Sinds zijn overstap naar WEB werkt Nick van der Worp als E-Integrator bij ASML, waar hij dagelijks bezig is met het optimaliseren en automatiseren van complexe technische processen. Wat begon met een nieuwsgierigheid naar elektrotechniek groeide uit tot een carrière in de hightech sector, met ruimte voor ontwikkeling, uitdaging en plezier in het werk.

Achtergrond & Introductie

Kun je jezelf kort voorstellen en iets vertellen over je achtergrond?

Ik ben Nick van der Worp, 27 jaar oud. Ik ben geboren in Dirksland, Zuid-Holland, op jonge leeftijd verhuisd naar Best en momenteel wonend in Eindhoven. Na het VMBO-T heb ik even overwogen om het leger in te gaan, maar uiteindelijk koos ik voor een MBO-opleiding in mechatronica. Daar ontdekte ik dat ik de elektrotechnische kant het leukst vond, dus ben ik na het afronden van mijn MBO, deeltijd HBO Elektrotechniek gaan doen.

Tijdens mijn studie begon ik bij Neways, daarna ben ik aan de slag gegaan bij Prodrive. Inmiddels ben ik via WEB aan de slag bij ASML.

Hoe ben je bij WEB terechtgekomen en wat sprak je aan om hier te starten?

Ik ben via LinkedIn in contact gekomen met WEB. Het gevoel wat WEB overbracht sprak me direct aan. Tijdens het gesprek met Tijmen (recruiter) en Lars (recruiter) merkte ik hun enthousiasme, en dat sloeg over op mij. Dat maakte voor mij de keuze makkelijk.

Projecten & Dagelijkse werkzaamheden

Je werkt momenteel als E-Integrator bij ASML. Kun je in grote lijnen vertellen wat die rol inhoudt?

De hele machine van ASML is opgedeeld in modules. Wij werken aan FlexRay, dat is het onderdeel dat de vorm van de eindlaser bepaalt. Er waren een aantal redesigns nodig, en daarvoor hadden ze een integrator nodig. Dat betekent dat ik het design krijg, het test en eventuele problemen opspoor. In de praktijk ben ik het aanspreekpunt voor alles wat met de elektronische kant van FlexRay te maken heeft.

Ik heb zelf de ‘test bench’ opgezet, doe de tests, en ben nu bezig om het proces te automatiseren zodat het sneller en efficiënter verloopt.

Met welke taken of uitdagingen houd je je op een gemiddelde werkdag bezig?

Dat is heel variërend. Het hangt af van het stadium waarin het proces zich bevindt. Of ik test, programmeer of documenteer, verschilt per dag. Dat houdt het werk afwisselend. Op dit moment programmeer ik veel, maar vorige maand was ik nog bezig met data-analyses en troubleshooting. Die afwisseling maakt het werk leuk.

Wat vind je het leukste aan werken in zo’n hightech omgeving als ASML?

De collega’s. Je werkt met mensen die dezelfde passie voor techniek hebben. Dat zorgt voor een fijne sfeer en veel kennisuitwisseling.

Ervaring & Cultuur bij WEB

Hoe ondersteunt WEB jou in je werk of in je persoonlijke ontwikkeling terwijl je bij ASML werkt?

Tijs is mijn Business Manager, en die helpt me echt verder. Hij denkt mee over vervolgstappen en helpt me om mezelf beter te profileren, iets wat ik als ZZP’er lastig vond. WEB biedt daarin veel ondersteuning en dat waardeer ik enorm.

Wat valt je het meest op aan de cultuur of community van WEB in vergelijking met andere werkgevers?

De cultuur bij WEB is gewoon écht goed. Er hangt een positieve sfeer en er komen veel nieuwe collega’s bij. Je merkt dat het bedrijf groeit, en dat geeft energie. Die groei en dynamiek heb ik bij eerdere werkgevers niet op deze manier meegemaakt.

Groei & Advies

Wat heb je tot nu toe geleerd in je rol dat jou heeft geholpen te groeien als engineer?

Ik wist al veel over Linux programmeren, maar daar heb ik nog meer stappen in gezet. Daarnaast heb ik veel geleerd op het gebied van soft skills, beter communiceren, zelfstandig beslissingen nemen en mijn eigen pad uitstippelen. Ook door sollicitatiegesprekken te voeren leer ik steeds beter hoe ik mezelf kan presenteren.

Wat zou je willen meegeven aan andere Nederlandse engineers die overwegen om bij WEB te starten?

De sfeer en cultuur hier zijn écht top. Dat is het belangrijkste. Je kunt veel verdienen, maar als de sfeer of je manager niet goed is, dan heb je er niks aan. Bij WEB zijn de taken interessant, de mensen betrokken en de groei voelbaar. Het is een omgeving waar jij zelf ook in mee kunt groeien én WEB in jou investeert.

The post Nick van der Worp appeared first on One WEB.

Sinds mei werkt Inge Groffen bij WEB, waar ze haar achtergrond in data science en kunstmatige intelligentie combineert met een nieuwe uitdaging: business consultancy. Door processen slimmer en toekomstbestendig te maken, helpt ze WEB verder te groeien als organisatie.

Achtergrond & Introductie

Kun je jezelf kort voorstellen en iets vertellen over je achtergrond?

Ik ben Inge Groffen, 25 jaar oud, opgegroeid in Bergen op Zoom en woon nu in Eindhoven. Ik heb een bachelor in Data Science en een master in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence aan de TU/e behaald.

