Elvis Krulcic | Digital Transformation | Academic Leadership in Business Strategy Award

Mr. Elvis Krulcic | Digital Transformation | Academic Leadership in Business Strategy Award

Mr. Elvis Krulcic | Digital Transformation | Academic Leadership in Business Strategy Award | Research and Teaching Assistant | University of Rijeka Faculty of Engineering | Croatia

Mr. Elvis Krulcic is a distinguished researcher and educator in the field of mechanical and industrial engineering, currently serving as a Research and Teaching Assistant at the University of Rijeka – Faculty of Engineering, Department of Industrial Engineering and Management. With extensive experience bridging academia and industry, he brings over two decades of expertise in production technology, quality management, process optimization, and digital transformation of industrial systems. Mr. Krulcic earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ljubljana, complemented by a graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Rijeka, where he also completed his earlier engineering studies. His educational background reflects a strong technical foundation and a progressive evolution toward advanced research in industrial automation, digital maturity modeling, and sustainable production systems. Professionally, Mr. Krulcic has held leadership positions such as Plant Manager, Head of Technical Support and Applications, and Head of Central Maintenance Service, where he demonstrated exceptional abilities in Lean management, Six Sigma methodologies, and ISO-certified production environments. His practical experience with automotive, marine, and mechanical manufacturing industries has provided him with a deep understanding of industrial ecosystems, making his academic insights both applicable and transformative. His research interests include digital maturity assessment of industrial SMEs, adaptive decision-making models using AHP methodologies, Industry 4.0 integration, and smart manufacturing strategies aimed at enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness. He possesses strong research skills in process modeling, data analytics, industrial system optimization, and application of artificial intelligence techniques in digital transformation. Mr. Krulcic’s publications in indexed and open-access journals, such as Technologies, have received growing academic attention, highlighting his analytical approach and practical relevance. His notable work, “A Dynamic Assessment of Digital Maturity in Industrial SMEs: An Adaptive AHP-Based Digital Maturity Model (DMM) with Customizable Weighting and Multidimensional Classification (DAMA-AHP),” exemplifies his contribution to advancing digital frameworks for manufacturing enterprises. Over his career, he has earned recognition for academic excellence and professional leadership, receiving commendations for process improvement and sustainable innovation. Mr. Krulcic has also been actively involved in mentoring, teaching, and participating in collaborative research projects aimed at integrating industrial engineering principles with digital transformation initiatives. His continued dedication to advancing intelligent manufacturing and operational excellence underscores his value as a researcher and educator. In conclusion, Mr. Elvis Krulcic stands out as an accomplished professional whose blend of technical mastery, managerial experience, and academic rigor positions him as a leading contributor to the global advancement of industrial engineering and digital transformation research.

Profile:  Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications 

  1. Krulcic, E. (2025). A dynamic assessment of digital maturity in industrial SMEs: An adaptive AHP-based digital maturity model (DMM) with customizable weighting and multidimensional classification (DAMA-AHP). Technologies. 1 citation.

  2. Krulcic, E. (2024). Integration of Lean Six Sigma principles in digital transformation of manufacturing processes. Journal of Industrial Engineering and Management. 3 citations.

  3. Krulcic, E. (2023). Optimizing maintenance systems using hybrid decision models in smart manufacturing environments. Procedia Manufacturing. 5 citations.

  4. Krulcic, E. (2022). Assessing the role of digital tools in improving industrial process efficiency: A multi-criteria analysis. International Journal of Production Research. 4 citations.

  5. Krulcic, E. (2021). Adoption of Industry 4.0 practices in small and medium-sized enterprises: A comparative study of digital maturity frameworks. Computers & Industrial Engineering. 6 citations.

  6. Krulcic, E. (2020). Strategic evaluation of ISO implementation in automotive manufacturing: Impact on process optimization. Total Quality Management & Business Excellence. 7 citations.

  7. Krulcic, E. (2019). Application of AHP in evaluating sustainability indicators for industrial process improvement. Sustainability. 9 citations.

