlo, the Netherlands.

Its product offering includes continuous-feed and cut-sheet printers for high-volume printing and publishing, and large-format printers for display graphics and technical document systems (TDS).

Canon Production Printing Netherlands B.V. Van der Grintenstraat 10 NL - 5914 HH Venlo careers@cpp.canon careers.cpp.canon

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CBS

Prof. Piet Daas:

‘Kansen van big data benutten voor officiële statistiek’ Big data kunnen bijdragen aan het maken van betrouwbare en tijdige statistieken, de corebusiness van het CBS. Prof. Piet Daas, hoogleraar aan de Technische Universiteit Eindhoven (TU/e) en senior onderzoeker bij het CBS, is tomeloos enthousiast over de mogelijkheden en de ideeën die voortkomen uit de samenwerking binnen het Big Data-onderzoeksprogramma van het CBS. “We kunnen met big data nog veel meer dan we nu doen”, betoogt hij afgelopen jaar tijdens zijn oratie bij de TU/e.

 Prof. Piet Daas

Tekst: Masja de Ree, Foto: Sjoerd van der Hucht

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Nieuwe denken Elk uur van de dag worden enorme hoeveelheden data geproduceerd door elektronische apparaten zoals telefoons maar ook online door mensen zelf: big data. Bij zijn aanstelling in 2019 als bijzonder hoogleraar Big Data in Official Statistics bij de TU/e stelde Daas al dat big data enorme kansen bieden voor de officiële statistiek, mits enkele fundamentele vragen beantwoord kunnen worden. De officiële statistiek begon ooit met het simpelweg tellen van mensen, banen, bedrijven et cetera. Toen kwam de steekproef, waarbij het uitgangspunt werd: verzamel alleen die gegevens die je echt nodig hebt.

“Bij de inzet van big data is die benadering anders”, legt Daas uit.

“Om van big data officiële statistiek te maken, heb je juist zoveel mogelijk gegevens nodig.” Het is een voorbeeld van een punt waar het ‘oude denken’ en het ‘nieuwe denken’ met elkaar botsen.

Tevens maakt het onderdeel uit van de fundamentele vragen waar Daas zich dagelijks mee bezig houdt.

44 pilots en prototypen Bij traditionele statistiek werk je vanuit een zeer stevige gevestigde theorie. Bij statistiek op basis van big data is het juist andersom: je begint bij de data, die je in overvloed hebt. Maar een theorie is er vaak (nog) niet. Daas noemt in zijn oratie de 44 pilots en prototypen die in de afgelopen jaren zijn uitgewerkt door diverse organisaties, maar vooral ook door het CBS. Zes van die projecten zijn inmiddels in productie genomen. “Lang niet alles wat we proberen blijkt geschikt of stabiel genoeg. Je kunt voor de statistiek over consumentenprijzen gemakkelijk informatie van het internet halen over de ontwikkeling van de prijs van een pak melk over een bepaalde periode. Dat is directe waarneming, die verloopt vrijwel probleemloos. Maar bij afgeleide vormen van waarneming is het ingewikkelder om tot een stabiele productiemethode te komen.”

Pinguïns Afgeleide waarneming kan bij big data veel opleveren. Om uit te leggen hoe dat werkt gebruikt Daas in zijn oratie het voorbeeld van een onderzoek naar pinguïns. “Als je in kaart wil brengen hoeveel pinguïnkolonies er leven op Antarctica, dan kun je op expeditie gaan en ze tellen. Maar je kunt ook satellietfoto’s inzetten en inzoomen op de poep die de kolonies achterlaten. Deze indirecte manier van waarnemen blijkt sneller en nauwkeuriger.” Het CBS doet inmiddels iets vergelijkbaars: voor een onderzoek naar online platformen worden websites van bedrijven automatisch afgezocht naar woorden

die duiden op een dergelijke dienst. “We maken dus op basis van big data - het internet - op een indirecte manier een selectie van bedrijven waarvan we denken dat ze online platformen zijn. Vervolgens krijgen die bedrijven een vragenlijst waarmee ons vermoeden bevestigd kan worden.” Deze aanpak is succesvol maar brengt ook een uitdaging met zich mee: de relatie tussen woorden op de website en het soort bedrijven kan veranderen. “We hebben dus een methode nodig om dit te controleren en indien nodig te corrigeren.”

Voorbeelden als inspiratie In zijn oratie behandelt Daas onder meer de kwaliteit van big data.

“De foute antwoorden van ChatGPT laten zien dat big data-bronnen niet altijd betrouwbare informatie opleveren - het combineren van databronnen én data science en de zoektocht naar methoden die nodig zijn om big data op een goede manier te kunnen gebruiken voor de statistiek. Vrijwel alles aan het gebruik van big data is nog nieuw. Er is geen handboek, we moeten het allemaal nog leren.

Daarom bevat mijn oratie zoveel voorbeelden. De theoriegedreven wereld van de universiteit en de datagedreven wereld van het CBS komen in mijn leerstoel mooi samen. Maar mijn oratie is ook een uitnodiging aan anderen: pak dit op, ga aan de slag en gebruik de voorbeelden die ik geef als inspiratie. Er is nog veel te ontdekken.”

Trots op vooruitgang Dat de inzet van big data veel vragen oproept, is interessant volgens Daas, maar alleen als er ook antwoorden komen. Dat gebeurt gelukkig.

Inmiddels is er een methode ontwikkeld om te corrigeren voor de instabiele waarneming bij de statistiek over online platformen. “Daar hebben we voldoende controle ingebouwd door de big databron te combineren met een traditionele manier van dataverzameling en een model ontwikkeld dat de noodzakelijke correcties kan uitvoeren.

Dat is een grote stap vooruit, want dat model is breed toepasbaar.

Daar ben ik erg trots op.” Ook het gebruik van satellietfoto’s als big databron is toepasbaar gebleken voor officiële statistiek en het gebruik ervan kan nog uitgebreid worden. Daas denkt nu mee over de doodsoorzakenstatistiek: “Dat is een statistiek die veel handwerk met zich meebrengt, omdat het vaak lastig is volledig geautomatiseerd tot de juiste resultaten te komen. Datascience zou daar kunnen bijdragen door de woorden die gebruikt worden op de formulieren die de artsen invullen nauwgezet te analyseren. Ook bij het combineren van big data met andere databronnen wordt vooruitgang geboekt. Dat zal de inzet van big data in de toekomst veel breder toepasbaar maken.”

