The story of Sanne Apperloo
‘I get the opportunity to learn new things, try them out and (partly) arrange my job to my liking.’
With my MSc Environmental Science Degree (marine ecology specialisation) in my pocket, I started looking for my first job. I soon came across a vacancy at Witteveen+Bos, and I am now part of the Environmental Impact Offshore Energy group. Within this team, my job is to investigate the environmental impact of offshore (as well as onshore) energy systems, such as wind turbines, solar panels and cable connections.
What I love about working at Witteveen+Bos is the space we are given to learn and try out new things. For instance, I am now learning how to prepare Environmental Impact Assessments and the role of permits in the protection of species (flora and fauna). My colleagues are also very nice, and the atmosphere is informal and committed. For example, we regularly go on a walk together during our lunch hour. In addition to my role as an energy transition project engineer, I am also a member of the neWBie Committee. This is a committee made up of colleagues that organises informative and informal activities for all colleagues who have been working at Witteveen+Bos for less than 5 years. Such activities include lunch lectures, workshops, get-togethers and sporting trips. I find that these additional tasks really complement my job: I get to see a whole different side of my work, build a great network and unleash my passion for organising.
In the future, I would like to develop myself further towards environmental specialist with ecology as a niche. But for now, I’m exactly where I want to be.