From Intern to Engineer: Tanguy’s Internship Experience in Photonics

At LIGENTEC, we believe in nurturing talent and providing opportunities for growth. Today, we’re excited to share the story of Tanguy Declety, who began his journey with us as an intern and has since flourished as a Junior Process Engineer in our photonic integrated circuits fabrication team.

From Intern to Full-Time Engineer

Tanguy’s path at LIGENTEC started with a five-month internship that opened doors to exciting possibilities. “I started at LIGENTEC with a five-month internship and then transitioned into a full-time role as a Process Engineer,” Tanguy explains. “My work focuses on the fabrication of photonic integrated circuits.”

This seamless transition from intern to full-time employee showcases the growth opportunities available at LIGENTEC and our commitment to investing in promising talent.

Developing Research Autonomy

When asked about the most valuable skill he gained during his internship, Tanguy highlights something that goes far beyond technical knowledge. “I would say the most important skill I learned was research autonomy,” he shares. “I was responsible for planning my own experiments, analyzing the results, and determining the next steps, all while reporting on my progress in team meetings.”

This independence in research methodology is crucial in the photonics industry, where innovation requires both technical expertise and the ability to navigate complex problem-solving processes. Tanguy’s experience demonstrates how LIGENTEC empowers our interns to take ownership of their projects and develop critical thinking skills that will serve them throughout their careers.

Advice for Aspiring Photonics Professionals

Drawing from his own experience, Tanguy offers valuable guidance for students considering a career in photonics. “I would advise them to get practical experience,” he emphasizes. “It’s not just about acquiring technical skills, but also about getting a better sense of what working in the photonics industry is really like.”

Beyond the technical aspects, Tanguy points to the networking opportunities that practical experience provides. “Plus, it’s a great way to connect with experienced engineers, learn from them, and build your professional network.” This insight reflects the collaborative culture at LIGENTEC, where learning from colleagues and building professional relationships are integral parts of professional development.

The LIGENTEC Difference

Tanguy’s story exemplifies what makes LIGENTEC special – our commitment to providing meaningful internship experiences that can evolve into fulfilling careers. From day one, our interns are trusted with real responsibilities, encouraged to develop autonomy, and supported by experienced team members who are invested in their success.

Whether you’re a student looking to gain practical experience in photonics or a professional seeking to advance your career in photonic integrated circuits, LIGENTEC offers an environment where talent thrives and innovation flourishes.

Want to hear more from Tanguy about his internship experience? Watch our full “Faces of LIGENTEC: Meet Tanguy Declety” interview to get additional insights into what it’s really like to intern at LIGENTEC and build a career in photonics.