Marie Withoeck embodies the “critical mass” of innovation, education and commercialization created at Eastman’s European Technology Center.
One of Eastman’s lab technicians, Withoeck began at the center in Ghent, Belgium, as an intern in February 2023. She studied there while working toward a chemistry degree from nearby Odisee University. She was given the freedom to work with projects she was drawn to like food can coatings. She was ultimately drawn to the center and its people, as well. Three months later, she went from student to employee.
“When you first come from school, you have no idea what’s actually happening in the chemistry industry,” she said. “This was completely different – in a good way. Everything was way more modern than I saw at school, and the employees acted like the students were part of the team. A lot of good work happens here.”
Many problems, many solutions
The center houses about 50 chemists, engineers and other employees representing a dozen nationalities. It came together in the Tech Lane Ghent Science Park, which houses numerous labs in Ghent’s Zwijnaarde region. Eastman scientists worked with researchers at neighboring Ghent University for years prior and wanted to formalize the collaboration.
The center complements Eastman’s presence in Belgium, which includes around 1,000 people across three production sites and several Ghent-area laboratories. Eastman’s partnerships with university researchers have involved work with veterinary medicine, chemical process technology and crop protection.
Innovative recruitment tool
About 15 students take part in what site director Peter Roose called an “extended job interview” and study at the center each year; about five get full-time jobs. Roose said students do the same experiments as Eastman employees and offer input on research to make sure both sides are a fit for each other.
“To innovate, you need some critical mass,” he said.
That atmosphere attracted Pieter Van de Walle, who was finishing a master’s in chemical engineering from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven. He was hired as a sustainability engineer in August 2022 after starting thesis work at the center the previous February. His work focuses on polyvinyl butyral recycling and lamination.
“I had a good bond with my colleagues,” he said. “They always had time to answer questions. I saw a welcoming culture for students. If you’re not pleased with your role, you could find another area of study that suits you more. It’s a good company that fits me.”
These elements combine to make the center a place to learn, grow and connect with the European community.
“We are part of the solution,” Van de Walle said.
