13. September 2017
GERMAN DIAZ DIAZ - GRAND RAPIDS, USA
After several years working in Austria as a Project Manager, I was offered the opportunity to transfer to the US for a period of a year and a half.
AMAZING Michigan
Michigan is not one of the most famous states in the US, but after some time here I have learned to appreciate its essence: nature, forests, the huge lakes, the shores, the lighthouses. One of the things that I enjoyed most is the sunset at Lake Michigan, which is even more beautiful adding a lighthouse to it. I loved taking sunset pictures both in winter and summer. Michigan is a nice place to experience the four seasons: fall is red and brown, winters are white, spring has a deep green, and summer is amazing. People just get crazy in summer and enjoy the sun, summer activities and festivals.
DYNAMIC OFFICE TEAM
In the US I continued to handle my TGW Mechanics projects but now there was more travel to the jobsite. Being on site more often and participating in the meetings with the final customer was a very good and exciting experience. I also enjoyed my time in the Grand Rapids office. It is a very dynamic one: lots of energy, many young people and also experienced employees. My co-workers organized many events for occasions like Christmas, Mardi Gras, Cinco de Mayo with potluck and dishes to share. We even had a massive company barbeque at a co-workers home, where a full pig was slowly cooked (smoked) and we all brought a dish to share in the celebration.
Experiences:
DIFFERENT?
-
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Most businesses here in the US focus strongly on a happy customer. -
SUPERMARKET
At the supermarket, cashiers fill the shopping bags for the customers, for free. Those businesses open until late Monday to Sunday and, some of them, even 24 hours a day. -
RESTAURANT
At the restaurant, the waiter will pack the leftovers for you to take home. -
CAR OIL CHANGE
Car oil change is just about going to the shop without any appointment and waiting in line for a few minutes. -
DELIVERY TIMES
Amazon even delivers here on Sunday in some locations.
the
TGW family
In conclusion, the experience here has been very positive from a professional and personal perspective. I got to know many nice TGW colleagues in Grand Rapids and Spring Lake. I have felt very welcomed and supported in all phases of the expat process. I would like to take the opportunity to thank the Grand Rapids and Spring Lake colleagues for making me feel part of the global TGW family.
The following stories of our insights might also be interesting for you. Learn more about the personal experiences of our international employees...
