Arjen Poortvliet Production coordinator

‘I see every day as an adventure’

"The diversity, that's what appeals to me most in my job. Not one day is the same and I am in contact with many different people. It is my job to build a ship with a team. That means lots of meetings, setting priorities and solving problems."

 

"As a true native of Zeeland, from the fishermen's village Arnemuid, I have always had strong feelings about the sea. That is why, after high school, I chose to study at the nautical college in Vlissingen. After that I joined the merchant Navy, until I became bored with it and wanted to do something else. My previous employer had no other options for me, so I was quick to make my choice."

 

Traineeship

 

"At Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding I was able to start as a trainee. That was a great opportunity for me. I was supposed to get acquainted with the various departments over a period of two years. Eventually, after eight months, I was offered this position. I grasped that opportunity with both hands. It felt like recognition for the knowledge and experience I brought to the job. I noticed a few things during my first months here. First of all, I really liked the mentality of the people: don't be awkward, look for solutions. That is what I am all about and it is great to work with like-minded people. Secondly, I was and I am very impressed with the high level of quality that is offered. The foremen's knowledge, the welding techniques applied; this is truly a world away from merchant navy ships."

 

Management

 

 "In my position I manage a group of foremen. Each and every one of them is responsible for a part of the process, for instance building the vessel, piping or bench fitting. We build a ship together. The team I work with is young. They still have relatively little experience in their present job. I aim to create an open atmosphere in which we can support each other. You cannot build a ship with petty mindedness. Besides my contact with these colleagues, I am in contact with customers. I speak to them about planning, quality and challenges whilst looking for solutions. And finally I am the person that informs our Human Resources department if we are shorthanded and in need of extra staff. Overall I can say that it is a job with a lot of variation and many responsibilities."

 

International

 

 "It is certainly not a job for people with a 9 to 5 mentality. If necessary, we continue working. This is a matter of fact to everybody here, especially during times when we need to deliver or dock in or out. Also, there is an international aspect to the job. Only this summer, I needed to leave for Cyprus at the spur of the moment in order to solve a problem with a ship there. I find this an appealing aspect of the job. On the whole, I am very happy that I chose to say goodbye to the Merchant Navy. Sure, I miss it every now and then, but I have many good years ahead of me here."

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