Iker Blanco Ibanez

Powertrain Design Engineer at Toyota Motor Europe

Brussels, Brussels Region, Belgium

About

I’m an automotive engineer (MSc, University of Antwerp) currently transitioning into project management, with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation. At Toyota Motor Europe, I’ve been involved in BEV and hybrid powertrain development—managing suppliers, ensuring technical quality, and achieving cost targets. Alongside this, I’ve taken part in innovation projects like an automated EV charging prototype and contributed to GIANTS, a European project focused on sustainable mobility. To support this shift, I’m pursuing an MBA in Project Management (IEP). I’m passionate about leading cross-functional projects, connecting people and ideas, and helping shape solutions that matter. My goal is to move beyond engineering into roles where I can drive innovation, support sustainable transformation, and contribute to projects with lasting impact—whether in business development, corporate innovation, or startup ventures.

Experience

  • Toyota Motor Europe (Full-time · 4 yrs 9 mos)
    • Gap year
      Jul 2025 - Present · 1 yr

      - Pursuing an MBA in Project Management and complementary training in strategic leadership, with a focus on innovation, digital transformation, and strategic decision-making. - Travelling across Asia and Latin America, developing adaptability, cross-cultural awareness, and global perspective.

    • Powertrain Design Engineer
      Mar 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 4 mos

    • Powertrain Design Graduate Engineer
      Oct 2021 - Mar 2023 · 1 yr 6 mos

  • Contractor at ALTEN BELGIUM
    Nov 2020 - Oct 2021 · 1 yr

  • Master Degree Student at Toyota Motor Europe
    Feb 2020 - Aug 2020 · 7 mos

    - Intern at the Powertrain design department. - Master thesis in Evaluation of strength requirements for Battery Electric Vehicle Drive Shafts. - Model simulation in Simcenter Amesim for the study of driveshaft stress. - Vehicle stress test definition and budget management.

  • Student Internship at MEIWA e-TEC
    Oct 2019 - Feb 2020 · 5 mos

    MEIWA e-TEC is focused on developing optimised production solutions for the automotive industry with the use of innovative technologies | https://meiwa-e.co.jp/en/ - Intern at the division of robot and mechatronic systems. - Design of machine parts with the use of 3D CAD. - Standardization of the machine mounting process.

  • Student Internship at UAV Navigation
    Feb 2018 - May 2018 · 4 mos

    UAV Navigation specializes in the development of autopilots and flight control systems of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones | https://www.uavnavigation.com/ - Intern at the commercial department of the company. - In charge of developing the innovation management system of the company, following the guidelines established by the UNE 166000 series.