From knowledge need to course: a reflection

At PAOTM, a new course often starts with a knowledge question. A technical professional encounters a challenge and realizes that their existing knowledge is no longer sufficient. These knowledge questions are the foundation of new courses, ensuring that the content is directly applicable in practice. That is why PAOTM closely listens to the needs of the market, so we can offer exactly the knowledge that is required.

Over the past year, PAOTM has developed several courses based on specific knowledge needs. We spoke with participants and instructors of these new courses and asked them about their experiences. And we do not just reflect; these insights help us to refine our programs to match the customer needs even better.

From question to insight: Forensic Engineering
In December 2025, new Dutch course Schadeonderzoek in de bouw: Forensic Engineering was organized for the first time. The course was developed in response to a clear need from practice. Damage investigation requires a fundamentally different way of thinking compared to design. It involves less assumption and more analysis and elimination. Following a request from Rijksvastgoedbedrijf, we came into contact with Huibert Borsje (TNO), with whom we shaped the course.

With a group of 22 participants, it was immediately clear that there is a strong interest for this specialized field. Course leader Huibert Borsje (TNO) explains: “The participants were highly engaged, which led to valuable and in-depth discussions. The key learning point is that damage cases must be approached from a completely different perspective than professionals are used to.””, vertelt cursusleider Huibert. Deelnemers leren systematisch analyseren en oorzaken onderbouwen, in plaats van direct naar oplossingen toe te werken. Juist dat maakt schadeonderzoek zorgvuldiger en beter verdedigbaar. De cursus werd dan ook breed ervaren als leerzaam en praktisch. Zoals een deelnemer het verwoordt: “A highly valuable course for structural engineers. Especially the focus on mindset really makes you think.” Another participant noted: "Very positive. A good balance between theory and practice."

The next edition on June 3, 2026, already has quite a number of registrations, with a few spots still available. A third edition is planned for later this year.

Practice at the core: Funderingsonderzoek
Another Dutch course developed directly based on market demand is Praktijkcursus Funderingsonderzoek. This course builds on the existing PAOTM course Aanpak Funderingsonderzoek, with a stronger focus on hands-on investigation. The need for the practical knowledge arose from the growing demand for rapid foundation assessments and risk reports among property valuers, insurers and mortgage providers, who often need to make quick scans based on limited data, explains course leader Dick de Jong (KCAF).

The first edition in September 2025 was fully booked and was regarded as highly relevant and valuable. Participants especially appreciated the combination of theory and practice. Feedback included: "I am very positive about the course. The instructors were highly professional and deepened the subject in a clear way" and "Useful in-depth information and the speakers complemented each other well. The balance between interaction and theory was just right." The practical component was also highlighted: "The practical assignments were very instructive, you really learn a lot.”

Based on the first edition, improvements are currently being made for the next course in September or October 2026. The course will become even more practice-oriented, with extra on-site exercises and a broader content scope.

Applying new technology: Grasshopper & AI
The relevance of AI and its application in technical disciplines is undeniable. AI is integrated into several PAOTM courses and is the focus of the Dutch course Grasshopper & AI, which answers the question: how can AI be applied in parametric design?

According to course leader Jeroen Coenders (Packhunt and Voortaan), Grasshopper has become the leading tool in this field. “Grasshopper is the de facto standard for parametric design today, with connections to many other applications.” The urgency to adopt these technologies is clear. "You can no longer ignore AI. There are new developments every day. After this course, you will be able to actively engage in this conversation."

The strength of the course lies in its practical approach. A participant from Iemants NV shared: "A very interesting course with extensive explanations of all aspects of AI. Now we will look at how to integrate this into our daily work.” Other participants were equally positive: "Good depth and theory, while also keeping a broad perspective and covering many applications" and "Very valuable. A strong balance between theoretical depth and hands-on tools”, according to participants from industry and educational organizations. The course will take place again on April 16 and 17, 2026.

Share your knowledge needs!
Do you or your team have a knowledge question? Let us know! You might find yourself, just like last year’s participants, joining a new course that we develop together. This way, you can immediately apply new knowledge and be prepared for tomorrow’s challenges. You can reach us at +31 (0)15 278 4618, via info@paotm.nl or go to our Knowledge need page and fill out the contactform. We would be happy to explore how we can support your needs.

Curious about the courses mentioned in this article? You can find them below or browse our our complete offer to discover which course suits you best. Perhaps it will even spark a new knowledge question you would like to explore with us. We are here to help!