Benjamin didn’t begin his career in production, but as a driver transporting sea containers. As safety on the road continued to decline, life as a driver became increasingly demanding, and Benjamin realized it was time to close that chapter of his career.
He applied at FrieslandCampina Aalter and, after completing several assessments, was able to start almost immediately. From the very beginning, he noticed the open and supportive atmosphere: colleagues are approachable, think along with you, and readily share their knowledge. This positive work environment, combined with his interest in technology and processes, motivated him to take the step toward a role in production.
Today, Benjamin works as an operator with responsibility for several machines at the Aalter site. His development has been supported by targeted training, structured guidance, and a team that actively invests in each other’s growth.
标题
Making an Impact in the Production Process
One of the projects Benjamin is particularly proud of is his involvement in the start-up of line 3. “It felt special to help build something new from the very beginning,” he says. “You see an empty hall turn into a fully operational line. You are truly part of that.” During this process, he learned not only the technical aspects, but also the entire journey from granule to bottle. Benjamin enthusiastically explains how preforms are heated, shaped into bottles, filled, sealed, and finally placed on pallets. “Only when you see how many steps are involved before a bottle reaches the shelf do you realize how important everyone in the process is.”
Benjamin believes it’s important to share this sense of pride. That’s why special moments, such as the opening of a new department, make a lasting impression on him. It means a lot to him that employees are allowed to bring their families to show what they do every day. “That makes your work even more valuable,” he says. “It finally allows you to show everything that’s behind that single bottle of milk or drinking yoghurt.”
标题
A Close-Knit Atmosphere Where Everyone Counts
According to Benjamin, the atmosphere within FrieslandCampina may well be its greatest asset. “Everyone is friendly. You never feel like just a number. When you’re new, everyone comes up to you for a chat. You immediately feel part of the team.” Team outings strengthen that feeling, but so does daily collaboration. People help each other, give feedback, and work together to find solutions.
He also noticed that FrieslandCampina invests not only in job satisfaction and development, but also in well-being. For example, he receives meal vouchers and benefits from a hospitalization insurance that even covers his entire family.
In addition, management involvement is strong. The plant director regularly visits the shop floor for a short conversation. “It may seem small, but it really makes a difference. You feel that they are genuinely interested in the people behind the work. That open culture ensures that issues can be discussed openly and successes are shared. The team doesn’t work alongside each other, but with each other,” Benjamin concludes.