Henri Faasdreef 312 2492 JP Den Haag Tel: (070) 337 38 00 CBS-weg 11 6412 EX Heerlen Tel: (045) 570 60 00

Werken bij het CBS! Ben jij er klaar voor? www.werkenbijhetCBS.nl

EBUSCO

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Engineering for a better and healthier environment Ebusco, a manufacturer of

“E

electric buses, charging systems

and energy storage systems with customers throughout Europe, offers lots of opportunities for a broad spectrum of engineers.

The company has experienced tremendous growth since its pioneering phase, but has retained a pioneering spirit.

“If you want to keep innovating

and remain constructively critical of your own developments, then this is the place for you.”

busco is a pioneer. We make electric buses, which nowadays have become a well-known concept attracting interest from many businesses and cities. But when we started back in 2012, electrification of buses was by no means a logical step, especially in Europe,” says Rob Stevens, Manager Marketing & Communication at Ebusco.

The company really was breaking new ground in the first five years. Since then, the electric bus has become the standard in many western European countries. Governments soon spotted the potential of the electric bus.

However, transport companies were more hesitant and doubted whether it would be feasible to use electric buses in everyday operations; based on the target of 300km per day, e-buses weren’t yet able to replace diesel-powered ones.

“Nevertheless, the first pilot projects saw customers coming onboard with the e-bus idea in 2013. Things have moved very quickly since 2018, partly due to the Dutch Administrative Agreement on Public Transport which was introduced around that time. This dictates that some places in the Netherlands, no other buses may be purchased from 2025. In a short time, the e-bus has become the standard,” continues Rob. Rob has been working at Ebusco since April 2021. At that time, Ebusco had about 200 employees, but now there are almost 1,000.

Most of them – including most of the engineers – work in Deurne. Ebusco has several openings for engineers, for example Customization or Cyber Security.

MAART 2024  CARRIÈRE MAGAZINE VAN DE

“Ebusco is a young and dynamic company, with an informal culture to match. It has been listed on the stock exchange since October 2021, and currently has locations in the Netherlands and France, as well as production partners in Portugal and China. The company produced the initial prototypes and the first city buses – made from steel – in collaboration with assembly partners. But we’re now working on the serial production of the Ebusco 3.0.

Its frame is made of composite material, which saves a lot of weight. Innovation is vital because we’re relatively small compared to existing brands that also produce coaches, trucks and sometimes even cars. Today, though, we’re a serious player in buses for public transport.

The shared passion among all our employees is fundamental to our success.”

Shared passion Emile Manni is a systems engineer at Ebusco.

After completing his bachelor’s degree in Automotive Engineering at HAN University of Applied Sciences, he did his premaster’s and master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering at TU Eindhoven, specializing in Dynamics & Control. “That has some links with automotive.

At Ebusco, our department works on describing vehicle and system features as the basis for the effective incorporation of new functionalities.

We also think about customers’ short-term wants and needs. What do we need to take into account for next year, for example?

The demands on electric buses are rapidly increasing.”

After his studies, he first worked in Helmond as a vehicle dynamics and strength stiffness

a unique company. We’ve come a long way thanks to making some bold moves in the past.

Now that we’re more mature, we have to retain that boldness but balance it with delivering a high-quality and reliable product.”

 Emile Manni.

(Finite Element Method or ‘FEM’) analyst on various types of vehicles. After some time, he decided to move to Ebusco. “What especially attracted me to Ebusco was the approachability of the company and the chance to work together on a new product based on a shared passion. I initially heard about the company’s culture and way of working from some of my former colleagues, so I reached out. After attending interviews with the technical director and HR, I started here as system owner of the air brake system, and was closely involved in the further development of the GEN3 platform.”

Unique chance “Ebusco has been a unique chance for me to take a major step to broaden my experience.

There were improvements to be made in many areas, so we were able to make huge leaps forward. Additionally, not all the ways of working are set in stone. At Ebusco, you have the opportunity to put forward good ideas of your own and to actively contribute to the product. The truly pioneering phase is behind us nowadays, but we still make a unique product. We have to keep the innovative momentum going to ensure that we remain Ebusco is dedicated to the development, production and distribution of fully electric city and regional buses and the associated ecosystem. Our goal is to contribute to a better and healthier living environment by making sustainable, emission-free transport of people the standard. Ebusco is originally a Dutch company, with its head office in Deurne.

Today, more than 600 Ebusco buses are operating in nine countries across Europe, including in major cities such as Amsterdam, Frankfurt and Munich. Together, we work on creating clean cities.

“There’s an informal atmosphere here and everyone is very approachable, even the CEO. And there are various social activities at Ebusco of course, such as Friday afternoon drinks, going to festivals together and a family day.

It’s important to socialize once in a while in the spirit of celebrating your successes together.”

Personal development “I would definitely recommend anyone who is at the beginning of their career to consider Ebusco. Here, you can make a difference in certain areas in a truly unique way. You can always put your expertise to good use and you embark on a steep learning curve.

Because of the flat hierarchy and the collaboration between the teams, you can do some really interesting things here. If that’s what you’re looking for, then you’ll feel very much at home here. It’s a great place for people who like taking the initiative, getting things done, thinking outside of the box, collaborating and thinking up new ideas. To complete the circle, it’s not just about coming up with ideas, but also having the determination to follow through on them to completion. And to keep innovating and to remain constructively critical of your own developments – both technical and personal ones. If you have a strong drive to work on your personal development, then this is the place for you.”

Ebusco Vuurijzer 23 5753 SV Deurne ebusco.com/jobs

Contact: Jeroen Veugelers 088 – 1100 200

NOBLEO TECHNOLOGY

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‘Engineering is a team sport’  Bram Odrosslij

Engineering firm Nobleo Technology specializes in software, mechatronics and mechanical solutions in the key areas of autonomous solutions, intelligent embedded solutions and high-tech systems. Bram Odrosslij joined the company as an intern and never left. “Nobleo is a great place to work if you have broad interests,” he says.

