From Engine Room Cadet to SEYPEC Veteran - Francois Antoine Pierre Reflects on His Journey at SEYPEC

SEYPEC was recently invited to participate in SBC Radio’s new programme “Mon Parkour Profesyonel,” an initiative that highlights long-serving employees from organisations across Seychelles and gives them the opportunity to share their professional journeys, experiences and career development over the years.

Representing SEYPEC was long-serving employee Francois Antoine Pierre, whose career within the company spans more than three decades.

Originally from Anse Aux Pins and a father of three, Mr Pierre explained that his professional journey began shortly after completing his studies at Seychelles College.

“My first job was on a fishing vessel in 1979 as a cadet in the engine room,” he shared. “The vessel belonged to a government company called Soget. After some time, I decided that life at sea was not the path I wanted to continue and I chose to remain on land.”

He later worked as a clerk at Works Enterprises Limited before moving into a supervisory role at SMB Fish. After approximately six years there and a short period at Cable and Wireless, he joined SEYPEC on 3 January 1992.

“When I joined SEYPEC, I honestly knew nothing about petroleum,” he said with a smile. “I started as an Aviation Superintendent and shortly after beginning my training at Victoria Terminal, I found myself travelling to Italy for specialised training in Aviation Quality Control and operating procedures.”

Mr Pierre spent five months in Italy before returning to Seychelles to work within Airport Operations, where he remained for eight years.

“Airport operations was one of the areas that challenged me the most,” he explained. “The standards are constantly evolving and extremely strict because safety is a serious matter in this industry. There was a lot of studying, reading and research involved to stay up to date.”

Over the years, Mr Pierre continued progressing within the company, moving from Airport Operations to Victoria Terminal as Assistant Manager before later joining the technical department, quality department and eventually becoming Head of Quality and Protection Services.

Reflecting on his 34-year journey at SEYPEC, he described the experience as both rewarding and demanding.

“There were exciting moments and there were also discouraging moments where I may have felt like giving up,” he admitted. “But I have always been someone who perseveres.”

He also credited his family and colleagues for helping him through difficult periods during his career.

“In moments where I felt discouraged, it was my wife and my colleagues who pushed me forward and gave me advice,” he said. “I have one close colleague who always tells me that ‘the night brings good advice.’ In other words, if something is troubling you, do not react immediately. Sleep on it first and then make your decision.”

Throughout his career, Mr Pierre also benefited from extensive international training opportunities, facilitated by SEYPEC, in countries including Malaysia, South Africa, Singapore and Italy, where he pursued studies in aviation operations, laboratory testing, stock management and quality assurance.

“I learned many things during my time at SEYPEC,” he said. “The company gave me opportunities to grow professionally and continuously develop myself.”

Today, he continues to work closely with a dedicated team responsible for fire services, health and safety, quality assurance and protection services.

“I have a very solid team around me and we all work together to keep the department moving forward,” he added.

Speaking about the future, Mr Pierre encouraged young people to consider careers within the petroleum industry despite the challenges involved.

“It is a demanding industry with a lot of standards, procedures and responsibilities, but it is also very rewarding,” he said. “SEYPEC plays an important role in the country because Seychelles still depends heavily on fossil fuels and energy. There are many opportunities for young people who are willing to learn and work hard.”

Mr Pierre also expressed pride in working for a company that remains fully Seychellois.

“SEYPEC is a company that is 100% Seychellois and I hope it remains that way for many years to come,” he said. “I am proud to work for a company that contributes so much to the country’s economy.”

After more than three decades of service, Mr Pierre’s story reflects perseverance, continuous learning and dedication to both his profession and his country.