What do you love most about your profession? Why did you choose this career?
What I love most about my profession is that there is always something new to learn. I didn't follow a perfectly straight path into my career, which is something I've come to really value. I started in a technical field through ship design, but over time I realized I enjoyed working with people as much as the technical side! That led me to my current role, where I work at the Marine Institute. What I love most about my job is supporting students through their post-secondary journey in STEM programs, helping them feel more confident, supported, and connected early on in their careers. Being able to play a role in young girls entering their careers to find their purpose or sticking with something they were unsure about is really rewarding.
When did you realize you wanted to work in STEM or Skilled Trades?
When I was in elementary school I realized I wanted to work in STEM and my love for this only expanded as I grew up. I would be excited to do hands-on experiments or projects, learn about the newest scientific breakthroughs, and watch the Discovery channel. I was exposed to these fields more when I attended women in skilled trades events at the College of the North Atlantic in high school which solidified the path I wanted to take once I graduated. These opportunities made me realize that I enjoyed problem solving and working on things with real world applications.
Why do we need more women in STEM and Skilled Trades?
Women bring an important perspective to the table which is not always seen in STEM and skilled trades. When you see yourself in a field, it makes it feel more possible. With this industry historically being male-dominated, all backgrounds and opinions are not always considered. STEM and Skilled Trades shape the world we live in, and we need different perspectives to bring a wide range of voices to lead to better, more inclusive outcomes.
What does your typical workday involve? Can you work remotely? (indoors/outdoors, office/plant, travel time, teamwork/solo work)?
My typical workday is spent in the office and in the future may include travel offshore. For my job, I design piping for offshore platforms – mainly Hibernia and we use various software to create models of these piping systems. Right now I am working under a mentor as I am new to the piping world which is a great learning experience.
What is a common misconception about your field of work?
One misconception is that you are tied down to what you originally started in. The STEM field is vast and includes more than just the technical aspects people initially think about when they hear STEM. Having a background in this field opens many doors and is extremely beneficial no matter the career you end up in. STEM teaches valuable skills such as problem solving, creative thinking, effective communication, and much more. These careers can be flexible, and your path can evolve overtime to what you want to make it!
Does your work make a difference in people’s lives and the world?
Yes – just in a different way that people may not immediately think of as "STEM." I come from a technical background and studied at the Marine Institute, and now I support the students here who are now in the shoes that I was once in. My work focuses on the overall student experience, helping students feel supported and confident in the Marine Institute community. When they feel this way, they are more likely to succeed and continue in their chosen field of study, leading to a ripple effect into the industries they go on to work in.
Who is your role model? What is it about this person that inspires you?
My role model is my mom. Although she does not have a career in STEM or skilled trades, she has always pushed me to be the best I can be and supported me along the way. Her hard work and determination each and every day is inspiring and has allowed me to take this into my own life and apply it throughout my schooling and now my career.
What do you do for fun? What are some of your hobbies/activities?
I am currently working full-time and going to school part-time online, which is part of what I do for fun. Although school doesn’t seem like something to do for fun, I enjoy learning and furthering my education. My hobbies/activities include baking, crocheting, playing video games and hanging out with my friends.
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 feel like you have to have everything figured out right away. Many people adjust their goals or discover new interests along the way that can shape the career they see in their future, and is a normal part of the process. As well, take advantage of the opportunities you're given outside the classroom – events, volunteering, clubs, etc. Those experiences often help you shape your path just as much as your schooling does! Finally, women within the industry are more than willing to help you and answer any questions you may have. I know myself going through a male-dominated program was hard and having fellow women to speak with and guide me was a considerable help. Most of all, be confident in yourself and push for what you want!
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