Photonjobs - Cees: The chance to build something from nothing

Hi, I’m Cees. Born in Amsterdam and living in Maarssen, the Netherlands. My technical journey started at the Twente University in Enschede, the Netherlands with my studies in electrical engineering and applied mathematics. Since then, I’ve explored the software, manufacturing, and innovation industries. A career highlight? Helping introduce Wi-Fi and make it into a worldwide standard. Later, I founded a low-power Wi-Fi start-up, that I successfully sold to a large American chip company. After this exciting journey I became a consultant, and this is how photonics crossed my path.

And needless to say, I was immediately hooked. The industry of light and photonics is bursting with energy and potential but still in its infancy compared to for instance the chip industry. The market is still quite fragmented over many different applications and comes with a lot of precision and craftsmanship. With my background, I’ve seen how the tech industry is constantly evolving. Every segment, from start-ups to large corporations, has its own unique flavor and character. That diversity makes the work so inspiring. In the Dutch Photonics Industry, I feel that same energy: the freedom to innovate, the challenge to grow, and the impact of cutting-edge technologies.

Nothing is set in stone, which offers the chance to build something meaningful from the ground up. The thrill of starting from scratch in a disruptive industry drives me. In my experience, the key to a successful career is simple: stay curious and keep learning. Photonics is an exciting, emerging field brimming with innovation and opportunities. It’s your chance to dive deep into a technology that’s shaping the future.

I have also learned that the Dutch photonics ecosystem stands out as a uniquely collaborative and welcoming environment, where companies actively support each other and prioritise knowledge-sharing over narrow-minded competition. Unlike the often cut-throat dynamics in the semiconductor industry, Dutch photonics companies embrace a culture of openness, working together to tackle challenges and drive innovation. This spirit of cooperation, backed by the many Dutch governmental supporting initiatives, makes the Netherlands a hub for photonics excellence and that is unique.

Beyond the opportunities, the people in the Dutch Photonics Industry make it all the more special. My team includes diverse talents: PhDs and Masters from global universities and business experts with strategic insights. It also comes from many diverse cultures and international backgrounds making it a small world on its own. This blend of technical brilliance and fresh perspectives fuels our creativity and makes our work both challenging and rewarding.

I knew little about photonics when I started, but my story shows that curiosity and the desire to learn keeps opening doors for me. If you’re ready to dive into a fast-evolving field and help shape the future, photonics is your opportunity now! Join us, grow with us, and let’s shape the future together!