Breweries are dynamic and challenging environments for automation, which is where robotics truly shines. With over 160 breweries worldwide, Heineken has a vast and varied testing ground—no two breweries are alike. This diversity highlights something that robotics and Heineken have in common: adaptability.

In this episode, we sit down with Wessel Reurslag, Product Owner for Robotics at Heineken, for an open and insightful conversation. We start from the very beginning—when Wessel’s interest in robotics was sparked as a kid. Spoiler alert: while many kids were doing their first presentations on guinea pigs, Wessel’s was about bearings!

We follow his journey through his studies, his early career, and his experiences at a start-up, by discussing the career decisions that eventually led him to Heineken, where he stood at the very beginning of the robotics department. Wessel also gives us a glimpse into the future, sharing his vision of robotics and the future of work.

This episode is extra meaningful to me, as I’ve had the privilege of working with Wessel on the Robotics team. Huge thanks to Wessel for sharing his journey with us!

ExRobotics: https://www.exrobotics.global/

Heineken Robotics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fPagwiat80