N

obleo Technology is focused on talent development. Its engineers work both in-house and at customer sites. They create prototypes and mechatronics solutions from concept to prototype, and design small-batch production systems. Nobleo’s customers can be roughly divided into two groups.

On the one hand, there are the major players such as ASML, Philips, Bosch and SKF – big OEMs who are looking to outsource some of their development activities – and on the other, there are the start-ups: companies that have a great idea but need a technology partner to help them realize it.

Embedded, autonomous and intelligent Bram Odrosslij (25) did a new track within the Mechanical Engineering master’s programme: AIES-W. “The master’s was part of the Dynamics & Control group. About half of the modules I did were related to AI, the other half to mechanical engineering.”

A tutor at TU/e first made Bram aware of the interesting opportunities at Nobleo in Eindhoven, and he ended up doing both his internship and his master’s thesis at Nobleo.

He even stayed on for several months after his internship to finish the project he’d started.

So when he completed his master’s in October 2023, he had actually already been ‘working’ at Nobleo for more than two years. “As an intern, I worked on a cleaning robot. I’d immediately become fascinated by mobile robotics during the Mobile Robot Control module, and the tutor pointed me in Nobleo’s direction.

I continued to work on finishing the project after my internship, and then Nobleo offered me the opportunity to do my thesis on a combination of AI and robotics. This was interesting for both me and Nobleo as a way of staying in contact. At Nobleo, they place great importance on building a team of

MAART 2024  CARRIÈRE MAGAZINE VAN DE

people who can work well together with a strong team spirit. Even if you’re all working on different projects, you’re still a team.

Nobleo has three departments: Autonomous Solutions, Intelligent Embedded Solutions and High Tech Systems. We share as much information as possible between those departments so that everyone knows who is doing what, and who could help out with a particular solution.”

“For my master’s graduation project, I focused on reinforcement learning (a type of machine learning) combined with navigation for mobile robots. Because my master’s track was still so new, I worked closely with a colleague at Nobleo to decide on how to shape my graduation project. Nobleo was very supportive of me.”

Team sport Nowadays, Bram is working as a robotics engineer within an intelligence project. “There’s a continuous check that everyone is in the right place, feels sufficiently challenged and has room for their own development. They take good care of you here. Nobleo is like a family; there’s a strong team spirit, including outside of work. We currently have more than 100 people working here. There’s a flat hierarchy, everyone is approachable and you can just be yourself. One thing I like about Nobleo is that the work is focused on the early stages of

development. You can get a taste of many different areas to find out what kind of engineer you really want to be, and you can gain experience in many domains. But needless to say, you also have the opportunity to become very specialized if you want.”

“Nobleo is a great bunch of talented people.

The focus is on further developing your existing talents, in a good atmosphere.

I’ve also noticed that you’re allowed to make mistakes. Everyone working here is enthusiastic, because the projects we work on are fun. I’m increasingly realizing here that engineering is a team sport. Engineering something properly takes so much time and effort that you can’t do it alone. A complex product always requires teamwork. And I think that’s one of Nobleo’s strengths: a cohesive team of engineers.”

Proud “If you have broad interests, Nobleo is a great place to work because of all the aspects involved in developing a product from scratch.

I’m also proud to work here, so I would definitely recommend Nobleo – especially because of the sense of team spirit you feel  Birgit Plantinga. when developing something together, and the chance to get a taste of so many areas.

If you really want to understand what a high-tech product entails from start to finish, then you should come here.”

Nobleo Technology is looking for graduates with a background in software, mechanics or construction. We are seeking experienced software designers, mechanical engineers, system developers and vision experts. Besides that, at Nobleo Technology we are keen to hear from talented students from any other fields. You are more than welcome to contact us if you have good organizational skills and enjoy working in a team of enthusiastic colleagues to solve problems and deliver new projects. You’ll find that we’re a great place to work.

Nobleo Technology autonomous | intelligent | systems We are an international team of engineers, thinkers, and doers, here to create a positive social impact by developing innovative technical solutions.

Nobleo Technology Heggeranklaan 1, 5643 BP Eindhoven, + 31 (0)40 82 00 180, info@nobleo.nl www.nobleo-technology.nl

4TU.SCHOOL FOR TECHNOLOGICAL DESIGN, STAN ACKERMANS INSTITUTE

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EngD: apply your knowledge in practice while you continue learning

After completing your master’s, are you keen to gain some practical experience while continuing to study? You can do just that during a two-year EngD programme at the 4TU.School for Technological Design, Stan Ackermans Institute (4TU.SAI) - a joint initiative of the four Dutch universities of technology. The Engineering Doctorate offers lots of advantages, according to mechanical engineer Ahmet Demirel.

 Ahmet Demirel.

T

he 4TU.School for Technological Design, Stan Ackermans Institute offers 19 educational programmes related to technological design at the universities of technology in Delft, Eindhoven, Twente and Wageningen. Each programme leads to an Engineering Doctorate (EngD) qualification. Whereas the more familiar PhD entails spending four years doing research, a two-year EngD is focused on the direct application of knowledge. During the programme, trainees not only study various subjects but also receive payment for their work on a real-life design project. This project can be focused on process optimization or product design.

An EngD bridges the gap between academia and industry. It gives you the opportunity to gain experience, meet new people in your field and exchange knowledge, which expands your professional network. It’s a great way to strengthen your position in your chosen field, plus to apply your scientific knowledge in practice while you continue learning.

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Automotive systems design EngD trainee Ahmet Demirel obtained his master’s in Mechanical Engineering in Turkey in 2021, with a specialization in control systems design and system dynamics. While studying, he worked as a control systems engineer. After university, he and his wife moved first to Berlin and subsequently to Eindhoven when his wife found work there as a software engineer.

To smoothen the transition and help him find a job in Eindhoven too, Ahmet wanted to take some time to learn about Dutch culture and society. He first heard about the Stan Ackermans EngD programme from some friends. Ahmet found out more about the programme by reading the job posting on LinkedIn and the TU Eindhoven website.

He applied for the Automotive Systems Design programme and was accepted.

System engineering and Dutch culture “The Eindhoven area has a very complex semiconductor industry.

