From inspiring keynotes to hands-on tech experiences — this is your opportunity to learn, network, and innovate. On Wednesday, 25 June 2025, we warmly welcome you to the beautiful Mereveld venue in Utrecht.

Industrial Excellence – The Next Step in Digital Transformation

During this inspiring day, we will explore the latest developments and challenges in industrial automation, focusing on the central theme: Industrial Excellence – The Next Step in Digital Transformation.

The event will cover three key topics:

Digital Transformation en Industry 5.0: Discover how smart production processes and human-centred technologies can elevate your organisation to the next level, with Industry 5.0 as the driving force.
Data-analyse en Artificial Intelligence (AI): Maximise the value of your data with advanced AI applications and data-driven decision-making.
IT/OT Integration: Seamlessly connect IT and OT systems for greater efficiency, enhanced security, and improved operational flexibility.

Preliminary programme

13:15	Walk-in*
14:00	Welcome by Karim Henkens
14:15	Keynote: Christian Kromme – Future of AI: Go digital, stay human
15:00	Break-out sessions: Rob Everink, OCI – A sustainable future for the chemical industry: how OCI connects people, energy and data through digital transformation for maximum impact Marien Ruppert, Tennet – TenneT’s 2GW Programme: the automation strategy powering Europe’s energy transition
15:30	Short break*
16:00	Break-out sessions: Bart Rosendaal, SkyNRG – From trading to production: how SkyNRG is building a sustainable aviation fuel plant Sonja Hoogvliet en Melvin Duineveld, NS – Smarter railway operations: how NS uses MES for reliable and efficient performance
16:45	Break-out sessions: Robin Kobesen, Cosun – From strategy to execution: How Cosun uses digitalisation for smart, measurable improvements Andrew Corner, Cool Planet – Carbon Capture: How Cool Planet Technologies is driving scalable CO₂ reduction
17:45	Closing keynote: John Koot & Leendert Mijnders - AI as gamechanger in the industry
18:00	BBQ and networking drinks*

*Throughout the walk-in, breaks and dinner, various (partner) demonstrations will be held.

More information about our (keynote) presenters

Keynote speaker

Christian is renowned for his unique perspective, predicting technological trends based on biological principles. From this viewpoint, he demonstrates how exponential technologies such as AI, automation, biotechnology and neurotechnology evolve in predictable patterns. He reveals how organisations can prepare for disruptive change and how technology can actually make us more human rather than less. Get ready for a fascinating journey into the future of work, innovation and leadership.

Christian Kromme, Best selling author and futurist

A sustainable future for the chemical industry: how OCI connects people, energy and data through digital transformation for maximum impact.

OCI is a globally operating chemical company producing sustainable solutions in hydrogen, fertilisers and methanol for industrial and agricultural applications. Discover how OCI is leveraging digital transformation to address major industrial challenges. In this session, OCI shares how it tackles the shortage of technical skills and hands-on capacity, optimises energy usage, and unlocks data-driven insights. Be inspired by a real-world case packed with practical solutions, smart technologies and strategic choices driving sustainable, future-proof production processes.

- Rob Everink, Process Control Lead at OCI-Nitrogen

TenneT’s 2GW Programme: the automation strategy powering Europe’s energy transition

TenneT is a leading European transmission system operator, responsible for the high-voltage electricity grid in the Netherlands and large parts of Germany. Playing a vital role in the energy transition, TenneT integrates offshore wind power into the energy grid at an unprecedented scale. In this session, you will explore how automation is key to the success of the 2GW Programme – connecting more than 28 GW of offshore wind capacity through 14 platforms and dozens of HVDC onshore converter stations. In collaboration with ICT Group, TenneT developed a future-oriented automation strategy. Discover their vision, the decisions behind it, and the challenges encountered in this ground-breaking energy project.

- Marien Ruppert, Lead Project Developers Offshore & HVDC at Tennet

From trading to production: how SkyNRG is building a sustainable aviation fuel plant

SkyNRG is a global pioneer in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), working towards a CO₂-neutral future for aviation. The company is transitioning from being a fuel trader to becoming a producer with the construction of its SAF facility in Delfzijl. This presentation offers a unique insight into this transformation, showing how technology, sustainability and long-term vision converge to decarbonise the aviation industry. Learn from their production journey and discover how it contributes to the broader energy transition in mobility.

- Bart Rosendaal, Site Director at SkyNRG

Smarter railway operations: how NS uses MES for reliable and efficient performance

NS operates the majority of passenger rail transport in the Netherlands and is dedicated to delivering sustainable and reliable mobility. At its train modernisation facility in Haarlem, NS uses a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) to efficiently manage the overhaul of bogies and wheelsets. MES plays a vital role in enhancing reliability, traceability and operational efficiency across this complex process. It also provides critical process data, enabling better decision-making and operational insight. Together with ICT Group, NS continues to develop and maintain its MES capabilities. This collaboration offers an inspiring example of how digitalisation and data empower control over essential infrastructure that serves millions of passengers every day.

- Sonja Hoogvliet, Scrummaster at NS & Melvin Duineveld, IT Engineer MES at NS

From strategy to execution: How Cosun uses digitalisation for smart, measurable improvements

Cosun is an agricultural cooperative that processes plant-based raw materials into sustainable solutions for food, energy and biobased applications. With its Smart Operations programme, Cosun uses digital transformation to turn strategy into concrete improvements on the shop floor.

In this session, discover how ‘WIN Weeks’ assess factories on energy use, maintenance, productivity and digitalisation. Through interviews, data analysis and observations, integrated plans with real results emerge – from real-time visualisation to automated quality checks and predictive maintenance. A practical story of ownership, smart tech and the power of data in tomorrow’s efficient, sustainable factory.

- Robin Kobesen, Program Manager Smart Operations at Royal Cosun

Carbon Capture: How Cool Planet Technologies is driving scalable CO₂ reduction

Cool Planet Technologies is developing membrane technology to capture CO₂ directly at the source of industrial processes. With a clear focus on scalability and collaboration with major industry players, the company is building a future-proof solution.

During this session, CEO Andrew Corner will demonstrate how technology, entrepreneurship and investors are working together to enable industrial decarbonisation. You will also discover how ICT Group contributes as a technology partner – from integration to execution in complex industrial environments.

A story of innovation, collaboration and the path towards a low-carbon industry.

- Andrew Corner, CEO at Coolplanet

Secure your spot

Don’t miss this chance to expand your knowledge and network with industry experts. Please note: this is a Dutch event. Places are limited — sign up today using the link below to stay informed about the full programme.

Register NOW