First barbecue together as HIVE

Message posted on
1 July 2025 by HIVE

On Monday, July 1, HIVE Aerospace Collective organized its second cluster barbecue at Woensdrecht Air Base. The gathering brought together both internal and external guests from the civil-military aerospace maintenance & support cluster.

Compared to the first edition, this year was notable not only for the sunny weather, but also for the fact that the cluster is now fully operational under the name HIVE Aerospace Collective. Since then, joint activities have been referred to simply as HIVE activities.

Young talent speaks

The program was different from last year. Instead of management, this time young employees and students within HIVE took the floor. In a panel discussion led by moderator Alfred Dekker, they talked about their experiences working and learning at this unique location, what exactly appeals to them in their work, and how they see their future at HIVE.

Farewell to Erwin van Beljouw

Ivo van der Vlis, co-founder of HIVE, then addressed co-founder Erwin van Beljouw. Van Beljouw, until recently Commander of Air Support Command in formation, is leaving for a new position in the United States. He has made an important and highly valued contribution to reinforcing civil-military cooperation within the cluster. He was also closely involved in the creation of HIVE Aerospace Collective.

Food and networking

The afternoon ended with a barbecue, where participants could network and exchange experiences in an informal setting. We look back on a successful and inspiring meeting.

Also see