Karel Van Gils

Karel van Gils holds a master’s degree in microelectronics and began his career at ICOS Vision Systems, a KU Leuven spin-off specializing in semiconductor backend metrology and inspection. He led the team developing next-generation optics and algorithms, earning five international patents in the process.

Following ICOS’s acquisition by KLA in 2008, Karel became Director of Engineering, where he oversaw the development of new inspection and metrology platforms and helped define the company’s technology strategy roadmap.

In 2018, he joined imec as R&D Fab Director, managing a broad range of responsibilities including pilot line coordination and project portfolio management. Since 2023, he has played a central role in establishing imec’s presence in Spain, contributing to all aspects of the initiative—from ecosystem building to the design of a 300mm pilot fab.

He was recently appointed Regional Managing Director of imec Spain.