Saskia Van Ceunebroecke: Project Engineer
The 22-year-old Saskia Van Ceunebroecke works as a Project Engineer at Cegelec, where she handles the electrical installations of projects from start to finish. This includes calculating fault currents, determining the optimal positioning of electrical devices and preparing wiring diagrams. Her work also manifests itself on the construction site, where she oversees the correct installation of her designs. Finally, she performs tests to verify and prepare the installation for completion.
“My studies in this field presented some challenges, but I persevered – and so can you!”
- Name: Saskia Van Ceunebroecke
- Age: 22
- Studies: Master in industrial sciences – energy at KU Leuven in Ghent
- Function: Project Engineer
- Hobbies: Kickboxing, video games and brain puzzles such as escape rooms
From LEGO Technic to complex electrical projects, how did your passion for engineering turn into your current job?
Saskia: I was surrounded by technology from a young age, because my father was an electrician and mechanic. Instead of playing with toys, I always liked to analyze how things functioned. Then when I did have toys, I was especially interested in Lego Technic. My parents were very supportive of these interests and deliberately bought technical toys rather than traditional toys. That early exposure to technology ensured that my interest in this field was sparked from an early age. Thus, even in secondary school, I chose to study electricity and electronics. There I discovered that I wanted to deepen my knowledge even further, which motivated me to pursue a master’s degree in industrial sciences. In my final master year, we were introduced to many companies. Cegelec and the position of Project Engineer immediately appealed to me, in part because of the variety of tasks the position offers and the projects Cegelec conducts. Every project is different. That variety means that I am constantly facing new challenges and specific requirements, such as the strict safety regulations for defense projects, the need for waterproof and safe electrical installations in swimming pools, and the critical consideration of uninterrupted power supply in hospitals. That variety and complexity keep my job exciting and challenging.
Have you faced prejudice during your journey?
Saskia: Unfortunately, yes, especially during my studies in secondary school. I was always the only girl in my class, which caused some unpleasant experiences. For example, I was regularly called “sweetheart” or “girlfriend” by my classmates when I talked to a boy. I was looked at differently by my classmates for not being one of the boys. This made me feel quite lonely. Fortunately, this improved significantly when I went to university. In university, I noticed that people behaved a lot more maturely. Everyone chose to be there willingly because they really had a passion for their field, and that shared interest created a stronger bond. Now I also work mostly with male colleagues and this is really a very positive experience. I don’t notice any difference in how they treat me, and I can always ask them questions as well. That professional and supportive atmosphere makes a huge difference! Looking back, I am glad I did not let the challenges during my studies discourage me. It was not always easy, but I persevered and followed my passion. And that is exactly what I want to pass on to others: if I can do it, so can you!
How does it feel to start your career in a big company like VINCI Energies?
Saskia: VINCI Energies is a very flexible employer. For example, a good work-life balance is taken into account: I can always work from home on days when I mainly have computer work. That is convenient, but I also enjoy the variety with site visits. In addition, I find the company culture very positive and inclusive. Even though I joined a large company, the atmosphere still feels very down-to-earth and open. All colleagues, regardless of their position, are approachable and helpful. This makes a first work experience a lot more enjoyable, because everyone is truly included.
