The energy transition, grid reinforcement, and the replacement of outdated pipelines are placing increasing pressure on underground infrastructure. At the same time, the sector is struggling with a growing shortage of technical personnel. To accelerate the influx of new professionals, sustainable drinking water company Brabant Water and SOMA Bedrijfsopleidingen are launching a multi-year collaboration to train gas and water distribution technicians.
The collaboration starts on September 1, 2026, and has a duration of four years. Within the program, mechanics are trained at levels 2 and 3, with a central focus on practical learning. Thanks to this practice-oriented approach, participants can complete the training within one year.
An important part of the training takes place at the innovative training center of Brabant WaterThe training is open to technicians both within and outside Brabant Water. In doing so, we jointly contribute to a broader availability of skilled professionals in the market — something the entire sector benefits from.
Rick van de Meerendonk, Department Manager Recruitment & Training at Brabant Water, says the following about this:
Through the collaboration with SOMA Bedrijfsopleidingen, we are investing in the professionals of tomorrow. We combine practical experience, technology, and personal development, so that new technicians not only get off to a good start but can also grow sustainably within the infrastructure sector.
We see that the energy transition is limited not only by technology or capacity on the power grid, but above all by the availability of well-trained professionals.
Everyone talks about grid congestion and the energy transition, but ultimately the work has to be carried out outdoors. This requires a sufficient number of well-trained technicians. Without skilled professionals, there is no future-proof infrastructure.
The collaboration focuses on the structural influx of young professionals and career changers for underground infrastructure. The demand for technicians will increase sharply in the coming years due to the expansion of energy grids, replacement projects, and stricter requirements regarding safety and sustainability.
We are making a strong commitment to making the infrastructure sector more sustainable. For instance, we provide training on zero-emission operations and electric machinery, and we recently invested in our own electric excavator for practical training. We are also making part of our practical training location available for new training facilities related to energy infrastructure.
In addition, we recently received a CO₂ reduction certificate thanks to the use of HVO fuel for equipment that is not yet operational without emissions.
Through this collaboration, together with Brabant Water, we aim to contribute to a future-proof infrastructure sector and inspire new professionals to pursue a career in technology.
Brabant Water is actively seeking new technical colleagues and career changers who want to contribute to the drinking water infrastructure of the future. You can read more information about taking this training at Brabant Water or apply here: (Senior) Gas, Water, or Heat Distribution Technician | Brabant Water | conscious. Naturally.
Are you also interested in training opportunities within underground infrastructure or sustainability projects? Then please contact one of our account managersThey are happy to help find suitable training solutions for your organization.
Well-trained professionals form the basis for a future-proof energy and drinking water infrastructure and are indispensable for accelerating the energy transition. To accelerate the influx of professionals, Brabant Water and SOMA Bedrijfsopleidingen are launching a multi-year collaboration to train gas and water distribution technicians.
