David: “Digital twins are becoming essential for smarter and more sustainable water systems”

David De Miguel, an Industrial Engineer at ITCL Technology Centre in Burgos, Spain, is part of a new generation of digital innovators helping shape Europe’s transition toward smarter water management. As a participant in the European Junior Water Programme (EJWP), he is not only advancing technical excellence but also strengthening his leadership, communication and international collaboration skills. His work brings together advanced modelling, digital twins and real‑time data intelligence to address the evolving challenges of modern water systems.

What is your current work position?

“I work as a Digitalization and Data Engineer at ITCL Technology Centre. My main focus is on developing digital twins, simulation models and data-driven applications that help improve industrial and water treatment processes. I combine engineering, modelling and analytics to support more efficient and sustainable operations.”

Can you describe one of your workdays?

“My days are usually a mix of modelling, programming and coordination with partners. I develop physical models using Modelica, integrate them into digital twin environments and connect them to real operational data through Python. I also join technical meetings to align modelling strategies, data acquisition and validation across project teams.”

What do you consider the most interesting part of your job?

“The most interesting part is converting complex physical processes into tools that operators can actually use. When a digital twin not only simulates a system but also supports real-time decision-making, it becomes a powerful asset. Seeing that transformation—from equations to operational impact—is very rewarding.”

What topic do you see as increasingly important in the water sector?

“Digitalization is becoming essential. Water systems face more complexity due to climate challenges, the need for higher energy efficiency and circular economy strategies. Digital twins, predictive analytics and integrated data will be key to optimise performance, reduce costs and increase sustainability.”

What do you expect from international cooperation?

“International cooperation accelerates innovation. Different regions deal with different challenges, so sharing methodologies, modelling approaches and data strategies makes our solutions more robust and more adaptable. Collaboration is essential in European research.”

Why did you join EJWP, and what has it brought you?

“I joined EJWP to learn and expand my network, although I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. It ended up being much more than I imagined. I have strengthened my soft skills such as communication, teamwork, international collaboration, and learned a lot about the water sector. But the best part has been meeting such talented, inspiring people.”

What and where did you study, and how did you end up in water?

“I studied Industrial Engineering in Spain and became interested in energy systems and modelling early on. I began working in digitalization projects in the energy and industrial sectors. Over time, I became involved in water-related European projects and discovered how modelling and sustainability come together with real societal impact. That combination drew me fully into the water sector.”