WILLEM VER HEYEN
PRODUCT DESIGNER
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01 about me
About me
Hi, I’m Willem, a product developer with a passion for innovation and functional design. I’m always exploring how technology, usability, and sustainability can come together to create meaningful solutions.
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Since my internship at Furnified, my interest in furniture design has grown significantly. Exploring materials, craftsmanship, and functionality has given me a deeper appreciation for the field, inspiring me to integrate more of it into my work.
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Currently, I’m working on my master’s thesis, designing a reusable suit for High-Level Isolation Units (HLIU's) for the UZA. This project reflects my interest in ergonomic design, advanced materials, and medical product development.
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I enjoy hands-on problem-solving, interdisciplinary collaboration, and
pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Let’s connect if you’re interested in my work or a potential collaboration!
Education
Kindergarten and Primary school
Sint Jozef College, Turnhout
Primary school
GBS de vlieger, Kasterlee
My journey through kindergarten and primary school was a mix of finger painting, beyblade battles, snack trading, and learning that nap time is wasted on the young. I mastered the art of building the tallest LEGO towers, discovered that glue is surprisingly hard to get out of hair, and perfected my handwriting. Those years shaped my curiosity and creativity, and while I’ve moved on to more complex designs, I still believe that the best ideas start with a doodle on the back of a notebook. My biggest dream was becoming an inventor.
Secondary school
SMIK, Kasterlee
In secondary school, I chose Technological Sciences because science fascinated me—and, let’s be honest, languages a little less. While others mastered French verb conjugations, I was busy figuring out how to build things and analysing many plants, insects and bacteria. In the end, my choice led me to a world of innovation.
2019 - 2023
Bachelor Product Design
University of Antwerp
2023 - 2025
Master Product Design
University of Antwerp
During my bachelor’s and master’s in Product Design, I honed my skills in creating functional and innovative solutions. From sketching wild ideas to prototyping and problem-solving, I learned to balance creativity with practicality. Every project challenged me to think critically, experiment with materials, and push boundaries. Now, as I develop my master’s thesis on reusable protective suits, I’m applying all that knowledge to real-world challenges—turning concepts into tangible solutions.
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Endless learning
Throughout my professional journey, I have always valued continuous learning. I believe that staying curious and open to new knowledge is key to personal and professional growth. I remain committed to broadening my expertise. Who knows, I may even pursue further studies later to deepen my understanding and enhance my skills. Maybe in a professional area or at school.
Experience
2018 - Current
Student job
Waiter
Restaurant Potiron
Born and raised in my parents' restaurant, I grew up in an environment where hard work and dedication were a way of life. From an early age, I understood that achieving something meaningful requires commitment and perseverance. I always enjoyed helping my parents in the restaurant, and to this day, it remains my student job.
March 2024 - Current
Internship & Freelancing
Furniture Designer
Furnified
During my internship at Furnified, I developed experience as a furniture designer, working on a diverse range of projects. My passion for design and strong rendering skills allowed me to continue collaborating with the company after my internship. While completing my studies, I remain actively involved in various assignments.
Skills and interests
Software
Procreate, Solidworks, Illustrator, Photoshop, Keyshot, Indesign, Adobe Substance Painter, Figma, Nvivo, SPSS, Excel, Arduino, Marvelous designer, Blender, Unreal Engine, Processing, Twinmotion
Language
Dutch
English
Tools
Gravity Sketch, 3D printing (fdm & resin), Advanced prototyping
Hobbies
Sports: Skiing, tennis, mountainbike, running
Music
Traveling: Dubai, South Africa, Spain, Greece, France.
3D printing
Reading
Sketching
Miniature Painting
French
02 clients
I also take on short-term design projects for other companies. These projects allow me to apply my skills in different contexts and collaborate with diverse teams. If you're interested in working together, feel free to reach out—I’m always open to new opportunities!