I decided to pursue a career in maritime engineering because of a sailboat. It wasn't just a dinghy for me to sail, but also a model boat with which I tried to sail as fast as possible upwind. Even then, I was experimenting with optimisation. After studying shipbuilding at the Haarlem Technical School (HTS), I went on to study at the Delft University of Technology. At the HTS, we were trained to approach ship design activities 'by hand': using paper calculation tables and drawing pens. I found this so frustrating that I considered giving up drawing altogether. Then I remembered the primitive computer in my father's office. By the end of my first year at the HTS, I had written a stability programme and a ship shape generation programme in BASIC.
That was the beginning. While studying in Delft, I continued with this and founded a company called SARC. We develop software for ship design and operation called PIAS & LOCOPIAS. SARC currently employs around 15 people and I am still involved in software development, although I have handed over day-to-day management. I live in Hilversum, but I have enjoyed sailing in Friesland for over 40 years.
What are your research interests and specialisms?
I am interested in using advanced algorithms to solve or optimise problems in ship design and operation. My work began in 1980 with the traditional areas of stability, strength, resistance and propulsion. Gradually, the scope was expanded to include optimal user interaction.
What is your role at NHL Stenden and what are your goals and tasks?
As Professor of Applied Sciences in the Maritime Research Group, I aim to contribute to the development of cleaner and more efficient ships. Using modern algorithms, among other tools, I aim to strengthen the maritime manufacturing sector in the Netherlands. I enjoy connecting the various parties involved, such as education, research, innovation and the professional field. Insights from research enable us to innovate in education where necessary or possible. One example of this is the development of the Advanced Engineering Tools for ShipX minor.
Our maritime research group is currently involved in more than ten national and international innovation projects, many of which focus on these objectives.
Do you hold other positions related to your field of expertise?
Alongside my work as a Professor, I am the director of SARC (www.sarc.nl) and sit on the advisory board of SWZ Maritime, a trade journal.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I enjoy sailing. I also have an interest in the role of technology, particularly ICT-related technology, in society.