TechCampus Haarlemmermeer
Annelies Osinga: “We need to collaborate now to ensure we have enough skilled professionals in the future.” A shortage of skilled technical workers. Education struggling to keep up with industry developments. And an urgent need for construction. In Haarlemmermeer, these challenges have sparked action. Through TechCampus, businesses, educational institutions and local government are joining forces; SEGRO’s Community Investment Plan (CIP) is proud to be one of the partners. We spoke with TechCampus director Annelies Osinga: “We need to act now, together, to make sure we have enough skilled professionals in the future.”
Demand for technical staff is rising fast. Housing development and the energy transition in Haarlemmermeer are putting pressure on the sector. At the same time, companies report that recent graduates often lack the right skills – not because they lack talent, but because education can’t always keep pace with rapid developments in the field. “That’s exactly where TechCampus makes a difference,” says Osinga. “We connect education and industry, so both can evolve in response to what society needs today and tomorrow.”
The key to a stronger future
To develop more – and better – technical professionals, action was needed. “If we don’t act now,” Osinga explains, “the gap between demand and supply in the technical sector will only grow. Collaboration is the key to change. That shared belief is what inspired TechCampus. The initiative originated in the construction sector, where the need was most pressing, and it was immediately embraced by stakeholders across the entire technical landscape.”
“We need each other to build a stronger future for the technical professions.”
TechCampus has a clear and ambitious goal: to ensure that everyone in Haarlemmermeer who wants to work in the technical sector can access the right education, training and job opportunities – from young students and vocational learners to career changers and professionals seeking further development. “Of course, TechCampus also plays a vital role for employers,” Osinga adds. “Companies urgently need skilled workers – ideally yesterday. And they know exactly what’s needed: specific skills, up-to-date knowledge, today. That’s why we need each other – to build a stronger future for technical professions.”
A vital connector
TechCampus is a partnership between local technical businesses, Nova College, Bouwmensen Midden-Holland BV, IW Leren en Werken, Tetrix Techniekopleidingen BV and the Municipality of Haarlemmermeer. “It’s about combining strengths and knowledge. Together, we’re committed to achieving our goals. We’ve developed action plans in four areas: choosing technical education, learning and working, lifelong development, and innovation. And finally: building an ecosystem, an integrated, multidisciplinary network. TechCampus is the connector between all these partners and action lines.”
SEGRO is a proud partner of TechCampus through our Community Investment Plan. It’s a natural fit: as a logistics real estate developer, we’re closely connected to the construction sector. At the same time, we are committed to strengthening the technical workforce, promoting a resilient labour market, and creating more opportunities for young professionals and skilled workers. And we’re already putting that commitment into action. In February, together with Nova College, we co-hosted the TechniekDag (Technology Day). Mbo electrical engineering students explored current topics in their field, gained new insights, and made real-world connections. A practical and inspiring way to link education, business and employment ánd exactly what TechCampus is all about. We look forward to deepening our collaboration with SEGRO CIP and creating even greater impact together.
“We’re always looking for companies who want to invest in the future.”
Become a TechCampus partner
Making impact is never a solo effort, and for Osinga, that’s a given. “We urgently need businesses and entrepreneurs to help build a network that really works. Only together can we increase enrolment in technical education, align it better with industry needs, and make lifelong learning a natural part of working life.”
Osinga invites companies to get involved:“There are so many ways to contribute. Share your ideas about regional challenges, help improve education by providing feedback on learning materials, or guide students and career changers on the work floor. Got a different idea? We’re open to everything and always happy to meet. Together, we make the difference.”
Want to become a partner, share your ideas, or ask a question? Email Annelies at: info@techcampus.nl