In 2015, Otto first stepped into ISPT as a student. Ten years later, he returns as a chemical technologist, ready to put his expertise to work for the energy transition. With a smile, this Rotterdam native takes on every challenge.
As Program Officer at ISPT, Otto works within the Separations for Circularity cluster and the Clean Ammonia Innovation Platform. Within this platform, he coordinates research into the application of ammonia in our energy system. He also works with the platform partners to facilitate dialogue on the use of ammonia in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. “Separating fact from fiction.”
As a chemical engineer, his passion is sparked by tackling separation challenges within the industry. “Every factory faces separation issues, which creates a vast range of value chains and technologies. One moment, I am developing a project to create a new value chain for recycling bioplastics; the next, I am bringing together dozens of partners to take the future of the Geleen business park a concrete step further.” He is equally eager to enhance ISPT’s digital processes.
Otto obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering with a focus on Bioprocessing and a minor in Circular Business Model Innovation at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences. During his studies, he participated in the PTTP, a national honours programme organised by ISPT. Within this programme, he attended courses taught by professionals, visited various factories and contributed to organising ISPT events. “Through direct interaction with industry, one thing became clear to me: our industry doesn’t just need new technologies, but also business and systemic insights to successfully implement them.”
That is why he decided to continue his studies with a Master’s degree in Management of Technology at Delft University, where he worked on real-life cases from Dutch industry. “For example, we explored which social processes prevented CO2 storage beneath Barendrecht.”
What Otto values most about working at ISPT is the wide variety of discussions with passionate partners. “They are often deeply committed people, with an eye for innovation and a drive to get both people and systems moving.” While many processes in the Dutch industry are being gradually improved, the materials and energy transitions focus on architectural renewal. “To achieve that, holistic system-wide discussions are essential. Step by step, we are mapping out new value chains across the Netherlands. How exciting is it to collaborate and negotiate in that playing field?”
Fun fact: Did you know that, in addition to his knowledge of separation technologies, Otto is also a walking encyclopaedia of cars? He is also a keen sailor and has been active for many years as a sailing instructor and board member of the Brandaen Sea Scouts.
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