Women play a key role in technological innovation at Soitec. Today, they make up a third of our inventors, which is twice as many as five years ago and three times the European average. Among them, some stand out for their exceptional contributions, such as our three inventors, each holding over 30 U.S. patents. Their creativity and expertise are a true source of pride and inspiration for the entire company.

Distinguished with the Best Female Inventor Ever award, Cécile Aulnette, Head of the Technical Support Team at Soitec, embodies excellence and a passion for innovation. With over 20 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, she has built an exceptional career. Holding a degree in materials science with a specialization in physics and chemistry from the School of Chemistry and Polymers in Strasbourg, Cécile began her career on assignment at CEA, where she developed a technology that would later be transferred to Soitec’s innovation team, where she contributed to the development of iconic products such as Strain SOI.

After several international collaborations, including with IBM in the United States, Cécile joined the solar cells team, where she helped establish an efficiency record. Today, she leads an international team dedicated to customer technical support, bringing her expertise to facilitate the introduction of new products worldwide.

What attracted you to the industry and semiconductors?

What motivates me in the industry is the opportunity to turn inventions into real products that are used in the market. Working in a company also allows me to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, which is enriching both professionally and personally. This sector offers growth opportunities, whether through new assignments, team changes, or skill development. Moreover, the industry, unlike academia, is constantly competitive, which pushes us to innovate, adapt, and constantly challenge ourselves.

What is your current role at Soitec?

I am responsible for leading a team dedicated to technical support for our international customers. My goal is to ensure a consistent approach and share our technical expertise with all of our clients, whether they are in China, the United States, or Europe. This intercultural approach is key, as it helps us better understand the specifics of each market and tailor our working methods accordingly.

What motivates you the most in your role?

What excites me is the opportunity to tackle new challenges every day, whether technical, human, or organizational. I enjoy the idea of constantly learning and adapting to situations, whether it's solving complex problems or finding new solutions. The diversity of tasks and teams is also a motivating factor, as it allows me to broaden my horizons with each project.

What skills are essential for this role?

Of course, a solid technical expertise is essential, but equally important is strong analytical skills and pragmatism. Leading a multicultural team also requires human skills: listening, the ability to adapt to each team member’s needs. Open-mindedness and curiosity are also crucial to working on a wide range of products and international markets.

Tell us about an achievement you're particularly proud of.

One of my greatest satisfactions is having integrated a person into the team who quickly adapted and brought real added value. Technically, I am also proud to see the direct impact of our support on the trust our customers place in Soitec. Solving complex crises and helping to maintain a trusting relationship with our clients is a rewarding aspect of my work.

What advice would you give to a young woman starting in the industry?

I would advise her to meet other women in the industry to exchange ideas and discover inspiring career paths. It’s important to show that being a woman is by no means an obstacle in this field. A career in the industry offers a wide variety of perspectives and growth opportunities. Working in a company also allows you to develop interpersonal skills and adapt to different profiles. The multicultural aspect, in particular, is a richness that I find very stimulating.

A message for women in the industry?

The industry is a sector where it is possible to thrive both professionally and personally. There are many challenges, but there are always colleagues ready to support and work together to overcome them. So, don't hesitate to seize opportunities and get involved!