Personal stories
Karin, Mechanical Engineer
Karin van de Haar
Position: Mechanical Engineer, since September 2005
Education: Mechanical engineering, University of Twente
Joined via recruitment agency
'I learned of SABIC through my internship at DSM in 2003. It was around that time that SABIC took over the petrochemical business from DSM. I eventually joined SABIC via a recruitment agency.'
Why SABIC?
'I very much liked the informal atmosphere in the company. Of course I was also attracted by the job itself; in the plant I learn about the practical side of things and I learn the theoretics from behind my desk. SABIC also offers good career opportunities. Furthermore, the location appealed to me very much. I've been living in the center of Maastricht for a short while now, and I already love that city!'
Have a look everywhere
'I started as a Mechanical Engineer and during the first year I work in different areas. This way I can have a look everywhere and I get to meet a lot of people. In January 2007, I'll have a permanent position in the Logistics department. After three years there will be a review as to what I've achieved and we will discuss my next steps.'
Well organized
'Everything is really well organized at SABIC, while they still give you a lot of freedom. There are many training opportunities. I've already followed a technical course for instance and in the near future I'll be attending a basic management course. There are many collective facilities too; various sports clubs offer you sharply reduced rates. I really think SABIC is the ideal employer.'
What about cultural differences?
'Originally, SABIC is a Saudi company, but you don't really notice that here. SABIC Europe is an independent European unit, which from a financial point of view too has to fend for itself. Obviously, our company employs a lot of women. Although. there aren't that many women in the technical environment I'm working in.'
