Rik's journey through cutting-edge technology at Nobleo

Nine years ago, Rik Houwers made a strategic decision to relocate from Delft to Eindhoven for his career at Nobleo. As a mechanical engineer specialising in flexure mechanisms, he discovered the perfect match in the Brainport region—a thriving ecosystem abundant with precision mechanics opportunities. And as a consultant for Nobleo he got the chance to step inside various companies and learn from their unique approaches.

Why Eindhoven?

“I interviewed with three companies simultaneously—two others near Delft,” Rik reflects on his job search after graduating from the Delft University of Technology. “But I found Eindhoven had the strongest alignment with my education and field of expertise. Precision mechanics applications are most advanced here; this region simply offers the best and most extensive opportunities in this field. So ultimately the choice to relocate to Eindhoven and join Nobleo’s consultancy program was an easy one.” 

Nobleo’s development program

What particularly appealed to Rik was Nobleo’s extensive mentoring program for new employees. The program included monthly conversations with a soft skills coach and regular technical discussions with the CTO. “It focused on identifying and leveraging your strengths and talents. Helping you create self-awareness regarding your capabilities and areas for growth.” This approach spoke to Rik as he believes that people thrive when operating within their strengths. 

From theory to practice

Rik’s first external assignment involved developing sophisticated vibration measurement equipment at a leading high-tech company. “For this project I could make use of all the skills I had learned at university – designing flexure mechanisms, conducting FEM analyses – truly building on my strengths.” Working under an experienced lead engineer provided invaluable mentorship. “He gave me the opportunity to grow steadily into my role as engineer, gradually increasing my responsibilities and allowing me to utilise my core competencies.” 

His subsequent project presented different challenges: developing a precision vacuum robot with a team of nearly fifty engineers under tight deadlines. “The complexity lay in coordinating such a large team while maintaining zero-defect standards. Every component had to function perfectly from day one, requiring extensive verification, review processes, and meticulous component management.” 

Pursuing technical passion

After these first experiences as a consultant, Rik found he had a knack for solving complex technical puzzles. Having helped develop two measuring systems, he wanted to deepen his expertise in this field. “When designing a measuring machine, you need to thoroughly understand how it operates. If you don’t, you can’t properly evaluate the quality of your measurements. The analytical approach that is required for design of metrology systems suits me well.” 

He found an ideal opportunity at a company specialised in creating groundbreaking measurement solutions. “I had to help design an exceptionally advanced system, truly cutting-edge in accuracy. As the mechanical architect had just departed, there was a bit of a knowledge gap and so many things had to be figured out again. We had to develop crucial concepts and optimise designs to meet the specs. Giving me the opportunity to be at the forefront of technology.” 

Pushing boundaries on and off the job

After five demanding years as a consultant, Rik decided to take a five-and-a-half-month sabbatical to step back and reconsider his next move. “I wanted to take the time to step away and see clearly what I wanted to do next,” he explains. He built his own camper van and headed for the Alps for some serious paragliding.  That adventurous streak was already evident when studying in Delft, when he divided his focus between academics and competitive cycling.  

He eventually joined the Human Power Team; a student team focused on developing an aerodynamic recumbent bicycle to break speed records. He first joined to help built the streamlined bike before stepping in as their cyclist. Reaching an astonishing 132.3 km/h in a record attempt. “It is such a thrill to feel the energy of the bicycle when riding at such high speed. You feel it in every fibre of your body. It’s an absolute blast!” After a knee injury, Rik eventually redirected his competitive spirit into speed skating, riding marathons at national level—an achievement made possible in part by Nobleo’s support. 

Supporting growth

This sponsorship and the sabbatical Rik took highlight something crucial about Nobleo’s approach: they genuinely support their people’s ambitions, whether professional or personal. It demonstrates the company’s drive—not just in helping their consultants become the best engineer possible, but also in recognising that diverse experiences enhance their professional capabilities.