Sander on the training for experiment designer: "We want to be the bridge to the practical world."

Starting experiment designers quickly grow into full-fledged innovation professionals at MakerLab. The secret? "We give our new colleagues the time to look around and learn," says Sander Goudswaard, Managing Partner of MakerLab.

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He has created a training program that takes young innovators to the next level. The purpose of the training? "We want to be the bridge to practice."

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An innovation specialist for ten years

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"MakerLab has been putting innovation into practice for almost a decade. I would even dare to say that we helped develop the craft. So we have a lot of experience in house, in the form of more than ten experiment designers, who are always there for each other.

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Moreover, our strength lies in our large network and connection with MakerStreet, a collective of the best agencies. Creatives who help clients with design, development, marketing, interim and innovation. Our environment and colleagues give us a lot of energy."

Innovation learning in practice

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"Just like our fellow agencies, our work is incredibly creative. We alternate between using our intellect and our hands. We guide, interpret, and translate ideas within a project. Additionally, we transform the prototypes into tangible and practical solutions. All of our projects provide insight into a variety of different companies simultaneously.

I've noticed that the current job market is quite challenging, both for companies in search of good talent and for newcomers in the innovation market. This led me to wonder: how can we at MakerLab provide young innovators with something that encourages them to connect with us? And how can they quickly gain experience, allowing them to become fully-fledged experiment designers within 2 years? The result: the 'experiment designer in training' position. This is the ultimate bridge to practical experience for newcomers."

Becoming an experiment designer in training

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"With this training, MakerLab offers juniors in the innovation market a chance to get to the core of experimentation. In our team and large network are many people that experiment designers in training can learn from. 

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This 2-year training consists of courses, master classes and, of course, mentoring. You work with us on the job, with the team serving as a safety net. You join our team with a set of competencies and we want to substantially improve those qualities in two years. This way you can build your career, get a good salary and develop yourself inside and outside MakerLab.

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During the course, you will be guided by two colleagues. One will support your development, and the other will be your project buddy. A project buddy is someone who takes you under their wing during a project, providing instructions and assigning tasks within the project. When you switch projects, you will also receive a new project buddy.

Juniors in innovation

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"To newcomers, I'd like to convey one more thing: it's okay not to know exactly what you want yet. You should allow yourself the time to figure it out. We can assist you with that.

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You come into contact with various roles in the field when you join us. I know it can be exciting to choose a definitive role or skill. It's nice to discover the different roles that exist while working with clients. Give yourself the time to explore and learn."

Are you curious about how a MakerLabber has experienced the training program? Then read the interview with experiment designer Mathijs.