Terneuzen, the Netherlands, October 27, 2026 – Inspiring young people to pursue a future in technology, chemistry and science. That has been the shared goal of Dow and C3 (Centrum JongerenCommunicatie Chemie) for many years. Together, both organizations are committed to helping pupils and students make informed study and career choices while introducing them to the wide range of opportunities within the technical sector.
The demand for technical talent remains high. At the same time, many young people are not always aware of which educational pathways and professions align with their interests and skills. By bringing education and industry closer together, Dow and C3 aim to inspire young people and help them gain a better understanding of their future career opportunities.
C3 supports young people in exploring study and career options and helps them discover the opportunities available within technology and industry. Through real-world examples, educational materials and inspiring stories from the business community, students gain a more realistic view of technical education and careers.
The collaboration with C3 is part of Dow’s broader commitment to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) and talent development. From primary school to university, Dow collaborates with schools, educational institutions and community partners to spark young people's interest in science and technology and demonstrate how they can contribute to solving society’s future challenges.
Roos Bartelink, STEM Program Manager at Dow Benelux, said: “For Dow, this collaboration aligns perfectly with our STEM approach. We believe it is important to introduce young people to the opportunities within our industry at an early age and help them discover and develop their talents. We invest in talent from primary education and vocational training through to university because the employees of tomorrow are being shaped today.”
“The societal challenges of tomorrow require knowledge of science and technology. By showing young people how professionals apply that knowledge in practice, we demonstrate how diverse these fields are and how they themselves can contribute to solving those challenges in the future,” said Jeroen Sijbers, Director of C3.
A recent example of this collaboration is the contribution to the platform Check Your Future, an initiative that C3 supports to help young people explore future career opportunities through real-life career stories. Following earlier videos featuring Iris Dees and Sanne d’Haens from our laboratories, Niels Verhoosel, Process Operator, and Jessica Heynderickx, E&I Technician, also shared their personal career journeys. This gives young people an authentic insight into the diverse career opportunities available within industry.
In addition, C3 promotes Exactwatjezoekt.nl, a platform that supports students with homework in science-related subjects and provides information about study profiles, educational pathways and careers in science and technology.
Roos Bartelink (STEM Program Manager Dow Benelux) & Jeroen Sijbers (Director C3)