questions for IJsbrand de Vos
What education did you do?
IJsbrand: ‘At the Leidse instrumentmakers School, I specialised in working with metal. During this MBO programme, you learn machining techniques to make fine mechanical instruments. Many graduates go on to work in the aerospace sector, the medical world or at universities. For example, they make test assemblies and single-piece instruments. I graduated in spring 2023.’
How did you get the idea to enter an NLF competition?
‘In the last six months of the programme, you work at a company on your final assignment. For me, that was at T-Minus, a company that manufactures rockets. After the graduation presentations, my physics teacher suggested that my project be submitted for an NLF award. I had never heard of the NLF before, but I thought it would be nice to show my work to more people. Besides, you can earn a nice amount of money with an award, which also motivates. My teacher arranged the registration.’
What was your final assignment about?
‘T-Minus builds suborbital rockets. These are rockets that only go straight up and are mostly used for atmospheric research. My assignment was to build a separation system to disconnect two parts of a so-called Barracuda rocket in mid-air. I started googling, querying experts and designing and testing. In the end, I made a small prototype to test with, because only then will you really know if it works.’
What was it like to win the award?
‘All nominees had to give a presentation on their entry at the awards gala. I was the only MBO student. That was kind of exciting. During the pitches, I noticed that my story was different because it was about aerospace industry practice. I had brought along a few prototypes and was able to demonstrate live how the system works. Then I thought: if my story is good enough, I have a chance. And then I won – a pleasant surprise.’
What does the prize contribute to your future?
‘Immediately after the MBO programme I started at T-Minus, which is where I still work. Still, the award is a crowning achievement of my graduation. If I ever apply for another job, I'm sure it will be a plus.’
Do you have a tip for other MBO students about the NLF competition?
‘As an MBO student, you might wonder: is that something for me, giving a talk on a stage? Then I say: just do it! You have worked with passion on your final assignment for six months and you are certainly not inferior to students at a college or university. At a gala like this, you sit with like-minded people and hear all kinds of stories about aerospace. In the beginning, I felt a bit like the odd one out with my construction boots, while everyone else was dressed up. But it didn't matter. In fact, I think it would be nice if more MBO students with their practical stories connected with the NLF.’
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