At the new boathouse, students gained valuable insight into modern construction processes. Questions such as why the old building no longer met requirements, what new construction demands from builders and installers, and how the energy system in the new facility works were discussed in depth. The group also learned about the construction methods used and how the needs from the old situation were incorporated into the new design. Erwin de Boer from the Municipality of Ameland and Pieter Mosterman from Mosterman Bouw enthusiastically guided the students through the project and shared their expertise.

Assignment technical maintenance plan for KNRM building

This hands-on visit forms the foundation of a challenging assignment: developing a technical maintenance plan for the KNRM building. In doing so, students not only learn how a building functions, but also how to properly prepare a construction project. From material selection and equipment to regulations and planning—every aspect of project preparation is addressed.

10 weeks

Over the next ten weeks, the students will work on making the boathouse ‘construction-ready’ and will propose ways to make it even more sustainable. To support this process, they will return to Ameland several times. During these visits, they will further explore the project, consult with stakeholders, measure the building, and ultimately present their long-term maintenance plan.

NESSIE PROJECT

This project is part of the European NESSIE project a collaboration between Firda, the Municipality of Ameland, and [Learning Hub Friesland] ( https://learninghubfriesland.nl/?lang=nl). Within this initiative, North Sea islands such as Ameland, Belle Île, Borkum, and Samsø are working together on sustainable and future-proof solutions for the built environment, with the shared ambition of becoming fossil-free by 2035.

Well-trained profssionals

Achieving this goal requires well-trained professionals. There is a growing shortage of skilled workers in technical fields, both on Ameland and beyond. By involving students in real-life projects during their education, this initiative contributes not only to innovative solutions but also to the development of the professionals of the future.

Specialised courses

The collaboration will continue in the coming months. At the end of March, the students will return to conduct a building survey, and in April they will present their plans to the project partners, including the KNRM and the Municipality of Ameland. In addition, Firda is working with local construction and installation companies to further develop specialized courses, enabling future professionals to actively contribute to the energy transition.

Through initiatives like this, collaboration between education and the island takes tangible shape—building both the solutions and the skilled workforce needed for a sustainable Ameland.