Lars Hilkens

I'm a Master's student Mechanical Engineering looking to improve my skillset and broaden my knowledge through part-time work. My field of interest has the focus on control systems technology and automation, with a special interest in railway automation. I have experience with multidisciplinary team projects, enthusiasm to improve my knowledge in multiple technical fields, and dedication to take on a challenge, even outside of my field of expertise.

My motto: "if there isn't a way, I will make a way!"

Founder and team manager at Hybrid Maglev Railways (HMR) (2022-10 – Present)

Initiated and currently lead a student team focused on developing innovative maglev railway systems.

• Coordinated weekly meetings and long-term planning across a multidisciplinary team.
• Conducted theoretical research and developed numerical models for electromagnetic suspension and propulsion systems in MATLAB and Simulink.
• Helped with design, manufacturing and testing of various prototypes.
• Designed promotional materials and presented the project to potential members and partners.

Internship at Technische Universität Dresden (2026-03 – 2026-06)

Develop a novel simulation framework for Communications-Based Train Control in MATLAB and Simulink.

• Design models for the railway infrastructure, railway vehicle, and communication.
• Implement and simulate various subfunctions of CBTC, relevant for ATP and ATO.
• Compare results against IEEE standard, and adjust the simulation to meet requirements.

Teaching Assistant at EuFlex Technificent (2025-04 – 2025-10)

Supported students during guided self-study sessions in the courses "Dynamics and Control of Robotic Systems" and "Introduction to Mechanical Engineering and Truss Structures" at TU/e.

• Guided and assisted students during self-study of the course material.
• Provided feedback to the course professor to improve course material and structure.

Head of steering system at TU/ecomotive (2021-10 – 2022-08)

Led the design and implementation of the steering system of a proof-of-concept CO2-neutral car called ZEM.

• Research, build, test and evaluated multiple steering concepts using CAD and FEM software (Solidworks).
• Iterated through design phases to ensure safety, robustness and manufacturability.
• Collaborate with braking and suspension teams with their design and building.

Master in Mechanical Engineering – Eindhoven University of Technology (2024-02 – 2027-02)

Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering – Eindhoven University of Technology (2020-09 – 2024-01)

VWO diploma in NT & NG profile – Lyceum Schöndeln (2014-09 – 2020-07)