Lex Mulder

Lex's journey through the world of mechanical engineering and industrial automation is a testament to perseverance, growth, and the relentless pursuit of expertise in a field that stands at the forefront of technological innovation. It's a narrative that spans continents, disciplines, and a series of roles that progressively build upon one another, each step meticulously carving out the engineer Lex was destined to become.

The seeds of Lex's career were sown in December 2014 at Jurry Hekking Metaal in The Netherlands, where, as an allround metalworker, Lex was immersed in the tangible fundamentals of engineering. This hands-on experience with metal, machines, and the crafting of complex components laid a robust foundation for a burgeoning career in mechanical engineering. 

In 2015, Lex's academic journey began at Saxion University of Applied Sciences, marking the transition from the workshop floor to the theoretical and analytical realms of mechanical engineering. This period was not just about acquiring knowledge but about understanding the principles that govern the physical world and how to manipulate them to solve real-world problems. A semester abroad in 2017 at Hochschule Osnabrück, Germany, further broadened Lex's perspective, introducing new educational cultures and engineering methodologies.

The pursuit of expertise drove Lex to undertake two pivotal internships during the undergraduate years. The first at NTS Norma and the second at BOA Recycling Systems BV, both in The Netherlands, were opportunities to apply academic learning in industry settings, tackling challenges in engineering design and recycling systems. These experiences not only honed Lex's technical skills but also deepened an understanding of the environmental and societal impacts of engineering solutions.

Upon completing a BSc in Mechanical Engineering, Lex embarked on a more specialized path with a pre-master and then a Master's in Mechanical Engineering, specializing in Robotics, at the University of Twente. This period was crucial, marking a transition from broad-based engineering principles to the nuanced complexities of robotics and automation—fields that are redefining industries across the globe.

Lex's professional journey continued to evolve post-graduation, first returning to the industry as a Mechanical Engineer at No Nonsense Technical Solutions, where practical challenges tested and expanded Lex's capabilities. A subsequent role at Evers Specials allowed Lex to delve deeper into mechanical design and process optimization, solidifying a reputation for meticulousness and innovation.

A unique opportunity presented itself in November 2022, as Lex undertook an internship at IMS, blending the worlds of academia and industry research. This role was a precursor to the current position as a Research Engineer in Industrial Automation at Saxion University of Applied Sciences. Here, Lex not only contributes to cutting-edge research but also influences the next generation of engineers, merging the depth of academic knowledge with the practical insights gained over a decade of dedicated work and study.

Lex's story is not just a career chronology but a narrative of continuous learning, adaptation, and an unwavering commitment to advancing the boundaries of mechanical engineering and robotics. It's about crossing the bridge from theory to practice and back again, all while contributing to the vast, evolving tapestry of technological progress.