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Teacher story Dirk

My name is Dirk Beerendonk, I have been working at HAS for two years now and I am a lecturer at International Food & Agribusiness (IFA).

Work experience

More than a few years ago I graduated from the same study programme. This gives me the insights of an IFA lecturer but also an IFA student. After graduating from the HAS, I built up most of my experience in international project management within the agribusiness sector.

My first role was with an Agricultural Technology start-up in Amsterdam, where I worked across the Netherlands and Ukraine to develop, test, and refine the company’s software and hardware. We focused on crop production, specifically creating tools to support farmers with precision application and irrigation.

My next position took me to a large consultancy firm, where I was part of a team developing a machine-learning (AI) tool for greenhouse systems. This tool supported growers in Integrated Pest Management, enabling precision application of biological controls and crop protection in regions like Brabant and Uganda.

Working at HAS

The deciding factor for me to start working at HAS was the idea of working with like-minded people, working with young people and working with knowledgeable people. I get to share my knowledge whilst increasing in at the same time. Win-win!

Working together with students, showing them the possibilities to create a more sustainable ‘green sector’ and inspiring them to help people in this sector – that is what I am passionate about and which are the things that give me energy. The reasons why I once started at IFA are still the things I am passionate about, and I feel lucky that everyday I get to share this message with our students.

The atmosphere at HAS is excellent! It is a great mixture of pleasant Brabantian hospitality, low-threshold Dutch mindsets and an international approachability.

Proud of my work

I am proud of the study programme IFA as a whole. We have been around for over 10 years, we have delivered over 200 bright minds and our message is more relevant than ever.

In addition, the atmosphere at HAS is excellent! It is a great mixture of pleasant Brabantian hospitality, low-threshold Dutch mindsets and an international approachability. A unique yet calm learning and working environment.

Advice for new students

Try to be open and active. Not only in class but also towards your classmates, teachers, other (international) HAS students and after school, too. HAS and Den Bosch aren’t the largest university of applied sciences and city, which makes it easy to go around and connect with other communities. There’s more than enough to see, do and learn!

More about the study programme