Unlocking Career Opportunities in the Dutch Space Sector

On the brisk evening of Tuesday, November 28, 2023, the Netherlands Space Association (NVR) embarked on a captivating journey at the 9th edition of “Discover Your Space.” Held in collaboration with VSV Leonardo da Vinci, SpaceNed and the NLSpace Campus, this recruiting fair served as the quintessential platform for students, young professionals, and experienced individuals seeking career prospects in the Dutch space sector.

Hosted in the Aula of the TU Delft, often referred to as “The SpaceShip”, the evening unfolded at an impressive pace, offering a dynamic environment for participants to explore diverse career opportunities in the realm of space.

Fast-Paced Pitches: A Glimpse into the Future

The recruiting fair commenced with a flurry of excitement as 24 exhibiting parties, among the NVR counts itself, delivered fast-paced pitch presentations. The pitches, ranging from innovative startups to cutting-edge research institutes, NGOs and established commercial space companies, provided attendees with a comprehensive overview of the expansive landscape within the Dutch space industry. One highlight to mention was for sure the ongoing Moonshots initiative, calling all students to come up with crazy ideas for the future. 

The variety of pitches was a testament to the rich tapestry of opportunities available, reflecting the diversity and innovation that defines the Dutch space sector.

Over 200 Attendees: A Gathering of Space Explorers

With over 200 attendees, the fair buzzed with energy and enthusiasm. The diverse crowd, comprising students, professionals, and industry experts, created a vibrant atmosphere conducive to networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration.

Some NVR highlights

At the NVR booth, our board and committee members engaged with a steady stream of visitors. Some were simply curious, wanting to know more about our association’s mission and activities. Others, inspired by the pitch, signed up as members, expressing their eagerness to be part of a community dedicated to space exploration.

It was gratifying to see individuals proudly announcing their membership after being captivated by our association’s pitch. This not only demonstrated the effectiveness of the NVR’s outreach but also highlighted the resonance of our message with those passionate about space exploration. Some new members even expressed interest in becoming active committee participants.

Collaboration with the LDE Space Day

The collaborative spirit extended beyond “Discover Your Space” as the event seamlessly merged with the LDE Space Day. Attendees had the chance to connect with researchers from the University of Leiden, TU Delft, and Erasmus University, promoting cross-disciplinary interactions and strengthening ties between academia and industry.

A smooth ending

As the clock struck 22:00, signaling the official end of the fair, the efficient organization was evident as the halls emptied smoothly. In conclusion, “Discover Your Space” 2023 was a resounding success, embodying the collaborative spirit of the Dutch space community. The NVR and its fellow organizers successfully created an environment where curiosity met opportunity, laying the foundation for a future with limitless boundaries and infinite possibilities in space exploration.