My name is Kevin Oonk. I have been with Bilfinger for over nine years, starting as a designer and transitioning to an engineering role within the Pipelines department over the past two and a half years. While I am satisfied with my current role, I wanted to expand my understanding of the entire pipeline lifecycle, beyond just the design aspect.

Career development conversation

At Bilfinger, we have annual career development discussions to set and review personal career goals. During a conversation with my manager, I shared my desire to gain a deeper understanding of pipeline construction. As a result, in September 2023, I began a vocational training program focused on pipelines. This training was designed to provide practical insights into the entire lifecycle of a pipeline, helping me anticipate and address potential issues during the design phase.

Vocational training on Pipelines

The vocational training covered all aspects of pipeline installation, emphasizing key considerations to avoid common pitfalls. Working on simulated projects taught me how to lay pipelines more efficiently and navigate potential challenges.

Bilfinger supported my pursuit of this training, aligning with the goals we discussed during my career development conversations. Before this training, my role was primarily focused on designing pipelines to meet client specifications. Now, with the knowledge gained, I can anticipate field issues and design solutions that address these challenges proactively. This approach not only improves the feasibility of the design but also reduces costs by saving time during execution. I now consider factors like ground conditions and spatial constraints, which significantly impact the installation process.

Looking forward

This training has been a significant step in my personal and professional growth. I have a greater appreciation for the fieldwork involved in pipeline installation and now engage with both colleagues and clients earlier to discuss feasibility, which enhances efficiency and reduces costs. Additionally, I am more mindful of environmental impact and strive to create designs with minimal ecological disruption.

I am grateful to Bilfinger for investing in employee development and supporting our wishes and initiatives to expand our knowledge. I encourage everyone to pursue continuous learning and broaden their perspectives. This is something I will keep doing as I plan to keep growing within the company.