Andy Colpaert, Line Responsible Operations, started at Barco in 1994. “Right from my first day, I felt at home. The atmosphere was great, and I had fantastic colleagues in my team. Over the years, I stayed because I found the job that truly fit me. Barco provided an environment where I could thrive and grow”.
Technology in our field has evolved significantly. One of the major shifts was the transition from analog to digital cinema. I also remember when the LED department closed in Kuurne and moved to China. That was a clear sign of how the industry was changing. Digitalization has been a game-changer in our domain.
COVID-19 has been one of the biggest challenges in recent years. However, there have also been many proud moments.
One standout project was the 360-degree tour of U2 in Brussels, where we used 54,000 square meters of LCD screens. It was a massive undertaking, but seeing it come together was incredibly rewarding.
Working at Barco has taught me the immense power of teamwork. You can achieve so much more as a team than on your own. This lesson has been invaluable throughout my career.
I believe the future of our industry lies in light steering: light-controlled pixel projections using artificial intelligence. This technology will become even more prevalent. I'm particularly excited about the advancements in 3D imaging technology.
My advice to newcomers at Barco is to find your own path and go for it. If I could go back in time, I would tell my younger self to believe in yourself and don't let anyone hold you back. Those who want to move forward can achieve it.
What has kept me at Barco all these years? It's the people. In the ever-changing and exciting world of Barco, nothing is predictable. Every day brings something new, and the people here are receptive to these changes.
As Barco celebrates 90 years, Andy Colpaert’s journey exemplifies the continuous learning, adaptability, and passion that drive the company forward.