Work as Heavy Lifting and Rigging Expert – Marc De Prins

My name is Marc De Prins and I am a Heavy Lifting and Rigging Subject Matter Expert. My job consists of checking and approving lifting plans of TRAs and on-site controls for all lifting activities at ExxonMobil Antwerp. In addition, I train ExxonMobil employees and contractors in the safe lifting and handling of loads according to site requirements and European standards. I also work closely with the safety department here to create and safeguard an even safer environment.

I was contacted by STAR to support the ANWERUP project, which turned out to be a good move, because now that the project is almost finished, I’ve been asked by ExxonMobil (through STAR) to stay on to support turnarounds and for all the other lifting activities.

The great thing about working with STAR is the informal atmosphere, the fact that there is always someone willing to listen, and the good care they take of their employees. The first time I visited STAR’s offices, it felt instantly familiar, as if I had been here for years.

STAR does all it can to enable us to do our jobs with total concentration and pleasure. I would best describe STAR as a safe haven in stormy weather, where you can take shelter with people whose hearts are in the right place.

I enjoy my work very much. What I like most about it is bringing daily challenges to a successful conclusion and collaborating with people from all levels and different backgrounds. As a STAR employee, I enjoy making a difference; it is like a blade of grass sticking out above the surface but returning to the same level once the problem is solved.