It holds most of the challenging engineering problems that I can thrive to be part of it. However, to be able to work in such a domain, I need to be prepared in terms of systems engineering and working on different abstraction levels with different competence teams. A good knowledge of system engineering is required. Firstly, I wanted to learn about system engineering and working with complex systems design. My second goal was to integrate into Dutch society and the local work culture.

Even though most employers are very internationally orientated, the local culture is an essential part of every job.”

“Therefore, my programme also includes a language course and professional development coaching. Besides the technical courses, we learn about things such as teamwork, the different roles in projects, making professional presentations, designing a CV and applying for a job in Dutch.”

Two-year programme The first year of the EngD programme is made up of various modules and includes three two-month in-house projects. In each project, you work with a team of engineers to solve a problem for a company in the Eindhoven region. “They are fun to do. You work in different roles and you learn a lot from them. Our Programme Manager, Riske Meijer, is doing a great job in guiding us,” says Ahmet. Besides these projects, students have some freedom to make their own choices about which courses, lectures and training sessions to follow. “For the second year, Riske had various interesting project proposals for us. After choosing and applying for one of them, you meet with the project stakeholders.

It’s kind of a job interview. I started my second-year project at the end of October 2023.”

Broadening your base After arriving in Eindhoven, Ahmet could have gone directly to the company where he is now doing his second-year project, but he is glad he chose the EngD path instead. “I like this project very much, but working immediately in the industry would have placed me in a certain team.

It isn’t easy to build a broad network. Through this programme, I’m getting to know a lot of people from different backgrounds and different industries. Besides that, the TU/e campus is a nice place to be, the professors are approachable, and I have many resources here as the basis for a lot of learning. Thanks to this programme, I have a broader base than if I’d directly joined the company I’m doing my project for.”

Huge progress “Some people already have a good idea of what they want in this industry and at which company they would like to start their career, and that’s fine.

But for me, Stan Ackermans 4TU offers a very good way to learn much more in my technical field, gain a lot of other professional skills, and to get to know different companies as well. Additionally, I am learning about Dutch culture while working on various projects. It’s a great start which will help me to make huge progress in my technical career.”

Keen to know more about EngD programmes?

Visit the website: www.4tu.nl/sai Reasons to apply Does the Engineering Doctorate traineeship appeal to you and are you interested in becoming a technological designer? At 4TU.SAI we are always on the lookout for talented engineers with a master of science degree in a technical subject and who are keen to further develop their design skills. We currently have various openings in Delft, Eindhoven, Twente and Wageningen. For a complete overview of the opportunities, take a look at our website: www.4tu.nl/sai/vacancies

4TU.School for Technological Design, Stan Ackermans Institute www.4tu.nl/sai sai@4tu.nl

22 23

HIGH-TECH, HIGH-FUN We bring high-tech to life

Sioux Technologies offers you challenging, dynamic and varied work. As a talent in software, mechatronics, mechanics, mathematics or electronics, you will contribute to the development and construction of complex high-tech products, often on the verge of what is technologically possible.

At Sioux, you will work on a project for a big multinational or for a promising start-up tackling the next breakthrough technology.

Teams

The best results are achieved by teams that work together optimally. That is why you work with smart and motivated colleagues, who are committed to find exceptional solutions together. In some projects you will be able to focus on your specialism, in others you can be involved in all phases of the development process.

Personal development

At Sioux you get every opportunity to grow. We work with a generous personal development budget - of € 6000 per year which allows you to keep your technological knowledge up to date and also work on your personal skills.

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We take having fun seriously

In our company we find it important to have fun together, which is why we organize lots of activities for our employees: from big festivals, Quiz Night XL and Friday afternoon drinks (with our own Sioux beer) to innovation pizza sessions with your colleagues. In addition, you can visit our Sioux Labs event space every day to meet with colleagues, to organize events, to enjoy a workout together and for a delicious healthy lunch.

Facts & figures

 1200+ engineers  Headquartered in Eindhoven  Dutch offices: Delft, Mijdrecht, Apeldoorn & Eindhoven  International offices: Belgium, Germany, Romania, China, Singapore & Vietnam  Competence centres: software, mathware, mechatronics, mechanics, electronics and assembly

Join us!

Do you want to know more about the projects we have to offer, our student assigments or our vacancies? jobs.sioux.eu

THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC

24 25

THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC GIVES EMPLOYEES THE FREEDOM TO PUSH THE BOUNDARIES WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY Thermo Fisher develops and builds advanced electron microscopes to enable its customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. The company’s customers are active in the fields of life sciences, materials sciences and semiconductors. Thermo Fisher Scientific works with experts across the globe (including Nobel Prize winners) to ensure its advancements will meet customers’ current and future needs.

The versatility of the microscope

Luuk Verberne (24) completed his master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering at TU Eindhoven in September 2022. When it came to his graduation research project, he realized that he didn’t really want to work in a lab.

Thanks to a friend, he ended up in R&D at Thermo Fisher Scientific for his internship, where he conducted research into customer requirements related to the electron microscope. “Nowadays, I work in Product Quality Assurance and specifically in the Metrios department, which deals with semiconductors.

So although I’ve moved away from biomedical technology a little, this role really suits me.

I learnt the technological basics at university, and I’m learning the specialisms on the job.”

“During my internship, I discovered that Thermo Fisher is a very nice company with

a friendly atmosphere and helpful employees.

The R&D people have a lot of experience and are willing to share all their knowledge. Despite being very busy themselves, everyone makes time to help others. Another thing that makes the work so fascinating is the microscope itself.

 Luuk Verberne.

It involves so many aspects that you learn a lot about many different fields. I chose to work here because of the atmosphere, and I’ve also discovered that Thermo Fisher is good at helping employees to continue with their training after leaving university. Irrespective of your role, you’re constantly given the freedom to learn new things and grow.

There are countless projects that help you to find out what suits you best.”

“I feel very happy here, and I’m also proud to work here. Thermo Fisher is an industry leader with a global impact. From producing images of the corona virus to assessing the quality of microchips – none of it would be possible without our electron microscopes. This is a great company for young people who want to keep learning a lot about state-of-the-art technology in all kinds of areas.”

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Close to customers

Duygu Büyükaydin (42) did a bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Electrical Engineering at METU in Ankara, and gained her master’s in Signal Processing in 2002. Her first job was in embedded software and algorithm development. In 2017, she moved to the Netherlands for a job at Philips Healthcare. In 2020, she started at Thermo Fisher in Service Innovation.

