As a writer, you sometimes find inspiration in unexpected places. Late last year, I wrote an article about the keel-laying of a sloop being built by the group of Scalda students who are receiving training at our yard. Our Managing Director, Roland Briene, welded the coin onto the keel, and I thought: I want to be able to do that too. Welding, grinding, cutting and much more.

Text: Eefje Koppers

So many interesting and innovative things happen at Damen, and such talented people work here who deserve to be in the spotlight. That’s how the idea was born for a new series of Schelde Schakels articles: the ‘Behind the Scenes’ series. The goal is threefold: first, I want to learn more about the different disciplines and specialisations within Damen Naval and give them the recognition they deserve. Second, it’s an opportunity to give Schelde Schakels readers a unique look behind the scenes. And third, it increases my knowledge of the company and the industry we work in, and I’ve already experienced how valuable that can be.

Senior Communications Advisor Eefje Koppers. Senior Communications Advisor Eefje Koppers.

At the end of 2024, I was fortunate to be allowed to sail along for a week during the first sea trials of the new Royal Netherlands Navy Combat Support Ship. At the time, the ship was on its way from Romania to our yard in Vlissingen. Of course, I thought it was fantastic to be part of that journey, but I couldn’t yet imagine how much those six days on board would help me in my daily work. I got to know the ship from top to bottom, which was very valuable in the preparations for the festive christening in early 2025. But even more importantly, I learned a lot about life on board. I discovered so many of the things involved in designing, building and delivering a naval ship, and the work our people carry out during sea trials.

I now better understand the fascinating world we work in, and with this series I hope to expand that knowledge further. So this year I’m taking on the challenge of exploring different specialisations and trying new things. Apart from the welding course, which I’m counting down to as I write this, I won’t reveal anything else just yet. But… if you have an idea of something else I could try, I’m open to suggestions. Email your idea to redactie@damennaval.com, and who knows, I might give it a go.

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