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Ronald Kaptein, Work Planner

Ronald Kaptein (34) really had no idea as to what he wanted to do in his career. ‘Perhaps something technical’, but other than that he didn’t really know. His job at Strukton Rail proved to be bull’s eye.

Extra Tracks

‘I studied Industrial Engineering, a field that allows you to move in fairly many different directions. Strukton is my first employer. I was hired here twelve years ago and I still tremendously enjoy working here. I am currently working on the High-Frequency Rail Transport Programme Rijswijk – Rotterdam project. To make timetable-free travel between Rotterdam and The Hague possible, we are installing two additional tracks between Rijswijk and Delft. The project scope also includes tunnels, bridges, station renovation and line stability.’

Pivot

‘When I first started at Strukton, I was first trained in railway work. After a few years, I advanced to become Railway Construction Work Planner at Strukton Rail Projects. My initial level was Work Planner 3, and today I am at level 2. At this level you have sufficient experience to run projects independently. I hope to progress to level 1 over time: as Senior Work Planner you have final responsibility for large, integrated projects.
In a project everything generally pivots around the railway construction discipline, which is why the project’s integration is my responsibility. It is up to me to visit all disciplines and to develop a plan together. That’s what makes it so enjoyable.
Furthermore, I enjoy the variety. One time I may be discussing all kinds of technical details with a colleague, while at some other time I may be busy working on a permit application with the municipality or on the loading schedule for a freight car.’

 

One time I may be discussing all kinds of technical details with a colleague, while at some other time I may be busy working on a permit application with the municipality

Ronald Kaptein

Proud

‘The variety also comes in the form of inside and outside work. During the start-up of a project I primarily spend my time at the office, but as the project progresses, I increasingly spend more time outside. During the implementation weekends, I am always there. This is because I am also TFP Coordinator (train-free periods). It is therefore up to me to keep track of the progress of every discipline during such weekends. For example, if Railway Construction experiences a delay due to a defective machine, this also affects Overhead Lines and Signalling.
I feel at home at Strukton. There is a good atmosphere, the colleagues are great and I am proud of the work we accomplish. I have now been working at Strukton for twelve years, and as far as I am concerned, the end is nowhere near in sight. I also like my job. And should this change, there are enough other options and opportunities within Strukton.’