Colin Willemsen, Business Developer | Teamlead Simulations, HyTEPS
Early on, I discovered that my curiosity was mainly driven by the why question: why does an installation behave the way it does, and how do you translate theory into something that makes sense in practice? That is why I always sought practical experience during my studies, from VMBO Metal Technology and an internship at a transformer factory to holiday work at an electrical engineering firm. Linking theory directly to practice made learning not only easier, but also more logical and relevant.
That same drive took me through MBO and HBO Electrical Engineering to the Master's degree in Control Systems engineering. At Phase to Phase I graduated and after graduation I focused on understanding and modelling system behaviour: from dynamic modelling of synchronous generators to stability analyses, cable heating, mutual couplings, security modelling and the development of the arc module. My focus was always on one question: how to translate a practical customer demand into a technically and organisationally realisable solution.
This background aligns closely with where HyTEPS is today. There is a lot of knowledge and expertise within HyTEPS, and the combination of engineering, modelling and practical application fits well with my way of working. As team leader of the simulation team, I use my experience to ensure and further develop the quality of the content. At the same time, I focus on business development and the long-term technical direction.
Many industrial plants lack a comprehensive overview. Extensions and modifications over the years mean that security settings may be correct for each sub-area, but coherence is blurred. Modelling the entire network - the digital twin - provides clarity about current loads, selectivity, short-circuit levels and future expansion possibilities. Simulations also reveal bottlenecks that remain hidden in day-to-day operations, but could cause major safety or continuity risks in the event of a failure.
For me, HyTEPS is at the centre of the complex reality of modern electrical engineering. Power electronics, PV installations, frequency converters and also congestion solutions make installations more dynamic and vulnerable. This requires in-depth knowledge of power quality, grid behaviour and security knowledge that is scarce in the Netherlands. What distinguishes HyTEPS is that we not only identify problems, but control the entire process: from measurements and simulations to advice, concrete solutions and actual commissioning. We are close to the field, right in the "misery" where the real technical challenges are, and that makes us valuable for industrial and critical installations.
In addition, I see HyTEPS as an organisation that puts insight at its heart. Monitoring, continuous measurement and simulations create a deep understanding of what is really happening in an installation. The data we collect thus takes on multiple functions: from reducing voltage dips to underpinning investment decisions. At a time when expertise in the industry is under pressure, HyTEPS is a reliable partner for installation managers-not by taking over their role, but by strengthening them with technical interpretation, practical solutions and support towards management. In this way, we contribute to safe, reliable and future-proof electrical installations. Discussions with Christian and Daan confirmed that HyTEPS has a solid organisational basis for growth. The combination of strong practical orientation, technically challenging projects and a high technical level feels to me like the "premier league of electrical engineering".
Colin (36) lives together in Beuningen and has a passion for hunting and engineering. He is a real doer: active outside or inside in his workshop. Working with his hands is the ideal way to relax.
