TOWING ANCHOR AWARD FOR ‘MISTER RDM’
After studying Economics at Erasmus University, Cor van Asch began his career as a geography teacher. In the early 1980s, he joined the Municipality of Rotterdam, where he worked on numerous urban renewal projects. Over the years, he became a key connector between municipal departments, entrepreneurs, residents, and local government.
‘MISTER RDM’
It was in this connecting role that he truly came into his own during the redevelopment of the former Rotterdamsche Droogdok Maatschappij (RDM) shipyard. Thanks in large part to his efforts—earning him the affectionate nickname ‘Mister RDM’—the historic dockyard site was given a new lease of life. The area on Heijplaat has since evolved into the vibrant and distinctive campus it is today.
Egbert van der Wal, Head of Port Development at the Port of Rotterdam Authority, presented the Towing Anchor to Van Asch on Monday, 22 September. “RDM is now an important and diverse part of the Port of Rotterdam—home to technical education, innovative start-ups, and creative industries. It serves as a vital link between the city of Rotterdam and the port”, said Van der Wal.
“We may now take RDM’s status for granted, but it took a long journey to get here. Cor has always been deeply connected to RDM—heart and soul—and for many years he was the guiding conscience behind its development. This Towing Anchor is, without question, richly deserved.”
OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE PORT OF ROTTERDAM
The Towing Anchor Award is a distinction presented by the Port of Rotterdam Authority since 2006 to individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the development of the Port of Rotterdam. The award is given to mark an anniversary, farewell, or other special occasion.
The Towing Anchor Award is presented to individuals who have made long-term contributions to the development of the Port of Rotterdam.
Source and pictures: Port of Rotterdam Authority
