[Trade portrait] Laëtitia supervises systems engineering in the field of underwater detection for the Barracuda programme

27 April 2021 Innovation Submarines Defense Naval

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Laëtitia works on the nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) Suffren; she is part of the team of engineers from the Underwater Detection (UWD) department seconded to the naval base in Toulon, to work as close as possible to the submarines. Drawn by the industrial sector, she was eager to develop in the field of defence. Portrait of the young woman in charge of the Suffren’s “ears”.

Having joined the group only a few months back, she already knew about the Barracuda submarines, especially the Suffren, which she had learned about during a work placement at the Cherbourg technical testing and benchmarking centre (CETEC) in 2015. “This initial experience in the field was crucial for me. Being able to follow the joining phases of the submarine sub-sections and participate in equipment qualification testing allowed me to discover this unique environment and to make a contribution. It was a moment of great pride for me!”, recalls the young engineer, who enjoys working on concrete projects at the heart of construction.  

Following her 2017 graduation from the EPF school of engineering, she first joined Altran where she worked for Safran as a test engineer and requirements manager for a drone system. Two years later, she seized the opportunity to join Naval Group as an acoustics Design and Test Engineer. As such, she was tasked with systems engineering in the field of underwater detection on the Barracuda program. “The world of submarines is fascinating! I learn everyday by exchanging with the crew and teams working closely with the equipment. As the submarine sector is very specific, I supplement my acoustics training within the UWD department thanks to interactions with experts and young team members”, explains Laëtitia.  

Laëtitia must guarantee the performance of acoustic equipment in accordance with contractual requirements on a daily basis. She checks the results of tests carried out in the factory, on the platform, in the dock and at sea; and manages subcontracting for sonar and anti-mine detectors, for which she monitors delivery, requirements and developments. “Naval Group provides young employees with the room to grow: my managers trust me and discreetly supervise me to help me build up my skills”, she adds.

As a patron of the “Elles Bougent” initiative, she promotes her work to young women in schools. Her advice to the young people who want to be a part of this exciting universe: be on the lookout for all trade fairs and open houses in order to ask questions, discover the wealth of naval professions and all the opportunities offered by Naval Group.