September 17, 2026
A master’s student in mechanical engineering at the École de technologie supérieure, Timothée Courtois was primarily looking to gain hands-on experience to explore his career interests and develop sought-after expertise in engineering applied to health and sports.
At the beginning of his master’s program, he did not yet have a clear idea of the career path he wanted to follow. However, he knew he was looking for a stimulating project that could equip him with technical, scientific and practical skills valued in the labour market. His research project quickly allowed him to thrive in an environment combining multiple aspects of engineering training: technical analysis, applied research, experimentation and industry collaboration.
From experimentation to data analysis
A significant portion of his work involves taking measurements from athletes and analyzing the resulting data. These experiments are part of a structured scientific approach: designing measurement protocols, planning tests, collecting data and interpreting results to better understand phenomena related to athletic performance and sports safety.
Timothée Courtois, master's student in mechanical engineering at ÉTS
Developing high-demand skills
Through his research-based master’s, Timothée developed a diverse range of skills that are in high demand across several tech sectors. Notably, he learned to conduct scientific literature reviews, monitor technological developments, and navigate specialized databases to stay current with the latest advancements in his field. He also gained experience in statistical analysis and data processing using tools like MATLAB, which are widely used in engineering and applied research.
His journey also allowed him to strengthen his scientific communication skills. Writing academic papers, presenting at conferences, and translating complex results for broader audiences have now become integral parts of his day-to-day life in graduate studies.
An experience mirroring the professional world
While master’s studies require a high degree of autonomy, Timothée highlights the importance of the collaborative environment within the laboratory. Discussions with his research supervisor help guide major decisions, while lab life encourages idea-sharing and collaboration among students. In his view, this dynamic closely mirrors that of an engineering consulting firm: everyone works independently on their own projects while operating within a vibrant team environment.
His project also brings him into close contact with the sports world. Some days are dedicated to testing with athletes, specifically analyzing helmet impacts using specialized test rigs. Regular meetings with coaches also allow the team to discuss findings and adjust experimental protocols based on the project’s needs.
Financial support to focus on the project
Like many graduate students at ÉTS, Timothée receives financial support to pursue his research work. His master’s project is funded through a research contract worth approximately $25,000, which can be supplemented by various academic and research scholarships. This financial flexibility allows many students to dedicate themselves fully to their projects while maintaining a good life balance.
Despite the intensity of graduate studies, Timothée appreciates the flexibility of the research schedule, which allows him to keep practicing sports alongside his master’s degree.
Expertise that opens doors
Timothée is passionate about sports and interested in elite athletic performance, and so he chose a research project that aligns directly with his personal interests. He encourages prospective students to take the time to explore available master’s projects, talk with professors, and discover opportunities that may be less visible but are particularly rewarding.
For Timothée Courtois, a master’s degree represents, above all, an opportunity to become an expert in a field he is passionate about. This journey allows him not only to build a technical specialization in health technologies but also to gain a clearer understanding of the types of projects and professional environments where he wants to build his career.
