Henry van Gennip Factory Engineer

‘As a Factory Engineer I am involved from drawing to the final product. I help think about how a product can be made. What quality requirements does the product have to meet? And what are the best dimensions? What resources are needed? For this, I seek cooperation with all kinds of departments within the factory. The process of arriving at a finished product is comprehensive. We draw up requirements for the programmer, think about the method of documentation and even the packaging material. In doing so, we push the boundaries of what is technically possible.’

Advanced technology

‘I myself mainly work on prototypes. I find that challenging, because you really start from scratch. I feel responsible for every new project. Together with my colleagues, we make sure it is as feasible as possible. I especially like the technology. I particularly think from the machine's point of view: what is the maximum we can get out of the machine? How can you make a certain geometry in a product as good and stable as possible? That involves a lot. It is great that at VDL there is room for that pure craftsmanship. And by working together, each with their own specialism, we achieve the best result. By developing together, we ensure that advanced technology becomes accessible. VDL employs professionals who wholeheartedly support new products, and I am one of them. Together we strive for quality. By working as a team and taking responsibility, we make technological progress possible.’

Working together and innovating

‘At VDL, we can learn a lot from each other by sharing knowledge. That is strength through cooperation. It forms the basis for how we shape the future. We work in different sectors, but we are connected. Because why reinvent the wheel if, for example, my colleagues in Almelo have already figured it out? By joining forces, we work more efficiently and innovatively. This cooperation is also reflected in the contact with our customers. Together, we investigate what is technically possible and always go for more than what is expected. What am I most proud of? The modules we make for chip machines. Here we really work at the cutting edge of what is technically possible. Cooperation and innovation are in our DNA, and that is what makes working at VDL so special.’