Committed to the company
Engineers at FMI ImProvia work for numerous clients, each at a different location. So they don’t see each other that often. Not a problem in itself, says Michiel, as long as colleagues remain involved in the company. He’s been a member – and now also chairman – of our works council for years. He supervises interns at our Breda location and regularly makes an appearance, for example, at Friday afternoon drinks. “That contact is important. It means we know we can always call each other, even if it’s just to ask how things are going. It’s good that our company allows that, and it’s great that colleagues are also putting in the effort themselves.”
Focused behind a workstation, engrossed in a 3D design. Michiel (51) loved it for years, but the desire for something different also arose. “And what’s so great about our company: you get that opportunity.”
Admittedly, the choice wasn’t easy. Michiel could have stayed in his familiar surroundings, doing the work he’d always done. It would have been comfortable, but why not take on the challenge? Why not go for that project engineer assignment? “I want to look forward to my workday in the morning, like, ‘Yes, I can go again.’ I lost that feeling; it became too familiar. That’s why I wanted something different, with a new role. Sure, it was nerve-wracking. But it was the right choice.”
Full-on technology
Michiel previously worked at Philips in Roosendaal, after which he joined Improvia in 2009 and has already carried out a number of secondment projects for our company. For example, he was involved in the development of new sorting machines, which he designed and later helped build and commission. Michiel also served as interim project manager for a project at the Maeslantkering storm surge barrier in South Holland. It was educational and interesting, although after so many years fully immersed in technology, he also felt the need for a different direction. “And what’s so great about our company is that you get that opportunity. Our projects offer plenty of variety.”
Pleasantly challenging
Michiel has been seconded to Hill’s Pet Nutrition in Etten-Leur for about two years now, where the company makes high-quality dry food for dogs and cats. He really enjoys his work as a project engineer. “It involves internal projects, specifically for machines on their own production floor. I’m partly responsible for planning and finances, and I manage the parties involved. For example, how do I ensure that what’s agreed upon is done on time and correctly? How does everyone work safely? Are the right permits in place, and do contractors leave the workplace tidy? All that coordination can be challenging at times, but it’s enjoyable. I enjoy interacting with people.”
Learning from each other
In his current role, Michiel is a bit further removed from the technology. “But I’m still sufficiently involved, which is a must. Just think of reviewing a design; Of course, this must match what was requested.’ And to gain more knowledge as a project engineer in the meantime? That’s one of the ways we do it: working groups with colleagues from FMI ImProvia. ‘We meet quarterly, visit each other’s sites, and talk about our projects. That’s interesting, especially to hear from each other what could have been done better. We all benefit from those experiences.’