Wat maakte dat je bij WEB wilde starten?

In eerste instantie zocht ik iets wat goed aansloot op mijn studie, een plek waar ik mijn kennis kon toepassen. Toen Maarten (Manager Tech Consultancy) contact met me opnam over business consultancy, klonk dat meteen interessant. Het was nieuw voor mij, maar het gaf me de kans om mijn technische achtergrond te gebruiken om niet alleen uit te leggen hoe AI werkt, maar ook waarom je het wel of niet zou moeten toepassen. Veel bedrijven willen iets met AI doen, maar weten niet precies waarom. Ik vind het leuk om die vertaalslag te maken.

Projecten & Dagelijkse werkzaamheden

Aan welke projecten werk je op dit moment?

Momenteel werk ik aan het verbeteren van de AFAS-implementatie binnen WEB. AFAS wordt veel gebruikt, maar sloot niet helemaal aan op hoe WEB werkt en was niet toekomstbestendig genoeg. Ik breng de huidige processen in kaart, onderzoek waar risico’s en knelpunten zitten en bekijk waar we efficiënter kunnen werken. Dat zorgt voor inzicht en controle, we weten wat we hebben, wat er verandert als we iets verbeteren en waar de grootste winst te behalen valt.

Wat vind je het leukst aan je werk bij WEB?

Zonder twijfel het team. Er is veel vertrouwen en vrijheid. Je krijgt de ruimte om zelf richting te geven aan je werk, nieuwe dingen te ontdekken en tegelijk mooie resultaten te behalen. Dat maakt het werk afwisselend en motiverend.

Hoe dragen jouw projecten bij aan het grotere geheel binnen WEB?

De procesverbeteringen zorgen ervoor dat WEB toekomstbestendig wordt. Rollen en verantwoordelijkheden worden duidelijker, processen lopen beter en de organisatie werkt efficiënter. Daarnaast heb ik mogen meewerken aan het opstellen van het eerste AI-beleid van WEB. Het is mooi om te zien dat mijn kennis over AI zo concreet toegepast wordt.

Ervaring & Cultuur

Hoe zou je de cultuur bij WEB omschrijven?

Open, informeel en mensgericht. Je bent hier geen nummer, mensen luisteren naar je en nemen je ideeën serieus. Er is veel ruimte om initiatief te tonen en jezelf te ontwikkelen. Wat ik ook waardeer is de internationale sfeer, waar iedereen zijn eigen achtergrond en ervaring meebrengt.

Wat heeft je het meest verrast sinds je bij WEB werkt?

Het vertrouwen. Vanaf het begin geloofde WEB in mijn kunnen en kreeg ik de ruimte om te groeien in mijn rol. Dat vertrouwen geeft me energie en motiveert me om het beste uit mezelf te halen.

Groei & Toekomst

Welke vaardigheden wil je verder ontwikkelen bij WEB?

Ik wil mezelf verder ontwikkelen op het gebied van communicatie, goed presenteren, de behoefte van klanten begrijpen en complexe onderwerpen eenvoudig kunnen uitleggen. Daarnaast wil ik beter worden in het analyseren van problemen en blijf ik graag op de hoogte van de nieuwste ontwikkelingen in AI. En misschien ook nog een beetje beter worden in tafeltennis.

Wat zou je willen meegeven aan andere engineers die overwegen om bij WEB te werken?

Er is zoveel kennis en ervaring binnen WEB. In mijn team werken ervaren consultants die altijd bereid zijn om hun kennis te delen. Het is een ideale omgeving om te leren, te groeien en een carrière op te bouwen binnen een organisatie die écht in haar mensen investeert.

The post Inge Groffen appeared first on One WEB.

My name is Basit Usman, and I am originally from Pakistan. I completed my bachelor’s degree in Hungary from Budapest University of Technology and Economics. I started my career by working as Process Development Engineer at an engineering and technology company, where I worked for about two and a half years. I joined WEB in January, so my time here is still recent.

Beyond my professional life, I have a keen interest in global politics, I find it fascinating to follow developments around the world. I also enjoy cooking and have been quite active in sports. In Pakistan, I played Regional-level hockey and served as the captain of my team. I also played basketball, which remains one of my favorite activities.

What do you do at WEB?

I am a Testing and Verification Engineer at a health technology company, where I focus on a wide-ranging portfolio of grooming products, including shavers, groomers, and female beauty devices such as epilators. Lately, the site where I work has broadened its scope to include an innovative medical product designed specifically for the female market (IPL), marking an exciting new chapter for our team.

My primary responsibility is the development of test methods. When a new product is introduced or an existing one is updated, I assess the testing requirements and either develop or lead the development of suitable testing methods. I design these tests, oversee their execution, and serve as the subject matter expert for test methodologies. After completion, I compile detailed reports for the quality department, ensuring they are stored in a database for traceability and future reference. This role requires a blend of technical testing expertise and project management skills.

How are you enjoying your current assignments?

It truly feels incredible, I feel as if I’m living out a childhood dream working for this client. The opportunity to work in the regulated medical industry was a major draw for me, as I had never worked in such an environment before. Embracing this new challenge has been both exciting and rewarding. What I value most is being in a role where I can genuinely make an impact. The compensation is also very competitive, and within my current assignment, especially in my department, the atmosphere is highly cohesive. Whenever I encounter a problem, there are always colleagues ready to step in and help. I also have an excellent working relationship with both my manager and team leader, making the overall experience extremely positive.

