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Marleen Vogelaar
Entrepreneur, Advisor, Board Member
Professional Background
Marleen Vogelaar is a trailblazer in the field of on-demand technology, with a remarkable career that seamlessly integrates software, design, and manufacturing. Her passion lies in empowering individuals and communities through innovative solutions that bridge these critical domains. With a strong commitment to fostering accessible technology, Marleen has made her mark as a visionary leader and entrepreneur in various businesses, leading teams and driving transformative change in the industry.
Her professional journey is highlighted by her role as the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Hudson Valley Mask Company, a company known for its rapid response to the COVID-19 pandemic by providing essential protective gear. Her leadership during this critical time not only showcased her ability to adapt and innovate but also her dedication to public health and safety.
Before this, she held the position of Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Ziel, where she focused on creating pathways to harness technology for positive social change. This role demonstrated her ability to identify and capitalize on emerging trends that empower communities.
Marleen was also a Co-Founder of Shapeways, a revolutionary 3D printing platform that democratizes manufacturing and design. As Chief Operations Officer and Chief Financial Officer, she played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s business strategies, operational frameworks, and financial trajectories, establishing it as a leader in the on-demand manufacturing space.
In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Marleen brings valuable experience from her tenure as a Senior Consultant at Solving IMCG, where she offered strategic insights and solutions in industrial management. She also held various managerial roles at SCA - Hygiene and Forest Products Company, including Quality Manager and Local Demand Manager, where she optimized processes and enhanced product quality in line with consumer needs.
Education and Achievements
Marleen Vogelaar obtained her Master of Science in Industrial Engineering, specializing in Management Science, from the esteemed Industrial Design department at Eindhoven University of Technology (Tu/E). Her academic background provided her with a strong analytical foundation and equipped her with the necessary skills to understand complex systems in industrial settings. Marleen's education has always laid the groundwork for her ability to innovate and lead in the tech-driven manufacturing landscape.
Throughout her career, she has consistently aimed for excellence by engaging in projects that push the boundaries of traditional manufacturing and design paradigms. Marleen is seen as a thought leader in on-demand technology and continuously seeks knowledge and advancement in her field, which contributes to her effectiveness as a mentor and industry guide.
Achievements
Marleen's achievements are a testament to her relentless pursuit of progress and her commitment to her vision. As a key figure in the founding of Shapeways, she significantly contributed to the democratization of manufacturing—a game-changer for creators, designers, and everyday individuals looking to realize their production ideas.
Under her leadership, the Hudson Valley Mask Company stood out for its swift adaptation and commitment to community health, producing masks during a time when they were urgently needed. This initiative not only provided jobs and utilized local resources but also showcased Marleen's ability to mobilize and lead teams towards a common goal in a time of crisis.
Her past roles in managerial capacities have seen her implement processes that improve productivity, quality assurance and streamline operations, greatly impacting her organizations' success. Marleen's strategic thinking has led to significant cost savings and operational efficiencies in every role she has held.
Marleen Vogelaar’s combined experience spans various facets of industrial engineering, technology consulting, entrepreneurship, and operational management, distinguishing her as a leader who bridges the gap between innovative design and practical manufacturing. Her journey continues to inspire those around her, as she embodies the spirit of innovation and empowerment in a constantly evolving technological landscape.
