In this tight labour market, good training companies and practical trainers are indispensable. "They lay the foundation for sustainable inflow into the sector. They give young people a chance and a future," says the professional jury of the election for Best Training Company and Best Practical Trainer in the transport and logistics sector. This year, Houweling Groep from Bleiswijk was named Best Training Company, while Peter de Voigt was chosen Best Practical Trainer. The Transport & Logistics Sector Institute STL highlighted the winners.
The professional jury was unanimous in its verdict: Houweling Group does not offer students a standard apprenticeship, but a tailor-made programme in which personal growth is central. "The atmosphere is familiar, the supervision intensive and the commitment of the management impressive. Students are offered genuine opportunities to grow, even if it doesn't come naturally. An inspiring example for the whole sector."
The professional jury also praised the other finalists: Mondial Kattenberg Verhuizingen from Nunspeet (second) and Thijs Logistiek from Weert (third). "Mondial Kattenberg Removals stood out with a strong social heart and an innovative training room. Thijs Logistiek scored high on structure, smart solutions and sustainability."
'Practical trainer with heart and results'
This year, the title 'Best Practical Trainer' goes to Peter de Voigt. For 15 years, he has been supervising students at logistics service provider Geodis with complete dedication. The professional jury: "His strength lies in personal attention and customisation. He knows his students, immerses himself in their situation and does everything to help them succeed. Even if it requires extra effort. His commitment delivers more than just diplomas: students develop into valuable colleagues and often stay connected to the company for the long term."
The other nominees also received praise from the professional jury: "Only one can win, but Robin Harlaar of Compass Transport from Hardenberg and René Vermeer of Versteijnen Logistics from Tilburg are also inspiring practical trainers. Their knowledge, effort and commitment are invaluable for the future of our sector. An achievement to be proud of."
STL Talents 2025
The special STL Talents category is all about young people who follow their apprenticeship path with passion. Students who get the best out of themselves every day, are proud of their work, and visibly enjoy the profession. The talents of 2025 in the transport category are Kas Wagemakers of Van der Linden Transport from Waalwijk, Rick Vaandering of Bos Dynamics from Ede and Kiki van der Made of Milieu Service Brabant from Boxtel. In the logistics category, Bart van de Valk of Sanders|Fritom from Uden and Jayden van Hees of Versteijnen Logistics from Tilburg were named talents of the year.
The professional jury that chose the winner among the training companies consisted of Caroline Blom (TLN), Linda Slagter (FNV), Gabby Delhaas (STL) and Robert van den Brink (St vd Brink, winner 2024). In addition to the professional jury, the election of practical trainers involved the public through an online voting round. The winners represent the sector in the national elections held by the Cooperation Organisation for Vocational Education and Training Business (SBB).
