From machine concept to machine

Could you briefly introduce yourself?

“My name is Daniël Linschoten and I work as a Mechanical Engineer at IMS. I studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Twente and landed at IMS through my internship. The combination of mechanical design and high-tech automation immediately caught my interest. After graduating, I was offered the opportunity to start working here. I’ve now been here for a few years and really enjoy it.”

How did you end up at IMS?

“During my Mechanical Engineering studies, I was looking for an internship. My passion for tinkering and technology brought me to IMS, where the workshop instantly grabbed my attention. What makes IMS unique is that it’s not just about theory and design. It’s about building real machines. From simulation to delivery, we handle everything from start to finish. After graduating, I knew I wanted to work in such a versatile high-tech environment. No other company offered the same blend of high tech, project diversity, and involvement from beginning to end.”

What does your work as a Mechanical Engineer look like?

“Working at IMS offers a lot of freedom. If you want to dive into simulations, there’s room for that. Want to build test setups? You can do that too. Interested in mechatronics, programming, or construction? That’s possible as well. Your preferences and ambitions really matter here.”

“No two projects are the same. Early on, you spend time brainstorming, simulating, developing concepts, and doing calculations. Then you build test setups and run tests that you translate into a robust machine design. Eventually, you’re also involved in commissioning the machine during both FAT and SAT phases.”

Is it easy to apply your own ideas into a project?

“You get a lot of freedom to approach your work your way. There are few more rigid rules or processes, but they still leave plenty of room for initiative and creativity. When you have a good idea, people listen. We value everyone’s input because that collaboration leads to the best solutions. Taking ownership is important. You need to be willing to take responsibility and actively contribute to the success of the team and project.”

How much do you collaborate with other departments?

“I’m in frequent contact with other Engineers and Lead Engineers to ensure that everything in a project aligns and everyone is working on the right tasks. This coordination keeps the team efficient.”

“Another key collaboration is with the System Integrators, especially when planning the machine build. They bring a lot of practical experience, which is invaluable. I also work closely with Controls Engineers to make sure the machine can be properly operated.”

How would you describe the work atmosphere at IMS?

“The atmosphere is open and collegial. We’re interested in each other’s work and help one another. At the same time, there’s a down-to-earth attitude: we’re enthusiastic about the machines we build but always practical and goal-oriented. Technology is the common thread that connects us all.”

“Outside of work, there’s room for social activities. Some colleagues I see outside of work, and our department occasionally organizes game nights or pub quizzes in the cafeteria. These activities create a great balance between work and relaxation and strengthen the team spirit.”

What knowledge or skills do you need to work at IMS?

“You need a broad technical foundation. One project might require knowledge of heat transfer, another of mechanics, dynamics, materials science, or mechatronics. Everything comes together here. Fortunately, there’s a wealth of knowledge available. In the form of extensive technical literature and from colleagues. You quickly learn who to approach with specific questions, so you’re constantly developing.”

Can you give an example of a project you’re proud of?

“Yes! I designed a very critical part of a highly complex machine. It involved complex leaf spring constructions, and I had to consider the thermal management around the component. It was challenging, but in the end, it worked exactly as intended.”

“With such a part, we can offer our clients a huge advantage in their production. The project pushed the limits of what’s even possible. When you succeed under those circumstances, it’s incredibly rewarding.”

What would you like to change at IMS?

“Sometimes projects don’t move as quickly as I’d like. Some processes take a long time, up to a year and a half before a machine is fully operational. That’s understandable given the complexity, but it means the feedback loop for solutions I develop as an engineer is slower. The shorter the project, the faster you can improve and gain new insights.”

“Occasionally, I get to develop a test setup. Those projects are fun because they move much faster. You design it, build it, and have a working setup within a month. That pace offers more variety and immediate feedback on your work, which helps your development.”

What makes working at IMS special?

“At IMS, people come from diverse backgrounds and education levels—from technical physicists to instrument makers. That mix makes our team strong. Everyone brings their own expertise, so you learn a lot from each other and complement one another well. Knowledge sharing is a big part of our culture—people gladly share their experiences and insights. That ensures you keep growing. That’s what makes working at IMS truly valuable.”