What do you love most about your profession? Why did you choose this career?
I love to learn and be challenged and since graduating from engineering there hasn’t been a dull moment! I love how versatile my degree is and how it has allowed me to live and work all around the world.
When did you realize you wanted to work in STEM or Skilled Trades?
I think it was in junior high that I realized how much I enjoyed math and science and wanted a future in STEM.
Why do we need more women in STEM and Skilled Trades?
It is important to increase the number of women in STEM to increase the creativity, innovation and problem-solving that comes from diverse perspectives. I believe that the jobs of the future will be highly skill-based and artificial intelligence will replace many existing positions. STEM jobs are currently some of the fastest growing in today’s economy. The demand for STEM employees will only increase in the future as they will be needed to tackle environmental and other issues. As a result, in my opinion, STEM jobs will not only be some of the most demanded but also some of the highest paid. Research shows that increasing the number of women in STEM increases company revenue.
What does your typical workday involve? Can you work remotely? (indoors/outdoors, office/plant, travel time, teamwork/solo work)?
Currently, my typical workday (aside from Covid-19 working from home!) involves working in St. John’s, Newfoundland in NL Hydro’s corporate office. I heavily interact with all sorts of talented and smart people to get my work done. Throughout my career, I have worked in all sorts of environments from an iron ore mine in Australia to my corporate office role in Newfoundland.
Who is your role model? What is it about this person that inspires you?
I consider Jennifer Williams, President of NL Hydro, to be my role model. She is the first female president in NL Hydro’s history and is brilliant, honest, caring and authentic. She is a mother and a wife and an absolute superstar at her job, constantly supporting others, especially females, to succeed in their careers.
What do you do for fun? What are some of your hobbies/activities?
I LOVE to travel. I also love to snowboard! And when there isn’t any snow, I love to go outside hiking and exploring.
What advice would you give students who might be considering a career like yours? What advice would you have given your younger self?
Ask questions! Ask questions! Ask questions! Do not be afraid to reach out to people who you think could help provide you with information that could help you choose your education and career path. They (we!) have been in your position before and understand that knowledge is power.
English 