Bowie Schiffers, 29, works as a Specialist Mechanic at our site in Elsloo, the Netherlands, within Engineering & Maintenance BENE. In our interview, it quickly became clear that there are two values that are particularly important to him in his daily work: Dedication, which reflects our strong work ethic and commitment to high-quality results. And, Knowledge, which stands for our profound expertise and our determination to keep learning.

By the time Bowie joined our team in 2023, he was already familiar with the work culture that awaited him: He had gained insight into the job during two previous internships in Elsloo in 2013 and 2015. So his start felt more like a return.

What made you choose Bilfinger – again?

"I was working in a car factory at the time. After almost eight years, I had come to understand that the mindset of the people that surrounded me there was different to mine. I love going to work, I like taking care of things and having a sense of purpose.  While I was eager to gain more responsibility and develop new skills, it felt like some of the others were welcoming every excuse and opportunity to avoid work.

Today, with my current team, I work in an atmosphere that motivates me every day to give my best and grow my career. There is a different mindset at Bilfinger. And being surrounded by people with dedication makes a huge difference. I enjoyed both of my earlier internships with Bilfinger – and now that I am working here, I am happy to say that these first impressions were right."

How would you describe the collaboration in your team?

"I really appreciate being around people with different backgrounds and different levels of knowledge. It allows me to gain new experience and greater confidence: When I started here, there was a lot I needed to learn. Because the high quality of what we do is so important to us, we have certain standards, for example when it comes to rebuilding a valve.

There were and are always more experienced colleagues that I can ask for help and rely on. Everyone who’s ever started something new knows how valuable that is. And this actually goes both ways: In our team, the older team members are not afraid to ask the younger ones for advice. We’re not too proud to ask questions. We invite different ways of thinking, we listen, and we value the experience everyone brings to the table.

Today I am in a position where I am able to share advice and teach younger colleagues. It is great to see how knowledge within our team is constantly passed on."