Stéphanie Sorhouet, Co-Managing Director of SOMOCAP, in charge of Business Development, Marketing, Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR); Co-President of DCF Pays Basque & Fabrice Sorhouet, President of SOMOCAP, Active Founding Member of the Pays Basque Industries Executive Board

Stéphanie and Fabrice Sorhouet graduated with a Master's degree in Materials Engineering from UPPA, where they first met. After Stéphanie earned her Engineering Master's degree in Chemistry and Fabrice completed a postgraduate specialization (DESS) in Elastomers, they each pursued careers as employees before becoming co-managing directors of SOMOCAP, an SME specializing in the design and manufacture of technical rubber and plastic components for the industrial sector.

How did you build your academic journey? What were your goals?

Fabrice Sorhouet (FS): My academic journey developed step by step. After graduating from high school with a science diploma, I confirmed my interest in the physical sciences by enrolling in a two-year undergraduate degree (DEUG) in Physical Sciences. This broad-based program opened up a wide range of career opportunities.

The Pau campus offered the opportunity to continue with the University Institute of Professional Studies (IUP) specializing in Materials Engineering. Although this program no longer exists, it was considered equivalent to an engineering school education at the time. I chose it because of the quality of its teaching and practical approach. I then decided to specialize further by completing a postgraduate degree (DESS) in Elastomers at IFOCA near Paris. That was when I refined my career plans.

Stéphanie Sorhouet (SS): I also began with a DEUG in Physical Sciences because I enjoyed science, especially physics and chemistry. This general program naturally led me to the IUP in Materials Engineering. This professionally oriented course allowed me to explore different types of materials, and that was when I decided to specialize in chemistry. I then joined INP-ENSIACET in Toulouse, which trained engineering students, enabling me to enter the job market with a Master's-level engineering degree.

When did you join SOMOCAP? And how have your university years helped you manage your company?

SS: The IUP (University Institute of Professional Studies) in Materials Engineering was extremely well structured. It taught us how to approach complex issues and work across multiple disciplines, skills that we use every day.

After graduating as an engineering master's student, I secured my first position in an SME, where I appreciated the diversity of responsibilities and the level of autonomy offered by a company of that size. I initially worked in chemical formulation before moving into marketing and sales roles.

I then joined Arkema as an International Market Manager.

To meet my professional development goals, contribute to expanding the marketing function at SOMOCAP, and relocate closer to home, I decided to join the company in 2019, following the path Fabrice had taken several years earlier.

FS: My teenage years were marked by the creation of SOMOCAP by my father. However, I did not shape my studies solely around the idea of taking over the family business, although I always considered it a possibility.

The IUP provided us with engineering-level knowledge comparable to that of an engineering school, as well as solid foundations in project management, law, and finance, all of which are invaluable in our business.

After completing my postgraduate degree, I joined the Ariane Group in Bordeaux, where I spent six years working on materials engineering for the nozzles of the Ariane launch vehicle and the M51 missile. It was a fascinating experience, but I eventually wanted a career path that was more personal. Leaving that position was a difficult decision and a real challenge.

I joined SOMOCAP as an Industrialization Engineer in 2007 and became President of the company in 2014.

Can you tell us about SOMOCAP?

SS: Innovation is at the heart of our business model, and we have been committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR) for many years. In 2023, we were pioneers in conducting our first carbon footprint assessment. We are also committed to the well-being and quality of life of our employees.

Our company is deeply rooted in its local area. SOMOCAP is actively involved in Pays Basque Industries, of which it was a founding member. Through this network, we contribute to the circular economy. We also support the development of a responsible local industrial sector through the Iparla project, a collaborative initiative partly funded by ADEME Nouvelle-Aquitaine, aimed at promoting the recycling and recovery of industrial plastics generated by SMEs.

FS: Today, we continue to expand SOMOCAP. In September 2025, we opened a second production site in Villefranque, doubling our manufacturing capacity. Our goal is to reach €9 million in annual revenue and employ 70 people.

What memories do you have of the UPPA campus?

SS: I have very fond memories of the time I spent with my fellow students. We were a small class, which created close relationships and encouraged meaningful exchanges with our lecturers. We even worked on a project about polypropylene, a material directly connected to what we manufacture at SOMOCAP today. I also have excellent memories of the IUP Director, Mr. Henri Saint Guirons, whose high standards and structured approach guided us throughout our studies. His rigor helped us grow and develop professionally.

FS: It was a human-sized campus with a welcoming and friendly student atmosphere. We built lasting friendships there. The campus also offered excellent sports facilities, which we thoroughly enjoyed. We greatly benefited from its ideal location close to the Pyrenees.

What message would you like to share with current UPPA students?

SS: I would encourage them to believe in themselves and in the quality of the education they have chosen. They should devote particular attention to finding their first internship, as it often shapes the rest of their professional career. I would also encourage them not to limit themselves, to be willing to move to different regions or companies to gain new experiences, and to fully commit to every professional opportunity they are given.

FS: Unlike when we were students, today's generation can truly aspire to pursue careers they are passionate about because there are so many opportunities available. Thanks to the Internet, study abroad programs, internships, and numerous academic pathways, these opportunities are much more accessible. Students should recognize how fortunate they are and make the most of every professional experience they have.

Interview by Séverine Cuesta

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