Jac Peeters – R&D Technician

Joined in 1990

Can you tell us about a recent project you worked on?

The Colorado series was a very interesting project. There was quite some pressure on this project, to finish it and to make it successful. Our team was great, working together well and also getting together after work. That helped keep a good atmosphere in the team and mutual commitment to the project.

As R&D technicians we offer our improvement suggestions, and that’s always appreciated. We all have the same goal: we want to deliver a quality product and that means any feedback is important.

What was your biggest challenge?

The challenges I enjoy most are when I get to develop experimental setups. You can really take ownership of projects like that – order the parts, do the assembly, do the tests. Projects like this often come along at the same time as larger projects. With good communication, people are usually happy to carve out time for you to focus on them. Everyone understands that you can’t schedule the invention process too tightly.

What advice would you give to someone joining Canon Production Printing?

Be curious! You’ll have all the time you need to help a coworker or learn a new technical skill. It’s not just about getting the job done; it’s crucial that we all understand the underlying technologies. That takes time, and we all want to give each other that time. Be open, and people will be open in return. People are happy to share what they’re doing and why. Enjoy the work and the team!

What was your very best work day ever? Why that day?

So many to choose from! I have a tool I designed and made myself. That’s something I still use, and something I’m still proud of. That was a great day.

What is your favorite topic to talk about with colleagues during breaks?

About the state of the world, but also about our homes and families. Both the good and the bad. Everyone has periods of hardship, and it’s important to make room for that as a team. That just brings us closer.

What is the most valuable thing you learned here?

People and the company culture are the most important. A team is something you create together. I’ve been in this position for 34 years and I haven’t once wanted a different job.