I use my ICT expertise to enable our researchers to do their work
Without reliable systems, advanced software and secure data infrastructure, our researchers simply couldn’t do their work. The ICT team at Deltares provides the essential building blocks: from high-performance computing for numerical simulations to data platforms that uphold FAIR principles and enable collaboration across disciplines. This gives our experts access to the data and computing power they need to develop solutions for urgent societal challenges. Leroy van Logchem is a Systems Architect. What drives him in his work at Deltares? We asked Leroy: “What drives you?”.
From programmer to architect
Over the course of my 27-year career here, I have developed into a professional with a deep and broad ICT expertise. One moment, the day is spent with a task force familiarising new colleagues with our digital ways of working. The next moment, it's about devising new solutions for emerging situations. Tasks range from programming and consulting, to keeping track of market developments. Working for Deltares also has its personal advantages; as I live in Delft, I enjoy cycling to work.
ICT Solutions that enable applied research
My contribution here consists of developing ICT solutions that enable researchers to perform their work optimally. A good example is a project from a few years ago. After extensive investigation and experimentation, we developed a tool for storing huge amounts of data and making it readily accessible.
Co-designing with users
Over time we’ve started to organise more sessions in which we start to talk about how we envision a solution and how it works, before we actually create it. We consult with end users, for example, to see if they foresee any problems or dangers with our proposed IT solution. Without that feedback, you might end up building something in which people had no say at all. That's not our approach.
I think it's good to go to work every day with new energy. Because brooding is just as useful as chewing a piece of gum and then expecting to stop being hungry.
Making the world a safer place
Deltares’ work in Bangladesh or in other places where there is a real need for help, has a great impact on me. It gives me satisfaction to contribute to keeping people safe. When I see pictures of people who have to leave their homes due to flooding, I realise how important those improvements are.
For me, ICT is not an end, but a means to make applied research faster, safer and more effective.
Leroy van Logchem
Proud of projects with social value
I find it incredibly valuable when Deltares contributes to improvements. Our projects impact entire communities, and that gives me joy. Because I work here, I can see daily how our people work on solutions to big issues. That inspires me.
Vacancies
For programmers, developers, data scientists, and architects who want their work to make a real impact, Deltares offers a unique environment: multidisciplinary, mission-driven, and focused on innovation that truly matters. Curious how you could use your talents to help shape a better future? Deltares has several vacancies. Will you be joining Leroy and the team?
More stories
It’s about more than just what we do – it’s about why we do it. Our colleagues share their personal motivations and show what working at Deltares means to them. Through inspiring videos and stories, you’ll get a glimpse into their work – and the people behind it.
