Our process is quite complicated, you don't learn that in a week

What we can say for sure is that Patrick has been part of the Modiform family for a long time. Almost twenty years ago, he and his colleagues helped set up the pot extrusion department in Scherpenzeel. And in those twenty years he has taken great strides forward. From production worker back then, to Process Support Team Leader today. Patrick: “I really enjoy training and supervising colleagues. But I also like operating the machines so they run well and are set-up properly technically. Our process is quite complicated. You don't learn that in a week.”

Patrick: “When I came here almost twenty years ago, I got my start as? production staff. I was promoted to Assistant Team Leader, later became Team Leader, and since last year I have been Process Support Team Leader. What does that involve? I am responsible for training the Team Leaders, providing support to keep our machinery running, taking care of the scheduling and emergency repair services. In brief, I would say that I am involved in advising and training. I've always been very interested in what I do, and that's what made me good at it. I'm happy to do my bit to keep everything running smoothly.”

Training

“New employees first shadow me for fourteen days, then they get a colleague buddy. I keep in touch with the Team Leaders, which is how we make sure everyone is learning to do the job. That's an aspect of my job I really like, dealing with my colleagues. We work together in a casual and informal atmosphere; you don't see anyone wearing ties and suits here. We treat each other with respect. Everyone can learn a great trade here, and if you want, you get every opportunity to grow. We have a complicated and challenging process to learn, but with the right attitude, a logical mind and good guidance, you get the hang of it all. I am proud that this department has grown so much in recent years and that I’ve been able to contribute to it.”

Plenty of opportunities if you want them

“The employment conditions are excellent at Modiform. Although, to be honest, I’m not so actively involved in what the Works Council does, for example. Or in the programmes offered by Modiform. It's good that it's there, for those who do want to participate there are plenty of options. And there is also an active staff association, which organises fun outings on a regular basis. In short, we’re a sociable company, where you get every opportunity to learn a great profession and to grow if you want to.”