Why a career in tech?
I went into technology because it's a field that combines science and practical applications.
Technology plays an increasingly important role in our society. Although it's not a miracle solution to everything, it has the potential to solve complex problems and improve our quality of life.
Your professional experience?
After taking my A-levels, I went on to do a two-year technical university degree in Biology with a major in Environmental Engineering, before going on to become an Environmental Industry Engineer (Ecole des Métiers de l'Environnement) with a view to working in waste management. That's how I got my start as Production Manager of a PAPREC Plastics recycling line. After 3 years of hands-on experience, I moved on to become an R&D project manager and eco-design consultant for plastics recycling, still with PAPREC.
Your first experience with technology?
My first real experience of tech was in industry. By working on an industrial site, I had the opportunity to see all the possibilities and outlooks that technology could offer.
Plastics recycling is a major and topical issue. It's an activity that didn't wait for the public to become aware of it, but there are still plenty of technological opportunities and ways of developing it to achieve the objectives of the circular economy.
What do you do today, and why?
Today I'm helping to develop plastic waste recycling solutions. This involves identifying and testing new emerging technologies and then working with partner customers to reincorporate these recycled plastics into new products.
At the same time, I'm involved in representing plastic regenerators in giving design for recycling guidelines to manufacturers of packaging and other plastic products. This involves informing people about existing recycling processes, as well as sometimes carrying out recycling impact tests.
The aim of both these initiatives is to promote circularity and reduce the amount of waste that is not recycled. The management of waste, especially plastic waste, is a major environmental issue today, and it's exciting to be able to contribute to it in my own way.
Ces deux sujets ont pour objectif de faire avancer la circularité et de réduire la part de déchets non valorisés. La gestion des déchets, qui plus est en matière plastique, est un enjeu environnemental d’actualité et y contribuer, à mon échelle, est passionnant.
Your strengths in this role?
Curiosity and a technical interest are essential to understand the subjects and make the link between the various innovations and possibilities. Versatility and organisational skills are essential to move all projects forward. Finally, passion and interest are a plus if you want to enjoy your work (which is much more enjoyable in these conditions!).
Past challenges, failures and disappointments?
My first experience in the field wasn't particularly brilliant for me, but it was a very rich learning experience that is indispensable in my current job. It also gave me a better understanding of the environment in which I work today and how to work with it.
I also learnt to accept that you can't be good at everything. Each experience helps you to get to know yourself better, identify what attracts you most and end up finding a position where you can add the most value.
Best moments, successes you’re proud of?
Setting up a dismantling unit from A to Z, with 2 shifts. It was a challenge for me because I was at the very beginning of my career. But it's a moment I'm proud of, because I managed to surround myself with teams who, despite the difficult working conditions, were efficient, cheerful and willing. It also taught me a lot about hand tools and equipment, in which I discovered an interest.
I've also started to see young graduates coming into my professional circle, full of energy and goodwill. It's great to train them and see them develop their skills.
People who helped, influenced -or made your life difficult?
The people who have helped me and left their mark on my professional life are first and foremost all the managers I've had so far. They've given me a chance, trusted me and, above all, taught me a lot. I've been (and still am!) very lucky to have them. My family and friends too, of course, who have surrounded me so well.
Your hopes and future challenges?
My current challenge is a professional one. As part of my job, I'm looking to improve processes to further develop waste recycling and move towards circularity. This objective helps to reduce our impact on the exploitation of natural resources and avoid pollution from untreated waste. It's very motivating to do your part, at your own level, to protect the environment by developing a new circular economy.
What do you do when you don’t work?
When I'm not at work, I like to spend time with my family and friends. Whether it's during a meal or a hike, I recharge my batteries with them. I also love to travel to discover new landscapes and cultures, without always having to go to the other side of the planet.
Your heroes -from History or fiction?
There have been many inspirational people, but the one I'm thinking of at the moment is the adventurous journalist Nellie Bly, real name Elizabeth Jane Cochrane. She was a pioneering journalist of the 19th century who challenged the norms of the time by engaging in audacious investigation and reporting to highlight the injustices and inequalities faced by women. She was also an adventurer who travelled around the world alone in less than 80 days, beating the record set by Jules Verne at the time.
This woman is inspiring because she pushed back the limits of what was considered possible for a woman in her time, and in so doing paved the way for other women.
A saying or proverb you like in particular?
"This too shall pass" is a Persian saying that is true at all times, in all situations. It reminds us to make the most of the good times and helps us to hold on when the times get tough.
A book to take with you on a desert island?
Shipwreck Manual - Surviving on a tropical island - let's keep it pragmatic!
A message to young female professionals?
Among those around me, I've noticed that women are sometimes still obliged to surpass themselves to prove that they are capable of succeeding. Don't underestimate yourself! You're capable of doing it, you're probably already doing it.
