How did you come up with the idea of becoming an engineer?

I was born in Cameroon. I’ve always loved aviation and aerospace, ever since I was five years old. I dreamed of everything that flew. I wanted to be a pilot, an astronaut, or an engineer. Since I’m now an engineer, I know how to build space shuttles and test them.

How did you discover Switzerland and Neuchâtel?

I was introduced to Switzerland by my family about fifteen years ago; they live there (in Lausanne, Zug, and Zurich). They encouraged me to view Switzerland as a market where I could add value, since I have expertise in aeronautics and certification that is very specialized and particularly well-suited to an industrial landscape like that of Neuchâtel.

Where do you see opportunities for expansion in Neuchâtel?

I see many companies that specialize in biotechnology and MedTech, using highly precise processes. A company like Comelec in La-Chaux-de-Fonds produces special coatings (parylene), and its machining operations are now certified to the EN9100 aerospace standard. I therefore see potential for expansion in specific sectors requiring highly specialized skills, not only in the European Union but also in the Americas.

Is it easy to start a business in Switzerland?

The paperwork isn’t a problem. However, you need to have a network. I came here all by myself; I didn’t know anyone, so I had to find my place. I had to do a lot of networking. I think that if you aren’t tenacious and don’t have a lot of patience—not only to get established but also to give your business time to grow—you could get very discouraged. The economic development office made a real difference for me, especially Jean-Luc Bochatay and Ana Pinto. They made my life a dream when I first arrived here. They helped me settle in and network. They also showed me the beautiful parts of the canton that I didn’t know at all. Culture wasn’t an issue. I speak French, I’ve traveled a lot, seen the world, and I’m used to being culturally integrated.

What is culturally different?

In the United States and Canada, entrepreneurship is simply “hey, you have an idea, so let’s do it.” There’s no emotion involved. If it doesn’t work out, you move on to something else. In Switzerland, on the other hand, it’s very difficult to break the ice. Swiss culture is very rigid and structured. And that can lead to a lack of innovation. When you come up with disruptive ideas, people are often wary; the goal isn’t to move fast, but to move safely. But once trust is established, everything works like a charm.

What would you improve about the Neuchâtel ecosystem?

The willingness to reinvent and completely transform. I believe that many companies are product-focused. I believe they need to be more customer-centric. That requires a huge shift in mindset. There’s also an established way of doing things. Most of the time, people are reluctant to change. In the United States, I really like the pace of change. I’ve noticed that a lot of know-how isn’t documented, which poses a risk—for example, when people retire.

What do you think of the quality of life in the region?

Everything is small and close-knit. The people here are honest and have integrity. It may take some time, but once they open up, you can trust them. It's very reassuring.

 

Video: Julien Humbert-Droz

Interview: Victoria Barras