Young & ambitious
Driven by a passion for metallurgy and welding, and equipped with a hands-on mindset, Florian Vastmans has been working in the production halls in Vlissingen since August 2024. Young, ambitious, and not afraid to get his hands dirty. Here, he shares his first impressions and aspirations for the future.
Florian, what does your role at Smulders Projects Netherlands involve?
“Since August 2024, I have been working as an Assistant Production Manager. Usually, I start my days with a packed schedule and plenty of unexpected developments. My colleague and I are responsible for coordinating the production halls in Vlissingen. This means we oversee the planning, keep projects on track, verify the availability of the right people and materials, and ensure everything operates safely. We also monitor deliveries and personnel. The best part of my job? No two days are the same. There is always something happening that calls for improvisation – it keeps me sharp and fully engaged.”
How did you end up at Smulders?
“It was during my welding engineering studies at KU Leuven that I became familiar with Smulders. Together with my fellow students, I visited their site in Hoboken. It reinforced my passion for metallurgy and welding – something I had always aspired to pursue. My previous job was in the same sector and provided me with a solid foundation to get started here.”
What makes us unique as an employer?
“The hands-on mentality. Right from day one, I was thrown into the deep end – but in the best way possible. First, I picked up my laptop and checked in with HR, then headed straight to the work site. I am also given the freedom to learn and grow from my mistakes. Everyone here is willing to help and share their knowledge, from colleagues in the office to production.”
Innovation is key in your work. What is your team working on today?
“One of the most exciting and challenging projects we are currently working on is the automation of TKY joints – complex welds where pipes intersect. We ourselves and many other competitors have attempted this but without success. Yet, we continue experimenting. There is a strong culture of progress and determination here, and it really motivates me.”
What are your goals for the future at Smulders?
“Right now, I am focused on my current role, as there is still so much to learn: not only about the production processes but also about our collaborations and our team. Eventually, I hope to advance within Smulders, as this is where my passion truly lies. I am certain that this is the company where I can continue to grow and develop.”
Lastly, what advice would you give to other young professionals?
"Just do it. Get out onto the work site, ask questions, and see how products are made in the plants. Everything you see and learn there will help you excel in your job. The most valuable knowledge comes from hands-on experience.”
There is a strong culture of progress and determination here, and it really motivates me.
