Celebrating The Women of Hunting - Claudia van Dijk

Claudia began as an apprentice in early 2019 and very rapidly became a time served CNC operator, machining some of most complex parts in our OCTG Threading and Pipe Management Facility in the Netherlands. Let's find out more!

Tell us about yourself

My name is Claudia van Dijk and I am 28 years old. Born in Heemskerk, the Netherlands, I continue to live there with my boyfriend. Basketball is my passion and in my free time I play as well as train and coach a junior team.

During my time in secondary school, I specialised in metal and electro technology. This interest led me to pursue a degree in "light engineering," after which I spent close to two years working as a stage technician. Then, an opportunity arose for me to get back into metal technology through an apprenticeship programme with Hunting.

Tell us about your role

Currently I am a CNC operator / setter working for Hunting in the Netherlands. I started my career as an apprentice in April 2019. After completion of the apprenticeship, I was offered a full time position in the facility in Velsen Noord.

During my apprenticeship, I worked in the shop for four days per week and went to school for one. Initially, I began with operating a single-tool machine for one type of operation. Over time, I gradually expanded my skill set to include a broader range of tools and machinery. Starting as an operator, I have now progressed to the role of an operator/setter machining some of the most complex parts processed in the shop.

I feel prepared for further advancement and I am confident I will get these opportunities with Hunting.

What does "INCLUSION" mean to you?

Inclusion for me means simply “being judged on no other than my professional qualities”. This without any further attention to religion, skin colour or in my case – being a woman.

How does HUNTING make you feel included??

I am just “one of the guys”, valued for my professional skills rather than my gender. My value comes from being a loyal, knowledgeable CNC setter. My male colleagues always ask for my advice or opinion. I can discuss projects or challenges with our highly experienced CNC programmer. Although he has been working for Hunting for close to 30 years, he values my opinion and will even ask me for advice!

Why do you think Inclusion is important?

Difficult question. Working in what is traditional seen as a “man’s world” it is important for me that everybody realises I am just doing my job. I am a team member, a Hunting employee, a CNC setter and yes, I am a woman.

What is your experience of working at HUNTING as a woman?

I am just accepted as a CNC setter. There is really not much more to say, but, maybe that in itself speaks volumes.