Meet Toby Kortland, the driving force behind Kortels

From an early age, Toby was fascinated by how things work. Wooden model boats, dismantling and rebuilding, it was in his DNA. At thirteen, he was already working in technical environments such as construction and concrete, where his work ethic and love for engineering took shape.

From intern to specialist

After his studies, Toby joined Beekmans RVS, where he stayed after his internship and advanced to Head of Production. During this period, his fascination with digital measuring began. His internship project, creating digital moulds to reduce lead times in international supply chains, laid the foundation for what would later become Kortels. Alongside his production role, he started developing measuring solutions as a ‘side project’, ranging from glass measurements to complex ship components.

When Beekmans RVS changed direction, Toby was approached by clients specifically to continue collaborating on measuring solutions, because of his knowledge, precision, and pragmatic approach. That trust became the turning point: in 2003, Toby started his own business. Kortels was born.

In the early years, he combined his measuring work with interim assignments for several stainless-steel and production companies. The course was set; precision would remain at the heart of his work.

The turning point: efficiency as a catalyst

Around 2008, when efficiency and flawless production became key topics in yacht building, Toby’s philosophy;“measure once, measure right”, proved spot on. Kortels professionalised and grew into a specialised team.

At the same time, Toby completed a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, specialising in Business Psychology. The company’s growth was intentional and focused: not only in technology, but especially in people.

The Kortels Academy: training precision

Because no vocational school existed for measurement technicians in yacht building, Toby founded the Kortels Academy. With in-house training materials, manuals, and a structured exam system, Kortels has been developing its own specialists for years, ensuring consistency, quality, and expertise.

Always ahead in technology

What began in 2003 with a manual total station has evolved into fully automated 3D scanners and advanced workflows. Every new innovation is thoroughly tested in-house before implementation, guaranteeing the same level of quality and reliability Kortels is known for. “Innovation only has value if it delivers the same certainty. New equipment isn’t the goal; precision and guarantee are.” although Toby Kortland.

Why Kortels remains a niche player

· 100% Guarantee: Over 25 years of experience in a small, demanding industry where mistakes are not an option.

· Capability: A compact, skilled team with the agility to deliver results without compromise.

Motivation: people, projects, and progress

What drives Toby? Colleagues and clients. Seeing his team grow, tackling ever more complex projects, and finding solutions together. Measuring is no longer a separate step but an integral part of every successful yacht project. “The best results come when engineering, production, and measuring align perfectly. That’s how projects start, and stay, flawless.” although Toby Kortland

Looking ahead: international growth and refit

Over the next decade, Toby foresees international expansion, establishing local hubs in France, Italy, and Spain to serve refit projects more efficiently. “Refit work demands fast, on-site action. With local teams, we can respond instantly.” Meanwhile, Kortels continues to invest in knowledge, people, and precision.

Kortels. Who else!