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The two brothers work at the same VDL company. Both work on various projects, such as the complex Vessel for ASML and the mechatronic modules for Elekta.  

How did you end up working at VDL?
Don: “I started at the Philips school at the age of 14 and never really left. I've been working here for over 40 years now, have some great memories. I was also here for the takeover by VDL in 2006.” Paul: “I came into contact with VDL through an online advertisement. I had lots of prior experience and was taken on as Factory Engineer at VDL ETG. Our work mainly has to do with developing the latest projects. I only found out after the fact that Don worked at VDL too - VDL is so big. It was a nice surprise; I never imagined we’d work together.”

What is it about VDL that appeals to you both?
Paul: “My colleagues and I work on the newest projects and products. Which makes it hugely challenging - regardless of whether the project is big or small. It’s different every time. Sometimes you have a lot on your plate, and I really want to do everything properly. But that’s what keeps it exciting. The Vessel is a great example of a challenging project. It’s the heart of the machine. All parts are fitted to it, and there’s no room for error. Besides that, I think the atmosphere and colleagues are very important. There isn't much of a hierarchy, you’re working together towards the best outcome, you need everyone in the process. What’s more, the technology is developing rapidly. The projects I work on these days are very different to the ones when I first joined.”

Don: “We’ve had a brilliant international team for years now. It’s fun learning a bit of Spanish or Papiamento  from colleagues. Sometimes we exchange yummy recipes with one another during breaks. It’s great! Plus I've been working on fantastic, big products for 48 years now - the bigger the better. I don’t enjoy the smaller ones as much. You just want to get them done.“ 

Do you work together often? 
Paul: “As a Factory Engineer, you actually work together with the entire organisation. But I see Don regularly, when I have a question, for example. Communication is so crucial, the best information is first-hand. What I mean is, I also ask colleagues “what works best for you?”. It’s all well and good me designing and drawing something, but if it isn’t feasible, there’s no point. That’s why I often go to Don, because Don is the oracle”, Paul jokes. Don: “They should really make it compulsory for brothers to work together, it's pretty easy-going.” Paul: I got to know a lot of colleagues in a short space of time because people would always ask me, “are you Don’s brother?”.  

How do you both see the future at VDL?
Don: “I'd like to stay here until I retire, so I’ll get to celebrate my 52nd anniversary.”  Paul: “I'm very happy, there are still so many challenges for me here.”