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In conversation with Maarten Steinbuch: insights from a WorldEmp Advisory Board member
We recently sat down with Maarten Steinbuch, a member of the WorldEmp Advisory Board, to gather his insights on the personnel shortage in the high-tech sector and the potential role of remote employees, including digital knowledge migrants, in addressing this challenge.
With extensive experience in mechatronics and years of involvement in the high-tech sector, Steinbuch shares his views on the current hurdles and potential solutions for companies seeking highly qualified talent.
Background and experience of Maarten Steinbuch
“In my work as a research leader in mechatronics, especially with high-tech systems, there’s always a need for highly skilled personnel,” Steinbuch explains. “Without that expertise and those skills, we simply cannot meet the demand.”
The rapid growth in the Brainport region was a major factor that drew him to WorldEmp. “Here in Brainport, we’re experiencing remarkable growth. We’ve become a global player in precision mechanics and mechatronic systems, and we need a great deal of talent to maintain this position. WorldEmp allows us to expand our search beyond the local labor market. It’s truly a valuable addition.”
The talent shortage in the Brainport region: impact on businesses
Steinbuch describes the talent shortage in the Brainport region as a pressing issue. “Look, even with initiatives like Project Beethoven, which aims to double the number of graduates, we’re still struggling to meet demand. And then you have the housing shortage, which only exacerbates the problem,” he says.
According to him, the shortage of qualified personnel is stalling growth for companies in the sector. “Businesses want to move forward, to innovate, but that’s not possible if you lack the people,” he explains. “And if you’re not progressing, you’re falling behind in the global market. That’s the reality.”
Knowledge migrants and housing shortages: critical factors for talent retention in high-tech
Steinbuch underscores the importance of knowledge migrants: “They’re absolutely essential. Without them, we can’t fill the vacancies, and companies literally come to a standstill.” Foreign talent, he believes, not only brings more capacity but also fresh ideas that benefit the Dutch economy. “Think diversity, think innovation. That’s what knowledge migrants offer us.”
However, he points out that the housing shortage in the Netherlands, particularly in regions like Eindhoven, significantly hinders the influx of knowledge migrants. “Our student numbers are growing fast, but there simply aren’t enough houses. This makes it difficult for new employees, and even Dutch residents, to settle here. So, the housing crisis is an additional obstacle for companies trying to attract talent.”
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“Without knowledge migrants, we can’t fill the vacancies, and companies literally come to a standstill.”
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Digital knowledge migrants as a solution
Steinbuch views digital knowledge migrants as a promising solution to the high-tech sector’s talent shortage. “A digital knowledge migrant works remotely but is truly part of the team. We saw this during the pandemic; it can work very well.”
He believes that companies can tap into a global talent pool without being limited by local issues like housing.
He encourages companies considering digital knowledge migrants to simply take the plunge: “Just give it a try! The benefits are substantial, and you can fill a significant portion of those open positions. Start somewhere and see what works.”
Steinbuch stresses that learning by doing is the best way to make remote collaboration a success.
In conclusion: collaborating for a sustainable future of talent and innovation
Finally, Steinbuch emphasizes that the talent shortage can only be solved if all options are explored. “We need everything: more technical education, more women in tech, knowledge migrants, and even asylum seekers who are ready to work.”
Digital knowledge workers also need to be fully embraced. “They often bring a fresh perspective, new insights. This strengthens our market. So, to companies I’d say: embrace that learning curve. Learn and do—it opens up new possibilities.”
Thank you, Maarten, for your insights. We look forward to sharing this vision and helping companies achieve their international ambitions!
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Digitale kennismigrant met WorldEmp
Bij WorldEmp begrijpen we de uitdagingen van het vinden van gekwalificeerd en hoogopgeleid personeel. Wij bieden een unieke oplossing voor bedrijven die willen profiteren van de voordelen van een digitale kennismigrant, zonder de gebruikelijke valkuilen. Onze aanpak is gebaseerd op jarenlange ervaring en een grondige kennis van zowel de technologische als de menselijke kant van remote werken.
Onze diensten omvatten het werven en selecteren van hooggekwalificeerde professionals van over de hele wereld. Wij zorgen ervoor dat elke kandidaat niet alleen technisch vaardig is, maar ook cultureel past bij jouw bedrijf. Dit helpt om communicatieproblemen te minimaliseren en een sterke teamcohesie te behouden.
Daarnaast bieden wij uitgebreide ondersteuning op het gebied van technologie en tools. We zorgen ervoor dat jouw team toegang heeft tot de beste tools voor communicatie en samenwerking, en bieden training en ondersteuning om ervoor te zorgen dat iedereen deze tools effectief kan gebruiken.