Wilfried Vancraen

After finishing a Master in Electro-Mechanical Engineering in 1985, Wilfried Vancraen worked as a Research Engineer and Consultant at the Research Institute of the Belgian Metalworking Industry, which is where he first discovered 3D Printing. Passionate about this new technology and firm in his belief that it could help create a better and healthier world, he started Materialise in July 1990, where he remains CEO to this day. Wilfried holds several patents related to the technical and medical applications of 3D Printing and remains committed to using the technology to make positive changes in people’s lives. In recognition of his work, he was awarded the RTAM/SME Industry Achievement Award in 2011, which is considered the highest honor in the 3D Printing industry.

Presentation

Industrial Technologies for a Better and Healthier World

During the past 20 years, much of the technology developed within European research projects has not only revolutionized entire industries, but has also proven itself to be completely ‘game-changing’. However, the past has also taught us that in order to realize an initiative like Horizon 2020, we need to think about the content and context of technology that can truly make a difference in the world. This isn’t only a question of scientific research; this is a question of correct implementation to realize a real and human added-value.

This presentation will first look at the strengths of EU projects and how this has contributed to the continuing success of Materialise. It will then look at the challenges facing the EU on a much larger scale, the key impediments to growth, and suggestions for how the brighter future envisioned in Horizon 2020 can be achieved.

 Industrial Technologies for a Better and Healthier World