Interview with Bram Rotthier, winner NBN Award 2022
Last updated:
4/12/2024
In 2022, Bram Rotthier, head of Energy Technology training at Odisee University and technical director at LEVA-EU, received the NBN Award for "young experts" for his exceptional contribution to standards development. Two years later, he looks back on the impact of this recognition and how it has further strengthened his commitment.
"It was a special night when I got that award," says Bram. "But it's not like I thought afterwards, 'This is it. I've been rewarded for my efforts and quit.' No, my commitment has only continued."
The NBN Award marked a high point in his work, but it also led to greater recognition both within his college and on the standards committees in which he participates. "My colleagues within the college and the committees really appreciated it," he shares. "It was also a way to make my colleagues aware of the important role academics can play in standards development," he says.
As president of BEC 125 and an active member of international committees such as IEC TC125 and CEN TC333, Bram continues to contribute to standards that promote innovation and safety. "Standards are about creating objective standards that do not put forward the interests of one Organisation . This is important because otherwise you close the market and that is bad for the industry," he explains.
In addition to his work on committees, he also stays involved with students and younger professionals. "In academia in Belgium, standardization remains a challenge. Actually, we have three core tasks: education, research and service. For me, standards development is a service to society, because it has a social purpose. And also towards education, I do think it is important. Every year I teach several classes on standardization."
"And so I do think that giving an NBN Award like this to people who are active in academia can help raise awareness of standards development."
Celebrating standards at the NBN Thank You Event
The NBN Thank You Event is a time for standards experts to take a moment to reflect on the power of standards development. This annual event recognizes the efforts of professionals who contribute to a better world through standards.
"An event like this brings people together," says Bram. "Standards development is really a team effort, and it's nice to be able to celebrate that."
For those who want to learn more about standards development and its social impact, the NBN Thank You Event offers a unique opportunity to meet experts and gain inspiration. "I recommend everyone to participate," concludes Bram.
NBN organizes the annual Thank You event to thank everyone who has been involved with standards development. Do you think your contribution should be in the spotlight? Or do you know someone else whose work should be rewarded? Then keep an eye on our website because each fall we open nominations for our Thank You event.
