Can you tell us about your career path before joining Naval Group?
My career path has been anything but typical! With a background in mathematics and mechanics, I spent five years as a calculation engineer before switching fields and working as an instructor in physical education and voluntary gymnastics for another five years. I then spent fourteen years as a driving instructor.
How did you discover the CQPM marine mechanical fitter training?
I explored several trades, but I always felt drawn to manual work. When I learned about this qualifying training as a marine mechanical fitter, it immediately caught my interest!
How did the tests and training go?
After attending the first information session, I decided to stay for the maths tests. Even though it had been a while, I was in my element! Following various selection stages and interviews, we were invited to visit the Naval Group site of Cherbourg. The moment I stepped in, I felt right at home. I received the good news soon after, telling me that I had been accepted into the program within a group of eight people!
This course provides a wealth of information and covers several topics. For example, we not only got practical experience in activities like welding and milling but also learned about the theoretical aspects of topics such as bearings, plan reading, electricity, hydraulics, mechanical adjustments, etc. I shadowed my Naval Group tutor for a week in a mechanical assembly workshop and later explored the machining workshop with my second tutor.
What made you choose Naval Group?
I feel right at home in this environment and I love the workshop vibe which brings back really good memories ! I wanted a job that was both manual and versatile, and this training completely met my expectations.
It may be scary to switch careers, but it’s such a rewarding learning experience. My advice to anyone who may still be hesitating? Go for it!
If you are interested in joining CQPM’s second cohort of marine mechanical fitters in Cherbourg, information sessions are scheduled from March 17-20 from 9 am to 12 pm at the Amphitheatre of the UIMM training centre (PF UIMM), rue du Général Koenig in Cherbourg.