Erik Oostwegel hosted ten young KIVI members on Thursday 29 October for a very frank and inspiring discussion. KIVI invites young people to be inspired by top business, political and social organisations.

There was a lot of eagerness among the participants to ask Erik all the ins and outs. And they did, we could go on well into the extra time. Even at the start of his career, which was marked when he was recruited by the then director/DGA of the predecessor of RoyalhaskoningDHV, virtual fingers were shooting up. The atmosphere of a family business became the central theme, leading to one-liners like "We want you to keep developing as a person. That's up to you", " I look for people who get the impossible done" and "Keep thinking logically, don't get distracted by jargon or hot air"

Unfortunately, they did have to conclude at some point, leaving the last question "What topic would you choose for your PhD assignment now?" unanswered."

Inspiring talks, "At Erik Oostwegel's working table"

KIVI gives young (prospective) members the chance to talk to CEOs, top officials, top scientists and politicians "at the working table" about current social developments and their organisation's involvement in them. This dialogue provides insight into how engineers look at general situations with their technical eye.

Smart solutions that make life a bit more pleasant.

Ir Erik Oostwegel

The world is in a constant state of change, driven by innovation and digital technology. Many companies and organisations need to reinvent their business models and ways of delivering their products and services. Therefore, outside-the-box, innovative solutions are needed more than ever plus collaboration with an open and curious mind. CEO Erik Oostwegel explains why engineering and consultancy firm Royal HaskoningDHV chooses "Enhancing Society Together" in his 28 years with the company.

Erik Oostwegel (of necessity) does all meetings today via video conferencing. Toon Buddingh' facilitates this meeting and joins 15 young engineers to explore the choices he has made and insights he has been shaped by. Participants are highly engaged in this interactive session.

  • The question by Tim van der Hagen (Rector Magnificus TU Delft), previous speaker
  • A look at today's agenda, culminating in the 'big current issues of the moment'
  • A reflection of the main social events and his/her work on them.
  • The question to the speaker after him (Paul Rouffaer & Gerben Edelijn of Thales) and the reason why that person was chosen.

Time
Thursday 29 October 16:00 to 17:30.

Location
At home via Microsoft TEAMS.

Number of participants
This online meeting is also limited to a maximum of 15 participants, of which at least 10 are KIVI members plus the speaker and facilitator. If this ratio is not correct, you may be excluded. Of course, you will be informed in good time, via e-mail.

Registration
As the number of participants per session is limited, participants who have not attended a session before will be given priority. If there are still too many participants, a draw will be made among the remaining registrants for this session and a second session will be planned.