Yves Philippe and Didier Calloc'h (EXEC ED 2009): An Education, Opportunities, and Lasting Connections
They met in the classrooms at De Vinci Executive Education. More than fifteen years later, what remains of that experience? Yves Philippe and Didier Calloc’h, alumni of the Class of 2009, reflect on the benefits of their program and the opportunities that came from it. From changes in the workplace to the importance of networking, and even starting a business, their stories illustrate how continuing education can enrich a career path, open up new—and sometimes unexpected—opportunities, and forge lasting connections within the alumni network.
Training, Skills, and Life-Changing Encounters
In 2008, as online commerce was becoming increasingly important to businesses, Yves decided to pursue training to better understand the changes taking place. He quickly realized the benefits of this decision in his professional life.
Yves: “I took a training course in e-commerce between 2008 and 2010. I wanted to understand the Internet wave that was sweeping the industry at the time. Shortly afterward, I was able to take charge of our Internet teams, and we were able to boost our website, which quickly accounted for between 20% and 30% of our sales. "
For Didier, who joined De Vinci Executive Education around the same time, the benefits of this experience went far beyond the classroom. Among the most memorable takeaways, he particularly recalls the connections he made with his classmates, one of which led to an entrepreneurial venture.
Didier: “I joined De Vinci Executive Education around the same time, as part of the first part-time cohort. What did I gain from it? Three things. One: a network. Two: a thirst for learning. I continue to learn and even now teach courses. Three: the best part is that I met my current business partner in our class. We started a company together, which has experienced extraordinary growth.”
New Skills for New Opportunities
Although their backgrounds differ, Yves and Didier share the same conviction: continuing education is essential for keeping pace with changes in one’s field and exploring new career opportunities.
At a time when digital technology is transforming many industries, Yves emphasizes the importance of staying curious and not hesitating to explore new paths.
Yves: “You really shouldn’t hesitate to pursue training, to learn, and to discover new paths in professions that may still be traditional but will inevitably be impacted by digital technology.”
This is a view shared by Didier, for whom continuing education also allows him to take a step back and reflect on his experience, organize his knowledge, and better plan for the next stage of his career.
Didier: “You’re never too old to learn. Engaging in continuous training and pursuing state-recognized, certified programs taught by high-quality instructors simply allows you to organize your knowledge and gain a much clearer vision of the profession—or professions—that are open to us, that we can pursue tomorrow, and that we can start today. "
And certain connections continue to matter, many years after the program ended:
“We're happy that, more than 18 years later, we're still friends, still spending time together, and still keeping in touch with one another.”
Alumni to follow!
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