‘For my masters in sustainable energy technology and mechanical engineering, I did my graduation project at Witteveen+Bos. I investigated uncertainty in the optimisation of renewable energy systems. What is the ideal number of solar panels? How does that depend on the amount of wind energy generated? Which batteries and storage systems are also required? The uncertainty of future prices results in trade-offs between different techniques. I included these considerations and others in thousands of different scenarios which were calculated for optimisation. That produced hundreds of gigabytes of data. I then used machine learning technology to turn these into robust insights. We now use similar optimisation models in our consulting work for clients.’

‘I’m a lazy engineer: if I can let a computer do something, I will. I also have a passion for the digital transition. These elements come together nicely in my role as ambassador in the AI Nexus working group. At Witteveen+Bos, we’re serious about digitalisation, with our Information Management and Digital Support department leading the company’s efforts.

As a department and working group, we support domain experts at the organisation by developing AI applications that speed up or automate repetitive tasks. This allows the experts to spend more time performing their magic: creating smart designs, solutions and recommendations. If we succeed – for example, by creating a tool for MEAT documents or EIAs – then I’m very happy! To make AI work for you, it’s important to understand the processes, the core of the problem, and the work and wishes of the people involved. Collaborating with experts and learning from their extensive specialist knowledge is one of the aspects of my job I most value.’