Alewijnse has been active for 130 years in integrating electrical and automation systems in the maritime sector. For the past six years, they have been working closely with De Gilde Groep, and we are one of their preferred suppliers. What is the secret of this collaboration? Personal attention, flexibility, and a strong bond of trust.
Catalin Florea, Manager Installing & Commissioning, has held this role for three years. “When I took over my department, Alewijnse was still working with 15 to 20 different temp agencies,” he explains. “I noticed that the market had changed and wanted to work with a smaller group of reliable partners. Partners with whom we could make clear plans and build long-term relationships.”
Flexibility as the Key Word
This is important because Alewijnse operates in a very dynamic sector. Asked to summarize the collaboration in one word, Catalin is clear: “Flexibility. When I call, it gets arranged. Regularly, we need a few additional skilled workers at short notice. I call my contact at De Gilde Groep, and everything is done to ensure the right people are available at the required time, which almost always succeeds. Including completed administration. That’s what I call flexibility.”
This flexibility translates into trust. “What I appreciate is that there is never any pressure. It’s not: ‘I have people, find work for them.’ It’s: ‘If you have work, let us know, and we’ll make sure the right people are ready.’ That makes the collaboration very pleasant.”
More Than Just Resumes
The decision to choose De Gilde Groep as a strategic partner was based on past experiences. “In a previous role as project coordinator, I already had good experiences with De Gilde Groep. What impressed me most is the way they approach skilled workers. They look beyond just the resume. Of course, a resume is important, but nowadays it doesn’t tell the whole story. That’s why I value that De Gilde Groep carefully screens candidates, checks references, and ensures that their experience aligns with real-world practice. That builds trust.”
What also builds trust is the personal approach. “Employees need to feel comfortable. It’s not just about technical skills but also about someone’s personal situation. What stands out to me is that employees first visit De Gilde Groep’s headquarters before starting on our site. There, they receive thorough onboarding: clothing, tools, sometimes a car, and guidance on safety. This means De Gilde Groep already sees and supports them before they start with us. I see that as a real plus.”
“De Gilde Groep demonstrates how they support skilled workers so they feel comfortable working in a country far from their family. That impressed me. It shows that they understand it’s about people, not numbers. And you notice that in the collaboration.”
Future Plans
Currently, skilled workers from De Gilde Groep are involved in innovative projects at Alewijnse, such as building a fleet of autonomous ships. They install alarm systems and handle the complete electrical installation, including distribution boards, cabling, and connections.
And the future? According to the manager, it looks promising. “Alewijnse has many large projects ahead. Our own installation team is large, but we can’t handle all the work alone. That’s why we need strong partners like De Gilde Groep. Partners who strengthen us with reliability, flexibility, and a personal relationship. That is the foundation of trust. And trust is crucial in our industry.”
For Alewijnse, De Gilde Groep is the partner for certainty, flexibility, and craftsmanship. Why not for your project as well?