Thomas Van Aken

Founder & CEO, VAEngineering, Belgium

With 9 years of professional experience in research and development, I have built my career at the intersection of electronics, advanced technology, and product innovation. For the past 7 years, I have been deeply involved in the R&D of LEO satellite technologies, contributing to the development of complex products and systems from early concepts through real-world implementation.

Alongside my engineering career, I have founded and worked on multiple start-ups in parallel, giving me a perspective that extends beyond technology alone. These experiences have shaped how I approach R&D: combining deep technical understanding with entrepreneurial thinking, rapid iteration, and a strong focus on turning ideas into products that create tangible value.

My long-term ambition is to help change how R&D is done. I believe complex technology development can become faster, more effective, and more impactful by challenging established processes, connecting disciplines, and creating environments where ambitious ideas can move efficiently from concept to reality.

Ultimately, my goal is not simply to develop new technology, but to make a meaningful and lasting impact on how technology is created.