What was the move to the Netherlands like?

Living in the Netherlands has been a truly wonderful experience. After spending five years in Hungary and navigating challenges such as adjusting to a different company culture and occasionally facing language barriers, the move to the Netherlands felt refreshing. From the beginning, I was welcomed by friendly people, small gestures like someone helping with my luggage at the train station or guiding me when I was on the wrong platform made a significant impact. The positive cultural contrast was very noticeable, and I instantly felt at home. I hadn’t considered relocating here until WEB reached out, but I’m incredibly glad that I made the move.

If I had to mention one thing I miss, it’s the mountains. Being a mountain enthusiast, I do sometimes wish the Netherlands had more varied landscapes. However, aside from that, I think living here is truly amazing.

How did WEB support you during your transition?

The support I received was outstanding. From preparing for the interview to managing my relocation, my colleagues were always there for me. I could reach out whenever I needed, and they were consistently ready to help. This level of support truly made a significant difference in my experience.

What’s the work-life balance like?

I would say it’s excellent. There’s a strong sense of freedom and trust that allows you to manage your own time and responsibilities. You’re empowered to demonstrate integrity in your work, and it’s up to you to plan your schedule. You have the flexibility to organize your day in the way that works best for you. This autonomy makes the work environment both supportive and motivating.

What do you like about the working culture?

I genuinely appreciate how direct Dutch people are in their communication. I find straightforward conversations much more constructive than holding back opinions, as they promote a more open and effective work environment. Another aspect I really value is not having strict hierarchy. My manager feels more like a colleague, and I always feel comfortable reaching out for support. The inclusive, team-oriented atmosphere suits me well, especially since I thrive on collaboration and enjoy celebrating shared successes.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of joining WEB?

WEB is an exceptionally professional organization that offers the chance to work on a variety of projects, rather than confining you to just one role or area. This approach gives you the freedom to continually develop and challenge yourself. I’m glad that my first assignment was something truly engaging, which allowed me to gain deeper expertise in my field.

If a particular project or assignment doesn’t feel right for you, there’s genuine flexibility to make a change. You can have open conversations with your business manager and request new opportunities when you’re ready for a different challenge. Having this freedom to explore your interests is incredibly valuable. In my past experience working directly for companies, you’re typically expected to stay with whatever project you’re assigned—but at WEB, there’s ample room for growth, exploration, and finding the position that truly suits you. Both professionally and personally, it’s been a truly rewarding experience so far.

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Sure! I’m Dennis, 31 years old. I graduated as a Mechatronic Engineer. I studied at The Hague university of applied sciences and then worked as a consultant for almost eight years. This July, I made the jump to WEB as a software engineer with a mechatronics background. What that means in practice is that I enjoy programming robots, machines, anything that moves and uses electricity. Right now, I’m working on camera control systems for defense purposes, which means that with a bit of luck, one day my software will run on a mounted military-grade camera somewhere in the world.

What motivated you to join WEB?

I realised my work had become more and more software oriented and that I used to really enjoy working in mechatronics. When I told WEB in which direction I wanted to take my career, they simply said “We can do that” and they delivered on it immediately by finding me a client in my preferred field with the potential for growth that I was looking for.

Were you were specifically looking for something smaller and more hands-on?

Yes, I spent two years as a consultant for a company in the semiconductor industry, and it was a valuable learning experience. But what I realized was that I prefer smaller companies. In a large corporation, half your day is spent figuring out who to talk to among 40,000 employees. In a smaller setting, I get to focus on solving real engineering problems.
At my current assignment, for example, the culture is very open. They’ve even said they might offer me a direct contract after a year and a half, but I also know I’d have options within WEB if I wanted to stay or move to another client. That kind of flexibility is worth a lot.

Was that sense of trust and flexibility something you felt right from the beginning?

Yes, taking a new job is always a bit of a leap, but I felt heard from the start. I remember seeing my CV posted on the wall in the manager’s room, next to a list of companies I wanted to work for and companies I didn’t. Nobody told me they did that. But it showed me that they were genuinely paying attention to what I wanted.

How was your first week at WEB?

Honestly? Super welcoming. I got introduced to everyone and it felt like I had friends here right away, especially among the software managers. Everyone I met said greeted me by saying, “Hi Dennis, so good to see you!”—and I think they meant it. That really stuck with me.

What’s the community like in general?

Very relaxed and social. People are always up for a chat, and usually also for a game of ping pong. I spent my first few weeks getting to know everyone and getting to know them better.
I feel like all I have to do here is write software, everything else is taken care of. For example, my bike broke the night before my first working day. I told my manager, and the next thing I knew, HR handed me a WEB bike. Same thing when I needed a car, they have a car-sharing service. Even lunch at the office is free. All those little things add up and make you feel welcome.

How would you compare WEB to your previous workplaces?

I’ve been a consultant for eight years, so I’ve seen a lot of companies. What makes WEB different is the sense of humor, trust, and authenticity. I didn’t have to prove myself here, people trusted me from day one.

I literally got accepted for my assignment during the first week. But even before that, people were just genuinely happy I was here. I remember thinking, “I haven’t done anything yet—how are you this excited to see me?”

Engineers are treated like friends, they are respected, and people listen to what they want. In my case, I said what I wanted in terms of work, and within the first week, I was already doing exactly that. You can’t really ask for more.

