What does sustainable mobility mean to you?
From my point of view, sustainable mobility is a key element that facilitates the transition toward the development of safe, equitable and humane cities and allows for the use of space, resources and energy to be minimized. It manifests in diverse ways (multimodal) and promotes savings, equity and efficiency.
Within the current context of demographic and urban growth, our goal is to optimize, densify and diversify urban spaces to facilitate the preservation of green zones and outlying agricultural areas. Toward this end, sustainable mobility represents an integral component of rational land-use planning that will lead to the creation and maintenance of a functional terrestrial communication system for people and goods.
Why did you choose the mobility field?
I have always been fascinated by land-use planning and all of its inherent components. During my studies and academic research, I became more and more aware of the extent to which the organization of well-considered mobility affects the quality of our urban spaces. From the planning aspect to the technical nuances, many facets of mobility piqued my interest and inspired me to forge a career in this area. I love the fact that, when it comes to mobility, expertise is constantly being fine-tuned. There is no ceiling. I will continue to learn until I retire.
When did you join the larger CIMA+ family?
In September of 2008.
Why did you decide to join the Mobility Engineering Team at CIMA+?
To be honest, it was pure luck. I was doing an internship in Vancouver in 2008 when I met a Junior Engineer from the CIMA+ Mobility Division (known as Transportation Engineering at the time), who sold me on the work he did. He then gave my contact information to the Senior Director of the Division. When I returned to Québec, I received an invitation for an interview at the CIMA+ offices in Montréal. Once I saw the young, dynamic and welcoming team, the atmosphere of camaraderie and the diversity of mandates that I would have the opportunity to work on, it didn’t take me long to make a decision.
What part of your work do you find the most inspiring?
I really enjoy the collaborative spirit on the team, both with other divisions at CIMA+ and with external experts and partners. I like sharing my knowledge, introducing new ideas and wracking my brain to find solutions. I also enjoy learning from my colleagues and meeting new people.
Does your work make a difference in the community?
I think there is a lot more work to do in terms of education and awareness raising when it comes to sustainable mobility. The fundamental principles of sustainable urban planning are not well known, understood or accepted by everyone. As mobility professionals, we are in an ideal position to integrate sustainable mobility into our projects and communicate its advantages.
Which projects are you most proud of, and why?
It’s hard to choose. I have taken great pride in many projects over the course of my career. I am extremely proud of the mobility study and planning assistance related to the reconstruction of Les Jardins Dorval. This was a major project that raised a number of concerns because of its high density, which was not in keeping with the existing urban context at the time. Our expertise in sustainable mobility and our ability to communicate the advantages allowed the project to get off on the right foot and facilitated its social acceptability.
How would you describe the CIMA+ Mobility Team?
Cohesive, competent and sustainable.