Why a career in tech?

Because technology, for me, is the bridge between science and real-world impact. After specialising in process engineering, I was naturally drawn to industry, a world where the results of your work are visible immediately. At the end of the day, one question matters: did we produce the material we were aiming for?

That operational side, with its constant sense of challenge and purpose, is what truly motivates me.

This is what led me to start with a VIE assignment in Italy, as a Process Engineer at Isover, a Saint-Gobain company. There, I discovered that technology is not only about machines or processes, but above all a human adventure.

I am convinced that major transformations happen collectively, thanks to diverse profiles, experiences and ideas. That diversity is a source of innovation and energy.

But above all, what drives me is meaning: moving concrete projects forward, acting on reality, and contributing, in my own way, to reshaping how we produce.

Your professional experience?

My path has been far from linear (we love circularity!), and that may well be its greatest strength.

I started with a scientific baccalaureate, and in my parents’ minds, the natural next step was medical school. A beautiful idea… except for one thing: I faint at the sight of blood! I tried pharmacy as a compromise, but quickly realized that neither the content nor the competitive mindset suited me.

I then joined a preparatory class, thinking the issue might be the field. I learned something fundamental about myself: I thrive not in competition, but in collaboration.

What I wanted was to learn, understand, and build collectively. That’s what led me to Pierre and Marie Curie University for a degree in chemistry, followed by a master’s in chemical engineering co-delivered with Chimie Paris.

After graduating in 2013, I took time to travel and volunteer with young girls in Indonesia and Cambodia. This experience left a deep mark on me: education is freedom and witnessing how many were deprived of it reminded me both of my own luck and the responsibility that comes with it.

When I returned, I followed my love for languages and international work, which brought me to Italy for a VIE, my first real step into industry (but more on that in Question 3!)

If I had to summarize my journey: I’ve moved forward through trial, curiosity and honesty. It taught me that there is no perfect path, only the one that reflects who we are and allows us to create positive impact.

Your first experience with technology?

My first real immersion in tech started in Italy, with an exciting challenge: innovating within industry.

As a Process Engineer at Saint-Gobain Isover, I worked on developing a mineral wool product using a bio-based binder, collaborating closely with the Italian plant and the R&D center in France.

What I loved most was this dual perspective: the concreteness of the factory floor and the more scientific, strategic vision of R&D.

This VIE experience was an incredible entry point into industry: learning a new language, discovering an unfamiliar process, and above all understanding how innovation truly happens.

My advice?

A VIE is an exceptional springboard into the tech world, a chance to explore new ways of working, broaden your perspective, and grow in every possible way.

What do you do today, and why?

Today, I am a Sustainability Project Manager at Saint-Gobain Sekurit, the Group’s activity dedicated to glazing for mobility (automotive, transport and aftermarket). It’s a technical and demanding environment but also a fascinating one: glass is a key material combining safety, comfort, energy efficiency and now circularity.

My role is to support the sustainable transformation of our activities: working on glazing circularity, carbon reduction, and public-affairs topics related to mobility…

It’s a transversal position that requires understanding technical, regulatory and operational challenges, while continuously learning, which suits me perfectly.

Why this path? Because before returning to Saint-Gobain, I chose to explore other fields, especially deconstruction and circular economy, with a very hands-on approach. It helped me broaden my perspective and confirm what truly motivates me.

Today, my work is a balance between impact, learning and action. I don’t come with all the answers, but with one conviction: we can move things forward if we connect people, structure projects, listen, and progress step by step.

Your strengths in this role?

My strengths are not necessarily the ones you expect “on paper”, but they are invaluable in this field.

I have a strong work ethic: I’m determined, I take the time to understand things deeply, and I don’t let go of a topic until it is clear or progressing.

I’ve also learned, throughout my experience, to connect very different worlds: technical teams, operational fieldwork, regulatory topics, external partners. I like understanding how everyone works and finding a common path.

And then there’s the human side. I place great importance on listening and respecting others. It may seem simple, but on topics like circularity or sustainable transformation, relationships and trust are what truly move projects forward.

In short: hard work, consistency, and the will to make progress with others.

Past challenges, failures and disappointments?