As you are a consultant, will we be seeing you at the WEB office in Eindhoven?

I’d like to work one or two days a week at the WEB office so that I can stay close to the culture. So far, I haven’t missed a single Friday afternoon drink!
Also, my field manager checks in with me regularly, and we always end up having a personal and professional conversation. It’s not always work-related and I like that balance.
WEB is also starting regular meetings for software engineers, and I hope those pick up. It’s one more way to reconnect and keep that sense of community alive.

Would you recommend WEB to others?

Absolutely. There’s no pressure here. If you’re missing a skill or need support to land an assignment, you’ll get that support. Plus, you can get involved in more than just your daily work.
For instance, I’ve been asked to present something about my project at the WEB Academy later this year. It’s a great way to build community among engineers and contribute to the company’s growth beyond just your client work.

What advice would you give to new joiners?

Meet as many people as you can. Really embed yourself into the WEB network. You’ll probably find that most people already know your name before you even walk in the door.
Be open about what you want. They really appreciate that. In some companies, you have to be assertive to be heard. At WEB, people will just ask you, “What do you want to do?” And they’ll genuinely try to make it happen.

Also, if you’re the kind of person who enjoys helping shape how things work, this is a great place. There is always room for you to help improve things and be heard.

The post Dennis Hoek appeared first on One WEB.

I’m from Porto, born and raised. I’m 28, turning 29 in August. I studied Communication Sciences and did a minor in Public Relations. Initially, I was headed for a PR career, but COVID hit right as I was trying to get started. That made me rethink things. I began exploring other paths, including more technical roles, and eventually came across an opportunity at WEB. I applied, interviewed, and the rest is history!

Were you specifically looking for opportunities in Porto?

Yes, I wanted to stay in the city, ideally somewhere with good public transport. When I saw WEB was in Gaia, it clicked. Back then, I lived with my parents and had a direct metro line there. It was the perfect match, a new opportunity that didn’t require a long commute.

Switching from communications to a technical job is quite a leap. How did that happen?

My only real experience in PR was a three-month internship at the City Hall Theater, where I managed social media, interviewed artists, and updated the website. During COVID, a friend and I got some funding for a project. We were granted a final prize, which could’ve led to establishing a company, but we decided not to take the risk. That’s when I started looking into more stable roles. I came across the profession of technical writing, and it sparked my interest. It felt like a solid career switch that could offer long-term growth.

Did you do any training to prepare for the transition?

Not at the time, I just made the leap. Back then, WEB was looking for junior profiles, and they welcomed candidates with backgrounds in translation or communication. I’ve learned a lot on the job. Recently, I’ve been thinking about doing a formal course or certification in technical writing. I think it would strengthen both my own skills and what I can offer the company.

What was your first impression of WEB Porto?

It had a startup feel, small office, smaller team. But it was warm and welcoming. Everyone was approachable. I got introduced to WEB Porto and also the customer that I would be working for. It helped me settle in quickly and feel part of something.

How has your experience evolved over the years?

I’ve worked on several projects, but for the past couple of years, I’ve been dedicated to a drive laser project. Being involved in multiple projects early on helped me grow, both in technical skills and soft skills, like client communication and expectation management. There were ups and downs, but it’s all part of the journey.

What’s been the highlight of your time here?

Acting as a buddy to new joiners. It’s rewarding to guide talented people, show them the ropes between WEB and the client, and then see them grow and succeed. That mentorship role has been really fulfilling.

You’ve travelled to Eindhoven as well. How often do you go, and what’s that like?

On average, three to four times a year. I usually spend a day or two at the client, but most of my time is with the Eindhoven team. We do all sorts of team activities, dinners, and informal catch-ups. It’s great to put faces to names and connect with colleagues in a more relaxed setting. The international vibe there is just awesome.

Do you notice a difference in culture between Porto and Eindhoven?

Definitely. Eindhoven feels much more international. In Porto, even though we’re part of a global company, the majority of us are Portuguese, so the vibe is more local. But both offices are positive and collaborative. We may differ in diversity, but not in attitude.

How connected do you feel to WEB as a whole, working from Porto?

Despite the physical distance, we stay connected through daily interactions and regular visits from Eindhoven colleagues. Those work trips really matter, because it reinforces that sense of being part of something bigger.

How would you describe the WEB community?

Young, international, collaborative, and full of good energy. People genuinely want to help each other. Socializing is a big part of the culture, and there’s no hierarchy in terms of approachability, can chat with HR, engineers, or anyone else just as easily.

You mentioned learning and development. What are your goals there?

I’d like to become a certified trainer. I’ve already done multiple internal trainings for our customer and I see value in making that official. In Portugal, there’s a certification for trainers that would also allow me to run mandatory workplace safety and hygiene sessions. Long-term, that benefits both me and the company. I’m also interested in Scrum or Agile workshops, since our client interactions often use those methodologies.

Let’s talk about AI. How do you see it affecting your role?

Personally, I’ve used tools like ChatGPT here and there. I think AI will change the industry, but I don’t see it as a threat. It’s more about adaptation. Sure, some tasks might be automated, but it also creates new opportunities. Especially in tech, AI can be a powerful if used wisely.

You’re nearing your fourth year at WEB. What changes have stood out to you?

