Meeting with an ETF signalman, a pillar of transmission
In this new portrait, let’s dive into the daily life of Antoine DUFFIE, a member of the ETF’s network of dispatchers. With a career that began in March 1989, Antoine has not only made his mark in the company by climbing the ranks, but has also established himself as a valued mentor, sharing his experience with new employees. In this interview, we discover the different facets of his career and his commitment to passing on his knowledge.
” I have been with the company since March 1989. I started as a machine operator during the construction of Montparnasse station as we know it today. I learned the trade of track layer over the years. Five or six years ago, I began sharing my experience with young people joining the company in a natural and informal way, until the network of switchmen was set up and I was asked to join.”
Mentor role:
Antoine describes his role as a mission to pass on knowledge and corporate culture. “My role as a mentor boils down to formally passing on knowledge and corporate culture to my “protégé”; and beyond that, to new people arriving on our sites who recognise me as a “mentor” and want to benefit from any advice I can give them. This role suits me and makes me feel valued. If I can help a young person get started in this career, I feel I have succeeded.”
Mentors’ Convention:
At the last mentors’ convention, Antoine shared his feelings. “Meeting other “mentors”, listening and sharing experiences. I was able to comment on how it works and the relationship I have with my “mentee”.
Advice for newcomers:
For new employees, he recommends observation, self-confidence and a love for their chosen profession. ‘The main advice I give to newcomers is to observe, believe in what they are doing and love the work they have chosen.’
Passions outside of work:
Antoine finds balance in several interests: ‘I’m a country person, so I enjoy gardening, reading, computers, cycling and my family life (having been on the move for over thirty years).’
Support and sharing experiences:
He emphasises the importance of attitude. ‘First of all, if you want to pass something on to someone, that person has to want it and be receptive. So you have to try to adopt a “good father” attitude without being condescending, listening to everyone with respect.’
Memorable moments:
‘What strikes me most often with young people is their kindness towards me. This shows a certain respect and a need for what I can offer them (either technical advice or memories of an experience). It was also evident in the kind words of my “protégé” during the last “signallers” session.’
Vision for the future:
At the recent guide convention, our expert shared his thoughts. “I think we need to persevere in this direction. For several years, I have been advocating the buddy system that I had at the beginning of my career, which I think is very important for young recruits arriving on a construction site. They need to get their hands on the materials and start building, to make mistakes in order to progress and gain their own experience. My role as a mentor is simply to guide them. I also need to help them fulfil their ambitions.”
Daily motivation:
It lies in interacting with his ‘protégé’, observing his progress and sharing moments of mutual learning. ‘Every day (or week), I have a special bond with my “protégé”, with whom I discuss his work and observe his progress. We can discuss his implementation strategy and we both learn.’
In conclusion, our signalman reminds us that with determination and the right support, anyone can achieve their goals. “My career shows that anyone can fulfil their ambitions. I started out as a track layer and ended up as a senior site supervisor. I climbed every rung of the ladder with the help of the people who supported me. So it seems only natural to me today that I should be able to return the favour before I retire.”