Matéo Thabot, intern at InnoRenew CoE, UP IAM; Main area of research: Acoustics

• Where were you living in childhood and where do you live now?

I have lived in Nantes, on the west coast of France, all my life.

• What have you studied and what were the motives for your decision?

I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Engineering with a major in wood construction. During my childhood, I really enjoyed building wooden huts and working outdoors with my dad. That is why I decided to study carpentry after high school. Today, I continue my studies to develop my knowledge and skills in this field.

• How would you describe your work to someone outside your field?

When I explain my job to someone, I usually say: “I help design wooden houses and buildings. I also calculate whether the beams are strong enough and prepare the plans needed for construction.”

• What does your typical working day look like?

My day starts at 7:00 a.m. when I wake up, and I arrive at work at 8:00 a.m. I begin by discussing the tasks of the day with my supervisor. During the morning, I analyze the architect’s plans and then size the wooden structure of the building. Once the calculations are finished, I prepare the construction drawings for both the workshop, where the beams are manufactured, and the construction site, where they are assembled. My workday ends at 5:00 p.m., which gives me time to do some sport and prepare a nice dinner afterward!

• What makes you excited about your work?

Every project is different and comes with new challenges to solve. I enjoy finding solutions and seeing a building develop throughout the construction process, from the architect’s drawings to the final handover to the client..

• And what is the biggest challenge at your work?

I think the biggest challenge is meeting deadlines. We work closely with architects, masons, roofers, and also with the workshop and construction teams within the company. When a problem occurs, I need to discuss possible solutions with everyone involved before making changes to the project.

• Which scientist or scientific achievement are you fascinated by and why?

It is not a scientist or a scientific achievement, but rather a historical monument. I am fascinated by the restoration of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. It is an impressive example of traditional craftsmanship and shows the incredible knowledge and skills involved in timber craftsmanship.

• Tell us about the work of art (books, music, movies, theatre, dance, visual arts) that has a special place in your life.

I am not particularly passionate about art, but I enjoy listening to music and watching movies. I am more interested in travel, so I like reading books and watching documentaries about different countries, cultures, and adventures.

• What have you read, listened to, or watched lately?

At the moment, I am reading Journal d’expédition en Amazonie by Ludovic Ibba. In this book, he tells the story of his adventures, including crossing the Atlantic Ocean by sailboat, traveling along rivers in the Amazon by kayak, and discovering many fascinating places and cultures.

• Which place on the Slovene coast do you like the most?

At the moment, I think my favorite place on the Slovene coast is Strunjan. It is a small village with salt pans and one of the most beautiful beaches on the coast. When the sun is shining, it is the perfect place to relax and admire the sea, with the bell tower of Piran illuminated in the distance.

• What makes you enthusiastic?

I am enthusiastic about taking on new challenges and discovering new things. I love traveling, meeting local people, and tasting traditional food. I also enjoy playing sports and trying exciting outdoor activities!

• Characterize your life’s guidance or an important realization (or epiphany) you have experienced.

One of the most important realizations in my life is that experiences are more valuable than certainty. Traveling, meeting people from different backgrounds, and taking on new challenges have shown me that personal growth often comes from embracing the unknown. This perspective motivates me to remain adaptable, positive, and open to new opportunities.

• What does the charm of wood mean to you?

For me, wood represents warmth, conviviality, and well-being. It creates comfortable and welcoming spaces where people can feel at home and share moments with family.