Steven | Machine Operator

NMC SA, Belgium
Years at NMC: 5 years
Favourite NMC product: Swimming noodle – simple, colourful and available everywhere

I joined NMC during the COVID crisis — a time when finding a job was anything but easy. Starting here gave me a sense of stability and direction when I needed it most, and for that, I’m still truly grateful today. What impressed me from the beginning was not only the variety of roles and expertise behind our products, but also how well everything comes together. So many different people, functions, and skills — all working hand in hand to make “foaming” things happen.

In my role as a machine and plant operator, I make sure that production runs smoothly and that our products meet the highest quality standards. Every day is different, and that’s something I really enjoy. We produce a wide range of products — coated, printed, glued, milled, slit, packed in different ways — and it never becomes monotonous. There’s always something new to handle, adjust, or improve.

What makes my work even more meaningful is the journey I’ve been able to take. I started at NMC without prior experience in chemistry, craftsmanship, or industry. Step by step, I’ve developed myself — from production worker to machine operator and now to my current role. I appreciate that NMC recognizes and supports employees who set high goals for their professional development.

But what really makes the difference in everyday work is the team. It starts with a simple “good morning” and ends with a “have a nice evening.” In between, there’s support, trust, and looking out for each other — whether it’s on the production floor or during team events. When you can rely on your colleagues, work becomes not only more efficient and safer, but also more enjoyable. And you feel that right away.

At NMC, I’ve learned above all to take responsibility — for my work, for safety, for my colleagues, and for the quality we deliver. It also means working efficiently and being mindful of resources, which is something I value more and more.

The magical thing about our foams:

For me, the magic happens in the transformation. What starts as simple plastic granules, gases, and additives turns into something precise, high-quality, and tailor-made. Seeing how these raw materials come together to create complex products never stops being impressive. It’s a process you witness again and again — and yet, every time, it still feels magical.

NMC is an exceptional place to work because:

Of its opportunity to grow. I’ve always been someone who sets high goals for myself, and here at NMC SA, that motivation is recognized and supported. That gives me confidence and encourages me to keep developing further.

My magical foam moment at NMC:

My “magical foam moment” was the first time I spotted one of our products in a DIY store in Germany — insulation for heating pipes that I had packaged myself a few months earlier. It was a simple but powerful moment. Seeing something you worked on out in the real world makes you realize the impact of what you do and being able to say, “We produce this at NMC,” makes me incredibly proud.