Siem Dirkx
From graduate to Mechanical Engineer at VDL Staalservice
One person who has navigated an interesting and educational path at VDL Staalservice is Siem Dirkx. In February 2024, he started work at VDL Staalservice as a graduate in Mechanical Engineering from Fontys University of Applied Sciences. And on 1 July, we welcomed our colleague Siem as Mechanical Engineer at VDL Staalservice!
How did you find VDL Staalservice?
“My journey at VDL Staalservice started during the half-yearly Meet and Greet organised by VDL Groep for students and starters at the head office in Eindhoven. I met our director there and we got chatting. I was looking for a graduate internship and VDL Staalservice’s innovative Buncker product immediately appealed to me. As a Mechanical Engineering student at Fontys University of Applied Sciences, I had already explored innovation, so there was an immediate click. After being invited for an interview, we discussed the graduation project and the expectations, and the match was quickly made.”
What kind of project did you do at VDL Staalservice?
“My graduation project started in February 2024 and I immediately joined the Buncker team. Buncker, developed by VDL Staalservice, is intended for the secure transport and storage of Lithium batteries. My task was to further develop the product and improve the user friendly aspects. Within twenty weeks, I had completed the concept.”
Which technical skills did you develop during your graduate internship at VDL Staalservice?
“During my graduate internship, I applied thermodynamics theory in practice by doing analyses for the Buncker’s thermal model. I was also given the opportunity to improve my technical drawing skills with a six-day SolidWorks course.”
What appeals to you about VDL Staalservice’s corporate culture?
“What appeals to me about VDL Staalservice’s corporate culture? From day one, I felt part of the company and the Buncker team. Everyone is very helpful and my opinion is valued. I feel involved and responsible in the team.”
What are your future plans in the company?
“On 1 July, I start work as Mechanical Engineer at VDL Staalservice, focusing on the further development of Buncker. I will be developing my graduation concept myself. The company offers me the opportunity to continue studying and working at the same time.”
How is your work-life balance?
“The working hours give structure to my daily life and I have enough time for fun things besides my work.”
What is your favourite aspect of working at VDL Staalservice?
“My favourite aspect of working at VDL Staalservice? Designing and seeing how my work comes to life in practice. A foot in the door to the workplace is enough.”