What do you love most about your profession? Why did you choose this career?
I love the oportunity to constantly learn and work with different types of people. From production techs, engineers, support staff, and clients, I get to meet so many different people and learn so much. I chose this career because I was super interested in robotics and really enjoyed the related work in university
When did you realize you wanted to work in STEM or Skilled Trades?
I realised in Grade 10! I took physics as a double science and fell in love with electrical engineering.
Why do we need more women in STEM and Skilled Trades?
We represent everyone in the world, how can we do that if the teams are led by men! We need diversity and all backgrounds. Additionally, we need to break out of the old boys clubs and make sure all people have equal opportunity.
How do you think the school you went to influenced your career?
Having access to double sciences and math allowed me to prepare for engineering and also snag a few credits to save me time in university!
What would you be looking for during an interview for an entry level position?
Passion and willingness to admit limitations to your knowledge. No one expects an entry level person to know everything. The ability to admit when you don't know something and willing to learn, shows a lot more than trying to fake knowledge.
What does your typical workday involve? Can you work remotely? (indoors/outdoors, office/plant, travel time, teamwork/solo work)?
I can work remotely! I have even worked from England. I ask for travel time and team work is crucial to my job. I bring teams together and ensure we are operating as one.
My typical work day is checking for delays and making sure the team has what they need to be successful.
What is a common misconception about your field of work?
That you have to be an engineer to be a PM! Def not true. You need some technical background and lots of willingness to organise.
What do you do when you feel stuck?
Talk to a friend! I've made friends across the company and am not afraid to ask for help.
What do you do for fun? What are some of your hobbies/activities?
Aerials! I do dance trapeze both solo and doubles with my sister. I also have two sweet little shelties that I take for walks all the time.
If you had a superpower, what would it be? And what is your real greatest strength?
The ability to teleport! Being able to go all over the world would be amazing.
My greatest strength is my ability to care for others and work on seeing things from their point of view. I work to make sure that everyone always feels included and gets the help they need.
What is your favorite television show/movie?
Doctor Who for sure.
What advice would you give students who might be considering a career like yours? What advice would you have given your younger self?
Don't give up. You don't need the top grades and you can always work harder. Be enthusiastic and work at improving a little all the time and not worry about being perfect.
Advice - life isn't all about boys and your happiness can only come from within. Work on being happy with yourself and finding your own worth. Don't rely on others
What advice would you give to your younger self when looking at career options?
Apply to the job you don't think you can get. I didn't apply to this current job I had because I didn't meet the requirements. A week later, I messaged the electrical engineer on Linkedin and he decided that I was perfect for the job and the job description wasn't what they needed. Show passion and never be afraid to shoot high.