Jade Durand-Viel, a student in the Grande École Program, took a gap year to work for several months at a start-up specializing in zero-waste (ZW) cosmetics and hygiene products. This was an opportunity to gain valuable new professional experience, but also to use her engineering skills to help the environment.
Why take a career break in the ZD?
Jade Durand-Viel: The break was forced by the health crisis. I had to postpone my departure for Atlanta, where I was supposed to start my dual degree program with Georgia Tech. I turned this setback into an opportunity by undertaking a new long-term internship at a company.
I was looking for experience in the fields of sports, cosmetics, or sustainable development. I was lucky enough to find an opportunity that combined the latter two criteria.
What difference does it make to work for a company focused on sustainable development?
JDV: In this start-up, you really feel that sustainable development is important to all employees. Activities are based on working as locally as possible, zero waste, limiting air travel, etc. For example, glass jars are returnable. Once returned by customers, they are washed and reused.
And what about your assignments?
JDV: I was responsible for the supply chain and quality of ten products developed by the start-up. I was in charge of almost everything, from inventory management to supplier relations and production control. For example, I made regular visits to the main subcontractor, which is an establishment and service providing assistance through work (ESAT).
My responsibilities were similar to those found in any company. However, performing them in a small business gave more weight to my work, on which others depended. This is less obvious in a large company with many employees.
Would you like to pursue a career in sustainable development after you finish your studies?
JDV: Ideally, I would like to find a company in the sports sector that is already committed to energy transition. In any case, I would at least like to work for a company that is making efforts to become greener.
As engineers, we can make a difference. It is also up to us to initiate change in companies that are not yet committed to sustainable development.
Getting involved during work placements
In the Grande École Program:
• Mandatory internships in the first and third years or optional internships in the second year,
• Professional training contracts for certain third-year specializations,
• Apprenticeships for students in apprenticeship programs,
• Mandatory international mobility,
• Gap year.
The Specialized Engineering Program must be completed through a work-study program in a company.
