‘I received great opportunities in Twente’

“I applied, but during the interview both the company and I realised that the position wasn’t quite right for me. Still, they invited me for a second talk and offered me a traineeship instead. By working on different projects, I got to know several departments. After roles like Operational Trainee and Maintenance Planner, I’m now Manager of Material Handling & Distribution, leading a team of five people.”

Stijn looks after ETC’s internal and external logistics. “I’ve had some amazing opportunities here. My work gives me a lot of freedom — and I really enjoy that.”

Communication and collaboration

So, he stayed in Twente after all? “Yes, that’s a funny story,” he says with a smile. “I had actually planned to study Business Administration in Groningen. That course was only taught in English here in Enschede, and I preferred to study in Dutch — that’s why I picked Groningen. I rented a room, moved all my stuff, and was ready to start.”

“But I started having second thoughts right away. Groningen felt far from home, and I could already see it: I’d build my whole life there in the north and never come back to my beloved Twente. So I cancelled the room, moved my things back, and applied for Industrial Engineering and Management in Enschede instead.”

He’s never regretted it — neither staying in Twente nor switching from business to technical business studies. “In secondary school, I liked economics best, and I’ve always enjoyed tinkering with things. Thanks to my studies, I understand both the business and the technical side, which helps me communicate and collaborate well with engineers. They create great things — and I can help make sure that technology works in practice and gets results.”

Room for ideas and initiative

At ETC Nederland, the atmosphere is relaxed and open — just how Stijn likes it. “In the years I’ve been here, more young people and women have joined, which is great. Processes have become less rigid, and there’s more space for new ideas and plans — while the atmosphere has stayed friendly and down-to-earth.”

“That’s also what I love about Twente. I’m not saying it’s not like that elsewhere, but it’s just calmer here. People are realistic, straightforward and kind. My friends and family all live here. I play football in Hengelo, where I live with my girlfriend Anouk. Together we’re renovating our 1921 home, and I enjoy playing tennis with friends. It’s just good living here in Twente. The towns and villages are small, everything feels close and personal. When I cycle to work, three quarters of the route is through greenery. All good reasons to stay here.”

“I never say never, but if I’d ever move away, it would only be temporary.”