The Higher School of Wood consolidates its central position at the heart of the forestry and wood sector by appointing Aurélie Tricoire as head of the institution.

The arrival of Aurélie Tricoire in this management position reflects a generational transition specific to this sector. In France, this sector represents approximately 393.000 full-time equivalent positions in direct employment, in addition to 62.000 indirect jobs. The demographics of professionals in this sector are unique: with 32% of the workforce over 50 years old, the average age is higher than that observed in all other sectors. It is therefore imperative to train the experts of tomorrow. In this context, institutions providing training in woodworking trades find themselves at the forefront of meeting this major challenge of sector attractiveness.

For 92 years, the École Supérieure du Bois (Higher School of Wood) has provided training in wood construction and production, with a focus on bio-based materials and decarbonization challenges, forest management, and the marketing of wood products. Located in Nantes, Lyon, and Bordeaux, the school enjoys an international reputation. Recognized as a public interest institution under the EESPIG label, it also houses a research and development laboratory. This laboratory is a driving force behind crucial technological advancements for the future and provides direct support to companies in the wood industry.

Aurélie Tricoire officially appointed director of the Higher School of Wood

The institution is committed to forging close links between current and former students, industry professionals, and other institutions. It is with this priority in mind that the Board of Directors approved the appointment of Aurélie Tricoire as director of this higher education and research institution.

Aurélie Tricoire's career path has already led her to explore various areas of expertise at the École Supérieure du Bois (Higher School of Wood). Notably, she worked as a lecturer-researcher between 2003 and 2010, during which time her work focused on integrating scientific research into public policy. She then joined the Centre Scientifique et Technique du Bâtiment (CSTB), where her research centered on energy use in buildings and the impact of innovations on the value chain. This experience allowed her to gain a concrete understanding of the issues faced by users and the challenges confronting construction companies.

Expertise at the intersection of sociology, the environment and construction

During her career at CSTB, she progressed to sales management responsibilities. Within the services offered, she promoted sustainable models incorporating green roofs, the use of bio-based materials, indoor air quality preservation, combating urban heat islands, and resource optimization. Aurélie Tricoire explains that she leveraged her Executive MBA and her university studies in sociology to listen to clients and offer them customized solutions tailored to their often multifaceted needs. She emphasizes that this cross-disciplinary expertise will be a valuable asset in leading the École Supérieure du Bois (Higher School of Wood).

In 2023, she joined Engie Solutions as Sales Director for urban heating networks (Brittany and Pays de la Loire), where she managed 8 employees across 3 sites. Her field experience, knowledge of the building sector, and ability to lead complex multi-stakeholder projects are major assets for the development of the École Supérieure du Bois (Higher School of Wood).

A director focused on dialogue and promoting the influence of the Higher School of Wood

Known for her ability to build connections between diverse stakeholders, Aurélie Tricoire aims to contribute to the school's positive image among students, the academic community, and public institutions. She emphasizes that she immediately identified with the institution's values ​​of sustainability. She also commends its commitments to inclusion, increasing female representation, and supporting students through the Easier Studies endowment fund.

According to Aurélie Tricoire, director of the Higher School of Wood: « I am convinced that I can contribute to the school's outreach, both to students and to stakeholders in the wood industry and public institutions. When I discovered the work of the École Supérieure du Bois (Higher School of Wood), I immediately identified with its sustainable approach. I also note the initiatives surrounding inclusion, increasing female representation, and supporting students through the creation of the endowment fund. Easier studiesTo be open on all these points demonstrates the school's confidence. And I know that together, we can continue to nurture young talent in the field, while remaining key players in change. »

Aurélie Tricoire concluded by affirming her commitment to making young people a driving force for change. Under her leadership, the École supérieure du bois (Higher School of Wood) already aims to launch new programs, including a Bachelor's degree in forest management and an integrated preparatory course.