Maxime Chandelier, a French apprentice from the Montfaucon plant, spent three months at our extrusion plant in Winsford, England. His stay enabled him to expand his technical knowledge, discover new ways of working and acquire new skills.
Maxime was involved in a range of tasks, including production, maintenance and work in the laboratory. In maintenance, he was able to observe the cleaning process of an extruder and learn how a 9-layer extruder operates. This machine uses materials such as PET, EVOH and oxygen barriers for the food industry. These new technologies have enabled him to gain knowledge of innovative processes and to discover a new product: VSP film, a key material for vacuum-packed food packaging. His time in the laboratory was inspiring too, as he participated in several tests aimed at improving the barrier properties of our products.
Maxime was most impressed by the strong sense of teamwork and collaboration he experienced during his time at Winsford: “What I appreciated most was that people really wanted to help you, teach new skills and share their experience with you," he says.
Despite some initial difficulties with understanding the language and driving on the left side of the road, Maxime adapted well. He also enjoyed his free time, exploring Liverpool, Manchester, Wales and even Dublin, and experiencing local food such as the famous ‘toad in the hole’.
For Maxime, this international experience has been an extremely enriching adventure, both professionally and personally. He has come back with new skills, unforgettable memories and a greater openness to the world of industry and culture.