 

Yongchao Zhu | Technology Strategy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yongchao Zhu | Technology Strategy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yongchao Zhu at Shaanxi University of Technology | Jordan

Zhu Yongchao is a lecturer and master’s supervisor at Shaanxi University of Technology, specializing in intelligent fault diagnosis, predictive maintenance, and health monitoring of complex mechanical systems. He holds a doctoral and master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Chongqing University and a bachelor’s degree from Hainan University. With prior industry experience in structural design and process engineering, he has led multiple provincial and national research projects focused on wind turbine and aero-engine performance prediction. Recognized with national scholarships and innovation awards, he continues to advance simulation–test fusion methods and adaptive learning techniques to enhance the reliability and efficiency of high-performance machinery.

Profiles

SCOPUS 
ORCID

Education

Zhu Yongchao has cultivated a strong academic foundation in the field of mechanical engineering. He earned his doctoral degree from Chongqing University, where his research centered on mechanical equipment fault early warning and diagnosis. Prior to this, he completed a master’s degree at the same institution, focusing on the health status prediction of wind power equipment. His academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical design, manufacturing, and automation from Hainan University. Throughout his studies, he maintained an impressive academic record and developed a specialized skill set in advanced mechanical systems, predictive analysis, and intelligent diagnostics.

Experience 

Zhu Yongchao currently serves as a lecturer and master’s supervisor at Shaanxi University of Technology, where he engages in research, teaching, student mentorship, and academic service. Before his academic appointment, he worked as a structural design engineer at the Ninth Research Institute of China Electronics Technology Group Corporation, where he contributed to microwave device structural design, process optimization, and automation equipment modeling. Earlier in his career, he served as a gear process engineer at Shaanxi Fast Gear Co., Ltd, focusing on process improvement, quality assurance, and the design of tooling fixtures. His combined industry and academic experiences provide him with a well-rounded perspective on both practical applications and theoretical advancements in mechanical engineering.

Awards & Recognition

Over the course of his career, Zhu Yongchao has earned several distinctions for his research excellence and innovative contributions. He has been invited as a speaker at the National Symposium on Mechanical and Materials Engineering, reflecting his standing in the academic community. His achievements include a national doctoral scholarship and multiple awards in prestigious innovation competitions at the national level. These accolades highlight his ability to combine scientific insight with practical engineering solutions that address real-world challenges.

Skills and Expertise

Zhu Yongchao possesses expertise in intelligent fault diagnosis, predictive maintenance, mechanical system health assessment, and simulation–test integration. His skill set extends to structural design, process optimization, automation equipment modeling, and advanced gearbox transmission systems. He is proficient in applying adaptive learning methods and temporal distribution characterization for condition monitoring, as well as developing predictive models for dynamic service performance in complex mechanical systems. His interdisciplinary capabilities bridge theoretical modeling with applied engineering solutions.

Research Focus

The research focus of Zhu Yongchao lies at the intersection of mechanical fault diagnosis, health monitoring, and predictive maintenance for complex equipment. He works extensively on simulation–test fusion methods to improve the accuracy and reliability of early warning systems for wind turbine gear transmission and aero-engine performance. His projects explore adaptive learning, dynamic performance prediction under unsteady conditions, and multi-level simulation-based verification techniques. Through his work, he aims to advance intelligent machinery systems capable of operating with higher efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in demanding environments such as wind power generation and aerospace applications.

Publications 

Condition monitoring of wind turbine gearbox based on adaptive learning with temporal distribution characterization and matching
Authors: Yongchao Zhu, Changming Zhang, Junli Wang, Jianjun Tan, Ye Zhou, Lei Rao
Journal: Measurement

Operational state assessment of wind turbine gearbox based on long short-term memory networks and fuzzy synthesis
Authors: Zhu Y., Zhu C. et al.
Journal: Renewable Energy

Anomaly detection and condition monitoring of wind turbine gearbox based on LSTM-FS and transfer learning
Authors: Zhu Y., Zhu C. et al.
Journal: Renewable Energy

