Wouter Langerak joined over twelve years ago as a junior developer. Today, he is a lead developer and still far from done with his work at this division of ICT Group.
Wouter studied Computer Engineering at HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht. “After graduating, I joined ICT TriOpSys straight away.” While leadership is part of his role, it’s building software that really excites him. “Fortunately, programming is still very much part of the job,” he says with a smile.
ICT TriOpSys
ICT TriOpSys focuses on mission-critical systems for sectors such as defence, aviation, public safety, and traffic and water management. Examples include control room systems and advanced information systems for aviation, where disruptions can have significant societal impact. The company connects complex data streams, such as sensor data, with bespoke applications that are deeply integrated into clients’ IT infrastructures. These robust, long-life systems must remain continuously available, reliable, and highly secure, as they cannot easily be taken offline. Since early 2024, the company has been part of ICT Group.
“Junior developers are supported by senior colleagues, and senior colleagues in turn benefit from the fresh ideas of juniors. It works really well.
From junior to lead
As a junior, Wouter was mentored by an experienced developer. “It was a great learning experience in a supportive environment,” he recalls. The exchange of knowledge and experience within ICT TriOpSys is well organised, according to Wouter.
And if a project doesn’t suit you, people listen. I experienced that myself. When I once indicated I didn’t feel comfortable on a project, an alternative was found straight away.” According to Wouter, this reflects the culture at ICT TriOpSys. “You can approach anyone here. There isn’t really a hierarchy, which makes it very personal.”
Step by step, Wouter progressed to lead developer, although he sees his role as being very much ‘part of the team’. It involves supporting colleagues, making technical decisions, and collaborating with product owners, while continuing to build software himself.
“When you’re involved in both the design and implementation of code, you get immediate feedback. You see what works and what doesn’t. That’s valuable, and I still find it really interesting and enjoyable.”
Personal development
Working on critical applications does not feel like constant pressure to Wouter and his colleagues. “You need to be aware that systems must always run, but that’s simply part of the job. We just deliver high-quality work.” The variety across different domains gives Wouter a lot of energy.
“One moment you’re working for the distribution centre of a major online retailer, the next for air traffic control. You get to work with many different organisations. Without understanding the context of a project, you can’t build good software, so those interactions are essential and valuable. The combination of technology and working in different environments keeps the job fresh. Every project has its own challenges. There shouldn’t be too many, but in the right balance it’s what makes the work enjoyable. And when you solve them as a team, it’s very rewarding.”
It means Wouter still sees plenty of challenges and innovation ahead in his work.
“There are many opportunities to develop yourself. Not just through courses and training, but especially in day-to-day practice.”
For new colleagues, Wouter doesn’t have a checklist. “We’re not looking for one specific type, quite the opposite. Different personalities complement each other. What matters more? Curiosity and a willingness to learn. If you come across something specialised, you simply dive into it.”
Hear from colleagues
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