Room for the backpack
A four-month backpacking trip through Southeast Asia. Long before his assignment at Schiphol, Floris had indicated he wanted a break. No problem, we thought. And the client agreed, so Floris started his trip in September.
Floris is currently back at Schiphol. There’s still a lot to learn, for example, about budgeting, which is essential for every project. This assignment offers me something new every time.
Project coordinator at Schiphol. Floris (24) didn’t think twice when we asked him for this position with a client. “Great, we can do that again,” I think at the start of each workday.
The many passengers and flights. The hustle and bustle. No two days are the same at Schiphol, says Floris. Sure, that sometimes requires quick thinking. But that’s precisely what he enjoys so much. He’s learning a lot in this environment with us. He’s hard at work for the engineering firm Babcock International, which is installing a new baggage handling system here at the airport. It’s a major project, and Floris has been coordinating several projects since the beginning of this year. “And that happens in every phase, from testing to commissioning. That means I talk to a lot of people, which I really appreciate. I really appreciate that contact.”
Everything is going well
Babcock is collaborating with several subcontractors at the airport, including the system that will soon allow passengers to drop off their checked baggage. This takes place outside the departure hall, reducing congestion and waiting times. While one partner installs the conveyor belts, another takes care of the electrical connections. There’s also a company specializing in industrial automation systems, for example. Floris is responsible for ensuring everything runs smoothly and acts as a liaison between Babcock and Schiphol. “I advise the operational teams. I manage project management, oversee schedules, and prepare documents such as safety plans and project schedules. So, a lot of coordination. My technical experience from a previous assignment is also very useful. I know what a mechanical engineer is talking about. I understand the challenges an electrical engineer faces, and I can fully grasp a functional acceptance test for software.”
Creative Thinking Required
In addition to the checked baggage system, Floris is focusing on a project for baggage handlers at Schiphol Airport. Until recently, they lifted suitcases and bags from a baggage belt onto a trolley themselves; nowadays, this is often done with the help of lifting aids. Each of these lifting aids has a height-adjustable table, Floris explains. “So an employee only has to lift the luggage onto it and then push it back onto the trolley a little later. That saves a tremendous amount of time.” Many projects, many processes: just try to divide your attention effectively. Sometimes that requires creative thinking, says Floris. Schiphol’s interests are important, but so are those of the subcontractors. I like to keep them motivated, no matter how high the pressure sometimes is. It’s up to me to maintain that balance, although I especially enjoy it. “Oh, great, we can get back to work,” I think at the start of the day. The dynamism of the airport: I really enjoy working here.
