Willy Verbrugghe

Willy Verbrugghe: Engineering and Business Expert

Willy Verbrugghe is a visionary leader with over 40 years of exceptional experience in industrial, international technology manufacturing, and service companies. As a CEO, President, and Chairman, he has built, scaled, and led businesses across the globe, consistently delivering significant shareholder value. With a track record of generating over $100 million annually for large enterprises under his leadership for the past 35 years, Willy is recognized for his strategic acumen, operational excellence, and ability to drive growth through innovation and transformation.

His extensive expertise spans Oil & Gas, Energy, Power Generation, Aerospace, Electronics, Semiconductors, Telecommunications, Automation, and Process Controls. A recognized global executive, he has lived in five countries, speaks eight languages, and has overseen manufacturing plants and service centers in 186 countries worldwide. In addition to his corporate success, he is a serial entrepreneur, having founded and led multiple high-growth startups, including Vehoco, MCL, and Dominion Lasercom.

Willy currently serves as CEO of Vehoco, leading advanced technology initiatives in industrial manufacturing for Oil & Gas, Power Generation, Aerospace, and Automation. He is also the Chairman of Transcap, a firm specializing in business transformation, international expansion, operational improvement, and M&A consulting. Additionally, he is deeply engaged in global trade and commerce as the Chairman of BelCham (Belgian-American Chamber of Commerce in the Southwest) and former Chairman of the Houston Mayor’s International Trade and Development Council (MITDC).

Beyond his corporate and entrepreneurial pursuits, Willy is a dedicated mentor, having served as EVP of Operations and Outreach for SCORE Houston, where he supported business leaders in navigating growth challenges. His diverse leadership portfolio also includes serving as President and CEO of Mag Minerals, Agritec Systems, SkyFiber, Flow Technologies, Sermatech International, Brink’s (Europe, Middle East & Africa), and Crown Holdings’ International Operations. Academically, Willy holds five master’s degrees, including in Finance and operations, Nuclear Science and technology, and Electronics and semiconductors, from Université Catholique de Louvain. A lifelong learner and advocate for operational excellence, he has expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TOC, TPS, and Malcolm Baldrige frameworks.

Above all, Willy values family and enjoys his role as Chief Spoiling Officer (CSO) for his nine grandchildren, a title he holds with the same passion and dedication that defines his professional journey.

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