35 Years at FlexiForce: Ton Peterse’s Journey
On August 27, Ton Peterse reached a remarkable milestone: 35 years with FlexiForce. Over the decades, his technical curiosity, hands-on approach, and loyal commitment have made him an indispensable colleague. We sat down with Ton to look back on his journey, his motivation, and what keeps him inspired after all these years.
From a compass to a career
“Back in my previous job, I felt a bit stuck,” Ton recalls. “So, I took a map, placed a compass on my home, and drew a circle with a 30-minute drive radius. Within that circle, I started applying for jobs. That’s how I ended up at FlexiForce in Barneveld, which back then had only 15 employees.”
Ton started in the internal sales department, handling everything from customer support and preparing production orders to calculating weights for transport. “FlexiForce had just turned 10 and moved into a new building. We had one roll-forming machine for profiles it was all very hands-on and entrepreneurial.”
Growing with FlexiForce
In the years that followed, Ton grew along with FlexiForce. First in sales as an account manager, he later transitioned to R&D. “I have always been involved in customer and technical projects. In 2000, Frans Meijer and Bert Franssens asked me to set up the technical department. That sounded like a great challenge. I enjoy researching and finding solutions together with colleagues.” Today, Ton has been R&D Manager for several years, guiding his team in innovation and product development.
What keeps you going for 35 years?
Ton doesn’t hesitate when asked what drives him: change. “FlexiForce has never stood still. Every few years there was a major shift – new branches, new projects, new opportunities. That keeps things exciting. Even when times are a little tougher, I try to make the best of it. When you succeed, that sense of achievement makes it worthwhile.”
A highlight he fondly remembers? “There are many, but my first visit to our new facility in China stands out. Together with colleague Henk from production, we spent three weeks helping set things up – a fantastic experience.” But the smaller moments matter too: “A working prototype, brainstorming with Frank Goedhart, former Sales & Marketing Manager, an interesting company visit, a clever design solution all of these make work enjoyable.”
The power of teamwork
When asked what still brings him the most joy today, Ton doesn’t hesitate: collaboration. “A productive meeting where you solve things – that gives me energy. Facilitating colleagues so they can do their work well, that’s important. If that works, I’m satisfied.”
He describes the FlexiForce culture as no-nonsense yet social. “We’ve grown into an international, professional organization, but we’ve managed to keep the short communication lines and engaged colleagues. We try to do things together and it works pretty well.”
Beyond the office
Outside of work, Ton keeps just as busy. Whether it’s DIY projects, fixing things, cycling, swimming, or visiting museums, his time is always well spent. Sports? “These days, mostly watching,” he laughs. “Though back in the day, I played football quite a lot, both outdoors and indoors. We even had a FlexiForce indoor football team that joined local tournaments.”
Advice for the next generation
Ton has a clear message for anyone considering a career at FlexiForce: “Our products might not be the flashiest consumer items, but you’ll learn a tremendous amount here. About technology, markets about working together. After a few years at FlexiForce, you become a true all-rounder. And that’s something you’ll benefit from throughout your entire career.”
The FlexiForce spirit
After 35 years, Ton knows the company inside and out. So, what does he think defines the FlexiForce spirit? “Having the freedom to take initiative, proving you can handle it, rolling up your sleeves, and making sure you do it all in a good atmosphere with your colleagues. That’s the foundation – and that’s why I’ve stayed here for so long.”