en
There are moments in one’s professional life that stand apart from the usual rhythm of projects: they are not merely recounted, they leave a lasting impression. On Friday 5 June, at the restoration site of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, an awards ceremony served as a solemn yet simple reminder of what long-term commitment can yield that is most precious: shared pride, restrained emotion, and a sense of gratitude that extends beyond the strictly professional sphere.
A significant institutional milestone, a deeply moving occasion
The ceremony was presided over by Philippe Jost, chairman of the Rebâtir Notre-Dame de Paris public body. It opened with a speech by Michel Kahan, Chairman of the setec Group, who highlighted the unique atmosphere inherent in major projects: an intensity born of high standards and solidarity, and the lasting impact they have on those who drive them forward.
Philippe Jost then delivered an introductory speech, praising the expertise of setec opency, particularly on major construction sites and heritage buildings, where technical rigour is combined with a nuanced understanding of the challenges involved. He also highlighted the commitment and dedication of the teams throughout the various phases of the project, before emphasising a truth that is often overlooked in this type of project: beyond the technical aspects, ‘the human bond is essential’. The presentation of the award recipients highlighted their career paths and what these honours recognise above all else: recognised skills, high-level technical expertise and consistent professionalism, all applied in the service of an exceptional project.
In closing, Yvan Rouard, Deputy Managing Director of setec opency, reflected on the unique role of the teams in this OPC & Logistics mission – that of ‘guardians of the schedule’ – at the heart of a project where each stage determines the next. He spoke of a collective journey marked by key moments – sometimes joyful, sometimes more challenging – which have shaped the restoration work since 2019 and helped to mould the teams far beyond the scope of their immediate remit.
Honours that stand the test of time
During the ceremony, several setec opency staff members were honoured:
– Aurélie Wibaux
, appointed a Knight of the National Order of Merit
– Thierry Decarriere
, Yvan Rouard
and Victor Goncalves
, appointed Knights of the Order of Arts and Letters
These honours recognise their professionalism, expertise and dedication in carrying out the OPC (Scheduling, Management, Coordination) on the Notre-Dame de Paris restoration site – a mission requiring precision and stamina, carried out within an exceptionally demanding technical, organisational and heritage context.
This milestone forms part of an ongoing process of recognition. On 15 April 2025, during an exceptional evening at the Élysée Palace, the President of the Republic, Emmanuel Macron, awarded honours to 100 men and women involved in the restoration of the cathedral, as part of the special ‘Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral’ honours programme ’.
Among them were Marion Cazin, Ionuț Neculce and Philippe Mouton, employees of setec opency, who were awarded the insignia of the National Order of Merit. Whilst these honours highlight individual achievements, they above all recognise a team effort, carried out with high standards, rigour and collective intelligence, involving up to twelve people at the height of the work.
A shared sense of pride and values put into practice
These successive accolades highlight not only the long-standing commitment of the setec opency teams, but also the values upheld by the setec group – ‘engineers & citizens’ – which are deeply embodied in this iconic project of national heritage.
Beyond the formality of the proceedings, the ceremony on 5 June was marked by an atmosphere of sharing and camaraderie, bringing together professionals and their families in a spirit of rare collective pride. It serves as a reminder that behind major projects are, above all, dedicated men and women, driven by a sense of service and the public good, and that through these honours, it is the entire teams at setec opency and the setec Group that are honoured for their vital contribution to an exceptional project, dedicated to the preservation and transmission of our heritage.
