About me

Hi, I'm Koen van Gilst. I've had a diverse career, always operating at the intersection of technology and humanity, with a philosophy degree and a lifelong passion for coding. My journey started with programming at an early age, using GW-Basic and Turbo Pascal. After my studies and working as a translator for a few years, I returned to programming as a frontend engineer, and now to a leadership role where I experiment with new ideas and build innovative teams.

Today, as a Tech Lead at Rabobank, I'm working to build a better bank by reducing complexity and applying AI where it makes sense. I experiment with AI (primarily Large Language Models) and design technical tests to validate potential solutions. My role involves building and supporting teams, recruiting talent, and securing resources to drive projects forward. I collaborate closely with business stakeholders and engineers to align our strategies with product goals, guiding projects from initial experimentation to successful MVPs.

At the core of my work is a commitment to stimulating an engineering culture that values craftsmanship, technical expertise, and continuous learning. I strive to create environments where teams are empowered to use the right technological solutions, enabling them to excel and help the Rabobank innovate with AI.

My work aligns perfectly with my passion for technology. In my spare time, I enjoy coding side projects that often complement my professional work - a great way to stay current with trends and keep learning (though it can be a double-edged sword). On this website, you'll find a selection of my side projects and other digital creations from over the years.