Ronald Damsma Technical service engineer

Ronald Damsma (61) has been working as a technical service engineer at VDL Smart Spaces in Heerenveen (NL) for a year. After years of experience in field service and as an independent entrepreneur, he found a surprisingly good match in VDL's modular construction. ‘I was approached by a recruiter and came along for a day to see what it was like. I knew right away that this was the place for me. The work, the atmosphere, the freedom you are given here: it was a perfect fit.’

From field service to technical service

‘I was specifically looking for a working environment where I felt comfortable and where I could be versatile. At VDL, I am in the right place. Within the technical service department, you have a lot of freedom and every day is different.’

He started as a facilities employee in the technical department, but now does much more. ‘My role is broad, which suits me well. I like to organise my own work. Within our team of four people, everyone has their own discipline, and I mainly focus on the machinery and the facilities side.’

No two days are the same

The technical department at VDL Smart Spaces is all about flexibility and cooperation. From inspecting tools and stairs to maintaining forklift trucks and machines, the work is varied.

‘Sometimes we plan a day with fixed tasks, but then suddenly there's a fault in the fencing at quarter past four, and you have to switch gears immediately. There are a lot of malfunctions, so we try to work with manufacturers to see how we can reduce them.’

Ronald sees it as a challenge to keep things running smoothly with a small team: ‘You're constantly weighing things up: what's the most important thing to tackle right now? And then you discuss it thoroughly with your colleagues. That cooperation is important.’

Room to grow

Ronald has noticed that there is plenty of room for development at VDL. ’For example, we recently took a course on fire alarm systems. If you want to obtain your SCC or forklift certificate, you can. Everything is negotiable. That way, you continue to enjoy learning.’
The team also offers opportunities to young talent. ‘We have a student on a work-base learning programme, and we previously had an intern. It's nice to see how young people develop and contribute to the work.’

Unique product, unique factory

What makes VDL Smart Spaces special for Ronald is the product itself.
‘No other factory makes what we make. What we build here is truly unique. That makes the work interesting. You can also tell that everyone is proud of it. It's nice to work somewhere where you have an influence on the end result.’

When you ask Ronald what he likes most about his work, he doesn't have to think long. ‘It's the freedom, the cooperation and the feeling that you're contributing to something special. When everything runs smoothly, that's a moment of real pride. And that's what you do it for.’