Séverine Verduyckt

Can you describe your role/position at Umicore?

As an Engineering Trainee, I had the opportunity to get to know a lot of departments at Umicore, including the blast furnace. When a position opened up there, I didn’t hesitate to apply. I’ve been working as a Technical Assistant, Process since 2018. This means that I keep a close eye on the blast furnace process and help optimize it.

What do you like about your job?

My work is very varied and challenging. No two days are the same and that's what makes it so interesting! I really get the chance to take the lead in various projects and that brings me into contact with a lot of people from other departments. In addition, I’m constantly learning new things, so I can develop my potential further.

What do you like about working at Umicore?

The first thing that struck me when I started at Umicore was the way newcomers are received: it’s friendly and collegial. I felt very welcome straight away. Another plus is safety, because Umicore does everything possible to protect every member of staff against accidents. The flexible working hours are great advantage, too, for a good work-life balance.

Why did you want to work at Umicore?

Umicore is an international company with a good reputation. When I graduated as an industrial engineer, I seized the unique opportunity to do a traineeship and get my career off to a good start in this renowned company immediately. I can identify fully with the Umicore corporate vision, so applying for a ‘permanent’ job was a logical step for me.

What do you look forward to when you set off to work in the morning?

My great colleagues and the friendly atmosphere at the workplace mean that I’m happy to get up in the morning. We work hard at Umicore, but we laugh a lot, too.

What has been the highlight of your time at Umicore so far?

My experience here so far has been very instructive from every point of view. Carrying out projects successfully gives me a huge sense of satisfaction every time! The team-building sessions are definitely worth mentioning as well, because they bring our team even closer together.

Any advice for newcomers?

The Engineering Traineeship at Umicore is really worth recommending: you go through various departments, so you get to know the company really well. That way, you have a clearer idea what jobs are possible straight away. You are given a lot of responsibilities, but you are properly supervised and monitored, as well. At the same time, you follow all sorts of training courses to hone your technical capabilities and your soft skills. In short, it is the ideal springboard for your further career at Umicore.