Philippe always wanted to be a chemist when he was a kid. Changing particles and experimenting with solutions always sparked his interest.
Little did he know, he would become an engineer for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), which would lead to exciting space innovations. Although he doesn’t work with chemistry every day, he loves his job.
“My main role is to look at special projects at the CSA to ensure all of the project parameters are being respected,” he says. “This allows me to assure Canadians that all the projects are responding to their needs.”
Philippe often works on space projects launching and monitoring satellites that provide us with important navigation data. These satellites enable increasingly accurate GPS and other radar systems whether you’re hiking, biking or commuting.
He enjoys working with his team to ensure public science is improving the quality of space technology.
Philippe is also a PIPSC steward. He helps his colleagues understand their collective agreements, and is there to support his coworkers when they are having issues at work.
He says one of the great privileges of being a union member is having access to the technology and resources he needs to do his best.
“At the space agency, we are privileged to have access to special programs and resources that we need,” he says.
When it comes to work-life balance, Philippe also appreciates the security that being a union member provides.
“Being part of an institution like PIPSC allows us to have proper representation for good working conditions,” he says. “In the last round of bargaining, the union was able to secure a wellness package that addresses workplace violence, which is security we wouldn’t have without PIPSC.”
Working in a healthy and safe environment ensures Philippe and his team can confidently do the work that’s important to Canadians.
He recognizes that research is important for our leadership in space technology. Specifically, the RADARSAT Constellation project at the CSA works to improve ship navigation and detection for the national defence of Canada.
“What I’m most proud of in my career is being placed at the centre of satellite operations at the space agency,” he says. “It’s a project that’s taken many years. We have undertaken many operations and launched satellites that have collectively improved our work on RADARSAT Constellation.”
Every day, Philippe and his team work in the public interest to ensure the progress of space innovation — leading the way to a brighter future and greater access to reliable technology for all Canadians.