Puck van Buren Factory Engineer

How did you end up at VDL ETG?

I studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Twente and then supplemented my studies with a Master's degree in Production Management. Through a former classmate I applied for a job at VDL ETG Almelo, after which I could start work as a Factory Engineer.
 

How would you describe the role of Factory Engineer?

You are the technical spider in the web needed to integrate the mechatronic systems we develop. As the link between the designers and the assembly floor, you translate the system design into a clear working method for the mechanics. In the overall project, there are also colleagues who deal with logistics, purchasing and planning. You also deal with these aspects on a daily basis, but others take on these tasks so that you can focus on the technical side. You work with all these specialists to build the system.
 

What makes your job interesting?

If you like puzzles, you'll be right at home here. The systems we make here are very complex and the realization involves many different disciplines. That's why you have to be able to read and oversee different types of problems. There are absolutely no serial solutions, but it is always a customized solution. This means that no two days are the same.
 

What do you like about working at VDL ETG Almelo?

Our company has an open door culture. That works very well. Everyone works towards the same goal and is involved in what we do. Every colleague is important in the chain of cooperation and is appreciated for his or her contribution. You can also learn an awful lot here. We have been building some systems here for 20 years. That means there are engineers walking around who really know exactly how the systems work. As a newcomer, you are paired with experienced Factory Engineers who are happy to pass on their knowledge and skills to you. Usually you start in a project that has already been started, so you can learn a lot from the colleagues involved. As you become more familiar, you will gradually be given more responsibilities.

Why would you recommend a job as a Factory Engineer at VDL ETG Almelo?

As I said, you can learn a lot here and I still do every day. Also, the work is always challenging. The technology we work with here is so enormously complex and innovative that the challenge will always be there. As a Factory Engineer you get to know all parts of the company very well. This allows you to find out where your interests lie and where you would like to grow.

You recently moved to another department, right?

True. After working for three years as a factory engineer in the projects department, I now have a new position in the machining department. There we make large frames from solid blocks of aluminum. For a number of these frames, I coordinate all the work done by suppliers in Italy, Germany, and at our colleagues at VDL ETG Switzerland. Not only are the products a lot bigger, but so are the responsibilities entrusted to me. And that's a lot of fun.