Welcome to the first of many NHV Employee Spotlight Features, with the goal of shining a spotlight on the pivotal role our employees play at NHV, including; their journeys so far, and how NHV aims to create an innovative, inclusive and dynamic workforce.
Our next feature is from one of our longest standing NHV employees! He has worked for over 19 years with NHV and has flown over 10,000 flying hours - read about his success here.
Hi Kris!
Before we start, can you tell us 3 Fun Facts about you:
1. I have accumulated over 10 000 flight hours in helicopters
2. I have flown 10 different helicopter types so far!
3. I have been working 19 years for NHV.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background and who you are?
I live in Belgium where I am married and have three daughters.
I did my flight training in Belgium and built up some flying hours in California.
Before NHV I worked for a few small companies and did a lot of different flying like, photo and filming flights, joyrides, agricultural, pipeline inspections, Organ transports, VIP, Paradropping, medical flights etc
What led you to pursue a career in Aviation?
While I was in the army, I had the opportunity to join a helicopter flight. That was the motivation for me and I thought that this is what I really enjoy! As from that moment, my focus was on becoming a helicopter pilot.
What do you find exciting about the industry and what is something specific about your role at NHV that you love doing?
The industry is very exciting and there is such a variety of roles available in the helicopter industry - it is almost endless.
Within NHV I started as HEMS pilot in France. Over the years I gradually started in other sectors that NHV was starting to operate, like Shipping pilot service, I was there for our first steps in the Oil and Gas, developing into windmills, Search and Rescue.
Can you tell us a bit about a favourite project or experience that you have had at NHV?
It has always been exciting to go and fly at new places in different countries. Flying for Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) is my favourite because of the exciting element when you leave for a mission and the great feeling that you were able to help someone and made a difference at work.
How do you define success?
Success is the ability to get the chance to do the job you always wanted to do.
What are some of the things that you like to do, outside of work?
I love walking, especially hillwalking and travelling.
What are some words of advice you would give to others who are considering pursuing a career in Aviation?
I thoroughly recommend a job in the aviation business, especially as a pilot, as it is an exciting industry and often allows you to see more of the world.