Question: Julie, why did you choose this job?
Julie: When I was little, I dreamed of tree houses and I knew that one day I would build them for real. Besides, I’ve always liked playing Lego. Construction is my thing!
Q: How was the welcome at the company/training centre?
J: We were very uncomfortable with you! So we were all on first-name terms and the atmosphere quickly relaxed. My boss showed me what he was working on at the time (a decorative wheel over 5 metres long ordered by Pairi Daiza Park). It really fascinated me! I saw straight away that it was a diversified, interesting job, and one that requires versatility.
Mr. Colin: My wife and I were surprised to receive a female application. It must be said that this is not common. And we said to ourselves that she must be very motivated to do this job as a girl! When we met the first time, everything went very well.
Q: What advice would you give to a girl who wants to do this job?
J: Don’t try to open doors… but break them down! You have to insist, call again after sending your CV, re-apply, so that you can be heard.
C: You have to have someone to talk to! For Julie, what made the difference was that she phoned again to find out if I had received her CV; it confirmed my belief that she was motivated. It also came at a time when I needed staff. And that’s more often than not a stroke of luck…
Q: Julie, what has helped you get to where you are today?
J: Specific training (cellulose insufflation). These are new skills that companies are looking for.
Q: Julie, what difficulties have you encountered?
J: The fact that I don’t have a driving licence restricted my job search. Here, I come here every day by scooter. I still had to face certain prejudices, but the most surprising reason I was given for not receiving me was that of the jealous wife… What can I say to that?!
Q: A message to be passed on to companies ?
J: To think that it can be reassuring for a certain type of clientele to deal with a woman rather than a team of men. An elderly woman for example or a woman living alone…
C: Don’t be fooled by appearances… I’m happier with Julie’s work than with the work of some of the other workers!