He always dreamed of being an astronaut. But failing to be able to stay in weightlessness hundreds of kilometers above our heads, Marc-Olivier Bouchard, 29, chose to become an aerospace engineer.
Published at 12:42 a.m.
Updated at 1:00 p.m.
Where do you work and what are your duties?
I work at the satellite manufacturer MDA (formerly SPAR), in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue. I am a structural analyst. I have to ensure the integrity of the structure. I work with virtually every department. We measure the vibrations during the launch of the devices, but also the shocks caused by the deployment of the solar panels. We also analyze the thermal cycles of satellites during their life in orbit. We manufacture our own satellites, but also as a subcontractor.
What do you like most about your job?
There is truly high technological knowledge in the company. There are new challenges with each project. As a young engineer, I learn new things every day. It’s demanding, but ultimately, it’s very rewarding. During our meetings, I enjoy listening to senior engineers who bring new perspectives. I put this in my luggage. Also, I have the chance to meet people from the four corners of Canada. It allows me to practice my English. Otherwise, the company organizes lots of activities for employees and I really like that.
Why did you choose aerospace engineering?
I wondered for a long time what I wanted to do in life. I was good at math and physics. Should I go into finance or engineering? Around 16 or 17 years old, I knocked on the door of the Canadian Space Agency, in Saint-Hubert, to request a visit to obtain advice. I wanted to know what it took to work in the aerospace industry. I was given a private tour. I met an engineer and talked with him. I saw models of satellites, the Canadian arm, etc. I was impressed. This visit was decisive in my journey.
Tell me about your student journey. You studied at Polytechnique, right?
Yes. Engineering training lasts four years. The first classes and the first exams were very demanding. It was a race against time. There was a lot of work and homework. I did three internships: two at Bombardier and one at Kemira. I participated in four projects (one per year) during my baccalaureate, including designing and manufacturing a drone, but also a remote-controlled plane, and making them fly. These projects really made me understand what engineering is. I was able to put my knowledge into practice, moving from theory to practice. Before Poly, I studied engineering at Carleton University in Ottawa, where I played hockey at the university level.
Do you have any advice for young people who are hesitant to choose a profession?
You have to follow your passions. I asked myself a lot of questions. I talked about it with those around me. If I hadn’t chosen engineering, I would have regretted it. You have to work to achieve your dreams and not be intimidated by the grandeur of your dreams. I was intimidated by the idea of studying at Polytechnique. We all go through it. I always wanted to go to space. I haven’t succeeded yet, but I got closer by working in a related field.
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