How are you doing Monique (ASML)?

What impact does corona have on ASML’s work?

ASML manufactures lithography machines for the chip industry. These are very large systems, put together in cleanrooms at our facility in Veldhoven, tested, disassembled again and then transported to our customers in Asia and the US. Work in the cleanrooms has continued as much as possible, 'business as usual', but with additional measures to ensure that our colleagues are safe and also feel that way.

Most other colleagues work from home. They are allowed only to come to the office if there is an urgent reason to do so. So it is empty on our campus in Veldhoven, which is normally always very lively and busy.

Despite the difficult circumstances, ASML showed good results in the past year. This required close cooperation with each other, but certainly also with the partners in the region, such as our suppliers.

Which changes due to Corona have you experienced as positive?

We experienced that working remotely is possible, not for everything and everyone, but it is possible in more cases than we ever thought. We think we will continue to do this after corona time. We expect that some of our employees will continue to work from home for 1 or 2 days. We also noticed that in these complicated times we have become even stronger as a team.

What do you personally want to be the first thing to do when everything opens up again? 

I will mainly walk around the ASML campus and enjoy the hustle and bustle. Meeting colleagues again in the crowded elevators, drinking coffee in the Plaza and meeting acquaintances I have not seen for a long time.

What is your best personal memory of 2020?

In the early months of Corona, our entire family was at home. I have two children, ages 19 and 22 who at that time still lived with us, but moved out by now. We regularly ordered food from our favorite restaurants. The weather was fine and the evenings were long. We watched movies and Netflix together. Just cozy really.

I know a lot of people struggled with young children who couldn't go to school or elderly parents who needed care and I have a lot of respect for that. We also find this a difficult time, but we do not have that stress from children or parents.  

Finally: which message do you want to give personally?

Hang in there. Hold on. And keep in mind that social distancing doesn't mean you can't interact. It's more important than ever.

And also: it is normal to be grumpy now and then. We call that corona-cranky. It's just a tough time for everyone and there is so much hassle around us. Tip: walking really helps: clear your mind, gain energy.

Monique Mols

www.asml.com