On (the) T at Celsian

This time the T-pot brought us to building TZ, where Cecile and Boudie had a conversation with Harmen Kielstra from CelSian.

What does your organization do?
“We help companies optimize melting processes in glass, but also in lead, steel and fertilizer. Originally we came from @Philips, which made picture tubes here. We are now an independent, internationally operating company with 30 technical experts from 11 nationalities, with workplaces in the Netherlands, Germany and the US.”

“We advise clients on energy use, emissions and raw materials through models and laboratory simulations up to 1,500 degrees. We translate those into practice.”

"CelSian is a well-known name in the glass industry. Our people are received like rock stars at conferences. We know virtually all the players in the glass industry and vice versa, from flat glass to wine glasses. This T-head even comes from a customer."

What is your role?
“ I am the proud CEO of this wonderful team. I'm not a techie myself, but I make sure that everything related to HR, finance and business development runs smoothly. This allows the team to fully focus on sustainable glass production. I think it's important that our people feel at home in the team, can grow, and above all continue to enjoy their work.”

“That's why Strijp-T is important to us. Besides the fact that it started here, the Strijp-T community is a great way to undertake fun activities with our neighbors. And it makes it very easy to do business, for example with @Settels.”

“I think the communal aspect is fantastic. It literally brings us together on the site because together we experience the special Strijp-T feeling and are Proud to be part of it. That makes this place just a little extra special and appealing, which I wouldn't so readily find on any other site.”

“Also the community has the activity ‘ Join in walking along Strijp-T’  helped with our awareness that we as a team, who sit concentrated in the head all day, need to move more. Therefore we have every Wednesday at 12.00 uur a running training from here towards the Philips de Jongh park. Incidentally, everyone is welcome to join in here.”

“ The development of Strijp‑T has made us more visible. Where we once found ourselves tucked away in TZ on an abandoned industrial estate, we have increasingly become a visible part of a larger whole where innovation is central.”

Who should the T-pot visit next time?
“At our new neighbors from @Shapeways in building TX. I am curious about their expertise in 3D printing and how they will develop here.”