Job Title/Company
Senior consultant rail transport/Arcadis
Qualifications
B.Sc. in management and marketing public transport
Career
Over 25 years in the railway industry. From train dispatcher to senior consultant / project manager railway signalling. Since 2011 also university lecturer Rail Transport at the universities of Twente and Utrecht.
Why did you choose to work for the rail industry?
It just happened. I started my career in aviation. And at some point the rail industry crossed my path. And I thought “why not”.
What inspired you at the time and what influenced your choice?
At the time the aviation industry was in many aspects far ahead of the railway industry. I offered my knowledge and skills and they were very pleased to have me on board. So a good career switch.
How does it feel to be in the rail industry? Are your expectations fulfilled?
It is rewarding at many different levels. Especially passing my knowledge and skills to the next generation. And I learn from them too! Fresh ideas, new insights, information technology applications.
What are the challenges?
Too many to mention. On top is keep on improving the product ‘rail transport’ for our clients; the passengers and the shippers. Finding the right balance between more frequent trains, cost effectiveness, safety and environmental issues. Implementing new technologies such as ERTMS and so on.
What is a talent? Why the rail industry should engage with talents?
Talent is nothing without passion. Find out where somebody is passionate about and stimulate / cultivate this. If he or she has a passion for the railway industry it is not hard to find a suitable job. And loving the work you do means feeling good and be very valuable for your employer
