Interview with Julien, optical technician since
more than 10 years at Optech.
Hello Julien, can you tell us a bit about your background and tell us about yourself briefly?
Hi, I grew up in St-Hyacinthe. I had a normal school journey until I arrived at Cégep de St-Hyacinthe, where I started by doing the computer management program, without success. The student strike of 2003, in which I actively participated, was the reason why my first attempt at Cégep did not work.
I then left Cégep to go live in Montreal. I then joined a metal music band for 3 years. During this time, I became a bicycle mechanic. After 2 years of working for less than minimum wage with very uneducated people, I decided to go back to school seriously.
My search for a college program led me to Techno Physics. I did my internships at INRS and I returned to Optech after my studies, which means that Optech was my first job.
What made you want to do this job?
The main element that attracted me to Optech was that Mathieu Riendeau, who was the technician for the physics techno course I took, offered me the position of optical technician at Optech. I trust him so I accepted.
Describe your role as an Optical Technician at Optech.
I make sure that Optech equipment is functional and calibrated. Some devices are very specialized. I am one of the few Optech employees to know all the company’s devices and who can operate them, so my expertise is often required in Optech’s specialized projects.
Tell us about the best project you did at Optech.
Depending on my mood in the morning, my point of view can change, but currently, I would say one of my first projects. To carry out this project, it was necessary to find the laser parameters which made it possible to cut dental ceramics. I was a novice, so I was afraid to set the premises on fire.
To avoid this, I took a lot of precautions. I had a lot of adrenaline when I realized that the majority of the tasks for this project were my responsibility. With the support of my colleagues, we ended up finding the right parameters and the project went well.
What do you like about working at Optech?
What has meant that I have been at Optech for more than 10 years is that I really like light. I’m a huge Star Wars fan, so operating high-powered lasers was a childhood dream of mine. In addition, the projects are varied and interesting. Finally, what I appreciate the most is the sympathy and dedication of the Optech team.
What is your mantra? A word for the end?
“Be happy!” It is important to be happy while working.
Thank you very much for your answers Julien, and good luck at Optech!
