Stijn’s takeaways
When I graduated with a degree in civil engineering, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with my master’s in Chemical Engineering. So, six years ago, I joined Encon as a student worker to see what the sustainability sector had to offer. The social impact was immediately a major driving force for me. I immediately found the positive and open atmosphere, and the autonomy I was given, very appealing.
I’ve been working in the team specialising in energy consultancy for five years now. My team lead has described me a few times as ‘a sponge’, because I’m someone who’s always keen to learn.
Before I joined Encon, I had absolutely no clear career plan. But after starting out as a project engineer, I soon realised that I wanted to move into a people management role.
My team lead at the time trusted me and helped me grow step by step by coaching me and sending me on training courses. As of this year, I have taken over his role.
It’s been quite a journey – literally and figuratively. My wife and I lived in Australia for a year because of her job. It was a unique opportunity, but a challenging one. I continued to work part-time for Encon and carried on with my development, leading remote team meetings and coaching interns and junior staff, amongst other things.
I’m really happy to have an employer whose values are so closely aligned with my own. I’m allowed to be myself and try new things. Even my stand-up comedy shows.
Would you like to help businesses grow sustainably, just like Stijn, but aren’t sure whether you have the right skills or knowledge? Are you looking for an employer who values personal development? Be sure to check out our job vacancies or make an appointment for an informal interview.
Stijn Baeten
Manager Energy Consultancy & Technical Installations