César Franco currently serves as President of the General Council of Official Chambers of Industrial Engineers of Spain (CGCOII) and of the Professional Union of Engineering Associations (UPCI). With over 25 years of experience, he has been a leading voice in engineering policy and innovation, having contributed to major national strategies in digital transformation, industrial modernization, sustainability, and education.
His appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the engineering profession in Europe, as the continent addresses shared challenges in the electrical, electronic and IT domains:
- The green energy transition and electrification of transport demand resilient grids, intelligent infrastructure, and highly skilled professionals.
- Europe’s industrial and technological sovereignty hinges on innovation in semiconductors, microelectronics, and digital manufacturing.
- The fast evolution of AI, cybersecurity, and data ecosystems calls for trustworthy, interoperable and secure digital systems at all levels.
"Engineers are essential to Europe's future. We are not only building the infrastructure of tomorrow, but also shaping the ethical, sustainable and digital transitions of our time. EUREL has the mission — and the responsibility — to bring our shared knowledge to the centre of European decision-making," stated César Franco.
With a background in Electrical and Automation Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Madrid, and executive training in strategy and innovation at IMD Business School, Franco has developed a dual career in technology and institutional leadership. He has held senior roles at companies such as HP, DXC Technology and IDEA TSG, and has led national initiatives related to engineering education, industrial standards, and talent development.
As Future President of EUREL, he will work to reinforce the role of engineers in shaping Europe’s industrial strategy, foster collaboration between member countries, and amplify the voice of the profession in the major technological transitions ahead.
About CGCOII
The Council of Industrial Engineers of Spain (CGCOII) is the national body representing Industrial Engineers in Spain. It brings together 21 regional chambers and more than 50,000 professionals, promoting Industrial Engineering as a key driver of innovation, sustainability and competitiveness. In 2024, CGCOII celebrated its 75th anniversary, reaffirming its institutional commitment to industry, innovation, and society at large. More information at www.ingenierosindustriales.es.
About EUREL
EUREL, Convention of National Associations of Electrical, Electronic and Information Technology Engineers of Europe, is a non-profit organization with its headquarter in Brussels (Belgium). EUREL was founded in Switzerland in 1972. EUREL’s objectives are to facilitate the exchange of information and to foster a wider dissemination of scientific, technical, and related knowledge relevant to electrical engineering as well as standardization in the field of electrical engineering. In this way EUREL contributes to the advancement of scientific and technical knowledge for the benefit of both, the profession, and the public it serves. EUREL-Chairman Markus B. Jaeger: “Europe, the entire world and the current and upcoming generations of humans are facing significant energy, climate, and security policy challenges. Electrical, electronic and information technology engineers can and must make an important contribution to stability in Europe and the world with their know-how. EUREL sees itself as the strong voice of European electrical, electronic and information technology engineers.”