At Friesens, every employee-owner plays a vital role in shaping our success and culture. Our ongoing blog series, A Day in the Life of a Friesens Employee-Owner, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people who bring passion, precision, and purpose to their work each day. From early morning routines to the challenges they overcome and the communities they support, these stories celebrate the dedication and diversity of our team, one day at a time.
Meet Rudolf de Bod, a dedicated HP T250-Sigma Compact Operator at Friesens. With almost three years at the company, Rudolf’s journey from a press assistant to his current role is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
Early Morning Routine
Rudolf’s day starts early, with his alarm going off at 4 AM. However, he allows himself a couple of snoozes before finally getting up at 4:30 AM. After a refreshing shower and getting dressed, he makes himself a cup of coffee and a cup of green tea for his wonderful wife, who wakes up at 5:15 AM to pack his lunch. While enjoying a bowl of oats, Rudolf tackles his daily Wordle puzzle before leaving home around 5:40 AM.
Preparing for the Day
Upon arriving at work, Rudolf receives a handover from the night shift and completes the job currently on the press. He then reviews the PSR to plan his day and gathers everything he needs to ensure a smooth workflow.
Main Responsibilities
Rudolf’s primary responsibilities include operating the HP T250HD press and the Sigma Compact line. He performs quality control by routinely inspecting printed book blocks and troubleshooting any issues to minimize downtime. Regular maintenance of the equipment is also a crucial part of his role to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Ensuring Quality
Quality is paramount in Rudolf’s work. He maintains his equipment in top condition through regular maintenance and continuously checks the printed book blocks to ensure high-quality printing and folding.
Overcoming Challenges
Rudolf doesn’t see challenges as obstacles but rather as tasks that need to be completed to continue his day. This positive mindset helps him tackle any issues that arise with ease.
Personal Life and Hobbies
Outside of work, Rudolf enjoys spending time with his family. He is married to Nicky and has a daughter who is in the process of moving to the UK with her husband. In his spare time, Rudolf indulges in 3D printing (what can he say? He loves printing!).
Community Involvement
Rudolf is also involved in giving back to the community. He donates 3D printed items to local organizations to be auctioned off to raise money, showcasing his commitment to helping others.