Fault detection of offshore wind turbine gearbox based on deep adaptive networks considering spatio-temporal fusion
Authors: Zhu Y., Zhu C. et al.
Journal: Renewable Energy

Improvement of reliability and wind power generation based on wind turbine real-time condition assessment
Authors: Zhu Y., Zhu C. et al.
Journal: International Journal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems


Conclusion

Zhu Yongchao is an accomplished mechanical engineering researcher whose career seamlessly blends academic rigor with industrial expertise. His contributions to intelligent early fault warning, predictive maintenance, and advanced condition monitoring have significant implications for renewable energy systems and high-performance mechanical equipment. With a track record of impactful research, recognized achievements, and ongoing leadership in cutting-edge projects, he is well-positioned to make enduring contributions to the fields of mechanical diagnostics and intelligent engineering solutions.

Félix Hernández de Rojas | Competitive Analysis | Best Paper Award

Mr. Félix Hernández de Rojas | Competitive Analysis | Best Paper Award

Mr. Félix Hernández de Rojas, UPM, Spain

Félix Hernández de Rojas (born July 21, 1973, Valladolid, Spain) is a dynamic digital business strategist and tech innovation leader, passionate about shaping the future of industries through digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and advanced technologies like AI and IoT. With a rare blend of hands-on experience in telecom, academia, and global digital ecosystems, Félix envisions business like an orchestra, harmonizing tech, people, and strategy to deliver value. His work bridges corporate development at Telefónica with academic mentoring and international digital consultancy, showcasing his belief in building ecosystems rather than isolated solutions. He continues to drive innovation and transformation with creativity and purpose across Europe and Latin America. 🌍✨

👤  Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Félix holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Telecommunication Engineering from Universidad de Valladolid (1991–1996), with a final thesis developed in partnership with Universidad Polytechnic de Madrid (UPM) and the European Union on Artificial Intelligence, knowledge engineering, and human-computer interfaces. He earned an Executive MBA (2003–2004) with international modules in Madrid, London, and Austin (Texas), focusing on VoIP and Centrex IP business models within Telefónica. Since 2021, he has been pursuing a PhD at ETSIT-UPM, researching the impact of digitalization on innovation and competitiveness within the EU and global economies. 📚🧠

💼 Experience

Professionally, Félix has spent the bulk of his career at Telefónica Group, where since 2009 he has held senior roles in digital business development, product marketing, and strategy. He has spearheaded initiatives across IoT, AI, and Industry 4.0, particularly in energy, industrial, and sustainability sectors. His responsibilities include working with Tier 1 clients, collaborating with start-ups, and scaling tech-based services across Telefónica’s digital business arms. He is also a prolific contributor to corporate blogs, an evaluator for innovation competitions, and a recognized figure at global expos and industry summits. 🚀🏢

🧪 Research Interests

Félix’s academic and professional research centers on digital transformation, competitive intelligence, platform business models, and the convergence of AI, IoT, and sustainability in modern industry. His current doctoral work explores how digitalization is reshaping the EU and global innovation landscape, with a focus on strategic competitiveness. He has contributed to high-impact Q1 journals and participated in international forums such as the International Telecommunications Society (ITS). His work emphasizes a systems-level understanding of how businesses must evolve to remain resilient in rapidly shifting digital environments. 🔬🌐

🏅 Awards

Among his recognitions, Félix was awarded Best Technological Telefónica Blogger (2018–2019) for his thought leadership on the company’s official platform. He also served as jury member for innovation competitions in Shenzhen and South Summit (2021), lending his expertise in evaluating next-generation start-ups. His leadership in supporting innovation ecosystems through Wayra.org and Telefónica’s open innovation initiatives further cements his role as a trusted voice in digital entrepreneurship. 🏆📢

📚 Publication Top Notes

Xiaoyan Pan | Digital Transformation Strategy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaoyan Pan – Digital Transformation Strategy – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Dr. Pan’s research aligns well with the Best Researcher Award or Excellence in Innovation category. Her focus on strategic innovation in the context of digital transformation reflects an advanced understanding of emerging trends and their applications in management. Her contributions to teaching reform, municipal and provincial research projects, and her ability to integrate theoretical insights with practical applications further validate her candidacy

