Applications to join the Industrial Engineeringtrack of the Arts et Métiers Specialized Engineering Program Arts et Métiers Monday, June 1. To mark the occasion, we invite you to read the testimonial of Elise, a third-year student, about her program: its advantages, the work-study component, and career prospects.
What is your background?
In 2015, I obtained a European Baccalaureate in Science with honors. I then opted for a DUT (University Technical Diploma) in Materials Science and Engineering because the program offered both a technical and scientific approach. This program really allowed me to add a practical dimension to the scientific subjects as we know them today. It was during my DUT that I was able to really reveal myself in my work and be certain that I wanted to become an engineer. I then set myself the goal of entering an engineering school and achieved it by finishing 5th in my class. I was therefore accepted into theArts et Métiers Specialized Engineering Program, Industrial Engineering track, through an apprenticeship, based on my application.

Why did you choose the Industrial Engineering program offered by Arts et Métiers partnership with Ingénieurs 2000?
I decided to enroll atArts et Métiers it is a school with a well-established reputation. Arts et Métiers highly recognized in the industrial sector, which is a real asset when entering the professional world. The school also has a strong alumni network based on mutual support, which can be a significant career booster.
Industrial Engineering is a promising field of study for the simple reason that there will always be a need for engineers specializing in design and industrialization to bring tomorrow's innovations to life.
I chose Industrial Engineering because I knew that the subjects studied at the IUT had given me the necessary foundations to pursue a career in this field. In addition, Industrial Engineering offers a wide range of professions and career opportunities, from process engineer to R&D engineer and quality engineer. In my opinion, Industrial Engineering is a training program with a bright future for the simple reason that there will always be a need for engineers specializing in design and industrialization to bring tomorrow's innovations to life. Why choose an apprenticeship? In addition to acquiring solid scientific knowledge through engineering studies, an apprenticeship gives apprentices practical, professional experience, which can be a real asset during job interviews. This three-year program is really the best fit for me.
Which company are you doing your work-study program with? What are your responsibilities?
I am completing my work-study program at VALEO Lighting Systems and have chosen to focus on Quality. Within this company, I have been able to carry out numerous quality-related tasks, both systemic and field-based. For example, I participated in the serial production of new products in my production unit. I produced the necessary documentation for the production of parts, monitored test runs, and performed other tasks such as carrying out capability or packaging tests. I also created a file to better anticipate any defects we might encounter in order to estimate the date on which we would be able to meet customer requirements in terms of scrap rates and production rates. I also led and facilitatedFMEA (Failure Mode, Effects, and Criticality Analysis) for my sector. These were truly long-term and very concrete assignments.
What do you plan to do once you finish your studies?
I have already had the opportunity to attend several job interviews, as our profiles are in high demand and recruiters are keen to approach us. For my part, I would like to stay in the automotive sector or move into industries related to armaments and defense. My application has been accepted by a company I was interested in for a position of responsibility, which I was able to apply for thanks to my Arts et Métiers degree Arts et Métiers work-study program. I hope to make it through the recruitment process.
Our profiles are in demand, and recruiters don't hesitate to approach us.
What is your message to encourage more young women to pursue a career in science and become engineers?
Engineering is far from being closed to women—quite the contrary. More and more women are choosing this path and gaining recognition in their profession. We mustn't be afraid to put ourselves forward, showcase our knowledge and skills, and above all, show that we are capable. Personally, I have met many young women who doubted their ability to pursue engineering studies. They clearly lack confidence, and it's up to us to prove them wrong, to show them that it's entirely possible. They may encounter obstacles, but with perseverance and determination, they will undoubtedly overcome them!
There is a glaring lack of confidence among young women, and it is up to us to prove them wrong, to prove to them that it is entirely possible.