The growth, especially in 2024 was huge. We went from a small team to almost 50 people. Moving offices also helped reinforce the shift from a startup vibe to a more established company. We now feel like a proper branch, not just a subsidiary. And the people we’ve added brought fresh energy and great vibes. It’s been nothing but positive.

What advice would you give to a new joiner?

Take your time. Don’t feel pressured to learn everything at once. There’s room to grow here. I struggled early on, especially coming from a completely different background. But with support from colleagues and dedication, it all started to click. Ask questions, go through the trainings, and trust the process.

The post Antonio Castro appeared first on One WEB.

I’m Kashif. I did my Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering and Master’s in Mechantronics and Controls in India. I worked there for over seven years, starting as a data analyst in IT, later completing Master’s thesis at Automotive Research Association of India, followed by working at other automotive companies. Before joining WEB, I have mostly worked with Hardware-in-Loop system development and different vehicle component model development and simulation roles

I’d say I get genuinely excited about machines, simulations, tinkering, or taking things apart. Putting them back together, that’s another story! I enjoy fixing things, even if they don’t always end up fixed. Also, fun fact: I had a short stint as a stand-up comedian in a small club back in India, that was about nine years ago. After that, my colleagues were and are the lucky recipients of my jokes and dark sense of humour.

How did you end up in the Netherlands?

I had just moved to another automotive company in India when a business manager at WEB contacted me via LinkedIn. He told me about this role at WEB. I looked into it and it matched almost exactly with what I was doing, specifically working on implementation of HiL systems and development of engine and after treatment simulation models. It felt like the right fit. I applied, had two interviews, one with my current supervisor and a colleague, and the other with the engineering manager. I got the offer that same evening. Within a week, it was all sorted!

How was the move?

Exciting and slightly intimidating. I had moved within India before. My hometown is Dhule, Maharashtra but I studied and worked in Pune for nine years, then moved to Bangalore. So relocating wasn’t new, but moving abroad was. There were a lot of unknowns.

What were you most nervous about?

Housing! Finding a rental apartment here can be crazy. But luckily, I did get help from WEB. Language wasn’t a big concern. I knew most people here speak English, and I had already decided that wherever I move, I’d learn the local language. I haven’t fully achieved that yet, but the plan is to complete level A2 in the next six months. WEB provided Dutch courses, for both me and my wife, which helped. I started, but with work getting hectic, I had to drop out. Still, it’s something I want to get back to.

What made you actually want to make the switch?

When this opportunity came, it looked that it would fill the gap that I had always felt in work, being close to the product! Thus, there were 2 major aspects. Firstly, it would let me break into the European engineering market. Secondly, I’d get to work closer to the product. In my previous roles, I was developing models for HiL from India while the actual systems were in Germany. I missed the tangible connection with the product. At DAF, I get to be in the test cells, contribute directly in concept development phase of the product, and directly see the impact of my work. That made all the difference.

What was your first impression of the Netherlands?

Life here felt simpler and more direct. People know what they want. I loved the minimalism and accessibility. Also, I love cycling, and here I get to do that as part of daily life.

Do you have any expectations or goals for the near future?

Right now, I’m at crossroads. Part of me wants to specialize further in technical areas. Another part is curious about project or people management. I’ve had conversations with several managers at WEB who have given me good advice. I’m still figuring it out. I don’t have a clear answer yet, but I’m grateful to have the support I need to navigate it.

Did your wife move with you right away?

Yes, and I think it’s always better to move together if possible. A shared experience helps. It can be overwhelming to move alone, housing, permits, insurance, healthcare, it’s a lot. Having someone to share it with makes a world of difference. And if your partner also wants to work, there are multiple opportunities in The Netherlands!

How do you see the WEB community?

It feels like a family. People are open, supportive, and non-judgmental. I can have honest conversations about where I want to go professionally, and I always get useful feedback.
To be honest, working for a secondment agency wasn’t something I originally aimed for. But being at WEB has changed my perspective. It’s actually better than what I had expected, and that’s because of the people here!

What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining WEB?

If the role makes sense to you, just go for it. Don’t worry whether it’s via WEB or directly at a client. WEB acts as a safety net. Especially if you’re moving from abroad, they provide great support, language courses, housing assistance, and more. When I moved, the field managers were incredibly helpful with finding a home and also guided in other processes after moving. That makes a huge difference!

The post Kashif Memon appeared first on One WEB.

I’m from Greece, I was born and raised in Athens, and I came to the Netherlands in 2017 after my masters. I already had a job in Greece, but it wasn’t what I expected, I wanted to build my career and have better experiences. I worked at another company before coming to WEB. I joined in June 2023 and now I work as a consultant as a production engineer, but I will be switching over to projects.

What was your experience like coming to WEB?

I was already based in the Netherlands before joining WEB. It was very different. From the beginning, I noticed that there was a very welcoming atmosphere.
Before I joined WEB, I was looking to move away from my previous agency. I was really conscious about this because I was looking at other options and checking what was the best fit for me. Honestly, I wasn’t willing to work for an agency again because of their competition clause. A lot of the time you can’t do what you like. You’re always dependent on your employers and you need to have some agreement if you want to work at a different company. It wasn’t the ideal situation for me. At WEB, they were very open from the first day and that was a very nice approach. I had very clear and transparent conversations with nothing hidden under the carpet.

What made you want to switch from working as a consultant to a project employee?

