What do you love most about your profession? Why did you choose this career?
I love that the projects I am involved with are never the same. The job never gets boring and I am constantly learning and having to adapt to new situations. I have always had a passion for boats and the water which was only strengthened when I joined the Sea Cadet Program at 12 years old, a program I am still actively involved with today.
When did you realize you wanted to work in STEM or Skilled Trades?
I’m pretty sure from a young age it was the only option I even considered, but it was definitely reinforced when I actually participated in the TECHSPLORATION program myself as a student.
Why do we need more women in STEM and Skilled Trades?
Women still need to be empowered that we can do anything we put our minds too, and there is strength in numbers. The more female role models in the STEM and skilled trades we have for the girls coming behind us can only help strengthen that idea.
What does your typical workday involve? Can you work remotely? (indoors/outdoors, office/plant, travel time, teamwork/solo work)?
A typical workday changes with the projects we are currently involved with. A workday could be sitting at my desk, completing Technical Drawings and Reports, or it could be out in the field where I could be conducting anything from stability assessments to inspections, which could mean working at heights or climbing through tanks of all sizes.
Who is your role model? What is it about this person that inspires you?
My mother is and always has been my role model. Not only did she encourage myself and my sister in every endeavour we pursued while growing up, but I watched her constantly trying to better herself every moment. She constantly took on every challenge or hurdle that came her way head-on and was full of confidence. She has inspired me to be the person I am today.
What do you do for fun? What are some of your hobbies/activities?
Currently, my favourite activity is Family Time. I enjoy every moment and adventure I get to take with my husband, our almost 2-year-old little boy, and our 2-year-old black lab. They tend to keep us on our toes! Also enjoy spending weekends at the cabin, and spending time with our family and friends.
What advice would you give students who might be considering a career like yours? What advice would you have given your younger self?
Work hard, don’t stress the little things, and learn from your professors. After working in the field, I now wish I had taken more time to ask more questions and further learn from their experience and expertise.
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