This summer, the Colas Foundation organized a discovery day at the Colas CORE Center (the Group’s Research & Development facility) for a group of young women supported by the Rêv’Elles association.
Rêv’Elles works with young women from underserved neighborhoods, helping them grow both personally and professionally.
Their “RVL Découverte” discovery days give participants the chance to explore new career paths and expand their cultural and professional horizons. The visit to the CORE Center offered ten young women the opportunity to:
- Attend a presentation of the CORE Center by Isabelle Couillet, Deputy Director of the center
- Take part in a guided tour of the laboratories
- Learn about various scientific and technical fields
- Hear the inspiring career journey of Véronique Picard Kapucu, Head of Smart Infrastructures
- Participate in small-group “career investigation” sessions, where they could ask Colas employees about their roles, backgrounds, training, and career paths
Reflections from the Participants
The young women shared positive feedback and powerful takeaways from the day:
- “I discovered a whole new sector and professions I didn’t know existed, and people who are truly passionate about their work and eager to share it.”
- “I realized that building a road is much more complex than I imagined.”
- “I really appreciated hearing the perspectives of the people who work here and what led them to their careers.”
- “I enjoyed speaking with passionate women, seeing their motivation and how fulfilled they are in their roles.”
- “You should always dare to try, it’s okay if something doesn’t suit you; you can always change direction.”
How the Colas Foundation Supports Rêv’Elles
This initiative is part of the Colas Foundation’s multi-year partnership with Rêv’Elles, providing €100,000 per year in financial support.
The funding helps the association expand its presence in the Île-de-France and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes regions, with a comprehensive program combining group sessions and one-on-one support.
More than just financial aid, the partnership is also rooted in skills-based sponsorship. Since 2024, Colas female employees have volunteered their time for mock interviews, mentoring, panel discussions, and now, on-site inspiration days like this one at the CORE Center.