Right now, I work from our client. As a production engineer, I often have to be at their location in their clean rooms. Most of the meetings are there too where we are in close contact with mechanics and engineers. We check what has to be improved, what work must be completed, which challenges we are facing, and which points need more attention. I wanted to have more flexibility, which is why I decided to switch. When I spoke about this with WEB, they helped me a lot to find another opportunity that would give me the flexibility that I was looking for.

Do you have any expectations?

I’m looking forward to it. The feeling you get at the WEB office from your colleagues is different too, they are nice and friendly. I’ve often come for Friday drinks and it’s nice to meet people from different countries and share your experiences. I think it also helps people who come from abroad to integrate with the community.

What was your experience like as a consultant at WEB?

Once every two months I have a routine meeting with my field manager. We can discuss anything and whenever I share something, they always see if they can do anything to support me, both personally and professionally. If for example, there are some challenges or if I cannot perform well or if the expectations are much higher than what I can do, I can also get help from WEB. They are very supportive. Apart from the catch-up moments, there are also regular drinks and events with WEB employees.

What advice would you give new joiners?

The Friday drinks are great! Also, there is a lot of support to integrate in the Netherlands such as the city tour, integration plan, and help in finding accommodation. It’s a whole package and not every company does this. That’s also why I like what WEB does and their approach. It’s nice to feel this support.

The post Nikolaos Liapouris appeared first on One WEB.

I was born and raised in Portugal and I graduated in biomedical engineering in 2011. After that, I mostly worked in research. I did a PhD in Leadership for Technologies Industries. Since I graduated in biomedics, I also worked in industry as a product developer engineer for laboratories. We did most of the technological part of all the problems they had. Besides product development, we also did production, customer service and we were involved in all kinds of training and documentation. I worked there for a couple of years and then I joined WEB.

What do you do at WEB?

I joined WEB in September 2022 and I started as an industrial engineer. Together with my team, we do all the procedures and get to work on the latest machines for our clients. I started developing an interest in helping and supporting the Project Lead role. I slowly started to take on more tasks and beginning this year I was made junior PL. I wanted to grow in my team and position. The PL role gave me more of a challenge, learning about how to manage people and the work. It was great that WEB listened to me when I said I needed more challenge, they took action and helped me prepare for the role. We have a solid team and we have good processes to complete the work. I am really glad with the team and the client is also happy.

Coming from a biomedical background, what was an IE position like for you?

Academic work is nice but it is very demanding, especially because you are on your own. Working in industry, you closely work in a team on a product or outcome. With academics, you write a paper, present it at a conference, but turning it into real applications is very rare. A lot of it depends on investments and governmental finance so receiving budget is very limited. Once you prove a concept, publish it, you put it on the shelf. Working in industry gives me more of a sense of accomplishment. You can see the results, and improve them, which is a lot more challenging and interesting to me.

What was your experience like coming to the Netherlands?

I remember when I came here, I didn’t feel homesick. Maybe a little in the first two weeks but everything was happening very fast. I met a lot of people and I was socialising every week so I didn’t feel lonely or experience difficulties when moving to a new country. I liked to be here and I would make the choice again.

After 4 months my partner and my dog joined me too. It was a long trip because we came by car from Portugal, but we managed to bring everything over. We found a house, with a backyard which is great for the dog, and it’s been great so far.

What was it like for you to settle in the Netherlands?

Everybody talks in English so I don’t feel like the language is a barrier. Whenever you try to speak Dutch, people jump to English as soon as they see you struggle. WEB also provides training for the Dutch classes which really helps. My partner and I are still taking the course. Especially for my partner, it’s been very useful because she has a government job.

What do you make of the atmosphere at WEB?

I feel like overall everyone is responsible, and does their job but at the same time, it’s very relaxed. We can play ping pong, we have drinks on Friday and everyone is open to sharing their stories. My favorite thing about WEB is how easily you become integrated. We are all close, and the environment is great. I met a lot of interesting people from different backgrounds and I really like the overall vibe.

How do you experience the work-life balance?

I think the work-life balance is great. That’s also one of the most important reasons why I decided to come. We have a great schedule here, I can plan my days and there is a lot of flexibility. Everyone is reachable and understanding so that super nice. That means a lot to me because I can make the most out of my day. Once I finish after 5, I have 6 hours to do whatever I want like sports. In my last job, I would only get home at 8, cook dinner, go to bed, and repeat the same the next day.

It’s important to be able to manage your time and be comfortable. If someone wants a week’s worth of work to be done in 2 days, I can say that it’s not possible and it’ll be okay. In my previous role, it was like no, you have to get it done Friday while completing all the other 5 things that are on your to-do list. It was overwhelming at times but I don’t feel that here.

What stands out to you about WEB?

The people and integration are most important to me. Also, the location is awesome. I’m 5 minutes away from the office and 10 minutes away from the center. I’m also very close to the High Tech campus and there is a huge park. The location and space is really nice.

What piece of advice would you give new joiners?

Come, you won’t regret it for sure. You will receive a warm welcome and you will enjoy wraps for your life. The work-life balance was one of the most important reasons for me to come. We’re completing the work in the best way and I think, overall from what I understand, satisfaction from clients is good. So we are delivering good work. In the end, if everything ticks all the boxes, what more do you want?

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I grew up in George, South Africa, where I completed my high school education. After that, I moved to Cape Town for university. During my six years there, I did my undergraduate in Mechatronics followed by my Postgraduate in Electronics. Prior, to that, I au paired in the Netherlands for a year. I looked after three kids in Driebergen, just outside of Utrecht. I got to experience life in the Netherlands, and I knew I would be coming back.

