Innovation engineering in an inclusive work environment is, for me, the way to go
Unveiling the Transformative Journey of Quynh Hoang: Innovation Engineer at KSBE Shaping a Sustainable Future in the Waste-to-Energy Industry.
In 2017, Quynh Hoang established contact with Keppel Seghers Belgium (KSBE) to explore opportunities for optimising Waste-to-Energy plant combustion. Collaborating with her mentor, Professor Jo Van Caneghem, they embarked on a joint venture. Recognizing the potential, they decided to seek funding from Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship (VLAIO), which serves as the Flemish Government’s entrepreneurship support organisation, fostering innovation and a favourable business climate. Fortunately, their funding application was approved in 2018. Fast forward four years, Quynh Hoang celebrated their achievement of delivering comprehensive numerical models, which Keppel Seghers Belgium will employ to enhance the design and optimisation of their combustion process.
KSBE: What motivated your decision to come to Belgium?
“After completing my bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering in Vietnam, I gained valuable experience as a process engineer in the petrochemical oil and gas industry for three years. While I found fulfillment in my work, my passion for environmental matters and a desire for a more sustainable career path drove me to seek new opportunities. Through a highly competitive Belgium-Vietnam Scholarship, I was fortunate to be selected as a scholar, opening the door for me to pursue a master’s degree in Belgium. It was during this time that I had the privilege of crossing paths with Professor Jo Van Caneghem, a mentor who ignited my fascination for waste-to-energy technology. Fueled by this newfound inspiration, I made the resolute decision to pursue a Ph.D. in Waste-to-Energy, thereby deepening my expertise in Belgium.”
KSBE: Can you describe your role as an Innovation Engineer at Keppel Seghers Belgium?
“So, basically, my job is all about taking those complex scientific discoveries and turning them into practical engineering solutions. I spend my time researching and coming up with innovative ideas that can make a real impact. Once I have these ideas, I bring them to the engineering team, and together, we figure out the best way to use them to advance our core technology.”
“It’s pretty cool because we’re always facing new challenges. Whether it’s finding ways to improve energy recovery, reduce the risks of corrosion, or make flue gas treatment more cost-effective, we’re constantly striving to find solutions. But here’s the thing – innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s a team effort, and that’s where I come in as an innovation engineer. I’m here to facilitate, motivate, and make things happen. I take charge of executing tasks and making sure we’re moving in the right direction to drive our technology forward. Overall, it’s an exciting role where I get to combine science, engineering, and teamwork to make a real difference in our field.”
KSBE: If you had to share one lesser-known fact about Keppel Seghers Belgium with a stranger, what would it be?
“Not a lot of people know that Keppel Seghers Belgium is all about diversity and inclusiveness.”