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King Philippe visits A6K & E6K ; a Royal exploration at the heart of innovation
Charleroi, November 6, 2024 - Charleroi was brightened by a memorable day as A6K & E6K had the honor of welcoming His Majesty the King for an immersive experience at a hub of technological innovation and Wallonia’s reindustrialization. This royal visit, marked by inspiring exchanges and pioneering projects, provided a unique perspective on Charleroi’s transformation into a true industrial and digital hub.
A solemn entrance and an overview of the center
Welcomed at the Station Esplanade, His Majesty’s journey began with a brief introduction to this 10,000 m² ecosystem, where over 80 organizations coexist. A6K embodies the region’s industrial revival, while E6K, its educational partner, ensures the development of the talent that tomorrow’s companies will need.
Diving into innovation with SEAFAR and AISIN
The first stop on this tour was SEAFAR, which, from Antwerp to Charleroi, presented its autonomous vessels—an innovative solution to logistical and environmental challenges. Accompanied by Louis-Robert Cool, the King learned how this technology addresses staffing shortages in waterway transport while meeting the demands of the European Green Deal.
Next, the King explored AISIN’s innovations through their "phygital" driving simulator, which combines haptic sensations with virtual reality. Guided by Mustapha Azzouzi, he was transported into a universe where complete immersion enhances the safety and effectiveness of product testing in development.
Looking to the future with young talent
The tour continued in the FabLab, where fifth-grade students discovered the basics of electronics through an activity led by TechnoCampus teams, learning how to use a soldering iron. Inspired by this introduction to technological careers, the young participants proudly presented the King with a gift symbolizing their first creation in engineering.
Meanwhile, students from various training centers—BeCode, IFAPME, Technofutur TIC, Technocité—showcased their projects. The King admired beginners’ first websites and learned about projects in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and IoT, testament to the future expertise of these emerging talents.
A roundtable with inspiring career paths
The King then shared a special moment with a dozen E6K alumni. This enriching conversation revealed the unique journeys of young professionals now active in companies such as Alstom, Proximus, NRB, and Thales. Each described how E6K shaped their skills and directed their career, symbolizing a path of empowerment and opportunities offered by this ecosystem to Wallonia’s youth.
Concluding the visit at the Cyber Defense Factory
The final highlight of this extraordinary day was a visit to the Cyber Defense Factory. A pioneering initiative in Belgium, it leads the way in civilian cybersecurity. A roundtable discussion with partners from BeCode, NRB, and the CPAS of Charleroi highlighted the ambitions of this project to enhance national resilience against cyberattacks. The Cyber Defense Factory forges strong partnerships between public, private, and military stakeholders through its integration into the A6K-E6K ecosystem.
A group photo and a royal farewell
The day concluded with a group photo, filled with pride and gratitude. This royal visit underscored the pivotal role of A6K & E6K in our region’s economic and technological development, strengthening the bonds within our unique community.
