I graduated from Delft University of Technology in 1985 as a
space and aeronautics engineer. I then worked for Fokker for five
years as a system designer. Fokker changed and I changed. I ended
up at the NS where the largest expansion project in 40 years was
underway - Rail 21. I found it inspiring work right from the start:
train transport as an environmentally friendly alternative to
aircraft in the medium range, cars in the short range and trucks
for freight traffic. As a project leader for plan development, I
have been involved in various infrastructural projects and system
developments. I found my passion and discovered that I just needed
more freedom. So in 2000 I decided to continue as an independent
contractor.
Then a huge challenge crossed my path: participating in the
creation of the HSL-Zuid, the high-speed line that connects the
Netherlands to the European high-speed network. In a complicated
and very technical arena, I was responsible for the relationship
with Belgium with the aim of ensuring that the Thalys trains could
cross the border into Belgium effortlessly. An important issue in
this was the integration of the new European interlocking system
ERTMS in the train and the infrastructure.
I have been busy for some time now with the rail link between
the Betuwe line and Germany. Good cooperation with the Germans is a
requirement for this. I am confronted with an entirely different
style of work, with great cultural differences and a complex German
organisational structure. It is my job to have the Betuwe line link
properly with the German rail network towards the Ruhr industrial
area as part of the European Freight Corridor A from the Rotterdam
harbours to Genoa. As an independent advisor, I think that the
available budget for projects can be spent more efficiently if
greater attention is paid to good cooperation and if there is
enough expertise in organisations with sufficient focus on the
interests of the stakeholders. As the Attica Advisory Team, we are
capable of making a substantial contribution with an optimum use of
money, manpower and effort.
As a change of pace from work activities in the transport
sector, I am taking a yoga instructor's course in my free time and
I give yoga lessons on a regular basis. I enjoy the change and it
helps me focus on the moment in my daily life. In addition, I love
heading up to the mountains with family and friends for beautiful
hikes, climbs and vistas. |