Matthieu Hoang-Cao did not simply study engineering. He set out to prove it in the real world. While earning his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with a specialization in composite materials, he joined Space Concordia and helped design and launch the largest rocket ever built in Canada.
His journey did not stop there. Matthieu began his career in research and development, where curiosity soon turned into responsibility. Over time, he stepped into a project manager role and led multidisciplinary teams through complex technical challenges. Along the way, he also dedicated nearly ten years to service in the Canadian Forces Reserve, gaining valuable experience in teamwork, discipline, and leadership.
Today at Averna, Matthieu thrives on variety. He moves comfortably between mechanical and electrical systems, turning ideas into practical solutions, while enjoying the freedom to learn something new with each project. When the workday ends, he usually heads outside, stays active, builds things for fun, plays video games, and never misses a chance to cheer for dogs.
Q: Where were you before Averna and how did you get here?
A: Before joining Averna, I worked at an R&D company where I eventually became a Project Manager. That role allowed me to develop both technically and organizationally, managing projects while staying close to engineering challenges. Over time, I realized I wanted to join a well-established company that worked deeply in both electrical and mechanical engineering. Averna fit that description very well. Averna is a place where multidisciplinary engineering is central to work. It felt like the right next step for my growth.
Q: What attracted you to Mechatronics?
A: During my mechanical engineering studies, I became increasingly interested in the electrical side of systems and started teaching myself. I saw electrical engineering as another tool to solve problems. When you mix disciplines, things become much more interesting and much more powerful. As engineers, it’s in our DNA to understand how things work, build them, and improve them. Mechatronics brings all of that together in a very practical way.
Q: What is your favorite aspect of your current role?
A: Versatility is my favorite aspect of my role. I can be plugged into almost any function to help solve problems, which means I’m exposed to a wide range of projects and industries. I enjoy that balance between hands-on technical work and design.
I also appreciate Averna’s working culture. Projects are well planned, people take pride in their work, and there is a strong sense of accountability. Most people work hard, take their responsibilities seriously, and are genuinely a pleasure to collaborate with.
Q: What do you think are the most challenging tasks you are responsible for in our international company?
A: I like to joke that nothing is challenging if I just blame the software engineers when something doesn’t work but in reality, the most challenging part is preparing for the next project. Because we work across many industries and technologies, every project is different. I need to quickly absorb new information, learn new skills, apply them effectively, and execute with little room for error. Staying adaptable and continuously learning is critical.
Q: Have you had any key mentors or people who deeply influenced who you are, what you believe in and what you’re committed to in your work and life?
A: I believe everyone can be a mentor in some way. Every time I meet someone and take the time to understand their perspective, I learn something new.
The most important lessons I’ve taken from the people around me are simple but powerful: do the little things well and the bigger things will follow, work hard, take care of the people around you, and never give up. Those principles guide both my professional and personal life.
Q: Do you feel you achieve a good work/life balance?
A: Yes, I do. Averna’s culture encourages ownership and responsibility but also trust. That balance allows me to stay fully committed to my work while still making time for my hobbies, and the people who matter to me.
Q: What are you most proud of?
A: I am most proud of how much I have grown since joining Averna. Taking on increasingly complex projects and seeing them succeed has been incredibly fulfilling. I am especially proud of the times when I was able to support teammates or contribute to solutions that had a tangible impact for our clients.
Q: What have you learned from Averna that will be a takeaway for the rest of your life?
A: Technically, I’ve expanded my abilities across multiple disciplines. Professionally, I’ve learned how critical collaboration and planning are in delivering high-quality solutions. Personally, I’ve seen how a culture built on accountability and pride in work can elevate both performance and satisfaction.