We’re delighted to catch up with Business Owner and CTO at Blockchain Advisors, Laurentiu Nae. Laurentiu is a BCU Graduate, STEAMhouse member and professional whose mission is to innovate and shape a future where technology is intrinsically woven into our lives. We chat to Laurentiu about his journey from studying architecture to pioneering digital solutions. So let’s get into it!
Please tell us a little bit about you, your business and your role?
My name is Laurentiu Nae and I run a small tech business called Blockchain Advisors Ltd. We help people and companies understand and use blockchain in real life; things like smart contracts, digital certificates, and secure systems. I do a bit of everything, from coding, talking with clients, fixing problems, and guiding the team.
And you’re a BCU graduate, right?
I studied Architecture at BCU. I’ve always liked design and technical stuff, and architecture gave me a good mix of both. One of the highlights was working on creative projects where we had to think outside the box; it was fun and taught me to be flexible in how I solve problems.
Awesome! Architecture to CTO is a bit of a sideways move! What skills or experiences from your degree were most relevant to the work you’re doing now?
Good question. A lot of what I do now has roots in what I learned during architecture. Thinking in systems, planning ahead, and presenting ideas clearly, these are all things that help me when I build software or explain blockchain to clients.
So what was your journey to getting to where you are now?
It’s been a bit of up and down! I started out studying Maths and Informatics in Romania, then moved to the UK and got into architecture, and then later into software and blockchain. I’ve worked for myself most of the time, freelancing, starting projects, failing a few, learning, and then doing it better next time. Eventually, I set up Blockchain Advisors and that’s what I focus on now.
What do you do in your role as CTO now?
A bit of everything, really. I write code, meet clients, test new ideas, and help others on the team. Some days I’m deep into solving tech problems, and other days I’m jumping between calls or helping explain blockchain to someone.
And what are you enjoying most about the role?
I love building stuff that works and makes sense. When someone says, “wow, that’s exactly what I needed,” that’s the best feeling. Also, working on new tech like blockchain and AI keeps me curious. It never gets boring!!
What successes are you most proud of in the role so far/what do you find most rewarding?
I think I’m proud that I managed to stick with it and build something out of nothing. I’ve helped clients launch blockchain projects that actually get used—not just ideas on paper. Another big thing for me is training and mentoring people. I’ve worked with over 30 interns, some were BCU placement-year master’s students, others were fresh graduates from BCU, just looking to get real industry experience. Seeing them grow, gain confidence, and land proper jobs after is something I find really rewarding.
And this all happens at STEAMhouse! So how do STEAMhouse help your business? What have you been able to achieve or deliver with our help?
STEAMhouse has been really supportive. It’s not just a place to work, it’s a place where people understand what you’re trying to do and give you help when you need it. I’ve met some great people, got good advice, and even found some collaborators. It’s been a big part of the journey, for sure.
What do you think is next in your journey? What are you looking to achieve next?
Right now, I want to grow the business a bit more and launch a couple of products we’ve been working on. Also looking to help more people understand how blockchain can actually be useful, not just hype. One step at a time, but aiming big.
Thanks Laurentiu!