“In our digital servicing, we remotely monitor the performance of our machines. I enjoy working close to the customer. Over the past 20 years, I’ve worked with some really cool technologies. In my current role as AI Lead, I’m now experiencing first-hand what that technology means for our customers.

This job is a perfect match with my ambition of really putting the innovative power of AI to work for customers.”

 Duygu Büyükaydin.

“Thermo Fisher Scientific is a high-tech company with sophisticated technology that contributes to the community. Nobel Prize winners use our microscopes. We’re an enabler of the life sciences, and I’m excited to be part of this company. I like the atmosphere here, where people support each other.

Every idea is open for discussion, and you’re challenged to come up with new ideas. I also like the diversity in the company; there are a lot of different nationalities and many women in my department. There’s not much of a hierarchy; I can easily approach my managers.”

“I can definitely recommend Thermo Fisher.

Whether you’re in software, in mechanics or in physics, we have lots of opportunities for starters or professionals who are looking to

grow further. I also can recommend doing your internship here; it’s a very good way to get to know the company and to find out which path suits you best.”

Electronics design is a profession

Li Ping Trinh studied Electrical Engineering at TU Eindhoven and received his master’s degree in September 2021. During his job search, a roommate drew his attention to a vacancy for an electronics designer at Thermo Fisher Scientific. “The company appealed to me because it makes large and complex machines. In my first year, I did smaller projects, but I’ve been working on a big project for the past few months and I really like it. Instead of just executing, I am now at the wheel; I have more control. However, ‘with great power comes great responsibility’! I now also have a broader view of what I am doing, at a higher level of abstraction. The projects are very multidisciplinary, and I work extensively with people from Optics, Mechanics and Firmware.

That makes things even more interesting and challenging, because other disciplines’ module requirements also have to be included in the design.”

“In my view, electronics design is a profession – a skill. It’s not something you can learn just by reading a book; you have to do it in practice.

The more you do it, the better you’ll get, the more responsibility you’re given, and the bigger the projects and challenges you can work on.

In that context, Thermo Fisher offers plenty of opportunities for further growth and development.”

“This company produces high-tech, state-ofthe-art and groundbreaking equipment. You work on real-life projects that will eventually be launched onto the market. You learn a lot here, and you’ll never get bored because there’s lots of variety and you can always move into other departments or progress in your own field. I enjoy my work almost every day.

It feels good to know that I’m contributing to an impressive and important product.”

When Thermo Fisher Scientific acquired FEI Company, the leader in highperformance electron microscopy, the business became part of Thermo Fisher’s Analytical Instruments segment. The site in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, is where high-end transmission electron microscopes are developed and manufactured. The company is proud to have facilitated the advancements of the 2017 Nobel Prize-winning chemists within cryo-electron microscopy. Thermo Fisher Scientific offers exciting and highly rewarding career opportunities.

It has core technical openings in R&D, manufacturing, operations and engineering. Besides that, the company also has opportunities in its Business Units, Sales & Service, Supply Chain and Logistics, Product Marketing and its own Applications Demo Lab. For a complete overview of current vacancies, please go to jobs.thermofisher.com and select Eindhoven as the location.

 Li Ping Trinh.

TRINSEO

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Trinseo offers engineers sustainable solution-related challenges

‘I can make an impact here’ Trinseo provides a highly diverse work environment and exceptional career opportunities for chemical engineers and other technical specialists. The company is engaged in the production of semi-finished plastics, latex and rubber products, operating in 27 countries. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Trinseo is an ever-growing, future-focused multinational. This makes it an excellent company to work for, as Abidin Balan and Pieter Janssen can confirm.

T

rinseo originated through the divestiture of four divisions of Dow Chemical. Since 2010, the company has experienced consistent growth in terms of both its workforce and its market value. Trinseo actively pursues the development of numerous high-quality end products and semi-finished goods to meet the ever-growing demands of its customers.

As a chemical company, Trinseo is actively seeking engineers with diverse skills and expertise.

Sustainability Lab Abidin Balan, aged 40, is a senior scientist and the leader of the Sustainability Lab at Trinseo.

He pursued his chemistry studies in Ankara, Turkey. His master’s degree concentrated on physical organic chemistry, specifically in connection with polymers, and was complemented by a study of organic electronics.

This encompassed the realm of flexible solar cells, thin-film transistors and LEDs. Subsequently, he directed his focus towards supramolecular polymers.

Abidin furthered his academic journey with a PhD at TU/e in Eindhoven. “I saw the PhD programme as the optimal path to deeply n Abidin Bala explore the intricacies of my research area and conduct extensive scientific investigations,” he says. After completing his PhD, Abidin held a two-year postdoctoral researcher position in Nijmegen before joining Trinseo in early 2017. early focus on sustainability and addressing plastic pollution resonated with me and was His decision to join Trinseo was influenced by aligned with my desire to make a positive the company’s need for a research chemist. impact.”

“Trinseo was a good fit due to my knowledge in polymers, but what truly captivated me was Comprehensive research and understanding the enthusiasm, energy and vision exhibited Despite the common trend for professionals by the hiring manager during the recruitment in his position to consider other opportunities process,” recalls Abidin. “The prospect of after five years, Abidin has now been with learning, growing and making a real contrithe company for seven years. So why has he bution, coupled with the challenging work remained dedicated to Trinseo? “My experience environment, drew me in. Moreover, Trinseo’s here has not only fulfilled my initial expectations,

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but actually exceeded them. Over the past seven years, I have taken on increasing responsibilities, evolving from a researcher to leading and managing projects with other departments, and ultimately assuming a role in people leadership,” he states.

In the Sustainability Lab at Trinseo, Abidin and his team focus on developing recycling technologies for polycarbonates, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polystyrene and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). “I was initially concerned about a lack of time for in-depth research in a corporate setting, but this company provides the space for comprehensive research and understanding,” continues Abidin. “Our team actively contributes to solving real-life sustainability problems by developing new techniques implemented in pilot plants and scaled up to a commercial level, as Trinseo strives to achieve circularity and carbon neutrality for all plastics.”

What Abidin values most about Trinseo is the approachability of everyone within the company. “I appreciate the fact that people genuinely listen and take ideas seriously.

