Nele Decuypere: Project Manager
The 46-year-old Nele Decuypere is a Project Manager at Actemium, where she manages projects from start to finish: from drawing up schedules to monitoring budgets. She also ensures that every project runs smoothly, working closely with both her team and the customer, at the office and on site.
It was only when I started working in this sector that I realized how well I could thrive in a technical environment.”
- Name: Nele Decuypere
- Age: 46
- Studies: Master’s degree in Applied Economics (KU Leuven) & Advanced Master’s degree in Applied Economics with Erasmus+ program in Germany (KU Leuven)
- Function: Project Manager
- Hobbies: Traveling, hiking, reading, badminton and tennis
How did your background in economics lead you to a technical environment?
Nele: It actually happened by chance. During my studies in Applied Economics, the focus was mainly on economics, purchasing and strategy. My first jobs in a purchasing role were in line with that, but at the same time brought me into contact with engineers and technical projects. Through that collaboration, I gradually grew into project management. What attracted me most to the technical sector is its dynamic nature: you work on diverse and innovative projects with many different stakeholders. Even without a technical background, this work offers me continuous opportunities to learn and grow. What drew me to VINCI Energies was precisely that combination: challenging projects, a variety of customers and the opportunity to keep developing through training.
Have there been times when you had to prove yourself extra hard in this sector?
Nele: Very rarely. I remember one situation in particular from a previous job. I had thoroughly calculated a project and concluded that it was not financially feasible. During the meeting, the CEO was frustrated and said that I was being ‘emotional’, even though I was presenting an objective analysis based on figures. That comment felt very unfair, especially since the emotional reaction actually came from him. Fortunately, a colleague stepped in and my calculations were later confirmed. Situations like this are exceptions, but they show how quickly people can make assumptions. For me, that experience reinforced how important it is to rely on preparation and facts to stand your ground. In my daily collaboration, however, I hardly notice any difference; we just work well together. Even when I am the only woman in a team or meeting, no attention is ever paid to that and it feels very natural. For me, that is how it should be: you just work together, without gender playing a role, positive or negative.
How do you think your school days influenced your career path?
Nele: At my all-girls school, technical subjects were hardly covered; most girls chose different study paths. Even in elementary school, it was noticeable that girls were mainly expected to knit and boys to do carpentry. At home, technology was hardly discussed either, so it was only later in my career that I discovered I could function well in a technical environment. If girls are not exposed to technology from an early age, they are unaware of this option and base their study choices on the knowledge and experience they have. My advice: try it out and discover what suits you.
