Chen Fei, Class 07
Current place of residence: The Hague, The Netherlands
Currently working as: Engineering Manager at Shell
Where are you currently working and what is the biggest issue that you are facing at work or what is currently keeping you busy there?
After the NIT, I've had the opportunity to work and live in Norway, Canada, The Netherlands, and also in my home country China for a year-long stint. Currently I live in The Hague and work primarily out of our Chemicals plant in Moerdijk near the border with Belgium.
Energy transition is by far the greatest challenge in my work and for our industry as a whole. Challenging, but also exciting times for me to be able to make a tangible impact in accelerating energy transition. As the saying goes: "In every crisis lies great opportunity." The project I'm currently working on for instance, once completed, will reduce the carbon emission of the entire Netherlands by 1%. In my department, we are also constructing a number of renewable energy facilities, including the biggest renewable hydrogen plant in Europe, one of the biggest biofuel plants in Europe to produce low-carbon fuel, and a plastic circular economy (waste plastics-to-chemicals) plant. To be able to drive decarbonisation and shape energy transition at scale through my work, by engineering more energy efficient design and developing new business models and value chains for renewable energies, is what keeps me going.
Has there been a professional challenge since you were a student for which your studies or experiences at the NIT have prepared you for perfectly?
One of the key takeaways from my NIT experiences is the ability to embrace multi-cultural diversity and appreciate the unique perspectives everyone may bring to the table. In my daily work, I regularly interact with global teams across various countries and cultures. The NIT has helped me develop the openness towards diverse values and views, and equipped me with the skills for effective inter-cultural communication.
What has happened in your private life in the meantime?
Other than moving across 3 continents and 5 countries, not so much update on the personal front. My personal belongings wouldn't fit in 2 suitcases anymore though... At the moment I live by myself and am considering adopting a cat (or two). :)
What is your most precious / special / remarkable memory from your time studying at the NIT?
So many memorable moments. If I have to choose, it's got to be the numerous evenings cooking & dining together with fellow classmates at the NIT common kitchens. My cooking skill didn't improve much but I certainly had lots of fun, tasted some great food and enjoyed all the inspiring conversations. The friendships developed in and beyond the classrooms at the NIT are truly special.
How to keep in touch with me:
Via LinkedIn.
Photos:
Above: Chen showcasing her latest hobbyist artwork and dreaming of her second life as an artist :) (2023)
Below: Dinner with the German teacher Katja just before Chen's first Christmas in Germany (2005)