This contributes to a collaborative and supportive work environment,” he concludes.

Contributing to success Pieter Janssen completed his master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, with a specialization in Polymer Technology, in 2004. “The actual production of plastics is mostly a matter of chemistry, and I still know much less about that than my specialist colleagues, to be honest. But when it comes to how plastics are processed, that’s a much broader field,” he says. Pieter also did a PhD at TU Eindhoven, followed by a two-year post-doc in Madison, Wisconsin, USA. He had been working in the chemical industry for nine years, at two different companies, when he was approached and invited for a chat with Trinseo. “I didn’t expect it to lead anywhere, but I really enjoyed the conversation.

There was a certain informality that really appealed to me: tremendous knowledge and a drive to achieve results, but without taking

P ieter Janssen

yourself too seriously. And I was offered a job that was a perfect match with my CV. I’ve been working here for three years now,” continues Pieter.

“Trinseo is a medium-sized company. It’s not one of the huge chemical groups, but it’s big enough to attract very large customers.

An added bonus of not being too big is that things are a lot less formal, which also helps you feel that you’re making a contribution – you’re an important part of the company’s success. Additionally, Trinseo is leading the way when it comes to sustainability. The company is fully committed to achieving its clearly defined ambitions; they are not just for show.”

Pieter works as a scientist and lab manager in the R&D department. Even though his current role is an ideal fit with his experience, there are plenty of chances for him to progress further up the technical career ladder. “You can continue to grow here even if you stay in the same role.

But I could also choose to go for more of a management role, become an engineer in the factory or move into the commercial side of things. There’s no shortage of opportunities.”

Abidin and Pieter both live in Breda and work partially from home. On the two days per week that they work in Hoek (Terneuzen), they ride-share for the commute.

Trinseo is a manufacturer of semifinished plastics, latex and rubber products. It has 17 production sites and 11 research laboratories. Trinseo employs around 430 people at its site in Terneuzen. In June 2010, Dow Chemical divested four divisions worldwide which then continued as an independent company called Styron. The company went public in June 2014 and changed its name to Trinseo in February 2015.

Materials. Powering Ideas.

Trinseo Netherlands B.V. Innovatieweg 14 4542 NH Hoek (Terneuzen) www.trinseo.com For details of all the opportunities, contact our Recruitment Specialist: Sherief Tawfik +31 (0)115 – 238 000 stawfik@trinseo.com

VDL ETG

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HIGH-END ENGINEERING IN A FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT  Left: Akash Kalwar, right: Frank Kuijpers.

VDL Enabling Technologies Group, part of VDL Groep, is a global design & manufacturing company, partnering with many leading high-tech equipment companies (OEM’s). They provide customers with complex high-tech parts, modules, and systems. VDL ETG continuously turns innovative ideas into reality. With locations in the Netherlands, Singapore, Switzerland, China, and the USA they work with customers worldwide to realize their vision. For engineers, there are extensive opportunities to carve out their own paths.

V

DL ETG has a unique combination of knowledge and high-quality craftsmanship under one roof. It focuses on fundamental research, design, production, assembly, and testing for customers’ mechatronics systems. VDL ETG’s customers are based in five market segments: Semiconductor, Analytical, Medical, Science & Industry, and Space.

related to high-tech. Between completing my bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering and starting my master’s, I worked as an engineer on large agricultural machinery for a year. So after graduating, that more robust side of engineering was the first thing that sprang to mind, rather than high-tech engineering like at VDL ETG.”

Focus on the business processes in the high-tech industry Frank Kuijpers is a New Product Logistics Engineer at VDL ETG in Eindhoven. He completed his studies with a master’s degree in Innovation Management within Technical Business Administration at TU/e. “During my studies, I discovered that I particularly enjoy working indirectly with technology, such as on the business processes

“I was already familiar with VDL Groep, but I didn’t know all of its hundred companies. Neither did I know VDL ETG. When I found this position through VDL’s website, it really appealed to me.

There are several departments at VDL ETG in Eindhoven: Technology & Development (T&D), Systems for volume production, Parts for the production of mechanical parts, and New Product Introduction (NPI).

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This department is responsible for introducing new modules into the company, which subsequently go into production. My job entails distributing the technical product data to the people who need to review it, and creating and monitoring the project plan. My role is mainly about coordinating things, ensuring that all the stakeholders can move forward, and keeping the momentum going.”

Engineering and logistics Akash Kalwar is also a New Product Logistics Engineer in the NPI department. Whereas Frank mainly coordinates the engineering alterations between the customer and the technicians in NPI, Akash focuses on the engineering alterations and logistics between designs in T&D and the factory (production and assembly in the Parts and Systems departments). In the case of new designs, parts must be either made at the VDL factory or ordered. If parts cannot be delivered to the required quality, the design must be returned to T&D for alteration.

“It’s a constant loop to make the design work and to make sure that all the changes are implemented properly on the production line.”

Akash came to Eindhoven for his master’s in Manufacturing Systems Engineering at TU/e, where he chose Operations Management & Logistics to streamline his learning. He did his internship at ASML, where he got to know VDL as one of the main suppliers. He did his master’s thesis at the Brainport Industries Campus (BIC) where he worked on logistics problems in warehousing.

“At the Career Expo at TU/e, I met someone from VDL who took great interest in my project. VDL contacted me afterwards and two weeks later I’d had all my interviews and started at VDL ETG. My job is very closely aligned with my studies at TU/e. In the beginning I struggled a little with the Dutch language, but very soon everybody started to speak English whenever I was involved in the conversation. Over the last two years I have seen English increasingly become the standard in conversations at VDL ETG.” Hectic but enjoyable Frank: “VDL ETG is an informal company with a friendly atmosphere and short lines of communication. There’s not a big gap in hierarchy between me and the managing director. Things can be quite hectic, not least because of the market we’re in, with high pressure to deliver and material shortages. The deadlines are very ambitious.

But personally, I really enjoy the hectic environment.”

“Another thing I like about working at VDL ETG is the mix of career starters and very experienced colleagues. Additionally, it’s nice to have the combination of T&D, NPI, Parts and Systems within the same company. And last but not least, the numerous social activities such as sports tournaments, parties and the activities organized by the Young VDL Employee (YVE) association make this a fun place to work.”

