Interview with Rebecca
Starting a career can be an exciting challenge for young people, particularly in male-dominated fields like production. In an interview, Rebecca, a Belgian student who has gained hands-on experience through several internships at our site in Hoogstraten, shares her journey into production and provides valuable insights from her time at RKW.
1) What attracted you working at RKW? Why did you decide to work at RKW in Hoogstraten?
"What drew me to RKW was the chance to gain hands-on experience in a well-established company. Taking on a summer job at RKW in Hoogstraten not only helped me earn some extra money during my summer break but also gave me the opportunity to learn new skills. I have always found the working environment to be professional, and I really appreciate the chance to return each summer."
2) What else do you think companies like RKW can do to attract the younger generation (e.g. Gen Z) of employees?
"Prioritize sustainability: Environmental issues matter a lot to Gen Z. If RKW highlights its eco-friendly practices, such as using sustainable materials and minimizing waste, it will likely resonate with them."
3) What more could companies like RKW, involved in the manufacturing and technical world, do to be more interesting to female candidates?
"Creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming workplace is important, especially in workplaces like factories that can sometimes feel intimidating. Promoting an environment of respect, safety, and inclusivity can help ensure women feel secure and valued. It is also important to support women in leadership roles by showcasing female leaders within the company, demonstrating that there are real opportunities for growth and success for women in manufacturing. This can help break the idea that manufacturing is only for men. Additionally, actively striving for gender equality by ensuring equal pay and promoting diversity can reassure female candidates that they will be treated fairly and have equal opportunities to succeed."
4) How does your daily work at RKW look like and what did you like most at the job?
"Every day in production can be different because it mostly depends on the customer orders. The type of foil we use and how we pack it changes based on these orders. The shift always starts with a briefing from the previous team, where they share important details from their day, like any order changes or technical issues they faced. After the briefing, one team member completes a checklist to ensure that all raw materials are available and that the machine is functioning properly. Then, we begin working on the order with the highest priority. Throughout the day, we focus on packing the foil according to the customer's preferences, refilling the materials, and monitoring the machine. When the day ends, the next team takes over, and this time it is our turn to give the briefing."
5) What was the most challenging task?
"The toughest part for me was actually getting started. As a woman, I was nervous about whether I would be able to keep up with the physical demands of the job or fit into a predominantly male environment. Once I got over that initial fear, I found that the work was manageable with some effort and the support of my colleagues."
6) You have spent several times at our Hoogstraten site. What was the main reason for you to come back?
"This past summer was my sixth summer at RKW Hoogstraten, and the main reason I have come back year after year is because I have always felt welcomed and appreciated as part of the team. From the beginning, everyone was helpful and patient, which made a big difference in making me feel comfortable, especially in a job I was not sure I could handle at first. Over time, I have learned a variety of practical skills, from improving my efficiency in packing to understanding how the production process works. Each year, I have found myself becoming more handy and confident, handling tasks that initially seemed challenging with ease. The combination of gaining hands-on experience in such a supportive environment has made it an easy decision to come back each summer."
Are you interested in a career at RKW? Take a look at our vacancies here.