Nick Poelstra is a software engineer working with space industry clients from CGI’s operations in the Netherlands. He holds a degree in aviation engineering and is passionate about pushing the boundaries of space technology through meaningful work. Going from trainee to trainer at CGI’s learning institute for space technology experts, Nick thrives on learning, sharing knowledge, and networking with peers around the world. He unwinds by watching motorsports and is a big fan of F1 driver Max Verstappen.
Thanks for sharing your story with us, Nick. How did you learn about CGI?
I attended a career event where CGI had a booth. At the time, I was completing my studies in aviation engineering at the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands.
What made you choose CGI?
What drew me to CGI was the company’s impressive history of delivering secure, mission-critical space systems to organizations around the world. I was very interested in working on space projects for a global company like CGI. At the same time, there seemed to be an authentic local culture with the chance to work with a tightly knit team here in Rotterdam.
Can you share more information about your CGI career journey so far?
After graduating from university in 2020, I joined as a junior consultant on a satellite-based navigation augmentation project. It was also the start of the pandemic and quite an unusual time to join the workforce. My colleagues were very helpful and supportive as I began my journey, but I also had to learn some things independently. It was a steep learning curve, but in retrospect, I’m very grateful for the opportunity to learn “on the go.”
My journey at CGI included a significant milestone when I enrolled in CGI’s learning institute for space technology experts. This is a program for CGI consultants working in the space industry to learn from experienced technology experts across our global operations. We also offer this program to our clients. It was an invaluable learning experience.
I then got the opportunity to be a trainer. I taught program participants space technology essentials, networked, and gained leadership skills. This experience served as a stepping stone to my current role as a software architect for a global navigation satellite system. My role is highly technical and requires mission-critical expertise. Although it’s a high-pressure project, the work is very meaningful and pretty cool, too!
What would you say you appreciate the most about being a CGI Partner?
When working for a large company, a person can feel like just another “cog in a wheel.” It isn’t like that at CGI. The level of support I receive from my team and the closeness we have built makes me feel more like part of a family. I know that I matter here, and this makes a big difference. Additionally, as CGI Partners, many of us are owners and play an important role in the company’s future direction.
Moreover, our leaders are very involved in our careers. They participate directly in the hiring and selection process, which helps build a rapport from the start. Several colleagues also mentored me during my first year; some are now close friends. I have learned a lot from them, and now I’d like to be able to give back as a mentor.
How do you maintain work-life balance while working on a high-pressure project?
My client work requires me to work in the office, but my leaders support flexible work arrangements. I can adapt my schedule based on my personal priorities, which helps tremendously in finding the right work-life balance.
I also have access to resources like Oxygen, our global health and well-being program, which provides tools, tips and access to professional support to ensure we can focus on our physical and mental health and overall work-life balance.
Speaking of healthy work-life balance, what do you like to do for fun?
I am a huge fan of motorsports. I love Formula One (go, Max Verstappen!), F2 and F3, DTM, and MotoGP. I love watching the races live or on screen—it’s such a rush! I also like to travel within and outside of the Netherlands. Though, honestly, I never tire of my hometown, Rotterdam; the city still amazes me!
What a great testimonial. Thanks, Nick, for sharing your professional development story at CGI!
