The technician who keeps things moving,
Wilbert Janssen from SEKISUI ESLON
For more than 17 years, Wilbert Janssen has been helping to keep SEKISUI ESLON running smoothly. As a Mechanical Technician, he works behind the scenes to solve technical challenges, maintain equipment, and support safe and efficient operations across the site. In this interview, Wilbert shares more about his role, what motivates him, and why he enjoys coming to work every day.
Hello Wilbert, can you introduce yourself and describe your role at SEKISUI?
I’m Wilbert Janssen, 48 years old, married, and we have two wonderful boys aged 12 and 14. I work as Technician WTB-E at SEKISUI ESLON.
Tell us more about your journey at SEKISUI: since when have you been working here, how did you hear about the company, and why did you decide to join?
I’ve been working at SEKISUI ESLON since April 2008. Before that, I was working here on a temporary assignment. That period went so well that I decided to stay, and I still really enjoy it here!
What are your tasks at SEKISUI? How would you describe a typical workday?
No two days are the same, I never know what the day will bring, and that’s what makes it fun. My tasks can vary widely, from something as straightforward as replacing a fuse to work like building a control cabinet or constructing components. Sometimes, I’m called on to realign a bent guide rail or handle other unexpected repairs. I also take responsibility for identifying and resolving technical issues as quickly as possible, always aiming to keep all machines running smoothly.
What specific processes or machines do you work with daily?
I work on all PVC extrusion lines, PVC injection molding machines, PVC mixing installations, paint spray installations, the pull-trusion line and lamination line for FFU railway sleepers, and all electrical components across the company. In short: everything.
How do you ensure quality and safety in your daily work?
I ensure quality and safety in my daily work by approaching each task with care and thoughtfulness, always adhering to the established safety and occupational health guidelines.
In addition to following these protocols, I have completed specialized training that enhances my ability to maintain a safe working environment.
This training has made me responsible for overseeing the electrical installation as an Installation Supervisor, managing the fire and smoke alarm system as a Fire Alarm Installation Supervisor, and serving as a member of the emergency response team (BHV).
These roles require vigilance, technical knowledge, and a strong commitment to safety
I take great care to ensure everything I do meets high quality standards. Even if a task takes a bit longer, I know it's done right.
What training or skills are essential for your role?
In my opinion, at least an MTS-level education (mechanical direction W+E+) is required. You need to be solution-oriented, able to reason well, understand cause and effect, and think ahead when taking action.
Can you describe a challenging situation you faced on the production floor and how you solved it?
Every day presents a new challenge, which is one of the things I enjoy most about my work. Just today, for instance, we had to realign a new machine that had damaged itself. Since it’s a new machine, it’s not unusual for issues like this to come up. These kinds of situations are always demanding, but they also keep the work dynamic and engaging.
How do you collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth operations?
I mostly work with fellow technical service colleagues and with operators from the Building and FFU shifts. The building team manufactures all components for our PVC rain gutter systems. We produce a broad variety of shapes, colours and sizes with our production lines here in Roermond. FFU is the product name of SEKISUI’s synthetic railway sleepers. Communication lines are short. I think I’m approachable and easy to talk to because I’m open and not easily rattled.
What really sets SEKISUI apart for me is the genuine appreciation shown for your work, by everyone. That sense of recognition and respect is something I find truly unique.
What do you enjoy about working at SEKISUI?
What I find most satisfying about my work is the opportunity to create something I can truly be proud of using the resources available. I take great care to ensure everything I do meets high quality standards, even if a task takes a bit longer, I know it’s done right and doesn’t need to be revisited later. What I enjoy most about working at SEKISUI is the variety each day brings. Of course, that unpredictability can also be a challenge. But that’s part of what makes the work so engaging. What really sets SEKISUI apart for me is the genuine appreciation shown for your work, by everyone. That sense of recognition and respect is something I find truly unique.
On a more personal note: what do you enjoy doing in your free time, any special activities or passions?
In my free time, I garden, do DIY projects at home, enjoy hiking, climbing (indoor climbing wall), and watching movies is one of my biggest hobbies. I even work at a cinema because of that passion.
What are your hopes or goals for the future?
That I can visit Japan someday and continue working with the same joy and great colleagues as I do now.