For Joerie Kluijtmans, engineering goes beyond technical details. He is intrigued by the broader processes and the role of people within them. During his studies in Systems Engineering, Policy analysis and Management at TU Delft, followed by a master’s in Complex Systems Engineering and Management (CoSEM), he discovered the unique combination of technology and management. Now, as a project manager at Emmett Green, he applies these insights to develop sustainable solutions that directly support the energy transition.
Joerie’s interest in technology started as a teenager. “At school, I was always good at maths and physics, but I was unsure about studying engineering,” he recalls. “I had the idea that a technical degree would mean a lifetime of calculations, while I was interested in the broader societal and financial impact of technology and also really enjoyed collaborating with people.” He found that multidisciplinary approach in Systems Engineering, Policy Analysis and Management. “The social aspect appealed to me, as well as the opportunity to think about the societal impacts of technology.”
Learning beyond the lecture halls
During his studies, Joerie realised that university life is about more than just earning credits. “My best memories are actually from outside the lecture halls. I’ve made many friends, some of whom I still keep in touch with.” He particularly enjoyed the extracurricular activities, such as a year on the board of TPM’s study association, Curius. This experience taught him the value of close collaboration. “You’re put together as a team and have to make it work. The rewarding part is realising that when you pursue something with commitment, you can often go much further than you initially thought.”
Joerie also found his exchange in Lisbon a highly valuable experience. “It was a great lesson in finding my way in an international setting. I knew no one in the city, so I had to get to know new people. Working with people from different nationalities and cultures gave me a preview of the skills I’d need later in my career.” Reflecting on his experiences, he has one clear piece of advice for current (and future) students: “Don’t focus only on studying. Of course, getting your credits is important, but they’re not necessarily what creates the most lasting memories.” Another tip is to explore your interests. “Discover what you enjoy by trying new things, talking to people, and engaging in activities outside of your studies. You only find out what you like by giving it a go.”
From graduation to impactful projects
After graduation, Joerie joined Emmett Green as a project manager, where he now works on sustainable energy projects that bring real social value. Joerie takes pride in the societal impact of his work. “At Emmett Green, we facilitate sustainable solutions daily, particularly in areas that otherwise struggle with grid congestion. I work on battery projects and energy hubs that help companies to expand and adopt sustainable practices, even where the grid is under strain.”
A more sustainable Netherlands
One project he is particularly proud of involves developing batteries connected to wind turbines in partnership with local energy cooperatives. These batteries help ease grid congestion and support the energy transition. “After a long process of funding, negotiations, and technical planning, we’re finally about to start execution. That’s a key milestone for me.”
Another project that resonates with him is a shared energy hub on an industrial estate, where companies will pool their energy through a common grid connection. “By collaborating, companies on the estate can exchange capacity, connect collective installations, and become more sustainable by adding solar panels or electric boilers. It’s a true energy hub, enabling the sustainable development of the entire site.”
He also works closely with grid operators to deploy battery systems during peak congestion times. “We ensure our batteries are used during those moments, creating extra capacity on the grid and allowing companies currently on the waiting list to be connected. This makes it possible for them to take further sustainability steps, or even build additional housing.”
Responsibility and versatility
What Joerie values most in his work is the responsibility he’s given and the variety in his role. “It’s a small company, so you quickly get a lot of responsibility. I’m involved in the entire process, from permit applications and setting technical requirements to conversations with stakeholders and landowners. No day is the same, and that makes the job incredibly enjoyable.”