One of the most significant challenges I faced was losing my sister, just after joining Saint-Gobain.

It was a moment of solitude and pain but also a challenge: continuing to grow professionally while carrying that grief.

What helped me was the incredible support of my colleagues, who became much more than that, true friends.

This experience taught me resilience, the importance of human relationships at work, and the strength we can find even in the most difficult moments.

It also reminded me that our personal challenges shape the way we are in the world, and how we work with others.

Best moments, successes you’re proud of?

One of my proudest moments was the opportunity to present a topic related to circularity in construction at an event organised by the European Commission, during the High-Level Construction Forum in Brussels.

It was a demanding exercise, and I was proud to contribute.

It felt like a meaningful recognition of the collective work we had done, especially knowing that many others could have been chosen.

I’m also very proud to join the Femmes de Tech network. It’s an opportunity I never imagined, and I’m truly motivated to contribute to this inspiring community.

And on a more personal note, the birth of my son is without a doubt one of my greatest joys. Watching him grow and discover the world with so much wonder is a pride like no other.

People who helped, influenced or made your life difficult?

I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by exceptional women who were far more than mentors. They became role models and invaluable sources of support.

Bernadette Charleux, Chemical Construction R&D Director at Saint-Gobain, who will be my mentor within the Femmes de Tech network, has always been a source of inspiration. Whether in R&D at Saint-Gobain or during my career transitions, she guided me with sharp insight and genuine kindness.

Gwénaëlle Croizer, Director of EPC Colibri and whom I met at SEDDRe, has also played an essential role. She helped me grow, gain confidence and look further ahead. Her ability to build relationships that go beyond the professional frame, with rare authenticity, deeply marked me.

These women taught me resilience and the importance of solidarity. Their support, beyond technical competence, has been decisive.

Of course, I’ve also had strong male allies, and my loved ones inspire me every day. But within the Femmes de Tech network, I wanted to highlight these two women whose impact on my journey has been invaluable.

Your hopes and future challenges?

My biggest challenge today is mastering my new role in a field I am still discovering. After more than ten years in the construction sector, stepping into the automotive world without all the technical references is a real challenge, but I love learning, and I’m determined to succeed.

I also have a more personal aspiration: exploring how humor can be used to talk about sustainability. I was inspired by sustainability-themed stand-ups, and I find this approach brilliant. It conveys messages without being alarmist, it makes topics more accessible, and it creates positive energy.

So, my challenge is also to bring this lightness into the way we raise awareness, because laughter is good for health and for ideas.

What do you do when you don’t work?

Outside of work, most of my time is dedicated to my family and my son, my “second full-time job”.

I love sharing simple moments with him: walks in the forest, museum visits, or quiet weekends at home.

These moments allow me to recharge and enjoy the small joys of life, surrounded by the people who matter most.

I also enjoy supporting young girls who are considering scientific fields. It’s a way to pass things on, share my experience, and encourage more women to enter these careers.

Your heroes from History or fiction?

More than one single heroine, I’m inspired by women who embody strength and resilience: those who move forward despite obstacles, balancing power with gentleness, and turning challenges into opportunities.

If I had to name one historical figure, it would be Marie Curie.

For her scientific audacity, her immense curiosity, her tireless dedication, and her extraordinary ability to push the boundaries of knowledge.

Together with Pierre Curie, she opened the way to discoveries so groundbreaking that Einstein himself considered her one of the greatest minds of her time.

And perhaps also because I had the chance to study at Pierre and Marie Curie University: a lovely coincidence that has always reminded me how far passion and rigour can take you.

But my heroines are also the women of everyday life: those who juggle work, family and commitments, who keep going step by step with a smile. They remind me that courage can be quiet, but it changes everything.

A saying or proverb you like in particular?

They didn’t know it was impossible, so they did it — Mark Twain

A book to take with you on a desert island?

Probably Desert Island Cooking for Dummies, to maximise my chances of survival!

Otherwise, Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe, to learn from someone who actually made it out. 😊

A message to young female professionals?

Don’t wait to feel “ready” before you start! None of us ever really are.

Move forward step by step, ask questions, learn along the way.

Trust yourself, surround yourself well, and keep your curiosity alive.

That’s how the most beautiful journeys begin.