Reflecting with Susan Trang & Kane Duong on the R&D Center’s First Decade
A decade of innovation, dedication, and teamwork
This year it is 10 years ago that the aqua R&D center started operations, a milestone remembered by two people who have been there since the beginning: Susan Trang, Senior Researcher, and Kane Duong, Farm Manager. Their shared journey has been defined by overcoming challenges, building a close-knit team, and driving the center’s remarkable development.
Reflecting back, Kane recalls the unique experience of helping build the center from the ground up. “I started as construction manager having to deal with logistical hurdles, especially shipping and clearing equipment from The Netherlands into Vietnam. There were stressful moments causing some sleepless nights, but it brought us together and gave us a sense of ownership,” Kane shares. Susan echoes this, noting that those formative years required adaptability and collaboration. “We were setting up, developing our protocols and ensuring our research standards matched global best practices, a crucial foundation for everything that came after.”
As the center grew, so did the expertise and the team. “From just a handful of colleagues, we expanded to more than twenty, each bringing new skills and perspectives,” Susan explains. “The evolution has seen us become much more specialized, supporting the Vietnamese market and contributing to the production of the best suited aquafeed for other countries and regions like Indonesia and Africa.” Kane adds, “Every few years, there’s something new: outdoor systems, the marine research setup, solar roof panels. The work is dynamic, which keeps it fresh and challenging.”
Both Susan and Kane credit the open culture at De Heus as a key driver of success. “It’s a real can-do environment,” says Kane. “You know that whatever the challenge, the team will pull together to find a solution.” Susan agrees, highlighting the blend of local tranquility around the research center and world-class ambition: “People are often surprised when they visit: a peaceful setting, but with facilities and research that meet international standards.”
Looking ahead, both are very optimistic about what’s to come. “Our mission now is to further align and standardize research protocols with other centers globally, ensuring we deliver results that are truly comparable and impactful,” says Susan. “Being part of a project that bridges local expertise and global innovation is incredibly fulfilling.” Kane concludes, “I started out building the farm, and I’m proud to still be here, close to my family, our team, and always ready for the next challenge. The progress ongoing growth keeps us all motivated.” As the R&D center enters its second decade, the dedication, expertise, and spirit of pioneers like Susan and Kane will continue to shape its ongoing success.
