Kick-off in Lelystad
On Monday, November 24, 2025, the AI Impulse Program for water movement models was officially launched. Managers and colleagues from Rijkswaterstaat, KNMI – Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute and Deltares met in Lelystad for the internal kick-off.
The four-year AI Impulse Programme for water movement models focuses on the development of datasets and advanced machine learning (ML) models for the RWS Main Water System (Rivers, IJsselmeer Region, Coast) that can be used, among other things, for the operationally rapid calculation of (weather) scenarios.
Introduction of new program manager AI impulse program
During the morning, the program was explained by Joost Driebergen. The new programme manager Bram Floris then set out his ambitions, the preconditions and joint tasks. It was a moment to share expectations, explore opportunities and confirm the commitment for the next four years.
Panel discussion
This was followed by a panel discussion in which Iris Reuselaars (RWS), Jenneke van der Velden (RWS CIV), Werenfried Spit (KNMI) and Hanneke van der Klis (Deltares) shared their perspective on the importance, opportunities and expectations of the programme, led by chairman Pieter van Ginneken (RWS).
Following the panel discussion, Iris Reuselaars and Bram Floris officially launched the programme with a clear call:
“Innovation is needed to keep our work agile for the Netherlands, and this program gives us the opportunity to accelerate that together.”
Pitches
After an explanation of the programme by Bram Floris, various colleagues from Rijkswaterstaat, Deltares and KNMI gave short pitches about current projects and developments that affect this programme.
Input for the program
In conclusion, the attendees gave input to the core team in groups about what they see as opportunities and risks of the program, and when they are happy with what the program delivers. This input will be taken into account by the core team in the further elaboration of the programme plan and the objectives.
David van den Burg (DigiShape program manager) found it an inspiring meeting: “This program offers the opportunity to develop datasets and ML models within the Digishape Triple Helix (public-private knowledge institutions) for the rapid calculation of scenarios of (high) water levels.”
Would you like to know more about the program or participate? Please contact Bram Floris (AI impulse program) or David van den Burg (DigiShape).