Development opportunities Akash: “I think VDL offers enough opportunities to develop yourself.

How fast you climb the ladder depends on your own motivation.

It’s a large and diverse company with opportunities in different departments. Thanks to this you can easily adopt a new role and explore your interests. There is a flat hierarchy; I can easily contact the management for any help or requests. VDL is a friendly, cooperative organization. During lunchtime walks and at the monthly borrel at VDL, you have personal conversations which help you to get to know your colleagues better. That has a positive effect on your work because it results in better interaction and it intensifies your bond.”

“Another good thing about VDL is that, although our base of high-mix, low-volume customized products can mean pressure from customers on deliverables, decision-making is easy; your voice gets heard thanks to the approachability of the management and the right priority-setting.”

With more than 100 different companies and with around 15,000 employees, VDL Groep is one of the biggest family-owned companies in the Netherlands. In the worlds of High-tech, Mobility, Energy, Infratech and Foodtech, VDL develops and produces a wide variety of industrial and innovative products and machines, from parts to end products.

We are always driven to make the difference together: by thinking, by doing and by combining craftsmanship and innovation. Thanks to the large degree of freedom and autonomy you receive at VDL, you get plenty of opportunity for personal development. So if you have a passion for technology, are looking for a friendly atmosphere and love a no-nonsense approach to technical challenges in the fields of mechanical engineering, mechatronics, electronics, software or IT, find out more about VDL. VDL Groep Hoevenweg 1 NL - 5652 AW Eindhoven Tel: +31 (0)40 - 292 50 66 www.vdlgroep.com • www.vdletg.com • www.werkenbijvdl.nl To find out more about VDL Groep Tel +31 (0)40 – 292 50 66 recruitment@vdl.nl

WATT INFRA

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WATT Infra: EMPOWER YOUR CAREER, EMBRACE SUSTAINABILITY WATT Infra is an established name within underground infrastructure with a strong focus on energy transition, but we still like to act like a new kid on the block. Our focus is 100% on sustainable energy carriers like MS and HS, tailored for solar and wind farms, (district) heat, and, looking ahead, for the future in hydrogen. We like the challenge of creating a world where sustainability is not just a word, but a promise. That is why we never stop looking ahead and using our knowledge and expertise of underground infrastructure to help along the energy transition. This field is constantly evolving, which means we must do so as well. We pick up new solutions in the industry such as battery storage for wind- and solar parks and think about how we can put them to good use for our customers.

With over 20 professionals and business partners, we form a strong team. A team with a mission: a more sustainable earth. In this new economy, where knowledge is central, we like to put ours to good use!

• Transforming the world with green solutions • Design your job, design the future • Executing remarkable projects for leading brands

What working with WATT Infra means for you If you like freedom in your work, then WATT Infra is the place to be. Our working culture is informal because we chose to have a flat organization structure. All the things we accomplish, we accomplish together, but we also work on our individual goals.

We like to do things just a little differently within our area of expertise.

Our work consists of a combination of civil and electrical engineering knowledge.

To best describe why working at WATT Infra is sospecial, we would like to quote two of our colleagues:

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Robbert (director): “We don’t just design, we also execute. This makes us unique. Our people see that as a great advantage. It allows them to choose for themselves whether they complete a project from A to Z or take on a specific part”.

Laurens (Project Engineer): “The thing I like most about WATT Infra is the short lines of communication. If I have an idea how something can be improved, I can execute it the same day”

Join us in our mission to accelerate the energy transition Are you a little bit stubborn and often think things can be done, better, faster, and differently? Then you very likely fit in well with our team.

Do you enjoy working on challenging projects for renowned brands? Then let’s get acquainted soon.

Contact: Ingrid van Mierlo Manager HR

ingrid@watt-infra.nl +31 6 - 29 00 51 64

ZEELAND REFINERY

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A leading role in the petrochemical industry At Zeeland Refinery, we keep the world moving. We do this by turning crude oil into fuels and important raw materials. Our goal is to be a sustainable and flexible refinery that ranks among the best in Western Europe. In doing so, we set long-term ambitions in the areas of safety, sustainability, the environment, people and organization, valorization and cost control. For chemical engineers and industrial engineers, we offer a close-knit, friendly and dynamic environment.

N

iek Steendijk studied chemical engineering. How did his qualifications lead him into the petrochemical industry?

“In my case, it was actually the other way round; I knew this was what I wanted to do, so I looked for a path to achieve it. I found chemistry very interesting in high school, and I was also impressed by the scale of the oil industry and decided that’s where I wanted to work. I then chose a relevant degree programme. During my studies I did an internship at Zeeland Refinery and I now work here as a process engineer.”

What was the internship like?

“Studying can sometimes be super-theoretical. But here, I was assigned a project that enabled me to not only conduct research but also test my findings in practice in a testing protocol that I set up myself. When I presented my research, the colleagues didn’t just come to watch; they actually asked critical questions. It felt good to be taken so seriously as an intern.”

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Did you start working as a process engineer immediately afterwards?

“When I said that I wanted to continue working at Zeeland Refinery, they created an initial position for me. If you demonstrate you’re a hard worker, they’re happy to do their best to keep you here. So I initially worked on projects, supporting all kinds of engineers who were short on time. The work was very varied and I learned a lot. It enabled me to get to know the entire refinery. I’m now a process engineer for the hydrocracker. I look for ways to do things differently or better, and then implement the changes. I enjoy combining my theoretical knowledge with the operational side of a plant to optimize everything. We’re one of the world’s most energy-efficient refineries and we want to be the best. So I work very hard to help us achieve that.”

‘We’re one of the world’s most energy-efficient refineries and we want to be the best. So I work very hard to help us achieve that.”

Is your work challenging?

“Yes, in every way. You’re accountable for your work here right from day one. If there are any problems, you solve them yourself. And actually, that’s typical of the overall mentality here: a lot of personal responsibility.

Part of my job is to monitor the process, which is set in stone. But apart from that, I have a lot of freedom to shape my role. In fact, whenever I have a spare moment, I’m constantly thinking about how we can optimize the processes even more. If there don’t seem to be any problems, you start hunting for them. I initiate that work myself and further develop the ideas. If that leads to something that could allow us to work more efficiently, I discuss it with the relevant colleagues and managers. That’s another great thing about working here: there’s a flat hierarchy. Efficiency and sustainability are important topics.

