From track layer to site supervisor: the inspiring career progression of Léandro DA MOTA

Léandro DA MOTA,

Employee at La Champenoise for 9 years

Can you tell us about your career path at ETF?

It all started in August 2015 after I obtained my BTS (Higher Technical Certificate) in automotive engineering through a work-study programme. I joined the railway industry as a temporary track layer as part of a summer job. I thought it would be temporary, but the diversity and complexity of the work captivated me.

In 2017, with two years of experience under my belt, I was hired as a Quality Agent, where I was able to develop my skills in various areas. I then became a team leader on various construction sites. Following a restructuring in 2022, I had the opportunity to become an assistant site supervisor. This year, I trained at SETVF to become a site supervisor in the La Champenoise teams.

So you’ve held several different positions, from track layer to assistant site manager. How did you manage to adapt to these different jobs?

I don’t like to stagnate, so I’ve always wanted to develop my knowledge. I’m curious and I don’t hesitate to go beyond my usual tasks. By proving my skills, I was able to move on to new positions. Adaptability is essential in this sector.

Could you tell us about a project that has had a particular impact on your career?

The Part-Dieu project in Lyon remains a special reference point for Champenoise and myself. Our mission was to create the L track, a task that presented many challenges. The intensity of the activity on the site was palpable, especially as we had to deal with a period of turnover and the departure of two cutting teams to the competition, who took their expertise with them. We therefore had to redouble our efforts and place our trust in new site managers.

This project also marked a turning point in my career: I moved into the field of surveying. This internal change brought me new and rewarding responsibilities. As a surveyor, I was responsible for carrying out route and elevation studies along the railway line. My training was provided in-house by Thibault Berru, a surveying engineer at ETF in Vitrolles.

How did your recent training as a site supervisor go?

My training as a site supervisor lasted 10 weeks at the Syndicat des Entrepreneurs de Travaux de Voies Ferrées de France (French Railway Contractors’ Association). I was able to explore all aspects of the job: from technical matters to budget monitoring and contracts.

What excites you most about your current job and what motivates you to move forward?

As an assistant site supervisor, I enjoy being both in the field and in the office. I like the versatility of the job: planning, management, budget monitoring, customer contact…

It’s rewarding to see a construction site take shape and to be able to orchestrate the process.

What are your short- and long-term goals?

For now, my goal is to be a good site supervisor. In the long term, I remain open to opportunities that may arise.

What advice would you give to those who want to follow a similar path to yours?

The railway industry can be demanding, but it also offers great satisfaction. You have to be prepared to work in sometimes difficult conditions (nights, weekends, tight deadlines, etc.), but teamwork and a passion for what you do will help you overcome challenges and progress quickly in this field. Don’t hesitate to show initiative; it will always be appreciated and valued.

One word to sum up your career?

My career has been shaped by knowledge sharing: I have been able to progress and develop technical skills by learning alongside my colleagues in a stimulating and enriching environment.