Advanced Engineering 2025 was once again a great success — and Lisa Lombardi, Business Relationship Officer at Agoria, fully agrees. She attended the event and moderated the main stage programme on the second day, which focused on Women in Tech.
Belgium’s largest technology industry federation, representing over 2,000 companies — that’s Agoria. Its mission? To represent the sector, defend its interests, and help shape policy at the decision-making table.
“Agoria was founded out of a need among companies to collaborate more effectively,” Lisa explains. “By sharing our in-house expertise and encouraging cooperation, we make greater progress — a message that aligns perfectly with what Advanced Engineering stands for.”
Making the right connections
At Advanced Engineering, around 103 exhibitors and 1642 visitors gathered to explore the future of the industry — and to connect with potential partners, clients, colleagues, or even competitors.
“This event gives you a clear view of where the opportunities in the sector lie,” says Lisa. “Digitalisation is advancing rapidly, which demands highly specialised knowledge. Building a strong bridge between digital tech and manufacturing is crucial — so both sides understand each other’s needs and potential, now and in the future.”
Women in Tech
The 6th edition of Advanced Engineering also offered a well-deserved spotlight to a group that remains underrepresented in the industry: women in technology.
“There are still far too few women active in the sector or represented in panel discussions,” Lisa notes. “And yet, there are plenty of women with the expertise and motivation to truly make a difference.”
That’s why she was delighted to moderate the Women in Tech session, where female experts presented their innovative projects and research.
“They’re definitely out there — and we need to give them the opportunity to be role models for the next generation. Today, one in two women leaves the tech sector within 10 to 15 years due to a lack of opportunities, networks or recognition. I’m truly grateful to Easyfairs for giving these women a platform at the event.”
Lisa also reflects positively on the content of the talks.
“My own expertise is mainly in AI and digital transformation. Topics like experimental environments and circular design were quite new to me. But everything was explained clearly and accessibly, so that everyone could walk away with something useful for their own workplace.”
“What struck me most,” she concludes, “is that every speaker shared one key trait: a strong drive to make a positive impact on the world.”
