Tell me something about yourself
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!