What was your experience getting to the Netherlands?

WEB reached out to me after I had graduated from my Masters. From the moment WEB contacted me to the final arrangements, it was all remarkably smooth. It felt like it was meant to be because it was so easy. Finding a job in South Africa can be very difficult, especially because the market is very competitive and there are lots of candidates applying for the same positions. But it didn’t feel like that with WEB. When they approached me saying ‘Hey, would you like this job?’, it felt really nice to have someone come to you, understand what you are doing, and also have something for you.

From there onwards, preparing to get here was also very easy. WEB tells you what you have to do to prepare, and they help you with all the documents. They also have a welcome guide with lots of useful information. It was nice to have that support and know that WEB not only gets you to the Netherlands but also supports you in other ways. I came over first and then my partner, but I didn’t feel like I was going to some unknown country. I already felt like I knew the people, I had a base, I knew what was going to happen. I have other friends with IT roles in different companies, and it was a nightmare getting everything arranged. My experience with WEB was just amazing.

What was it like once you were here?

It was a lot, but it was also amazing. The culture shock did not really happen in ways others might experience it. For me, the first thing that stood out was that it was so safe. Everything works, like public transport actually works and it’s safe to take. There were a lot of moments when I could let my guard down where I could relax and do things. Being South African and having Afrikaans also really helped a lot. It’s cliché to say, but everyone is very friendly. Everyone speaks English and if you need help, there is always someone around. It was easier than I thought, it wasn’t difficult to adjust or to get used to things.

What do you do at WEB?

I work in Projects at WEB. When looking at scanning systems, the machines can be very complicated. You need precise steps on how to manufacture and maintain them. For example, you’ll have a procedure saying open the cabinet, remove the cables, take them out, and plug it in; there are millions of these procedures that you need for a machine to work. That’s why my job is to determine how long those procedures must take depending on what the operator has to do. I didn’t even know this existed before WEB. My undergrad in mechatronics and postgrad in electrical engineering were related to hardware design, whereas this role relates to industrial engineering. In South Africa, there is no industry like this at all. This is complete high-tech stuff, Silicon Vally material.

How did you find the work culture in the Netherlands?

At home, the work culture was very different. Although women are working in STEM industries, it’s still not where it should be. In my previous role, sometimes you could sense this judgment of ‘Oh, why are you letting her do that?’. Sometimes you weren’t listened to or acknowledged for your ideas. Coming from university where everything is flat and non-hierarchical, it wasn’t like that in the industry. Not all companies are like that, but after that experience, diversity became one of the topics I would question during my interviews. During my interviews at WEB, it was cool to see a woman in a higher-up position. It’s a completely international company and to see WEB’s inclusion of different cultures, and races, is fantastic.

What did you think of the atmosphere at WEB?

I knew what job I was applying for, but the work culture is amazing. At home, you start at 07.45 and you end at 17.00 and you do not leave your desk. At WEB, there is always something going on such as a function or Friday drinks. It’s very community-driven and it feels like WEB cares about us as people and not just the work that we do. Of course, that is important, but the work-life balance is amazing. You can have a game of ping pong, have a laugh over coffee and you know you will get back to work. There is always something happening, and it feels good, especially as an expat. The community is great, my colleagues have become my friends. I didn’t realize it when I signed up but it’s a huge part.

What advice would you give new joiners?

You’re in good hands with WEB. They help you throughout the process, so you feel well-prepared, and you know what to expect.

The post Amba Harty appeared first on One WEB.

I grew up in the south of Italy and at the age of 18, I moved to Milan for my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in mechanical engineering. I then worked for two years for a company in the oil and gas industry.

How did you get in touch with WEB?

I enjoyed my work at my previous employer. At that time, I didn’t consider another role because everything was very smooth. In the beginning, when WEB contacted me via LinkedIn, I was hesitant because I was already settled in my job. But then I thought, this was the opportunity I was looking for after I graduated, so why not? After that, I gave it some serious thought and decided to leap into this grey area!

What was it like for you to move to the Netherlands?

In general, I don’t like comfort zones and I like having change. Already at the age of 18 when I moved from my hometown in Manduria to Milan, that was a jump into the unknown. Of course, the language is the same, but the culture and way of living is very different. I had no family or friends moving to the same university and had to build everything from scratch.
I appreciated that experience, so when WEB contacted me, the only difference compared to my previous experience was just the language. I could adapt easily and enjoyed being outside my comfort zone to explore new experiences culturally and professionally. I think it’s important to live in the moment and learn from your experiences and surroundings and it’s up to you to decide what you want to do with it.

What was the push factor to decide to move?

It was the personal growth that I was searching for after completing my degree. I wanted an international experience because I think that by exposing your mind to different realities, you become more elastic to different contexts.

How did WEB help you with your relocation?

I did my own research for searching for a house. It was impossible because the housing market is very tight, but I luckily had Sylvana and WEB to help me out. The apartment that WEB helped me find was perfect and I’m still there today. It’s close to the city center.

What do you do at WEB?

I work as an Industrial Engineer on a cooling system and I write and maintain the procedures as well as the entire sequence and installation process. I also support the design phase and maintain relationships with suppliers.

