WHAT IS YOUR JOB ?
I’m a telecom maintenance technician at the Aix-en-Provence branch of Axione. I work on relay masts, both on repair and/or deployment operations.
How did you join Axione?
I had been working about ten years in telecom maintenance for one of our competitors and I decided to change. I arrived at Axione as a temporary worker in January 2013. At the time, we were rolling out 4G in France and a year later I was offered a permanent contract.
Any standout projects for you?
Connecting the new Stade Vélodrome in Marseille! It was an interesting project that lasted about 3 months. When the project was completed, we were invited to the inauguration of the stadium and were special guests at an Olympique de Marseille game. We were given a tour of the players’ changing rooms, the VIP lounges and even the spa (laughs). Even though we lost to Lorient, it was a fantastic moment!
Any passion ?
I have been a snowboarder since the age of 12. I started off with skiing but soon switched to snowboarding. It’s a different sensation altogether and there is an incomparable angle obtained on a board.
About 6 years ago, I discovered snowboarding thanks to a parasports course organized by Patrice Barattero. Patrice is a pioneer in the discipline and suggested that I start competitive snowboarding.
How do you reconcile your job and high-level sport?
This year I was offered flexible working hours as I had to undergo several operations on my knee. This has given me more free time. Despite this, because I live in the Var department—more than 2 1/2 hours from any ski resorts—so I can’t train every day. I however do try to go every weekend during the competition season and over longer periods “out-of-season” for advanced training.
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST PRIDE ?
Achieving 5th position at the World Championships in Spain… Not only was I pleased with my ranking but the atmosphere there was truly fantastic.
What are your future challenges?
The French Championship title! I’ve been French runner up for the past 5 years and have been unable to beat the current champion, so I hope this will be the year I do it! 😉 We’ll know in March 2020!
I actually have another sports project… I have loved go-karting since I was a kid and I started training last year to enter the French disabled go-karting championships which will be held on 4th and 5th July 2020 in Septfontaines (Doubs department).
And a very different challenge is on its way…Being a dad!