'What you do, you must do well. Always'

With 42 years of experience, Erwin Kalmeijer (59) has more than earned his spurs in the construction industry. Starting as a carpenter, he has developed in the "old-fashioned" way to become a cooperating foreman, project leader and (chief) foreman. "I've never been afraid to take responsibility," he says. "But also not afraid to take on big(er) projects. I have always had a healthy drive to grow and advance, but above all to do what I enjoy. Because only if you enjoy going to work every day can you make truly beautiful things."

Erwin is traditionally used to working with his hands. "When I went to LTS after elementary school, I had the opportunity to explore different trades. From plumber to plasterer and joiner," he says. "My main interest turned out to be carpentry, so I went into carpentry school. I also briefly tried to go to the MTS, because the profession of architect also seemed interesting, but I was quite a flier and found playing outside more important, so that didn't last. I went back to level B and got my carpentry and masonry diploma, after which I started working in construction." For the first few years, he worked for a contractor in new construction, renovation and restoration. "Here I learned the craftsmanship as well as was taught the proper work ethic. I became aware of the importance of cooperation and job satisfaction. But also that I should never settle for less. What you do, you have to do well. Always."

'You get a lot more done with molasses than with vinegar'

GOOD HARMONY

"Even in my current role as a contractor, I carry this work ethic with me," Erwin said. "I think good harmony on the construction site is incredibly important. You get a lot more done with molasses than with vinegar. Only when employees feel respected, appreciated and heard do you create togetherness and a situation where people are willing to do something for each other. My starting point is always that everyone is 100% committed, but also that everyone can come up with good ideas. From the apprentice mechanic to the experienced professional. I find it very important to have people around me who feel involved and are willing to put their shoulders to the wheel of a project together. Finding these people, however, is becoming increasingly difficult. The pool of good professionals is getting thin. This started when I left school, but gained momentum when construction flourished in the 1970s. Suddenly no time or money was invested in training. We are still reaping the sour fruits of that. It is very difficult to get young people interested in construction. Moreover, the mentality has changed, which regularly makes my hands itch to go back to carpentry."

'Velox helps me find the right job within my field and interest'

NEW LIFE

A carpenter at heart, Erwin is particularly passionate about the renovation, restoration and reuse of buildings. "I like to breathe new life into things," he says. His latest assignment fits this perfectly. Since November 2022, Erwin has been working as a contractor at Ballast Nedam Zuid through Velox. He recently started the transformation of a former boys' school from 1929 on Kootwijkstraat into fourteen contemporary rental apartments on behalf of this Eindhoven-based contractor. He is currently managing a team of six demolition workers, two masons, two plumbers, two carpenters and four metal stud builders. "Soon I will add some plasterers, electricians and MV fitters and I will start the transformation of a second school, on Barrierweg, into seven rental apartments." Erwin is very pleased with his team. "They are all professionals with an old-fashioned approach, who are not afraid to take on (extra) tasks. That works enormously pleasant." Still, he is not considering going into salaried employment with these men. "I never want to lose my independence as a self-employed person. With Velox, I don't have to. Velox just helps me find the right job within my field and interest."