During an extensive interview, he talks about his journey within the organization, his passions, and the lessons he has learned.
From punch cards to SAP
Robbie's fascination with technology began in an era when computers were still operated with punch cards and required large, airtight computer rooms. "It was a different time," Robbie says with a laugh. "You needed white gloves to enter a computer room, and everything was hardware-oriented."
His career path led him to automation, where he specialized in writing programs. Although he had no formal training in IT, Robbie learned everything on the job, such as working with languages like COBOL and Fortran. "Figuring things out and learning on my own is something that has always appealed to me."
A quarter of a century at SUPERP
In 1999, Robbie joined SUPERP through a colleague who made him enthusiastic about the company. "What immediately struck me was the family atmosphere. Everyone knew each other and worked closely together." According to Robbie, that culture is one of the main reasons why he stayed with SUPERP for 25 years.
During those years, Robbie not only completed countless projects, but also built many friendships. "SUPERP is more than an employer; it feels like a second family. It's a flat organization where everyone is valued for their contribution."
Highlights and blunders
When asked about his fondest memory, Robbie talks about the first major challenge he and his team took on: a technical problem at a customer's site that no one else could solve. "We worked day and night, but we got the system up and running again. The feeling of success and the customer's gratitude were indescribable."
But there have also been hilarious moments. Robbie remembers a time when a small change in the software had unexpected consequences. "The whole system crashed, and we had to restore everything. Fortunately, the customer was able to laugh about it in the end."
A look to the future
Although Robbie has already reached retirement age, he remains curious about new technologies, such as artificial intelligence. "AI is changing our profession, but human knowledge and experience remain crucial. I believe that the role of tester, for example, is becoming increasingly important."
In addition to technology, Robbie also has passions outside of work, such as physics and quantum mechanics. He enjoys exchanging knowledge with experts in these fields. "Sharing knowledge, both within and outside SUPERP, gives me energy."
Finally: a message from Robbie
When asked for a message for his colleagues, Robbie says: "Cherish collaboration and keep challenging yourself. What always motivates me is the feeling that together we are achieving something special."
Robbie's dedication, humor, and knowledge make him an indispensable force within SUPERP. We are proud to have been able to count on him for 25 years.
