Michiel Vranken

Industrial engineer with a focus on electromechanics, and a proven track record at Formula Electric Belgium. Innovative and driven engineer with a strong focus on design and problem-solving. Dedicated to hard work, leadership, and personal growth. Experienced in mentoring and student advocacy, with a deep curiosity for innovation, automotive engineering, and emerging technologies. Passionate about making a meaningful impact through both academic and extracurricular pursuits. Always seeking great opportunities in automotive engineering and design.

In my free time, I enjoy playing football and basketball. Sports are an essential part of my life, as they help me maintain both physical health and mental well-being. I believe in the philosophy of "a healthy mind in a healthy body," and staying active allows me to stay disciplined, focused, and energized

Beyond sports, I also enjoy reading and taking long walks in nature. Reading helps me expand my knowledge and gain new perspectives, while walking outdoors allows me to disconnect from daily stress and clear my mind. Whether it's exploring a quiet forest or simply taking a stroll in the park, being surrounded by nature gives me a sense of calm and balance

My experience as the Head of the Chassis Department and Composite Engineer in Formula Student was truly unforgettable—an intense and transformative journey that taught me more than my entire university career. It was more than just designing and manufacturing a monocoque; it was about problem-solving under pressure, pushing my technical and leadership skills to new heights, and working relentlessly to bring a concept to life.

Through countless simulations, layup optimizations, and physical tests, I developed a deep understanding of composite materials and structural design—far beyond what any textbook could teach. But what made this experience truly invaluable was the hands-on application. From overseeing production to collaborating with aerodynamics and vehicle dynamics, I learned not just how to design something strong and lightweight, but how to make it manufacturable, efficient, and competition-ready.

Beyond the technical side, leading a team in such a high-pressure environment shaped me as an engineer and a leader. Managing planning, organizing interdepartmental meetings, and negotiating with sponsors taught me more about real-world engineering than any lecture ever could. I had to adapt quickly, communicate effectively, and find solutions to problems that no one had prepared me for.

Looking back, this experience wasn’t just about building a car—it was about building resilience, creativity, and confidence. It was a journey filled with challenges, late nights, and setbacks, but also one of the most rewarding and eye-opening experiences of my life. It solidified my passion for engineering and proved that the best learning happens when theory meets reality.