Sign up for a Job Alert
Didn't find a suitable vacancy? Sign up for a Job Alert and receive the latest vacancies by email.
‘At VDL I work in the factory of the future where innovation is paramount. I have never taken so much energy from my work as I do now. Before, I worked as a manager in a shop and as a graphic designer. But I wanted to do something completely different, something with my hands. My place is now in the laser department in a beautiful building. Everything here is new and state-of-the-art. My focus is on an advanced laser cutting machine that does not stand alone, but is part of a larger, fully integrated system. The whole process, from raw material to finished product, is interconnected and automated in a line as long as 75 metres. We produce all kinds of parts and usually only when I see the final product do I understand exactly what it is - and that creates a moment of surprise every time.’
‘Innovation is the norm at VDL. Our heaviest machine, an impressive 20-kilowatt laser, is one of the department's showpieces. There are also robotic arms and other automatic systems that move pallets and keep production running smoothly. All these robots make tasks lighter, but they also require a different way of working. Especially in terms of safety. Because of these technological advances, there are new safety protocols that we need to be keen on. This in turn creates new challenges, as it can cause the line to shut down for completely different reasons. Does the entire line shut down? Then it is a race against time to find out what is going on. It is always another puzzle and it gives a lot of energy when it is solved.’
‘Of course, with new technology there are often teething problems. Slowly these disappear, allowing us to run an ever higher production. We keep challenging ourselves and looking to improve. We do that together with colleagues, but also individually in your own profession. I also like to see how VDL is fully committed to sustainability. I think that is important. You can see that for example in the building where I work. The roof is full of solar panels and we work with a zero waste principle. That was also one of the reasons why working at VDL appealed to me. It is the future of production and something that suits me. I am surrounded by innovation, which makes the world around us better. That keeps me sharp and enthusiastic.’
At VD Leegte Metaal in Hapert, we work with over 150 colleagues on various steel structures and complete welding assemblies. We deliver these to our clients both in series and in customized projects. We provide various automated metal operations such as laser cutting, bending, pressing, robotic welding, manual welding as well as assembly and logistics services. As a result, our product range is extremely diverse.