Taizhou University | China

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Dr. Pan Xiaoyan, a distinguished scholar in the field of management, laid the foundation for her academic excellence with a robust educational journey. Her passion for management studies led her to specialize in strategic management, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Dr. Pan’s academic rigor culminated in her dissertation, “A Study of the Relationship Between Strategic Orientation and New Product Development Performance in the Context of Digital Transformation: The Mediating Role of Digital Capabilities and Dual Innovation.” This dissertation not only reflects her profound understanding of the complexities of digital transformation but also sets the stage for her future contributions to the field.

 

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Currently, Dr. Pan Xiaoyan serves as a faculty member at the School of Economics and Management, Taizhou University. She has established herself as an expert in her discipline by teaching pivotal courses such as Management Information Systems. Her professional qualifications, including the National Informatization Engineer Certification in Project Management (Advanced Faculty Level), Accounting Qualification, and Vocational Core Competency Teaching Qualification, underline her dedication to academic and professional excellence. Dr. Pan has also contributed significantly to teaching reform, leading a university-level project aimed at improving educational methodologies. Her involvement in municipal and provincial research projects further highlights her active engagement in addressing regional and national challenges in the field of management.

 

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Digital Transformation Strategy

Dr. Pan Xiaoyan’s research focuses on strategic management, innovation, and entrepreneurship, particularly in the context of digital transformation. Her groundbreaking work explores how digital capabilities and strategic orientation influence new product development performance. She has published extensively in international, national, and provincial-level journals, with eight notable papers to her credit. Key contributions include: Strategic Orientation, Digital Capabilities, and New Product Development in Emerging Market Firms: The Moderating Role of Corporate Social Responsibility (Sustainability, 2021) – This study examines how corporate social responsibility moderates the relationship between strategic orientation and digital capabilities in emerging markets. The Rise of Corporate Digital Transformation and Government Regulatory Innovation (East Asian Journal of Business Economics, 2021) – This paper highlights the interplay between corporate innovation and government regulations in the digital era. Digital Supply Chain: Green Synergy Effects of Intelligent Technology and Dynamic Capabilities—An Empirical Study Based on 200 Manufacturing Enterprises (Supply Chain Management, 2023) – This empirical study emphasizes how intelligent technology fosters green synergy in supply chain management.

 

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Dr. Pan has been recognized for her exemplary work through various academic and professional accomplishments. Her leadership in research projects—spanning university-level teaching reform, municipal innovation, and provincial management strategies—has cemented her reputation as a thought leader in her field.

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Dr. Pan’s work has had a profound impact on both academia and industry. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, her research offers actionable insights for businesses navigating the challenges of digital transformation. Her studies on digital supply chains and the value realization path of data as a factor of production have significantly influenced how organizations approach innovation and strategic management in the digital age.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Dr. Pan Xiaoyan’s legacy lies in her ability to address contemporary challenges in management through innovative research and practical applications. Moving forward, she is well-positioned to continue her contributions to the field, particularly in exploring the intersection of digital transformation, sustainability, and strategic innovation. Her research projects and publications serve as a valuable resource for academics, policymakers, and industry leaders alike.

Conclusion

Dr. Pan Xiaoyan’s unwavering commitment to advancing strategic management, innovation, and entrepreneurship makes her a leading figure in her discipline. Her academic rigor, professional achievements, and impactful research reflect her dedication to addressing the evolving challenges of the digital era. As a scholar, educator, and researcher, Dr. Pan exemplifies the qualities of a visionary leader, leaving an indelible mark on her field and paving the way for future advancements in management and digital transformation.

📚Publications

  • What Drives Firms to Go Green in China? The Role of Digitalization

    Authors: Pan, X., Xiao, S.

    Journals: Sustainability 

  • Strategic orientation, digital capabilities, and new product development in emerging market firms: The moderating role of corporate social responsibility

    Authors: Pan, X., Oh, K.-S., Wang, M.

    Journals:  Sustainability