Some dream of an early retirement. Others keep going until they reach state pension age, or beyond... Finally, there’s the people who want to keep working as long as they enjoy it: Annie van Alderen’s category. While this ECM Europe clean room employee is set to celebrate her 80th birthday later this year, she’s not thinking of quitting any time soon.
Tell me Annie, how have you managed to keep going this long?
“Above all, I want to feel useful. I spent part of my mid-fifties sitting at home, and while I joined a hobby club, baked cakes and went on tonnes of bike rides, I just missed the satisfaction I got from my job. As long as I enjoy what I do and feel appreciated, I’ll keep working.”
You joined ECM in 2001. How did you end up here?
“I met Dianne Vogels at my previous job. Years later, when ECM was looking for cleanroom employees, Dianne asked if I felt like going back to work. I was tired of sitting at home and doing nothing, so I couldn’t wait to apply. Especially because I’d be helping out Dianne.”
You have a special connection?
“Absolutely. Dianne even calls me her stepmom. Part of the reason that we have such great rapport is that we share the same philosophy: We both tend to keep our nose to the grindstone.”
Do you have a similar bond with other people at ECM?
“Everyone loves the fact that I’m still working. They call me grandma and they miss me on my days off. I feel hugely appreciated by my colleagues.”
What does your workday usually look like?
"I get up at five o'clock. I have coffee and a sandwich, a quick shower and I get in the car around 6:15. After I get in, the first thing I do is help Jeanne tidy the kitchen to get it spic and span for the rest of the day. From 7:15 to 16:15, we get to work in the clean room."
What kind of work do you do?
"We assemble medical devices used for open-heart surgery and kidney and liver transplants, for example. The fact that we put together life-saving products makes the work even more worthwhile.”
Does it ever get boring?
“Not at all. Sets keep changing and no two orders are the same. I always have a good time at work. I have colleagues of all ages and everyone wants to help me. Besides, we’re spoiled here at ECM: we get a lot of personal attention and the occasional surprise. We might get a sweet treat one day or a little gift the next!”
How does your family feel about you working?
"My daughter always says that I was made to work. And my brother tells me: 'You don't work to live, you live to work'. His words definitely ring true. Besides, I have all the time in the world for family in the weekend."
What do you get up to together?
"On Saturdays we often go into town or out to dinner. On Sunday, I clean the house and do some gardening. In the evening, I take a nice bath and before you know it, it’s Monday again. Time for another fun week at work!”
