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Thomas combines technology and people in Twente

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Born and raised in Twente, Thomas van de Lagemaat left the region to study in Groningen — but soon realised it wasn’t the place for him. After a year, he returned home and has now been working as a Network Engineer at NDIX for over six years.

Date of Publication: 02 November 2020

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Prefer working over studying

Back in his student days, Thomas decided to study in Groningen.
“I tried studying Human Technologies there, but it just didn’t work out. Groningen simply wasn’t Twente — I never felt at home. The study itself really suited me though, because I love that mix of technology and people.”

“After about a year I decided Groningen wasn’t for me, so I moved back to Twente and started a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Saxion. But that study didn’t suit me either, and that’s when I thought: I’ll just start working and figure out what I really enjoy — and then find the right education for it later. NDIX gave me a great opportunity to work, and I grabbed it with both hands. Alongside the job, I did a fast-track MBO course to prepare for my role as a network engineer at NDIX. I’ve really found my place here — both the company and the job are a perfect fit.”

Passion for technology – and for people

“As a little boy, I was already interested in technology, but I really enjoy the people side of it too. In my current role as a Senior Network Engineer, those two worlds come together nicely. I often visit new clients to explain what we can do for them from a technical perspective.”

“Besides my role as a Senior Network Engineer, I’m also part of a project group where we decide which projects to carry out — the goal is to expand and optimise our network even further. Together we’re responsible for the technical budget and for deciding where best to invest. To do that properly, I work closely with external partners and suppliers of network equipment. So, that mix of technology and people keeps coming back all the time.”

Technology in Twente

Thomas’s heart lies in Twente — and in technology. A perfect combination.
“I see Twente, and especially Enschede, as real technology hubs. Of course because of Saxion and the University of Twente, but also because there’s a lot of manufacturing and automation here. And the down-to-earth Twente attitude fits perfectly with that. People here make agreements differently — they’re more level-headed and realistic. Twente people really live by ‘a deal is a deal’, and with that mindset, you always manage to make things work together.”

Smart tech at home and good food on the table

Thomas also spends a lot of his free time on tech.
“I really enjoy making my home a bit smarter — like being able to control the lights in different ways or having the blinds adjust automatically. Let’s just say the network at my place is a bit more advanced than in the average home,” he laughs.

“But besides smart tech, I also love going out with my girlfriend. I play tennis regularly and I’m a big FC Twente fan. When possible, I prefer to watch matches at the stadium — not in the fanatical section, but in my usual spot. And I love cooking too; these days, working from home makes it easy to whip up a nice lunch.”

Twente is alive

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