My name is Lisette Faber, and since 2018 I have been working as a Process Engineer at Bilfinger in the Engineering & Consultancy team. When I first started, I did not have a clear idea of what the role of a Process Engineer within an engineering consultancy actually entailed. But now I certainly do: I help clients turn their ideas into fully functioning factories. Being involved in building such projects from a blank page, that is what motivates me every day. Over the past few years, I have grown into the role of Lead Engineer, and thanks to the opportunities Bilfinger has given me, I am increasingly daring to seek out the unknown.

Growth through courage

I started my career at a manufacturing company, working as a Product Developer. As a chemical technologist, I thought: that is where I belong, close to the technology. But I quickly realized that it was not the right fit for me. The hierarchical work culture left little room for personal growth. At Bilfinger, I found something different: collaboration, trust, and the opportunity to grow. I had my doubts at first, but when I realized I could work with clients from the very beginning to help shape their future, everything clicked. From that moment on, I began to truly develop myself: people started asking for my opinion and genuinely listened, even colleagues with decades of experience. That gave me confidence.

What helped me grow? Sometimes all it takes is a small push. A manager said: “Lisette, you can do this.” And then I go for it, even if I do not know exactly what to expect. That mindset led me to the Continuous Improvement Group. While I used to feel quite nervous about client interactions, this team gave me the tools I needed to now approach them with confidence and even joy.

Taking the lead and continuing to learn

A year later, I was given the chance to step in as Lead Engineer. It was a tough role, especially as a newcomer without experience in that position, but I went for it. And I pulled it off. That project confirmed for me that I really wanted to take on the Lead Engineer role. Since then, I have been actively seeking out the edges of my comfort zone. Both professionally and personally, I like to push myself just a little. Not because I am an adrenaline junkie, but because that is when I feel myself growing.

That drive eventually brought me to Qatar. I wanted to see more of the industry, not just design from behind my laptop, but also work on-site with operators and installations. Through my mentor in Abu Dhabi - part of the Bilfinger mentoring program - I heard about an exciting project in Qatar. I felt a bit nervous, but I knew: this is my chance.

A new world full of insights

In Qatar, we are working on a large-scale energy study. Not a traditional engineering project, but a deep dive into the energy consumption of industrial processes. Completely new territory for me, and that is exactly what makes it so valuable. Within the team, I am the lead of a smaller team consisting of many nationalities. Working together means adapting, especially with cultural differences in communication and hierarchy, but it is precisely that dynamic that makes it special. I am increasingly finding my place here.

What I do miss is the lightheartedness of our Dutch office. There, we would start the day with a short plank session - some laughs and movement with colleagues. Here, things are more serious. However, during an offshore training I soon noticed how much more approachable everyone was outside of the office walls. Sometimes, I have to search for the right tone, but that is part of working in another culture. And it is in those differences that growth happens: you do not just learn about your field, you learn about people.

What I truly appreciate is the trust and support I have received from Bilfinger for this journey. My manager took action from day one to make it happen. But also his manager, HR, and my mentor: everyone was involved and provided support. They made me feel I was not alone. That does something to you. You feel valued and responsible to give it your all.

Looking ahead with an open mind

What the future holds, I do not know yet - and I like that. There are so many possibilities within Bilfinger. I am currently a Lead Engineer, but I will soon be taking a project management course. Maybe that is my next step, but I am also open to exploring other roles within Bilfinger. What I do know is that I am curious and eager to keep learning. And at Bilfinger, that is possible - whether you are working in the Netherlands, for example, or in the deserts of Qatar.

What would I say to anyone who is doubting or dreaming about taking such a leap? Do not wait for certainty. If you feel a desire, take the step. It will not happen on its own, but if you speak up and ask for help, people will support you. And sometimes, when you dare to jump, that is when you discover just how far you can go.