Do you have a question?
If it is about control panels, we have the answer.
The family in Kortrijk – In the footsteps of
Electrotechnology is a man’s world, we hear you say. No, it isn’t! Our female colleagues prove that isn’t the case day in, day out. Two such women are Farah Vancaeyzeele and Kris Pattyn, who boast forty-five years’ experience between them. They both work at our Kortrijk site, they both have strong organisational skills, and they’re both whole-hearted go-getters.
Kris Pattyn manages the warehouse as an administrative and logistics employee. “I receive, book, stock and pick goods so they can continue on their journey in the workshop. And if something goes awry – think of materials coming in without a delivery note – I put my detective hat on to find out which project they’re for. I’ve had several different roles within the company, but this is the perfect combination for me of a desk job and getting stuck in.”
Farah Vancaeyzeele is a team leader at the same site. “Purchasing, planning, project management… I try to oversee everything that’s related to the production floor. It’s a challenge, but I know I can always count on my colleagues.” Farah started out life here as an administrative employee. “Right back at the start, I worked in the warehouse. Kris took me under her wing. Today, you can still see that everyone in our team is always ready to help each other out. Even after all these years, and even after how much we’ve grown. We really do work closely together here.”
Kris: “That family feeling is typical Kortrijk. Everyone knows everyone, and there’s a good rapport. You’re also given space to make mistakes, as long as you learn from them. Everyone is very approachable.”
Farah: “It’s great to see how the old guard take newcomers under their wing. And how the younger colleagues progress and make the leap from some easier to more complex projects. Once they’ve got some experience, you gradually see them gain in confidence. We think it’s really important that everyone feels able to ask for help, feels comfortable in the group, but at the same time is able to work independently.”
What about after work? Do you relax as a group or on your own?
Farah: “There’s a mix here, too. I like to go and swim some lengths in the pool. Or go for a walk – West Flanders is a particularly beautiful area.”
Kris: “For me it’s yoga, dancing and cooking. And walking, too. Farah, we should go on a walk together! The ‘Stiltewandeling’ in Westouter, Heuvelland is one I’d certainly recommend. It’s a lovely area, has lots of variety, is peaceful, and is a great place to find a bench and relax. It really is a stunning walk.”
