Kerkrade welcomes King Willem-Alexander during working visit to Medlands Parkstad

On Friday, January 23, King Willem-Alexander will pay a working visit to Medlands Parkstad. This is a collaboration between companies, schools, and municipalities in the region. Together, they focus on logistics within medical technology, also known as MedTech.

An important part of the visit is to Boston Scientific in Kerkrade. This company manufactures and distributes medical products that are used all over the world. The King will be given a tour and will speak with patients and employees.

Kerkrade important for medical technology

Kerkrade plays an important role within Medlands Parkstad. In the Parkstad region, approximately 6,000 people work for logistics companies in the MedTech sector. This number is growing. Companies, schools, and municipalities are working together to attract and retain enough well-trained people.

Mayor Petra Dassen-Housen: "The King's visit to Kerkrade shows how important our city and region are for logistics in medical technology. Every day, our residents work with products that help people worldwide. We are proud of that."

Alderman Geers (Economy) adds: “Medlands Parkstad is creating jobs and opportunities for our residents. By working closely with businesses and schools, we are building a strong future for Kerkrade.”

Working together on jobs and training

During his working visit, King Willem-Alexander will also visit VISTA college in Heerlen. This college offers courses that are important for logistics positions within the MedTech sector. Students, staff, and patients will show the King why this is so important for Health for everyday life.

Afterwards, the King will speak with students and alumni from VISTA College, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, and Maastricht University. They will talk about how internships and graduation projects led them to work at MedTech companies in the region. They will also explain why they chose a job with a future and meaning in Parkstad.