Week of 21 September
1. Today's apprentice becomes tomorrow's construction leader (Australia)
Every career starts with a first opportunity. Recently, BESIX Watpac apprentice Paden Edwards shared that journey firsthand at an industry event organised with Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ). Speaking alongside Daniel Dunne, Paden offered insights into life on a live construction project and the opportunities vocational training can create for young people entering the industry. Through its partnership with CSQ, our BESIX Watpac colleagues continue to create pathways that help young people gain practical experience, confidence and skills in a real project environment. Congratulations to everyone involved in helping the next generation discover what construction can offer.
2. A Belgian construction site inspires visitors from Finland (Belgium)
Last week, a delegation from the Building Construction Industry of Eastern Finland visited the new Brussels-based Constructiv headquarters currently under construction by Vanhout. The project offered a fascinating glimpse into advanced building technology and sustainable design. Visitors explored innovative heating and cooling systems that combine rooftop air-source heat pumps with geothermal energy stored beneath the building, as well as smart controls using sensors and web-based technology. The exchange also highlighted the role of collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of European construction. Beyond the technical discussions, the visit created an opportunity to share experiences and learn from different approaches across borders. Thank you to our colleagues at Vanhout and everyone who helped make this exchange possible.
3. Families discover the hidden world of Krammer Locks (The Netherlands)
Operating a lock, exploring underground tunnels or diving like a professional. For one day, our colleagues from the ZEEKR consortium and their families experienced the Krammer locks complex in a way that very few people ever can. The images reveal the scale and complexity of one of the Netherlands' most remarkable renovation projects. While BESIX Nederland, BESIX Unitec and the project partners continue to modernise the lock complex, visitors were given a unique insight into the technology, infrastructure and expertise hidden behind this impressive installation. The timing made the visit even more special, as work officially began this week on the renovation of the Northern Jachten lock, a new milestone within the broader project. A wonderful opportunity to share pride in a project that many colleagues help bring to life every day. Thank you to everyone who made this memorable family day possible.
4. A new sporting future begins in Pepinster (Belgium)
In Pepinster, the new Wegnez Sports Centre is opening its doors to local football, boxing and table tennis clubs, offering a welcoming new start for a community still rebuilding after the devastating floods that struck the region a few years ago. The opening was officially celebrated alongside the Municipal Authorities of Pepinster and a representative of Jacqueline Galant, Minister responsible for Sports Infrastructure, giving the project a fitting public welcome. The photos below capture a place designed to bring people together, encourage new talent and strengthen community life through sport. Delivered by our teams at Wust, the complex spans nearly four hectares and includes modern, energy-efficient facilities accessible to people with reduced mobility. Even more impressively, the project was completed six months ahead of schedule. Congratulations to everyone who contributed to delivering this new chapter for Pepinster.
