"Why I love consulting: being hands-on and making a real impact where it matters most"

Nicolas Barat – Senior Consultant – CentraleSupélec (2018)

What does a typical day as an Avencore consultant look like for you?

A typical day at Avencore doesn’t really exist. Working here is a journey full of surprises and new experiences. Each day might bring a new topic to explore, a new client to understand, or a new problem to solve.
Whether I’m deep-diving into technical drawings, facilitating a workshop, or preparing a synthesis for a steering committee, I’m constantly learning and adapting. That variety is what keeps me motivated. I never feel like I’m standing still.

What has been your favorite memory working with a client so far during your time at Avencore?

One of my favorite memories was during a cost-reduction project on a rocket engine. We were analyzing a part produced using additive manufacturing and looking for potential design optimizations. I was discussing the plans with an engineer when he suddenly mentioned “You know what? The part is right next door, let’s go have a look at the real thing and see what we can improve.” Seeing the part up close, examining it, and brainstorming tangible solutions together was both energizing and rewarding. It reminded me why I love consulting: being hands-on and making a real impact where it matters most.

What do you think makes a good consultant?

To me, a good consultant is proactive and always eager to take on challenges. You need to be curious and ready to dive into a wide range of topics, often with little prior knowledge. It’s also about thinking on your feet, adapting quickly to new environments, understanding client needs swiftly, and being ready to contribute from day one.
The ability to push yourself while staying focused on delivering value is what makes a consultant stand out.