Derk Journée Lead Quality Engineer

How did you end up at VDL ETG Almelo?

I was working as a project leader in the automotive industry, but I was ready for a new challenge. VDL ETG Almelo then had a vacancy for a Quality Improvement Project Leader that suited my profile and ambitions. I was invited for an interview and immediately after the first tour I knew: as a mechanical engineering graduate I can do great work here. It is a beautiful company, wonderful products are made and there are many career opportunities. And so in February 2018 I made the move to VDL ETG Almelo.

What are your duties as Lead Quality Engineer?

I work in the Quality & Improvement department, where we are busy every day monitoring and improving the quality of our products and production processes. When I started in this position, we worked mostly reactively. Our work often starts at the moment when too many scrap costs are booked on a particular product. Depending on the complexity of the problem that causes this waste, we decide which methodology to use to solve the problem. But more importantly, how we are going to prevent the problem in the future. As Lead Quality Engineer, I coordinate that process. And fortunately, this can be done more and more proactively. So even before a problem has arisen. For example, I am now working on the development of a new product and associated process for one of our largest customers. I am then Q end responsible for the realization of that project. It is one of the pilot projects that we are now implementing according to 'Advanced Product Quality Planning' (APQP). A method originally developed in the automotive industry that ensures that deviations are recognized early on. This allows me to take corrective measures earlier in the process and so we ultimately also realize improved capability in the volume phase of the product. We are now hard at work building the first prototype, so it is an exciting time.

What does an average workday look like for you?

I usually start around 8 a.m. by updating my mailbox. Other than that, I try to plan my work as much as possible in a varied way. So theoretical sessions in which I am busy analyzing data, for example, alternate with actions on the shop floor. There are also often several project meetings scheduled in one day. During the break, I always prefer to take a walk around the block together with colleagues.

How do you experience the working atmosphere at VDL ETG Almelo?

They are extremely proud of the product that is made here. That pride creates a positive atmosphere among colleagues and that works well. Especially since I work with many different people from different departments. I have been able to look behind the scenes at quite a few companies, but I had never experienced this before. Really a plus for VDL ETG Almelo.

What do you like most about your work?

I think it is important to really add value for my employer. If my work ultimately leads to an improved product or process, that gives me a thrill. Especially when you consider that we make high-tech products here that really balance on the edge of manufacturability. Ensuring that the products are of good quality and satisfy the customer is a constant challenge.

What qualities do you think a Lead Quality Engineer should have?

A good analytical ability is of course requirement number one. We have more and more data that we can use for research. But a good conclusion is not always obvious. In addition, you have to be a go-getter. The projects are complex and often run for more than a year. But that longer lead time should not be a reason for a decrease in your efforts or those of your team members. And finally, a passion for technology really is a big plus to do your job well here.

How have you developed since you started working here?

Constantly looking for improvement is, of course, part of my job, but I think that is also very important for me personally. Only by constantly improving yourself and surprising your environment can you really bring about change. VDL ETG Almelo offers you the opportunity to take training courses for your own personal development in addition to training on technical subjects. That was really new for me and also outside my comfort zone, but I learned a lot from it. Especially in the area of communication, I have made the necessary steps since I started this job.

And did you know that.…

VDL ETG Almelo has a very active personnel association? It organizes many activities. As an avid motorcyclist, I joined a motorcycle weekend that was organized. After signing up it turned out that I didn't really know a single traveling companion. But despite the bad weather it was a very successful trip where I met many new people.