Back

Laura HASSAN

  • General Director
  • Epitech
  • 37 years old
  • Sponsored by Philippe JAMET in 2025

Why a career in tech?

Tech is an endless field of innovation that can transform our daily lives, solve global challenges, and advance society. It is also a sector where collaboration is possible, even with competitors.

I enjoy innovating, rethinking uses, and imagining new solutions. Problem-solving has always attracted me, and as a true autodidact, I was encouraged at a young age by my grandfather, a technology teacher, to experiment and build my first electrical circuits.

My high school experience in the Mathematics-Physics-Computer Science track gave me a solid foundation in the field.

Your professional experience?

My career has been far from linear. After completing my scientific high school diploma (specializing in mathematics and an additional Mathematics-Physics-Computer Science option), I pursued studies in visual health at the Faculty of Sciences in Orsay. From 2009 to 2018, I worked as a certified teacher in Industrial Engineering Sciences, teaching subjects such as geometric optics, physical optics, vision analysis, and mechanics.

In 2017, I chose to pursue a Master’s degree in Educational Engineering, Digital Technologies, and Research in Education at the University of Cergy (Master ACREDITE). This enabled me to take on new roles, first as Pedagogical Director, then as Campus Director at ISG – a business school within the IONIS Education Group.

I continued to grow within IONIS, taking on various missions, becoming National Director of ISEGCOM, and eventually General Director of Epitech.

Your first experience with technology?

Tech has always been a part of my career. Initially, as a teacher of Industrial Engineering Sciences in vocational high schools and technical colleges, I introduced digital tools into my courses as early as 2012. I developed augmented reality resources and virtual learning scenarios. At the time, I didn’t realize I was pioneering these tools in education, but I worked independently for the benefit of my students.

Additionally, I launched robotics clubs in the ORT high school network, preparing students for the national and international FIRST LEGO League competition. This project taught me how to document, plan, and make tech accessible to students who often felt disconnected from math and science, showing them that tech was within their reach.

What do you do today, and why?

I am the General Director of Epitech, a leading school in tech excellence and expertise.

With 15 campuses in France and 5 internationally, my mission is to solidify Epitech’s position as the top choice for training the best IT experts (software engineering, networks & cybersecurity, AI & data, etc.), shaping the tech leaders of tomorrow.

My responsibilities are broad: representing the school with public and private institutions, evolving our programs and curriculum, managing the leadership teams, and driving research projects on AI and pedagogy.

Your strengths in this role?

  • Passion, enthusiasm, and curiosity
  • Strategic vision
  • High standards and rigor

Past challenges, failures, and disappointments?

I don’t believe in regrets; I always look forward. Dwelling on the past often distracts from achieving the next goal.

I compare this mindset to horseback riding, my competitive sport: looking back at the jump you’ve just cleared to see if the bar fell is the best way to miss the next obstacle!

Best moments, successes you’re proud of?

  • Passing the CAPET (certified teacher exam) in Industrial Engineering Sciences as the national top scorer. I worked tirelessly for this achievement.
  • Completing my Master’s in Educational Engineering  to deepen my expertise and solidify my professional path.
  • Growing professionally within the IONIS Education Group since 2018.
  • Above all, balancing my career with family life, raising my two children alongside my husband.

People who helped, influenced—or made your life difficult?

My husband has always been my strongest supporter. We met during my studies, and he has always respected the time and dedication I invest in everything I undertake.

Your hopes and future challenges?

Professionally : Establishing Epitech as a key player in the tech ecosystem and reaching the goal of 30% female representation among our students.

Personally : helping my children grow with strong values, fostering their curiosity and happiness.

What do you do when you don’t work?

Horseback riding, as often as I can! It’s my favorite way to recharge and find balance.

Your heroes—from history or fiction?

Margaret Thatcher: a determined and bold woman who imposed her vision in a challenging political environment while staying true to her convictions. Her leadership inspires me to tackle ambitious projects with confidence and determination, even in challenging environments.

A saying or proverb you like in particular?

“When there is a will, there is a way. When there is a way, one must act.” – Napoléon Bonaparte

“To succeed, work hard, never give up, and cherish a magnificent obsession.” – Benjamin Franklin

A book to take with you on a desert island?

1984 by George Orwell: a fascinating dystopia exploring manipulation, power, and the importance of intellectual resistance. It reminds me to remain critical and stay true to my convictions.

A message to young female professionals?

Nothing is out of reach. Do not define yourself by your gender in your professional life. Work hard, dare to take risks, and never doubt your legitimacy.