The SkillSignal Story

Get to know the people
behind the platform

Sebastien de Ghellinck

SkillSignal Founder

I grew up in a tiny village outside Antwerp, Belgium. My grandfather, a soft-spoken aristocrat, was responsible for rebuilding Belgium’s electric grid, which was mostly destroyed during WW2. He and his team went on to deliver a safe and stable network used by millions of households and businesses. Several years later, at his funeral in 1986, his closest colleague’s eulogy not only emphasized his kindness but also how he had fought like a lion to invest in better PPE and to introduce the first safety rules at the company. Union leaders then read a long list of workers that survived thanks to his initiatives.

I was 10 years old, and the goodness and fierceness of my grandfather left an enduring mark on my soul. My Dad inherited his personality, and – even though I left my family in Belgium for New Jersey – he’s my North Star in growing SkillSignal.

I went on to start my professional career in 1999, working in top international banking and insurance. I sharpened my skills in building complex digital platforms and data systems during intense projects in London, Paris, Istanbul, Cincinnati, and New York City. SkillSignal is combining my roots in the trades and the wings I built in systems management!

Most important life lesson: Becoming an Eagle Scout taught me to never back down and stay together.

Favorite business principle: Always day 1.

For public speaking engagements on construction safety and wellness, please email: info@skillsignal.com

Vivian Burgnon

SkillSignal Founder

Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the trades, I was surrounded by individuals who embodied grit and hard work—values that fostered my genuine passion for supporting those who build. My father, after serving in the Army, dedicated his professional life to the trades, and I had the privilege of watching him contribute to some incredible projects.

Service and public safety were also ingrained in my family’s legacy. My grandfather, a dedicated community leader, served as Fire Chief and Public Safety Director after years of service with the Stanford Hose Co. and Corry City Council. His unwavering commitment to protecting and serving others left a lasting impact on me, reinforcing the importance of responsibility, leadership, and contributing to something greater than oneself.

Professionally, I have a diverse background spanning public health and safety with the Florida Department of Health, legal work specializing in workers’ compensation and personal injury, and ultra-high-end customer service for New York City’s elite. Additionally, my experience in operations has allowed me to develop strategic problem-solving skills, optimize workflows, and drive efficiency in complex environments.

In my current role as Chief Customer Officer, I bring my customer-facing expertise and operational knowledge together to guide teams toward enhanced compliance and greater success. I understand that every project is unique and operates differently—I love embracing that complexity and finding ways to optimize outcomes.

Outside of work, I’m passionate about world travel. I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie, always seeking new adventures—whether it’s scuba diving in new waters, scaling mountains via Ferrata, or immersing myself in different cultures.

Favorite business principle: momentum = action + desire + reflection.