Randy - Industrial Engineer

Industrial Engineer Randy aims to grow into the leading professional in the field of production methodologies and process optimization, ultimately managing a continuous improvement team. There is high market demand for VDL ETG's products, which will lead to further company growth and make internal efficiency increasingly important.

Describe your role in 3 words

‘’Process optimization, collaboration, linking theory to practice.’’

What is important in your role?

‘’I find myself exactly at the intersection of technology and (business) processes. This means that I am involved in understanding product design, assembly, qualification, and logistics. Based on these elements, I design and optimise the factory layout to produce as efficiently and effectively as possible. It is important to have both tactical and human insight to gradually initiate change. When we aim to improve something, it often also means changing things. By ensuring that I am familiar with both theory and practice, I make sure that the change is supported across all levels of the organisation to minimise the challenge of change itself.

Important qualities within this role include having a strong sense of ownership, showing perseverance, and being communicatively skilled. I have asked around in my team, and what I am known for within the team is that I am helpful, can provide guidance and direction, am a mood maker, and approachable. I believe these are also points that are important to achieve success in this role. I have a somewhat stubborn character; during my time here, I have learned to use this trait appropriately. This is mainly because I often had the right people around me to lift me up or who encouraged me.’’

What do you enjoy about your job?

"In 2020 I started in production as a Factory Engineer. I was involved in guiding the Protobuild, where my role was related to a product group. My technical Business Engineering background proved very useful in translating the protobuilds into volume production. In my current role as an Industrial Engineer, I am working on this full-time, being involved with multiple product groups. Within Industrial Engineering, I have the opportunity to work on increasingly complex projects, but also on the internal processes of the department."

The semiconductor market is a unique market, especially from a business management perspective. Due to the relatively low production volumes but high mix/complexity of products, this presents interesting challenges regarding business setup. The organization is experiencing strong growth, which is rapidly developing my role.

Since I started at VDL ETG, I have grown a lot. I have learned a great deal about all levels of the company's operations. In my current role, I interact with many disciplines, so the learning never stops. Through a PEP (Personal Effectiveness Plan) training, I have developed both personally and professionally.

What is the highlight of your career?

‘’In 2023, a new production environment of the ReMa has been put into operation. This is a grade 1 environment where cleanliness requirements are even more strict. Our department designed the production setup. Additionally, we designed a separate room for a new type of Atmospheric Wafer Handler in which prototypes are built. These are projects in which our department has made a significant contribution. Now that everything is in use, it is rewarding to see the impact of our work.’’

What advice would you give to someone planning to apply to VDL ETG?

‘’Are you ready to roll up your sleeves? And are you looking for an informal company culture and a fun team? Then my advice: Go for it!

Although VDL ETG is large, it doesn't feel that way to me. For example, the lines are short. I experience the culture within VDL ETG as informal, helpful, and friendly. You can really see that the colleagues are engaged and they are flexible. Colleagues also seek each other outside working hours for social activities.'