Over 25 years ago, he first walked into Gpi – back then, a small company with just eight people in the office. Today, Jan-Willem van der Meulen is a Senior Project Engineer and a key player in the Gpi Pharma team. Over the years, he has watched the company grow into what it is today. “It’s impressive to see where we started and where we are now.”
Jan-Willem started at Gpi around 1999 as a freelance draftsman. With about five years of experience in technical drawing and strong skills in AutoCAD, he was soon asked to stay on. Jan-Willem recalls: “In 2001, I officially joined the company. At that time, not much was in place yet—there was no work preparation department, no dedicated purchasing—we handled everything ourselves with just a small team.”
From cut-and-paste to 3D engineering
Back then, the work as a draftsman was very hands-on and varied. “I did the drawings, ordered materials, and handled work preparation. I created detailed technical drawings, and everything had to be spot-on. Sometimes it was literally cut-and-paste work—building small scale models to make sure every detail was correct. Over time, we transitioned to 3D design. A lot has changed since then.”
Complexity
Although technology has advanced, every project is still custom-made. The Gpi Pharma team serves the pharmaceutical industry—an industry with extremely high quality standards. “Pharma is truly the Champions League of tank construction,” Jan-Willem explains. “It’s not so much about the amount of stainless steel, but about smart technical solutions. Traceability and documentation also have to be absolutely flawless. That’s what makes the work both challenging—and often complex.”
Challenges
Every project starts with a thorough analysis of the customer’s needs. Jan-Willem dives into the technical requirements, consults with sales colleagues, and reviews datasheets. Based on that, he creates the initial design drawing—the so-called spec freeze, which defines the key dimensions and design parameters. “That’s when the real puzzle begins,” he says. “The design has to be technically sound, fit within the budget, and be as efficient to produce as possible. You always keep the big picture in mind, but the details are just as important.”
Deepening expertise
In early 2024, Jan-Willem transitioned from the engineering department at Gpi Tanks to the team at Gpi Pharma. This move allowed him to deepen his expertise: “Over the years, I’ve increasingly specialized in the field. It’s very specialized work, and you really need to know what you’re talking about. Designing a stainless steel pharma tank is a complex process that requires a deep understanding of hygienic design, pharmaceutical processes, safety regulations, and relevant standards,” explains the Senior Project Engineer.
Future
The complex projects offer Jan-Willem plenty of challenges for the years to come. “Gpi Pharma is currently a small, close-knit team. We create great products together. I hope we can continue to develop and expand Gpi Pharma. The requirements are increasing, so we want to keep up in order to stay at the highest level.”
Working at Gpi
Jan-Willem is enthusiastic about Gpi as an employer: “What really appeals to me is the accessibility. There’s little hierarchy, and the communication lines are short. You’re close to the factory, so you can actually see what you’ve designed being made—that’s very fulfilling. Together, we strive for a great result. The best reward is when a customer comes back and orders the same tanks again—ideally with the same team—that’s when you know you’ve done a great job. That’s truly the best part of the job.”
