From physics teacher to draughtsman piping: 27-year-old André Kik is currently undergoing this remarkable career change. The two-year Piping Design & Engineering track with Dosign Academy helps him achieve this.

I had all the papers in my pocket to teach physics at high school André Kik

André's technical career began at the age of 24, after completing his advanced college degree in physics. He says: "I had all the papers in my pocket to teach physics at high school. Still, I prefered to go into business. I started working at Hydrauvision Piping BV, a company specialising in hydraulic drives and controls.”

Suitable training

André started in the Hydrauvision warehouse to gain material knowledge. Then he became a buyer and work planner, until he was given the opportunity to become a draughtsman piping, provided he followed a suitable training course. “I wanted that," André says. “I found three courses and chose for Piping Design & Engineering at Dosign Academy. Information and curriculum here were by far the soundest. I immediately had a clear picture of what I could expect. Moreover, my contact with the Academy has been good right from the start.”

Theory

Meanwhile, André is in his second year of training and one and a half years into his work as a draughtsman piping at Hydrauvision. He explains: "I mostly draft piping in and around Hydraulic Power Units. At Dosign Academy, I learn the theory behind it. Up to now, I have learned in particular how a petrochemical plant fits together and what it requires in terms of equipment, process control and design. Important here are ergonomics, pipework supporting structures and also coordinating with other departments, such as instrumentation, foundation and electrical.

Similarities

“Some of the things I learn, I can't apply directly ", André continues. “In hydraulics you work with other devices, pipework and disciplines. Then again, many working methods in the hydraulic and petrochemical sectors are similar. I draw a lot from that for my daily work. I also acquire a wealth of general knowledge, which may come in handy sooner or later." When asked whether he is still missing something in the training, André says: "I would like to see a little more in practice. On our own initiative, we recently visited a company where a fellow student works. That was very instructive and worth repeating."

Satisfied

André is very satisfied with the training. “After a busy first year with lots of assignments, the second year offers a lot more theory. So far I have reached mark 7 or higher for each test. At the end of the training I will stay at Hydrauvision for the time being. There is still plenty to learn and do there. In the future, I see myself still working in petrochemicals. Or maybe, I'm going to teach at a secondary evening school."