Focus on Philip-Paul Vachon

What enthuses you about the projects you are involved in?

I work primarily on designing and supervising the reconstruction of engineering structures. I enjoy these projects because they allow me to explore a number of areas of interest to me, including geotechnics, hydraulics, foundations, construction of massive concrete elements, structure and road construction.

 

Why do you like working in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region?

I like Abitibi because, despite its vast size, professionals working in the same field often know each other. What’s more, the people here are like me: down-to-earth and close to nature. Working out of the Rouyn-Noranda office, which isn’t very big, we have to be versatile, since we’re involved at every stage of several different projects.

 

What attracted you to CIMA+?

CIMA+ has a very good reputation in Abitibi. I wanted to perfect my knowledge and develop my skills with the best.

 

Why did you choose the engineering sector?

I love being able to tackle the challenges that come with engineering.

 

 

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

It’s important to me that my work contributes to building society. What I do is tangible, and I quickly see the positive impact on citizens when we rebuild and improve the infrastructure they depend on every day. It’s very rewarding to drive on a road or bridge that we’ve helped to rebuild.

 

Which project are you most proud of and why?

I’m proud to be involved in replacing a bridge on the range where I grew up. The existing bridge is obsolete and subject to load restrictions, which prevents heavy vehicle traffic on the range. It is therefore with great satisfaction that I am participating in the design and construction of a new bridge that will improve the quality of life of the people I know so well.

 

How would you describe the Rouyn-Noranda office team?

The team spirit is very strong and the atmosphere in the office is really pleasant. Among colleagues, we regularly organize activities outside office hours, which is not only great fun, but also helps to maintain team cohesion.

 

Could you briefly describe your professional journey?

I completed my technical training in civil engineering at the Cégep de Rouyn-Noranda and undertook my college internships at the Ministère des Transports. I then pursued my studies at the École de technologie supérieure and obtained a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering, while completing my university internships at CIMA+. As soon as I graduated from university, I was recruited by CIMA+, where I initially worked on transportation projects before gradually specializing in engineering structures.

 

What was the biggest challenge you faced?

My biggest challenge occurred when my mentor, the bridge engineer in the Rouyn-Noranda office, left CIMA+ to take on other challenges. I had to take over to ensure the continuity of bridge projects in Abitibi. Fortunately, during this transition, I benefited from the invaluable support of my manager and several engineers from other CIMA+ offices.

 

What project do you dream of carrying out?

I’d like to build large-scale bridges that will transform the Abitibi travel experience for the better, while preserving the precious nature that makes it so beautiful.

 

What hobbies help you relax and recharge?

I like to spend time in the forest and go hunting. I also practice Brazilian jiu-jitsu to keep fit.

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