Dennis de Jonge Student shipbuilder

‘I am studying shipbuilding’

"This in my third year in the work-training program at Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding. This means that I work four days a week and attend classes the other day. Since this year I have been working for DSNS on a steady contract. It was important to DSNS that I attended the vocational education course for Shipbuilding. That is what I am doing right now. After I am done, I might go on to the third level for Shipbuilding."

 

"I followed the vocational education Technology in Goes. I was especially interested in working with metal. That is why I applied for the education for construction bench fitter/welder at ROC Zeeland and I was able to apply for a job at DSNS."

 

Great coaching

 

 "I was able to work here thanks to my interest in shipbuilding. A colleague who has many years of experience coaches me. Naturally they understand that I do not know how to do everything yet, and certainly not when I had just started. Luckily they really take the time to teach you things. And when I had to take my welding exam, I was able to practice it a lot here. That was great."

 

Permanent Contract

 

After I passed by exam for construction bench fitter/welder, I was allowed to stay on. I was even offered a permanent contract. There was one condition however, and that was that I had to take a class for Shipbuilding. In the meantime, I have started to attend class based on a the work-training program. I try to do as much as I can at school. By the way, I am not the only student here.  I know at least two other guys who work here via a work-training program. One of them is in my class. At DSNS I work mainly on the ship's body. My job is to put parts together and connect them with electrodes. After my work is done an experienced welder does the welding. I cannot do this my self because I haven't got the certificates I need yet. Due to the fact that I have already gained some knowledge and experience in the field, I am able to complete my Shipbuilding education in one year. Possibly I will continue my education and go on to Shipbuilding, level 3.

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