He graduated from Politehnica University of Timișoara in 1986 and earned a PhD in Engineering in 2002.
Following his professional experience as a chemical engineer at the Reșița Steel Works and his academic career at Politehnica University of Timișoara, he joined Aquatim S.A. in 1999, where he has served as General Director ever since. He is also an Associate Professor at Politehnica University of Timișoara and, since 2021, President of the Romanian Water Association.
Dr. Eng. Ilie Vlaicu is the author of five specialized books and more than 120 scientific papers. He has been actively involved in numerous research projects and is the inventor of a patented solution in the field of environmental engineering and water treatment. He is also a member of several prestigious professional and scientific organizations in his field.