What does your typical work day involve?

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.

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?

I think it was in junior high that I realized how much I enjoyed math and science and wanted a future in STEM.

What were your favorite subjects in school?

Math and science! I also loved geography and learning about Canada’s history.

What advice would you give girls, who are still in school, who might be considering a career like yours?

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.

Why do we need more women in skilled trades and STEM?

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 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.

Who was your role model? What about this person 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, at succeeding 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 get outside hiking and exploring.

What superhero do you relate to most? Why?

I think I mostly relate to Rocket Racoon from Guardians of the Galaxy. I like to think that I have a great sense of humour, am little in size, but know that I am capable of great things! We are both engineers and have a keen sense of smell.

Anything else you wish to share?

I love this program! I wish I could give advice to my younger self about where I was headed and how/why. Never be afraid to ask questions! They are never silly and will help you figure out what you might want to try in life. Everyone was your age and in your shoes at one time in their life.