About the INSIDE series
In our previous posts in this series, we took a behind-the-scenes look at our mechanical engineering and software development teams. Now, let’s follow Jean-Simon Dubord-Michaud, the leader of the electronic engineering team, for a new immersion into the CLEIO universe.
Today, he heads a team that plays a crucial role in device development. “When you work in electronics, you’re truly at the core of the product, as you design what brings it to life,” confirms Marc-André, who has 20 years of experience in the field.
Jean-Simon and Philippe
— Marc-André
Fostering collaboration for growth
Encouraging mentorship
Jean-Simon’s team consists of both electronic design engineers and technicians. Both complement the other, contributing their expertise to provide the best possible service to the customer. “The level of mutual support is incredible,” says Alex, who joined the team a year ago “Senior team members enjoy sharing their knowledge and helping the more junior members.“
Over the years, the way we onboard interns and new employees has significantly improved. Jean-Simon has found a winning recipe: pairing. This approach pairs a newcomer with an experienced team member who understands how the team operates. “Our aim is to involve them in a customer project right from the start,” he explains. “Being paired enables the newcomer to become autonomous more quickly, resulting in a win-win situation.“
Marc-André, working as a tech lead, embraces the role of a coach: “On my own, with my experience, I can’t accomplish much. So, by sharing a little, we can all improve together. That’s how we’ll become leaders in our field.“
Marc-André in action
Promoting self-improvement
In addition to mentorship for seamless integration, Jean-Simon encourages everyone to enhance their skills. Upon joining CLEIO, Alex immediately benefited from quality coaching that accelerated his skill development: “I never thought I would learn so much in just one year,” he admits.
Progress is also fostered among long-term team members. To ensure this, Jean-Simon conducts monthly meetings to discuss individual goals and aspirations for personal growth. “Progressing in your career doesn’t always mean changing companies, and that’s what I want to demonstrate to my team,” he asserts.
To achieve this, he emphasizes training, assigns roles that align with team members’ ambitions, and encourages them to take on additional responsibilities. “With more projects and increased complexity, we need individuals to assume more leadership and autonomy,” Jean-Simon reminds us.
Daniel and Alex
Getting together to talk, share and laugh
Maintaining a good team cohesion
Three times a week, the entire team gathers for virtual meetings. “We discuss our ongoing work, but I also ensure there’s room for informal conversations,” he explains. This initiative has proven fruitful, as Alex greatly enjoys these meetings: “These meetings are truly friendly, and everyone has a good laugh. Despite not being physically together, I feel like we all know each other very well“.
Danny, Jean-Simon and Marc-André
Breaking down barriers between teams
Marc-André and Alex are both regulars at the Laval office, where they frequently engage in friendly interactions with colleagues from other teams. “Almost every Thursday, as we wrap up our day, we crack open a beer. We chat a bit, and have discussions that aren’t limited to project-specific topics,” confirms Alex, who doesn’t hesitate to refer to his colleagues as “friends“.
These positive relationships extend beyond work hours, as numerous group sports activities are regularly organized. “I’m thinking of the Pentathlon and the bike race. Anyone can come up with an idea and propose it,” he continues.
And when it comes to teasing the younger members, everyone can count on Marc-André: “I have a reputation to uphold,” he says with a smile. “That’s the kind of thing that creates a good-natured atmosphere. The goal is to go to work without feeling like you’re working.“
What’s next?
Until now, Jean-Simon has primarily recruited designers with a generalist profile, capable of contributing to all phases of product development. However, he now gravitates toward individuals with specific expertise. “These experts will be able to help everyone,” he explains.
He also aims to strengthen the key role of tech lead within his team. “We need them for every project. They will often be the primary electronic contact with the customer, and will manage other resources within the same project.“
Above all, his priority remains the well-being of his team members: “If they love what they do, it will reflect in their work and in their relationships with customers. That’s the heart of the CLEIO philosophy,” he concludes.
Are you seeking a unique professional experience that offers new challenges? This could be the perfect time to submit your application to us!
Under the spotlights
Jean-Simon
- Seniority at CLEIO: 12 years
- Personal interests: Sports (running, hockey), music (former DJ), artistic creation
- What drives him: Earning people’s trust
Marc-André
- Seniority at CLEIO: 5 years
- Personal interests: Racing (F1, karting, motorcycle) and hockey
- What drives him: Sharing his experience
Alex
- Seniority at CLEIO: 1 year
- Personal interests: Sports in general (ultimate Frisbee, climbing, golf)
- What drives him: Organizing team activities
