Official opening of IT traineeship Friesland

Thursday, February 6, marked an important milestone for the IT sector in Friesland: the official opening of the Dutch-language IT Traineeship, Leeuwarden. In the stately Oranjezaal of the city hall in Leeuwarden, professionals, companies and talented Motoppers came together to usher in the traineeship.

An inspiring start of the traineeship

At 15:30 the traineeship was officially opened by alderman Abel Reitsma and Jan Princen, director of Motopp. After all attendees had introduced themselves, both spoke passionately about the importance of the IT traineeship for Friesland and the impact this initiative has on the labor market. Those present listened attentively while emphasizing the importance of stimulating IT talent and at the same time giving highly educated status holders a chance to develop in the Netherlands.

This traineeship is a Triple Win: companies gain access to new talent, status holders find sustainable jobs and Friesland continues to develop as an innovative region. The energy in the room grew, and it was clear that there was a shared sense of ambition and cooperation.

Status holders as IT talent

The opening was followed by a presentation given by Jan. This explained how status holders can strengthen the Dutch IT sector and how Motopp has already successfully done this for over 250 status holders. Through an intensive IT traineeship, these talents are prepared for the Dutch labor market. This is not only an opportunity for the status holders themselves, but also for companies struggling with a shortage of IT specialists.

Mascha, IT lead at the Land Registry shared her success story of working with Motopp and the current Motoppers within her team. She emphasized how valuable it is to work with status holders within her IT team. According to Mascha, this collaboration contributes not only to strengthening diversity, but also to growth and innovation within her team. She encourages companies to embrace highly educated and motivated status holders because they can make a significant contribution to the organization.

Finally, one of the motivated motoppers, Kamil Ustu, was given the floor. He candidly shared his personal background and the road he has traveled since his arrival in the Netherlands. With great enthusiasm, he spoke about his experiences within Motopp’s traineeship, the challenges he has overcome and the valuable opportunities he has received. His story was an inspiring example of perseverance and the impact of good coaching on the way to a successful career in IT.

Networking and connecting

After these inspiring presentations, it was time for the networking drinks. In the basement of the Oranjezaal, while enjoying a drink, people talked about cooperation, growth opportunities and the future of IT in Friesland. Contact details were exchanged and the first connections for new collaborations were made. This again underlined the great need for initiatives such as this traineeship.

Why this traject is important

Friesland has a growing IT sector and a great need for good IT professionals. At the same time, many highly educated status holders are looking for a way to use their talents and be able to contribute to the labor market. This traineeship provides the bridge between these two worlds. By investing in guidance, training and sustainable workplaces, together we are making a difference. We are building an inclusive labor market in which talent is central, regardless of background. This is not only socially responsible, but also economically smart.

Is your organization looking for IT talent? Then now is the time to join the program. Join us and discover how your organization can contribute to a strong, innovative IT sector in Friesland. Together we make impact.