Recently I also had the opportunity to go to Germany for testing a part. I made a contribution in the design phase and because the idea was mine, the client wanted me to go to Germany to test it out. The experience was very nice, but I was even more happy about the trust that was given to me. That is also another thing that makes me proud and happy because I think being rewarded for the work you do is important; it gives you the motivation to go further.

How would you describe the community at WEB?

There are so many answers because there is a lot to say about the community at WEB! There is an incredible level of respect amongst each other and it’s very diverse. You can freely express yourself and I think one of the most important points is that the atmosphere is really nice. There is a relaxed vibe and I like that I can play ping pong with everyone. You don’t have the pressure of anyone watching you or telling you that you should be working. Everyone knows that as long as you deliver on time, it’s okay. There is a level of mutual trust where you work hard and earn trust as well.

It’s also very international so you have a lot of input from different cultures and different mentalities. It’s like a large pool of different points of view so it’s nice to see the differences and commonalities between people from different parts of the world.

While I work closely with 3-4 people, I consider many colleagues as friends. Sometimes we hang out in the city center, or we plan trips together. For example, we recently went on a ski trip together, and also in the Netherlands, we plan day trips on the weekends to Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Utrecht, Antwerp, or anywhere else.

What do you think of the work culture of WEB?

The first thing that comes to mind is the atmosphere. I enjoy it a lot and there is career growth as well. I see that there is potential to grow. I feel like I have been rewarded for all my work and effort and being in such an atmosphere is very important to me.

What I also think is important is that WEB acts like a cushion when it concerns work pressure received from clients. Because we also do Farmout, we take on work and deliver them back in packages. If you work at a client and you’re right in the middle of the crowd, it helps to be in a friendly environment to stay away from any toxic pressure. Sometimes situations can be chaotic, and people react differently under pressure but with WEB’s atmosphere, it makes life easier.

What advice would you give to someone considering joining WEB?

I would say that you can expect an open atmosphere that is diverse with mutual respect. There are opportunities to grow and in my experience, your efforts will be recognized.

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The post Ivano Sammarco appeared first on One WEB.

I was born in Namibia but moved to South Africa when I was young. I went to an all-girls school, it was a very happy time in my life. I went to university in Stellenbosch, which is really close to my hometown. After I completed my masters, Frank reached out to me. I have been in the Netherlands for more than two years already.

Did you always plan to move abroad?

Moving abroad was something I wanted to do, so it was amazing when the opportunity arose. I had three interviews with Frank, who was very patient. Choosing to be far away from family wasn’t an easy decision but I knew it would be a great experience. I was already looking for jobs when Frank reached out to me. The experience I had with Frank and the team was so nice and I felt we understood each other well. After the interviews, everything happened very quickly and I came here!

Did you have any expectations before moving here?

I had been to Europe before when I was younger and had visited Germany. But I didn’t have many expectations before moving here. I think this is the kind of situation where it’s good not to expect too much to avoid disappointment. So no, I didn’t have crazy expectations.

What was your experience like when you got to the Netherlands?

When I first got here, I didn’t have my apartment yet, so I stayed in a hotel. I also had issues getting my money from South Africa to the Netherlands because it got stuck in foreign exchange. I luckily had a cousin in Switzerland who could help me, and WEB did a lot for me too. In the beginning, there were some hiccups but thinking back, at that moment it was stressful, but in the end, it was all okay.

For me, this whole experience definitely led to growth. It’s a different environment, different people and, learning to stand on your own two feet. Overall, the experience was easy, pleasant, and good.

What did you think about WEB when you came here?

It’s so crazy to think that when I came to WEB, we only had the second floor of the building. It’s amazing to see how far WEB has come in terms of office space and size. I realized I was pretty lucky all things considered. Lucky in the sense that WEB was so helpful with many things such as looking for housing, and if you had any questions, you could ask them anything which was great.

Many people here at WEB are expats and everyone is open to different cultures. They’re very curious and respectful, it’s just nice to see how people are genuinely interested. I was told Dutch people are very rude, but I’ve never experienced that. That was something people had warned me about. Sure, they are direct and to the point. It’s different, but I wouldn’t label it as rude. The Netherlands is nice, it’s beautiful, it’s safe, the infrastructure is great and there is plenty of cycling of course.

What do you do at WEB?

I did my master’s in electronic engineering, but I am working more in electrical engineering at WEB. Here at WEB I work in the Projects Team. At the client I work as an Industrialization Engineer in a team that supplies power to parts of a big system. The system is broken into groups which are then further divided into smaller subgroups. My team and I work to supply power, cabling, and safety handling to several parts of the system.

We also have mid-year and end-year reviews to help us keep track of our growth and progress , which is great. the personal development plans, help put things into perspective. Further, enjoy being involved in the fun activities that WEB has to offer. The Friday get togethers, the games nights and recently the WEB library.

Why would you choose WEB?

The approachability of everyone is definitely one of the best aspects of WEB. I think everyone is willing to help and listen and I feel respected. Even if you do not need any help and just need someone to listen, you really get that here at WEB. I would definitely choose WEB again. I don’t know many people that come from different recruiting companies so I can’t speak about that, but I was happy and comfortable with WEB. It was a little stressful when I didn’t have my housing, but I got the support I needed. I’m also happy with the apartment WEB helped me get.

What advice would you give new joiners?

I would say do it. You mustn’t be scared to ask questions. It’s a big decision so inform yourself but know you can ask anything , and people are willing to answer. Just make an informed decision.

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