On the 13th of March, the nominees for the Bekader Thesis awards will be presented. The nominees, who delivered excellent theses in the last year, will present their thesis and their main findings. All attendees of the event are invited to vote to select the two award winners, one from each program (BA & IEM). The winners will be announced during a short award ceremony and they will receive a recognition, appreciation and a prize.

The main objectives of this event are: to connect alumni with excellent research performed at our alma mater and with the graduates behind it. The program of the event will be concluded with a happy hour where alumni, Stress-members, faculty members can meet and mingle.

Preliminairy program:
18:30 - 19:00 Arrival of guests
19:00 - 21:00 Presentation of thesis by nominees and award ceremony
21:00 - 22:00 Drink

The event will take place in Zalencentrum Vredenburg in the center of Utrecht.

The admission fee is including drinks.

  • Bekader members: Free!
  • Students: Free (But limited, so be quick!)
  • For faculty members: Free! (HBE funded)
  • Non-members: €25 (includes one year membership)
  • Family & Friends of finalists: €10

Finalist Business Adminstration

  • Sander van den Broek - How can Robotic Process Automation (RPA) be successfully implemented in external audits? This study explores how RPA can enhance auditing by improving efficiency and quality. However, RPA alone is not enough; a combination of technologies is required. Future audits will integrate financial and IT audits, focusing on understanding IT infrastructures rather than just reviewing documents.
  • Maxim Wielens - How can AI tools (ChatGPT & DALLE-3) improve the scenario planning process? This study examines AI’s role in making scenario planning more efficient, structured, and effective. A framework for AI adoption is proposed, showing that AI can support decision-making, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance planning quality. However, human guidance remains crucial to mitigate biases and ensure context-specific accuracy.
  • Maurits Tuitert - How can value networks improve efficiency in the Dutch installation industry? Due to the energy transition and labor shortages, this study investigates how a start-up can design a value network for self-employed installers. The research identifies key challenges, such as low work preparation and resistance to innovation, and proposes a modular value proposition based on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs to encourage adoption.

Finalists Industrial Engineering & Management

  • Daniël Roelink - How can empty truck trips be reduced to lower costs and CO2 emissions? This study develops a mathematical model to optimize logistics by balancing extra order fulfillment with cost efficiency. A metaheuristic algorithm proves effective in reducing empty kilometers. The study is so impactful that it's being prepared for publication in a scientific journal.
  • Nienke Rusch - How can Vanderlande Industries incorporate carbon pricing into investment decisions? This research introduces a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) tool that integrates carbon price forecasts to support investment decisions. Findings suggest carbon prices will rise to €175/ton by 2050, influencing material choices (e.g., aluminum vs. steel). The study empowers VI to align financial planning with sustainability goals.
  • Hans Hazelhet - How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the mental health of Dutch youth? The study identifies different mental health trajectories among young people post-pandemic. While psychological complaints decreased after restrictions were lifted, some youth have not fully recovered. Identifying these subgroups helps target mental health interventions effectively.

Participants

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