A day in the life of Katrien Bultynck

Katrien Bultynck is an Administrative Assistant for the unit RMA - Environmental Modelling. Throughout the past 12 years she thoroughly enjoyed working at VITO. Working days with a lot of structure and routine? Not for her. “Not a single day has been the same during those 12 years. Amazing, no?”

Daybreak

“I live in Mol, just a 10 minute drive from work. So, in the mornings I can take my time to prepare our two daughters for school. I take my car and drive to VITO around a quarter after 8. Not very green or sustainable, I know. Therefore, I hereby solemnly swear that when the kids are a bit older and more independent, I will cycle to work on a regular basis.”

Ad hoc

“I always begin my day at eight thirty with a cup of coffee. I can’t go without it. Whilst enjoying my coffee, I check my schedule. But this determines less than a quarter of my working day. In general, I spend most of my time on ad hoc queries and urgent issues. Which I really love! What I do exactly? My job involves a wide range of activities. I always tell people that I shift between working on 500,000 euro quotes and making coffee. (laughs) I prepare quotes and convert them into projects, … So, I assist the researchers in their work.”

Getting a breath of fresh air

“Before I know it, it is already afternoon. Every day from 12:30 until 13:00, some of the colleagues of my floor and I go on a short walk near the canal. At exactly 12:30, the hikers get up and leave for a walk to get some fresh air. Except when it rains. After all, we don’t want our hair to get messed up. (laughs) I like working at VITO. Unit RMA is a pleasant work environment that understands the importance of team spirit. Researchers and assistants, everyone does what he or she excels in. I focus on administrative work and finding ad hoc solutions, a job that is highly appreciated. We work well as a team. We have a lot of responsibility and freedom within our own professional expertise, I really appreciate that.”

Taxi mom

“Around 17:00, I finish my working day and I take on my role as a taxi mom. I don’t have a lot of time for hobbies. I used to swim a lot and I played the piano. One day I will do that again, I am sure. I don’t feel like I am missing out on anything. I have a nice job that allows me to be myself and where I met people that became my friends. All is in perfect harmony.”