UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE DES COMPAGNONS
DU TOUR DE FRANCE
DES DEVOIRS UNIS

Section locale en région Grand Est

An initiatory journey to the heart of the craft trades

 

 

The Compagnonnage is much more than just a form of vocational training, it's a centuries-old tradition, a way of life and a philosophy deeply rooted in French craft history. With its strong medieval roots, it perpetuates a unique apprenticeship system, where young men and women, known as itinerants, travel throughout France and sometimes beyond, to perfect their skills with experienced master craftsmen. This journey of initiation, punctuated by stages and encounters, forges not only highly qualified professionals, but also fulfilled individuals, rich in a variety of human and technical experiences.

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At the heart of the Compagnonnage are fundamental values such as the transmission of knowledge, excellence in work well done, solidarity between members, respect for tradition and openness to innovation. Training for handicraft takes place over several years and combines intensive practical training on the job with community life in Compagnons' Houses known as Cayennes . These centres provide a structured living environment and encourage exchanges and mutual support between itinerant workers from different crafts.

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UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE : A Pillar of the Compagnonnage.

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The UNION COMPAGNNONNIQUE DES COMPAGNONS DU TOUR DE FRANCE DES DEVOIRS UNIS is one of France's leading Compagnons' associations. Founded on the values of fraternity and sharing, it brings together Compagnons from a rich diversity of handicrafts. These include :

- Building and public works: Mason, Stonemason, Carpenter, Joiner, Roofer, Plumber, Electrician, Tiler, Painter, Plasterer, etc.

- Metalwork: Locksmith, Metaller, Boilermaker, etc.

- Catering trades: Cooker, Pastry-cook, Baker, etc.

- Leather and textile trades: Shoemaker, Leather-goods maker, Saddler, Upholsterer, etc.

- Other art and precision craft trades: Cabinetmaker, Stone-letter-carver, Gilder, etc.

 

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The UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE is distinguished by its commitment to:

- Maintaining and promoting the quality of Compagnons training : It ensures that members receive rigorous training that is adapted to the demands of today's professional world.

- Promoting the personal and professional development of its members: In addition to the acquisition of technical skills, the UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE encourages the development of essential human qualities such as autonomy, responsibility, team spirit and respect for others.

- Maintaining the traditions of Compagnonnage while embracing modernity: It values the heritage of its elders, while incorporating technological developments and new commercial practices.

- To develop a network of solidarity and mutual assistance between Compagnons: Membership of the UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE provides invaluable support to itinerant workers throughout their career and creates lasting links between generations of Compagnons.

- Ensuring recognition and promotion of skilled manual trades: The UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE works to raise public awareness of the importance of craftsmanship and the essential role of Compagnons in society.

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Why should a young person join the UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE ?

There are many significant advantages:

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- Training of excellence, recognised and valued: The UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE guarantees a rigorous apprenticeship, supervised by passionate professionals who are keen to pass on their know-how. The skills acquired are highly sought after on the job market.

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- Comprehensive personal and professional development: Compagnonnage is not just about learning a craft trade. It fosters autonomy, responsibility, team spirit and adaptability - essential qualities in both professional and personal life.

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- A unique network of solidarity and mutual support: Joining the UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE means joining a family of close-knit professionals, ready to help each other and share their experiences. This network is an invaluable asset throughout your career.

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- A window on the world and a wealth of cultural experiences: The ‘Tour de France’ gives you the chance to discover different regions, to learn about a variety of techniques and to be enriched by contact with local cultures. It's an invaluable human experience.

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- Pride in belonging to a prestigious tradition: the Compagnonnage is a intangible heritage of Humanity, recognised by UNESCO. Joining the UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE means becoming part of a rich history and helping to perpetuate it.

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- Enriching career prospects : Thanks to their experience and their network, the Compagnons of the UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE have many opportunities for professional development, whether as qualified craftsmen, team leaders, trainers or even entrepreneurs.

 

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By choosing the Compagnonnage route within the UNION COMPAGNONNIQUE DU TOUR DE FRANCE DES DEVOIRS UNIS, young people embark on an enriching human and professional adventure, which will enable them to acquire excellent know-how, develop unique skills and become key players in craft heritage. It's a demanding but rewarding path, leading to personal fulfillment and mastery of an exciting craft trade.