When Gabriel Cojocaru – “Gaby” – moved more than 2,200 kilometers from Romania to the Netherlands he didn’t just change countries. He switched careers and opened himself up to something new. Today, Gaby is a respected electrical supervisor working on some of the most complex infrastructure projects in the country, all with the support of InAxtion.
From Romania to a new start in the Netherlands
Gaby arrived in the Netherlands specifically for work in March 2019. With a background as an electronic engineer, he felt it was time for a new direction. Everything was unfamiliar at first, from Dutch culture to the working methods, and the experience was, in his words, “a little bit shaky”.
Still, he embraced the challenge.
“Something must change,” Gaby recalls. “It was a new field, everything was new, and I said okay, let’s do this.” What began as a temporary move soon became permanent. Gabynow considers the Netherlands his second home. He values the structure, logic, and problem-solving mindset he encounters every day on Dutch projects.
Support that goes beyond the job
From the moment he arrived, Gaby worked exclusively through InAxtion. The agency supported him with housing, administration, and daily practical matters, allowing him to focus on his work.
“We have a special bond,” Gaby says with a smile. “It’s more than work. It’s a friendship. You can always call, it doesn’t matter if it’s work or personal.” This consistent support gave Gaby the stability he needed to grow quickly in a new country and a new working environment.
Growing into leadership and specialization
Gabystarted out as an electrician, working on various projects across the Netherlands. Over time, he became highly specialized in tunnel infrastructure, including road and rail tunnels and work around Schiphol Airport.
Today, he supervises teams on major projects while still staying hands on.“I like to teach people,” he explains. “I like to show them how to do it, what the client needs to see, and why it matters.”
One of his most challenging and rewarding projects involved a tunnel crossing under a river, delivered under intense time pressure. Gaby led from within the team, not above it. “At the time it felt like madness,” he laughs. “But it turned out to be a real pleasure.” As I like to say, “It is what it is.”
Looking ahead and advice for new workers
Gaby has enjoyed continuous employment, moving smoothly from project to project. He believes this comes down to attitude. “Be open to changes and challenging projects,” he advises. “Don’t start with ‘no’. Everything is manageable if you keep it simple and stay positive!”
He appreciates the Dutch work culture for its directness, openness to ideas, and focus on efficiency over long hours. Looking ahead, Gaby dreams of writing a book about his journey and eventually building something bigger by bringing and training new talent in the Netherlands. In summary, Gaby’s story shows what is possible with the right mindset, strong support, and a willingness to adapt.
If you’re already working with InAxtion or thinking about your next step, explore our upcoming vacancies and see where your own connections might lead.