If you have a good idea, people are willing to listen.”

What’s the result of all that hard work?

“Hard work and achievements are rewarded. There were a lot of young people in the team I first started in. They have all progressed into other great roles. That can go very fast here. In fact, I will soon be starting something new myself; I’m moving into a management position in another department. I’ve done a lot of collaborating with other colleagues, and I’ve really enjoyed it, but I’ve never had a leadership role before. But I’m getting the relevant support for this and I will also receive management training. Here, whether you decide to focus on the technical aspect of your work and continue to specialize, or you seek out the people side of your work, as I am doing now, you’ll never stop learning. There’s always a new challenge just around the corner.”

 Niek Steendijk.

ZEELAND REFINERY Zeeland Refinery (in Nieuwdorp, the Netherlands) is one of the most energy-efficient refineries in the world. At Zeeland Refinery, we are aware of the challenges and opportunities presented by the energy transition. We have a clear vision for the future and want to further strengthen our role as a sustainable and innovative refinery. We are constantly working to improve our safety, reliability and environmental performance, and we utilize the very latest technologies and software.

We have over 400 employees, of which half work in a five-shift pattern.

We are a committed and close-knit family and offer scope for development and training. linkedin.com/company/zeeland-refinery-n.v./ facebook.com/zeeland.refinery.nieuwdorp twitter.com/ZeelandRefinery instagram.com/zeeland_refinery/

Stepping stone for a succesful career Delft University of Technology

Our EngD programmes offer trainees the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and experience by means of a personal and practical design assignment in and for industry, under the supervision of experienced scientific design professionals.

It is a paid position with no tuition fees.

Faster track

In brief

The EngD programmes are a stepping stone to a faster successful career with (multi-)national companies and healthcare institutions. In the past 25 years over 4,500 of our graduates have found challenging and exciting jobs with outstanding, (multi)national companies, including Philips, ASML and Thermo Fisher Scientific.

The EngD program is:

Earning and learning You will be appointed for 2 years, the duration of the programme. You will also become a member of the staff of one of the universities and receive a salary.

Currently there are 19 different programmes to choose from, divided over the four Dutch universities of technology.

To mention a few programmes: Chemical Product Design, Automotive Systems Design, Robotics and Design for Agrifood & Ecological Systems.

Check out some recent EngD projects and an overview of all 19 EngD programmes in our latest project book.

University of Twente Wageningen University Eindhoven University of Technology

n A 2-year post-master program n Mix of theory and practice n Broadening technical expertise and

professional skills n Kick-start for a career in the industry

or healthcare n Paid position, no tuition fees

How to apply for an EngD position?

We offer vacancies for EngD positions almost all the time! Check out the websites of the 4TU (Universities of Technology) for all vacancies: n Delft University of Technology

www.tudelft.nl n Eindhoven University of Technology

www.tue.nl n University of Twente

www.utwente.nl n Wageningen University and Research

www.wur.nl

4TU. School for Technological Design STAN ACKERMANS INSTITUTE.

Ready for the next step after your Master?

Visit us on 4tu.nl/sai or mail us at sai@4tu.nl

SUMMARY CBS

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This is the English summary of the Dutch article from CBS.

page |

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Prof. Piet Daas:

‘Utilizing big data opportunities for official statistics purposes’ Big data can contribute to the production of reliable and timely statistics – and that’s the core business at Statistics Netherlands (CBS).

Prof. Piet Daas, who besides his role at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is also a senior researcher at CBS, is passionate about the possibilities and ideas that emerge from the collaborative work within CBS’s big-data research programme.

In the early days, statistics was about simply counting people, jobs, businesses and so on. Then came sampling, based on the premise of only collecting truly necessary data. “Big data has changed that approach,” Daas explains. “To convert big data into official statistics, you actually need as much data as possible.”

In traditional statistics, you work from a very solid and established theory. When big data is involved, it’s actually the other way around; the data forms the starting point, and the theory often still has to be developed. According to Daas, various organizations – and particularly CBS – have developed 44 pilots and prototypes in recent years, of which six have already entered production.

In the case of big data, data-derived observations can be very beneficial. “If you want to find out how many penguin colonies live in Antarctica, you could go on an expedition and count them. But you could also use satellite images and zoom in on the excrement left behind by the colonies. This indirect way of observing is actually faster and more accurate.”

Nowadays, CBS is taking a similar approach. As part of its study of online platforms, it conducts automatic searches for keywords on company websites that indicate a platform service. “In other words, we use big data – i.e. the internet – in an indirect manner to pre-select companies that we believe to be online platforms. We then send those companies a questionnaire to verify our assumptions.”

This approach is successful but also poses a challenge, because the correlation between the words on the website and the types of companies can change. “Therefore, we need a method to check this and correct it if necessary.”

Daas also touches on the quality of big data. “ChatGPT’s inaccurate responses show that big data sources don’t always provide reliable information. This illustrates the need to combine data sources with data science, and to search for the necessary methods to utilize big data appropriately for statistics purposes. Almost every aspect concerning the use of big data is still new. There’s no instruction manual; we’re all still figuring it out. My professorship at TU/e brings together the theory-driven world of the university and the data-driven world of CBS nicely. But I would like to encourage others to dive into this topic, set to work and use these examples as inspiration. There’s still so much to explore.”

Daas is currently involved in developing statistics related to causes of death: “Such statistics involve a lot of manual work because it’s often difficult to fully automate the process with accurate results. Data science could make a contribution to this, such as by enabling detailed analysis of the words used on doctors’ reports. We’re also seeing good progress in the combination of big data with other data sources. This will lead to a much wider application of big data in the future.” www.werkenbijhetCBS.nl  Prof. Piet Daas

“Fu F ture Fu r socie re i ty ie t challenges are r not re a single pers r on rs task: collabora r tio ra i n io i the best path to is success.”

Ready for the next step after your Master?

4TU.SAI is a joint initiative of the four Dutch universities of technology. Together we offer 2-year full-time technological designer's programmes, all leading to an Engineering Doctorate. This EngD degree gives your career in the industry a kick start!

4tu.nl/sai