What was your background before joining AGC?  
I have a master degree in chemical and material science engineering, I graduated in 2009. My studies focused on biomedicine, polymers and the mechanics of materials. There was no direct link with glass, because this specialisation is rare in Belgium. Initially, I wanted to work in the pharmaceutical industry, hence my choice of biomedical options and my interest in research.

Why did you decide to join AGC?   
I came to AGC by chance. During a fair, I was introduced to the company's glass expertise, and I discovered the research opportunities offered by AGC. I was sceptical, thinking that there was nothing left to discover about glass, but I was wrong. I left my resume and they reached out. When I visited the research centre, I fell in love with the laboratories and the impressive resources available.

How did your integration go? 
I was hired to research the composition of glass for solar applications, particularly solar panels and mirrors. I enjoyed this very dynamic approach, combining research and factory support. 

How did you move between operations and research?
From 2009 to 2016, I progressed from junior researcher to project manager. In 2016, after expressing my desire to move into production, I joined the Moustier plant as a Process Engineer and then Line Manager. In 2020, I returned to research. Then, my team leader took on new responsibilities and offered me the chance to partially replace him, which enabled me to become Team Leader.

What is your current role as R&D Team Leader? 
I manage two separate teams, each with its own challenges. The first team focuses on glass products. We develop new glass products and deal with the colour, composition of raw materials, optical properties and quality of glass for a variety of applications, from architecture to automotive.
The second team works on thin glass, used in certain screens and smartphones. We manage composition, chemical tempering and cutting. My role also involves meeting customers to discuss their future needs, translating them into concrete objectives, and managing budgets. I enjoy taking part in certain technical projects, which keeps me in touch with the operational side of the business.

What are the most exciting challenges in your job?
I really enjoy challenging conventional wisdom and encouraging colleagues to try new approaches. I enjoy harnessing the skills of my team to help other projects and, conversely, bringing in experts from outside the department. What I like best is the emulation and collaboration effect, where all the ingredients come together to create a successful group dynamic.

How have your skills developed so far?  
I've become more pragmatic. When I first arrived, I sometimes found it difficult to make decisions, preferring to weigh up all the pros and cons. This approach doesn't always work. In research, the 'fail fast' approach is essential: you must try and fail quickly to move forward. So, I've learnt to be more comfortable with uncertainty. This has enabled me to be more effective.

If you think about AGC's values, which one would you choose?   
The fundamental value is innovation. More specifically, in R&D we talk about "Innovation with a purpose". Innovation must serve the environment; we won't solve these challenges without it. But diversity is also essential; we need a variety of perspectives. At AGC, for example, we have integrated designers into our research teams to adapt customer needs into technical solutions. This diversity of profiles refines our ability to innovate effectively.

What do you think of AGC's corporate culture?   
It's important to emphasise the good work-life balance at AGC. There is respect for people, their backgrounds and their abilities. We understand that certain moments in life require more flexibility.

What do you expect from your career at AGC?   
I really enjoy seeing the innovations of yesterday's lab being transformed into tomorrow's products. It's incredible to think that an idea while brainstorming can become a product sold by major brands! Finally, I want to give even more meaning to my work by contributing to the production of more sustainable products and by helping train the next generation. I can't wait to see how these young talents will transform their innovations into revolutionary products.

What would you say to someone considering joining AGC?   
Come and join us! The jobs are very interesting, and the atmosphere is great . Glass can become your passion, as long as your invest yourself and enjoy it. You can't just get up in the morning with leaden feet and go to work. It's essential to find a job you enjoy!

The good work-life balance at AGC needs to be emphasised. There's a respect for people, their backgrounds and their abilities.