Our intern Joost Penterman

Since he excelled in physics and mathematics, he wanted to pursue a career in technology. On February 8th of this year, he followed in his father’s footsteps and began an internship in the drafting room at Holland Staal BV. His father, Gerard Penterman, also interned at Holland Staal (formerly Flevo Staalbouw) during his studies, and since his second school year, Joost has been trying to follow suit. Unfortunately, there was no internship available earlier. Therefore, Joost completed his first two internships in the workshop at companies, the first making extrusion machines and peripherals for the confectionery industry, and the second small metal parts primarily for boats. In his third internship, he worked in the drafting room of an all-round installation company. All in all, quite diverse.

Now, in his 4th year, there was a spot for his 20-week internship with us. During his internship, Joost had to lead a project from start to finish. Since Joost had already interned in the drafting room before, the internship was pretty much what he expected. He spent the first period getting to know the drawing program, after which he was allowed to draw up tickets (small requests). After about 6 weeks, he started working on his school assignment.

According to Joost, what he takes away from this internship is work experience. Structural steel may seem simple, but Joost was surprised by all that goes into a steel structure. Although the internship went smoothly and he was well guided by our colleague Edwin Bakker, there was also some panic.

Joost vividly recalls being taught to make his own schedule for the progress of the drawing work. The drawings need to be final by a certain date if you want to be able to produce your material on time. Before drawings are final, they first go to the client for review. So, it’s important to know when you need the drawings back. In short, an internal schedule. Joost hadn’t made this schedule, which led to the realization a week later than it should have been that the drawings were not yet final. In the end, everything turned out well and it had no consequences for the overall planning. But for Joost, this was his first mistake and such a scary moment stays with you. Fun moments are not named. According to Joost, there are too many to mention. His internship supervisor -Edwin- is described as nice and a joker. That says more than enough, according to us.

Now that Joost has passed his tests of proficiency – and has since received his diploma – his internship comes to an end.

We wish Joost lots of fun learning at HBO. Who knows, we might see him again!