.

After studying Electrical Engineering at the Eindhoven University of Technology – where he was deeply involved in student life through various committees and associations, and worked as a student teacher, giving courses and running labs – Rick found his perfect match at Nobleo. The combination of technical challenges and a vibrant workplace culture made him feel right at home.

Finding his way

When he completed his electrical engineering degree Rick knew exactly what he didn’t want: being just another engineer in a large corporation. “After finishing my internships and graduation project I realized I wanted to be involved in all facets of a project, from A to Z. That automatically ruled out companies like DAF or ASML, where you are just working on a small piece of the puzzle.”
This led him to engineering consultancy firms such as Nobleo. “When first visiting Nobleo for my job interview, I knew they were different from other engineering companies. I felt this buzz that just drew me in. Seeing test robots driving around and feeling the vibrant energy of the workplace made it feel like a technical playground.”
He wasn’t immediately convinced it would work out, however. What did an electrical engineer have to offer a company primarily focused on mechanical and software engineering? “It turned out they were just starting to build the electro competence and were looking for someone to join. That sounded quite exciting.” The initial scepticism quickly turned into excitement about the possibilities and challenges ahead.

Battery balancer challenge

One of Rick’s most challenging projects was developing a battery balancing machine for a startup client. “We had just four months to design and build a prototype with a team of five,” Rick explains. “The prototype was needed urgently – if we couldn’t deliver, the client’s whole operation would be at risk. Initially we thought, ‘How hard can it be? We will just connect a resistor when it’s too full’. But figuring out exactly how full a battery is, turned out to be incredibly difficult.”
Despite the challenges the team delivered, and Rick found particular satisfaction in solving those cutting-edge technical problems. “At university, you’re always pushing the boundaries of technology. This project brought back that feeling of exploring new technical territory.”

Bridging technology and people

The battery balancer project also taught him about the importance of clear client communication as the client was so pleased with the prototype that he immediately ordered eight copies. Not realising that it was just a first version that needed further development. “There is often a gap between technology and those who want to use it. They often don’t understand each other,” he explains. Drawing from his experience teaching at university, Rick is excellent at bridging this gap. “I truly enjoy making technology understandable to clients. It’s similar to what I did at university, teaching complex technical concepts to students.”

Building the Nobleo E-lab

Being a self-starter, Rick also took it upon himself to establish an electronics laboratory during a quieter period. “When I started working here, they didn’t have a fixed place for their electronics equipment”, he says. “So, I thought why not create a proper e-lab?” The fact that he can undertake such initiatives is what he truly enjoys about working at Nobleo. “If you see something that needs doing and you have a good idea, there’s support to make it happen.”

The social engineer

Rick’s personality shines through in his approach to both work and company life. A natural joiner, he enthusiastically participates in every company event he can. “If there’s an activity, I’m usually in,” he says. Whether it’s tackling mud runs with colleagues -complete with company-provided shirts – staying late for the legendary Friday night drinks or joining the annual Snobleo ski trip, Rick fully embraces the social side of Nobleo. His enthusiasm extends to the company’s international events. “We have these amazing cultural evenings”, he adds. “Our South African colleagues for example organise regular braais – and don’t you dare call it a barbecue – and we have Indian evenings where colleagues share their cultural cuisine. It’s a fantastic way to get to know your colleagues better.”

A perfect blend

For Rick, Nobleo offers the perfect blend of technical challenges and social interaction. “Nobleo is first and foremost a technological company,” he reflects. “Technology is our core business and that is how we make money. But the social aspect of the company is second to none and very important too. If you value both technical excellence and a strong social environment, you will fit right in.”

Visit for more information about working at Nobleo our career page –> Engineering Careers at Nobleo

.