Meet the people | Richard van Beek: From Trainee to Team Leader, driven by growth and connection

From completing his studies and living adventures abroad to leading a production team: Richard’s career is one of conscious choices, personal growth, and embracing change. What started as a “golden opportunity” in AWL’s Technical Traineeship evolved into a leadership role where the focus is not on machines, but on people. A story about leadership, balance, and the power of vulnerability.

A golden opportunity

Richard’s journey began with a Mechanical Engineering degree in Zwolle. “I quickly realized that I didn’t want to go too deep into engineering. Thanks to elective courses, I was able to broaden my scope toward Industrial Engineering & Management.” After graduating, he chose adventure abroad twice before returning to the Netherlands.

That’s when AWL crossed his path. The position he applied for was already filled, but he was offered a spot in the Technical Traineeship. “Looking back, that was a golden opportunity! I started as a project coordinator - a unique chance to take on this role without prior work experience, and it turned out to be a fantastic experience.”

After eighteen months, his traineeship turned into a permanent position. “The responsibility, coordinating between technicians and customers… I loved it. The best moments were delivering well-functioning machines to a satisfied customer with a project team. That really is the crown on your work.”

Five years later, he took the next step: Team Leader Production. “With a young family, less traveling was more convenient, so this role came at exactly the right time.” Now, nearly four years later, Richard is still working as Team Leader Production at AWL.

From machines to people: leadership and focus

The transition from project coordinator to team leader was a big change. “You no longer manage machines, you manage people - their development, well-being, and performance require a completely different approach.” AWL supported him with leadership training and courses. “You learn deeply about yourself, both professionally and personally - a valuable investment in yourself.”

Richard’s role is about safeguarding project planning, budgets, and quality, working closely with other departments. “It requires constant alignment and looking ahead.” At the same time, improvement remains a key element. “Projects need to be faster, smarter, and more cost-efficient. That means continuously optimizing processes, tools, and efficiency. Challenging, but exactly what makes the work interesting.”

More than technology

For Richard, it’s not just about technology, but above all about people. “You work with a team of 15 to 20 colleagues, and that requires attention. Both in formal conversations and in informal check-ins. Supporting personal growth is one of the best parts of my job.”

His team has grown considerably in recent years, partly due to internal mobility. That brings challenges in guiding new colleagues. “Luckily, I don’t have to do it alone - we carry that responsibility as a team. But a team can eventually become too large. You automatically end up giving more attention to colleagues who are struggling, and less to those who are quietly doing well. That’s not fair. So I try to deliberately seek out those quiet strengths as well.”

Keep developing: knowledge, vulnerability, and connection

Richard doesn’t stand still. “AWL offers a lot of freedom and opportunities to develop yourself both inside and outside your role. I enjoy working on improvements, new technologies, and on myself - for example, through courses or training. But in the end, the key to success lies with the team and how we work together.”

He is honest about his own growth: “In the past, I didn’t want to make mistakes, and I may have acted too professionally. I found it difficult to show vulnerability - I still do, but now I’m aware of it and getting better at it. Honesty builds trust. Admitting mistakes and sincerely saying sorry creates a connection - especially in a practical, male-dominated environment. My former team leader once told me, ‘If I know what you’re struggling with, I can help you.’ I never forgot that lesson and try to pass it on.”

Where Richard will be in five to ten years, he doesn’t know. “Growth is important - inside or outside AWL. So far, AWL has been a fantastic place where we create impressive things.” He remains realistic: “We often think you need to switch jobs multiple times, but growing within one organization is just as valuable. Stability has value too. If you come home energized, you’re in the right place.”

Richard's career tip

“My tip is: just go for it. You’ll only regret the things you don’t do. Many technicians at AWL switched careers and joined through the Technical Academy. With the right motivation and guidance, you can go far - and AWL gives you that chance.”

But also: “Keep learning, but also know that it’s okay if you’ve found your place. You don’t always need to chase the next adventure. Being happy and having energy - that’s what really counts.”