Jakub Wepper has been working at Omexom for more than twelve years. He first started as a subcontractor and has since grown into the role of Construction Manager. What makes it even more special is that he’s not the only one from his family working at Omexom: his father Pavel, his brother Pavel, and his uncle Radek are also part of his team. Originally from the Czech Republic, the family is now working together on the Rozenburg-Zuid 150 kV project in the Netherlands.

From subcontractor to permanent staff

Jakub began as a subcontractor for Omexom, mainly working on electrical projects in
residential buildings. After a few years, he was ready for more challenge. “At some
point, I asked about a permanent position, and shortly after, I got the opportunity to
join the company. I wanted something challenging and something new to keep my
mind sharp, and I found that at Omexom. Every year is different: new projects, new
people, new experiences. I really enjoy that.”

Family as part of the team

Of course, Jakub doesn’t work alone, and what makes it special is that his father,
brother, and uncle are all part of his team. “My father and brother are electricians,
and my uncle has also been working at Omexom for several years.” He explains that
he and his father were the first in the family at Omexom. “After a few years, my
brother joined, and later my uncle as well. He had previously worked in Austria, but
that was only seasonal work. So I introduced him to Omexom, and now he is also
part of our team.”

The Rozenburg-Zuid 150 kV project

In Haarlemmermeer, Omexom is building a new high-voltage substation, Rozenburg-
Zuid 150 kV, together with BAM Infra on behalf of TenneT. This compact GIS station
(Gas Insulated Switchgear) increases the electricity grid capacity in the region,
creating room for residential development, businesses, and the energy transition.

Jakub says: “At the moment, we are working on various tasks at the Rozenburg-Zuid
150 kV project: pulling cables, installing modules, making connections – basically the
full range of construction activities. As Construction Manager, I coordinate the work,
assign tasks, and report at the end of the week.”

Despite the hard work, there is also room for fun, Jakub emphasizes: “We make a lot
of jokes and laugh with each other in between. That’s important; it keeps the
atmosphere positive.”

Working in the Netherlands: differences and experiences

Jakub notices clear differences between working in the Netherlands and in his own
country. “Yes, I especially notice differences in the work methods. In the Netherlands,
I see modern, efficient ways of working that save time and money.” This shows how
experience from one country can provide inspiration for projects in other countries.

Jakub talks about his experiences in the Netherlands, both at work and in daily life. “I
work with colleagues from different nationalities, which allows me to learn new
languages and new ways of working. Beyond that, the people are friendly, I find the
country beautiful, and I love the food: my family and I especially enjoy lekkerbek or
kibbeling. The only thing I don’t like about the Netherlands is the traffic!”

Jakub also experiences that Omexom provides the team with everything needed to
work comfortably. “The company provides us with everything we need: good salaries,
proper housing, insurance, and support whenever necessary. If I have an idea or a
problem, I can discuss it, and they listen. That gives me support.”

Working with family

What is it like for Jakub to work on the same project as his family? “At work, we are
colleagues, and I have the role of manager. That means I give direction, just like with
other colleagues. At home, we leave that behind. This is a rule we set to prevent
problems. In the beginning, it was difficult, but over time it became easier.”

Proud of every project

When asked which moment or project he is most proud of, Jakub says that he is
actually proud of every project. “Every project is a bit like my own child. When I start,
I want to finish it properly, without mistakes. That is my philosophy.”

Continuing to grow

Jakub hopes to further develop himself within Omexom in the future. “Personally, I
always aim higher. I started as a subcontractor and now work as a Construction
Manager. I want to keep learning and growing, and I want to offer the same
opportunities to my family. Without them, I could not do my work, so I hope we can
continue to grow together within Omexom.”