Why a career in tech?

I’ve been fascinated by science and intrigued by scientific experiments since childhood.

I remember Wednesday afternoons spent with my family at Paris’s science museum, the Cité des sciences et de l’industrie. I had fun trying out the interactive experiments on display there. These moments awakened in me a genuine desire to explore the world of technology, opening up endless possibilities.

Your professional experience?

After obtaining my scientific baccalaureate and eager to enter the workforce quickly, I went on to study a Diploma in Technological Studies (DUT), majoring in Chemistry at the University of Orsay-Saclay.

In 2011, I continued my studies with a Professional Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Formulation, which I completed on a work-study basis at the University of Cergy and at Michelin.

I then joined the Michelin Group and have been working there for 14 years now as a materials designer.

Your first experience with technology?

It all started with my DUT internship. I conducted a study on electrochemical reactions leading to the corrosion of metal reinforcements in tires and evaluated new technologies to minimize this corrosion.

As well as developing my technical skills, this first experience was rewarding on a more personal level. The quality of the collaboration, trust and supportive attitude among the teams only made me more enthusiastic about working in this field.

What do you do today, and why?

I’m a materials designer for Motorsport Tires at Michelin. I formulate the rubber materials that go into the tread band of tires used in motor racing, mainly for the Hypercars at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. My focus is on developing innovative materials that significantly improve vehicle performance while ensuring driver safety.

After working in other material formulation areas, I chose Motorsport. It is a highly stimulating environment – like a laboratory where emerging technologies are constantly being evaluated and improved. The technical advances made in Motorsport tires are then scaled up.

What motivates me is contributing to the transition toward more sustainable and environmentally friendly material formulations, meeting current needs while preserving resources for future generations.

Your strengths in this role?

While being methodical, analytical and organized are must-haves for my job, what really sets me apart is my energy and love of teamwork. These are qualities that I put to full effect to ensure the success of our cross-functional projects.

I’m also a great listener and always put the customer first, which helps me develop innovative solutions that fit the needs of our partners perfectly.

Past challenges, failures and disappointments?

Recently, during a trip to the United States, I was running some complex tests to evaluate a new material. The results fell significantly short of what I was hoping for.

It was a good reminder that innovation is not always smooth sailing. The key is to learn from your setbacks and keep moving forward.

Best moments, successes you’re proud of

The best moments for me are always team wins!

One highlight I am particularly proud of was launching an innovative tire architecture material a few years ago. This material broke through traditional performance trade-offs and has been rolled out worldwide. What made it especially rewarding was that it took years of research and development to get there. It was a real team effort – everyone brought something unique to the table.

I love this quote that sums it up perfectly: “Success belongs to everyone. It is teamwork that deserves the credit.”

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

I’m naturally optimistic, so I tend to focus on the people who have had a positive impact on my career.

Beyond my ever-supportive family, I’ve been lucky enough to meet many inspiring people throughout my career. They’ve become a strong network I can count on day to day.

If I had to single out one person, it would be Jacques Besson, my first mentor. He was an incredible teacher who introduced me to the theoretical side of my work through innovative experimental approaches. Jacques was a role model for me and showed me how sharing knowledge can spark curiosity and help young scientists grow and develop. I’m eternally grateful for the impact he had on shaping both my career and personal development.

Your hopes and future challenges?

My next big challenge is launching a new range of Hypercar tires with 50% sustainable materials that will push the boundaries of both performance and innovation. As researchers, we have a responsibility to design more environmentally friendly materials.

I want to keep growing both professionally and personally by taking on new challenges. In other words, living life to the full and enjoying every moment!

What do you do when you don’t work?

Outside of work, I pour my time and energy into my two kids. They give me incredible drive and motivation to push forward and challenge myself every day.

Your heroes -from History or fiction?

While I don’t have one specific hero, there are several women I find absolutely amazing:

• Marie Curie – a pioneer who blazed a trail for women in science, winning not just one but two Nobel Prizes
• Florence Arthaud – a fearless sailor who made her mark in a male-dominated sport
• Simone Veil – highly respected for championing women’s rights
• Malala Yousafzai – a tireless activist fighting for girls’ education around the world.

What inspires me about all these women is their boldness, courage and determination. They show that with persistence, you can achieve extraordinary things.

A saying or proverb you like in particular?

I recently came across this beautiful quote from Edgar Morin that I think captures a universal truth: “Living is like sailing on an ocean of uncertainty through archipelagos of certainty.”

A book to take with you on a desert island?

Being practical, I’d take a guide to surviving in a hostile environment as it might come in handy! 😊

A message to young female professionals?

Follow your passions! It might take perseverance, but going after what you want helps build self-confidence, too. So go for it!