The story of Wouter Bijman

Creating opportunities

The combination of professional roles in projects and challenging management positions offers me the opportunity to see the world. Developing entrepreneurial skills is a gradual process, in which you create your own opportunities. In 2017, for instance, we succeeded in launching a pilot project that included the 3D-printing of concrete objects in the extreme climate conditions of Abu Dhabi. I spent months trying to raise interest in 3D concrete printing among Dubai-based contractors, without much success. They had no need for a consultant but wanted turnkey printing solutions and were apprehensive about investing. That is why we adapted and tested a second-hand printer, and developed a business case showcasing how this contracting firm could apply 3D-printing in their operations. Actually, we did everything except our traditional design work!