Two Summa students win Noordhof Prize 2026
Two students from Summa Techniek won prizes on Tuesday, November 10, at the Noordhof Prize ceremony. Finn van der Heijden (21) from Eindhoven won in the Junior Vocational Talent category. Jake van Herpen (33) from Helmond received the prize in the Lateral Entry Vocational Talent category. The Noordhof Prize puts the best professionals of Brainport in the spotlight.
Finn: ambassador for technology
Finn van der Heijden is studying Mechatronics at Summa and works at Philips Healthcare. He won the Noordhof Prize in the Junior Professional Talent category.
The jury describes Finn as driven, self-confident, and professional. He wants to learn as much as possible, develops quickly, and feels strongly committed to his work and the company. His social skills also stood out. According to the jury, Finn is 'a true ambassador for the profession and the company'.
Jake: successful transition to engineering
Jake van Herpen also received a Noordhof Prize. The 33-year-old from Helmond is following the Level 3 All-round Production Worker course at Summa Techniek and works at SXT in Helmond.
Jake won in the Lateral Entry Vocational Talent category. After previous work experience, he chose a completely different direction and found his place in the technical field. According to the jury, he has developed so strongly in a short time that he can now work fully independently. The jury praised his 'craftsmanship, perseverance, drive, and quality awareness'.
Former student Niels also nominated
In addition to the two winners, former student Niels Vlamings (22) from Reusel was also nominated in the Junior Vocational Talent category. Niels completed his BBL training as a Construction and Sheet Metal Technologist at Summa Techniek last year. At Driessen BV in Eersel, he devised a process improvement for his graduation project that reduced a processing step from thirteen to six hours.
The Noordhof Prize shines a spotlight on young talent, experienced professionals, and career changers in the technical field. The prizes underscore the importance of technical craftsmanship for the Brainport region.
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