Meet Our Team — Engineering Stories from the Inside. Featuring Matthew Snyman, Numerical Modelling Engineer
In this edition of “Meet Our Team”, we speak with Matthew Snyman, one of our consultants currently working as a Numerical Modelling Engineer. With a background in mechanical engineering and software development, Matthew shares how his journey from engineering studies to coding led him to Engibex — and how working in an innovative, international environment continues to shape his career.
“Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what brought you to Engibex?”
I’m a Mechanical Engineer turned Software Developer, and I joined Engibex about two years ago. I first discovered Engibex through Elen (HR Consultant at Engibex) at the 2023 VTK job fair, when I was finishing my master’s and postgraduate degrees.
A few months later, I graduated and came across a job vacancy posted by Engibex on LinkedIn. The job description seemed like a perfect match for me — and when I noticed it was posted by Elen, I remembered the great conversation we had at the job fair. I decided to reach out to her, and things moved quickly from there.
So yes — we can thank Elen for me being here!
“What kind of projects are you currently involved in, and what do you enjoy most about them?”
I’m currently working on various software projects for different teams and divisions at the company I’m placed with.
Essentially, my team maintains the company’s codebase and creates software tools that other engineers and colleagues use. This means I can directly influence the company’s software workflows — any tool I develop or improve is typically used by other engineers right away.
I love the innovative environment I’m part of. I’ve always been someone who values continuous improvement, so having that mindset fully embraced at my current workplace is a huge plus for me.
“How would you describe your experience working as a consultant? What’s something you’ve learned from collaborating with different clients and teams?”
Honestly, in my day-to-day work, it’s not immediately obvious that I’m a consultant — which is a good thing! I’m an engineer first and foremost, and I get to contribute as such without being treated differently by my colleagues.
Where I do notice the difference is in my broader network, the growth and training opportunities I have, and the support I received after finishing my previous project — not to mention the frequent social and team-building events!
“What do you think makes Engibex a unique place to work?”
Engibex has a strong “people first” culture and a fantastic internal team. This people-oriented approach becomes clear the moment you speak with any of the business managers or team members.
It’s also a very international company filled with great people. If you care about human connection, support, and diversity, Engibex really stands out.
“You come from a very international family — how has that shaped the way you see the world (and maybe even how you work)?”
Yes — having an English mother and a South African father while growing up in Belgium has definitely given me an international perspective. I’ve also been fortunate to travel a lot throughout my life.
This kind of upbringing makes you more open to new experiences, more adaptable, and better at connecting with people regardless of where they’re from. Of course, it also has its downsides — like being further away from family — but I’m grateful for the strengths it’s given me.
Most importantly, it has taught me to always keep the big picture in mind. My father used to remind me that trends matter more than local events, and concepts matter more than details. That mindset has evolved into a long-term, strategic way of thinking that helps me both professionally and personally.
“Is there a cultural tradition or habit from your family background that you still keep alive today?”
Yes — I’d say questioning everything is a habit that comes directly from my family background.
My parents built their lives in a country that wasn’t their own, which meant they had to figure everything out from scratch — from schools and taxes to learning new languages.
That kind of experience forces you to stay open-minded and to constantly evaluate how things are going. It’s a habit that has definitely rubbed off on me.
“What do you enjoy the most about living and working in Belgium?”
I like that Belgium has such high standards when it comes to engineering. I believe that’s one of the reasons why so many companies choose to have their R&D hubs here.
I also appreciate that everything is relatively close by — even if you move for work, you’re never too far from friends or family.
“Engineering aside — what are your passions or hobbies outside of work?”
I’m a keen chess player! My father taught me how to play as a child, and in recent years I’ve taken it much more seriously. I love the game and I’m even considering joining a club soon.
Besides that, I enjoy going to the gym, reading, playing video games, and spending time with friends — whether that’s playing sports or board games. I also produce electronic music in my free time.
I’m currently working on a song with Doha, by the way — stay tuned!
“If you could describe your typical weekend in three words, what would they be?”
Move. Create. Socialize.
That’s how I try to live my weekends. Lately, that means playing padel with friends, working on a song, spending time with family, or going somewhere with my girlfriend.
“What’s one thing your colleagues might be surprised to learn about you?”
People are usually surprised when they find out I’m half South African — it often catches them off guard!
“From all the places you’ve lived or visited, which one left the biggest impression on you, and why?”
I went on an exchange program during university to Montreal, Canada, and that experience really stuck with me. It was one of the best periods of my life. Canadians are very welcoming and open-minded, and the country attracts a lot of international people.
Canada seems like a great place to live and work — though I know they’re going through some tough times at the moment.
I also have to mention Ljubljana, Slovenia. I went there years ago on a family trip, and it’s a beautiful and fascinating little city. If you’re looking for a lesser-known holiday destination, I’d highly recommend it — it’s a hidden gem!
“If you weren’t an engineer, what do you think you’d be doing instead?”
Great question! In another life, I would have been a full-time DJ and producer.
I can also imagine myself as a philosopher in some alternate universe!
“What’s the best piece of advice or mindset that helps you stay motivated in your work (and life)?”
I’d say finding a balance between ambition and gratitude for what you already have is key.
I can’t say I’ve mastered it yet — but I’m getting better at it every day.
