Amber Clautier
Can you describe your role at Umicore?
In 2019, I got my Bachelor's degree in Electromechanics and followed another year of a preparatory programme. However, I wanted to work after that year and I started working as a trainee. In this one-and-a-half-year programme, you are deployed in different projects in order to discover your qualities and explore the different services. At the moment, I am working as a work planner for the mechanics department. I am the contact person for one particular department and take care of the mechanical maintenance and improvement works.
What do you like about your job?
By taking part in this traineeship, I get a lot of opportunities. After my studies, I did not know which job I wanted to do and in which direction I would continue. Today, Umicore is giving me the opportunity to explore different fields. There’s a lot of variety in the job and the trust I receive from colleagues is very high. It’s the best way to discover your qualities and your strengths, you develop a very good sense for designing your future career.
What do you like about working at Umicore?
I noticed during my school career that I had a certain interest in metallurgy. Umicore is unique in its offering with many different processes and techniques. The factory consists of various smaller units, which are part of one large production line that you can continue to learn from.
Why did you want to work at Umicore?
It was never my intention to work for a large company, but the offer to work on various projects for a year and a half, and to do so with a permanent contract, were decisive. Now I notice that the Umicore working environment is quite informal, everybody listens to each other and helps each other whenever possible. I don't feel like just a number in a big company.
What do you look forward to when you leave for work in the morning?
The hustle and bustle of the factory. There is a constant mechanism within the company, sometimes very intense, at other times a little calmer. My work also produces tangible results and that is what gives me the greatest satisfaction. I have one more project block to complete within technology, but I have a hunch that work planning is really my thing.
What has been the highlight of your time at Umicore so far?
In the past year, I was allowed to fully replace a colleague on two occasions. I like to work independently and autonomously and I was immediately trusted to showcase my skills, which I am proud of.
Any advice for newcomers?
As a student, you should not be afraid to come to work! It is a big transition from student life to the working world, but certainly at Umicore everyone is there for you. You should not be afraid to ask questions - especially in traineeships. It is also interesting to maintain connections not only within your group of trainees but also to expand your network within Umicore.