Face behind the engineer

KIVI

Face behind the engineer

Who do you picture when someone talks about an engineer? Do you immediately think of a nerd, or an inventor like you see in films?

Engineers are ordinary, nice people with a passion for their profession. Just like a doctor, a marketer or a nail technician, for example. To show this, we have made films of engineers from different disciplines talking about their profession and why they chose engineering. There is an immense choice in technical fields.

Watch the videos and get inspired. Maybe engineering is something for you?

so many engineers, so many stories

Engineers all have their own reasons for choosing this profession. Which one appeals to you the most?

Engineers' stories about their profession

Below, 13 different engineers answer questions about their work. Is there another question you would have liked to ask them? Then let us know!

Thanks to KIVI engineers Arwen Matijssen, Bas Vos, Daan Verbruggen, Daniel Wijma, Elma Schoenmaker, Linda Docters van Leeuwen, Maaike Klein Overmeen, Milan Meijer, Otto Schepers, Paul Sinnema, Pim van Beeck, Sabine Batenburg, and Tom Vleerbos.

Why did you become an engineer?

What's fun about the profession?

Does anything ever go wrong in your work?

What are your ambitions?

What project have you been working on recently?

Engineers are changing the world

In the video below, you will see more about what engineers do: they invent smart solutions to all kinds of problems. Engineers are inventors who not only dream, but also turn their ideas into reality. Curious about how engineers work? Then watch the video and discover the world of engineering and innovation!

Become an engineer?

There are of course courses for engineers involved in the construction of roads and buildings, and for engineers who make sure we have electricity, or soap, lubricating oil, mobile phones, cars, windmills, sound boxes, games, manufacturing systems, tunnels, and much more.

But did you know, for example, that there is 'medical engineering', which develops tools for doctors? Or 'food technology', which deals with food safety and food allergies?

On this webpage , you will find engineering courses in all directions that exist. in this list, you will surely find more engineering professions that you did not know yet.

More information?

This series of videos has been specially developed for children and young people in primary and secondary education. At a time when pupils have to make choices about their profile, study or career at an early age, we want to inspire and inform them about the broad and impactful profession of engineering.

Because what does an engineer actually do? And which studies can you follow if you want to become an engineer? The videos answer those questions in an accessible, visual and recognisable way.

Why this is important
The Netherlands has been struggling with a structural shortage of engineers for years. This is worrying, because engineers play a crucial role in solving social issues, from energy transition and infrastructure to healthcare technology and digital security. If we show children and young people early on how versatile and relevant engineering is, we increase the chances that they will choose a STEM future.

Join us: introduce young people to engineering
We invite teachers, deans, parents and professionals to show these videos in the classroom or at home - or share them through your own network. The videos are free to use and there is no charge.

Questions or need support from a coach? Get in touch with us!

Together we will show how valuable and versatile the engineering profession is.

Career oriented - for future engineers

The Royal Institute of Engineers (KIVI) is the professional association for all (aspiring) engineers in the Netherlands. KIVI engineers have very diverse backgrounds and a wealth of experience. Experience they are happy to share with students so that they can prepare themselves for professional practice.

Do you want to prepare for your future engineering career? Then book with your fellow students a Career Faster meet & greet with KIVI engineers. Experienced engineers will share their personal experiences of professional practice, you can ask questions and discuss options for your career choices. Afterwards, you can talk further about their and your motivations and considerations for your future in an individual interview with a KIVI engineering coach.

Sign up for coaching event