The arrival of Lénaelle Grialou at ECT is a major event. the Public Works sector is so sparsely feminized. At the age of 17, this young apprentice becomes the first female machine operator on an ECT site. A milestone in our commitment to diversity.
An atypical career
A student at the Lycée Épamevelles, Léanelle is starting a two-year sandwich course. Her goal is to obtain a Brevet Professionnel (vocational diploma) as a public works machine operator. With only two girls in her class, she is a pioneer in a sector where women are very rare.
Her interest in the trade was sparked by a first test on a construction machine, which captivated her, and by the encouragement of her father, a French teacher. On her teacher’s recommendation, she chose ECT for her apprenticeship. She will be supervised by Dimitri Evanno, site manager, and de Belmiro, site foreman. Tutor and co-tutor, they will ensure her integration and progress.
Field missions and challenges
Lénaelle arrived on July 8. Since then, she has been working at the ECT site in Chelles (77). As part of specific assignments, she drives a dumper and a shovel. In the development phase, the site requires the installation of a fertile substrate for future planting. With the dumper, Lénaelle transports this substrate. She has also used the shovel to carry out test pits, enabling the design offices to analyze soil quality.
Working on the Chelles site presents a number of challenges. And Lénaelle has had to overcome her fear of heights. Compliance with safety measures and the support of her colleagues have enabled her to become more comfortable and independent. She is determined to give it her all.
What she enjoys most is being part of a development project: following its progress and understanding the phasing stages. In spring 2025, the urban park (built in partnership with Safer de l’Ile-de-France) will be completed. She can’t wait to see it planted and open to the public.
Integration and ambition
Lénaelle is delighted with her integration into the team. She feels confident to progress in her apprenticeship and develop her skills. Lénaelle wants to show that women have their place in the construction industry. And after graduating, she hopes to be hired by ECT, like her predecessor Baptiste.
