A little chat with Valeria Menichini, the Communication Manager
Good morning Valeria tell us something about yourself…
I was born in Rome and, although I moved to Milan over 30 years ago after many moves around Italy, I still feel rootless. I graduated in Information Sciences, early computer science in Italy, so much so that I prepared my degree thesis on punch cards. I really appreciated the linguistic aspect of computer science, but at that time the studies in this sense were not very developed. I have always been attracted to art, for some years I have been delighting with watercolours and brushes, and writing, especially on scientific topics.
What was the human and professional path that led you to LSI LASTEM?
My first work experience, not even graduated, was as a programmer at the ENEL – CRAM Research Center in Milan, a fixed-term job that ended after just over a year, for the development of applications for the meteorological service. For meteorology it was love at first sight: a rigorous scientific discipline and one of the most complex in the world, which manages to create breath taking natural spectacles. During that short period I met the manager of the Agrometeorological Service of ERSAL – Lombardy Region and I managed to find my way in the public sphere. I enthusiastically undertook the work of coordinating the Service, I collaborated in the design and construction of the first network of regional automatic agro-meteorological stations. Over the years, for various events, I have approached communication and journalism with great interest. I always interpreted my work in the Region as a small contribution to the common good, but more than 10 years ago I decided to give up public employment. I knew LSI LASTEM well and it was the natural landing place.
What do you do in LSI LASTEM and how do you interpret your role?
In these 10 years I have held various positions in the company, and for some years I have been entrusted with two different roles and I like both of them.
The first is that of Head of Communication. This company has always been very attentive to communication, which it interprets in a serious, concrete and professional way. Our communication is aimed at professionals who are experts in the sector, therefore, it is not only necessary to be very precise and accurate, but also competent to provide useful information, data and concepts. The social revolution we are witnessing is a wonderful opportunity to dialogue with our partners, but it is also a slippery matter and can easily push us away from our true identity. Maintaining coherence, image, tone and giving interesting and original content at the speed imposed by all media is the daily challenge we are called to face.
The other task is to follow the administrative part of the funded research projects. Even before joining LSI LASTEM, I had acquired a certain experience both in the technical and administrative management of funded research projects, which I transferred to this company. LSI LASTEM is a truly virtuous example of collaboration between Research Bodies, Public Bodies and companies. Over the years we have participated in important projects, which have allowed us not only to arrive at concrete results but also to build a network of relationships in which we are actors for the design, prototyping and experimentation in the field.
What do you like about LSI LASTEM and your work?
My professional career shows that I am a very curious person, restless and ready to face challenges. LSI LASTEM has allowed me to learn a lot, I have carried out various tasks within it and this has led me to understand and overcome various challenges with satisfaction.
The variety of markets of the company allows me to come into contact with extraordinary people and realities excluded to most. I remember the emotion when we entered the Scrovegni Chapel to start a monitoring campaign: deserted and at my disposal for a whole day, and after a few days I was on Mont Blanc photographing a weather station of the University of Milan for the study of glaciers.