As a profession that uses scientific knowledge to drive change in our ever-developing world, there isn’t a more exciting time to pursue engineering than now. However, according to Engineers Canada, only 20% of newly licensed engineers in Canada self-identify as women. As part of BCIT’s mission to build a diverse and inclusive future, we are proud to celebrate National Engineering Month and International Women’s Day by highlighting BCIT’s woman-identifying students, faculty, and alumnae in engineering. In this month-long Q&A series, you’ll gain insight into their engineering journey, their hopes for the future, and why they chose BCIT.
In the first installment of Ask a Woman in Engineering, hear them share the stories behind their decision to become an engineer.
Remya Sreenath, B.Tech, P.Eng., faculty, Electrical Engineering & Technology
“I grew up in Kerala, India, curiously listening to my father’s stories about his scientific experiments with his brothers. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry followed by a wide variety of credentials in accounting, business administration, and more. He had a strong desire to pursue engineering but couldn’t due to his family’s financial situation in those days. This dream of making my family proud, along with my fascination with mathematics, physics, chemistry, and computer science, became my inspiration when I chose to become a professional engineer.”
Alyssa Hermann, EIT, M.Eng., alumna, Civil Engineering
“From an early age, I had a real curiosity for the world around me. My mom recommended civil engineering as a career path, but I had to see for myself what that would look like. In high school, I talked to as many engineers as I could and sat in on classes at BCIT. I was surprised to find that engineering was more than just math and problem solving. It would be a place where I could apply my creativity and love for learning while having a hand in shaping the world around me.”
Jenny Tung, alumna, Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
“After graduating from high school, I knew I wanted to do something different from a traditional academic degree. I was a frequent traveler as a child, so I gravitated towards aviation. I always admired the agents working on the apron and flight crew; therefore, I enrolled in the BCIT Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Category ‘M’ program and even graduated with the Best Attitude award. Presently, I am an Operations Rep traveling with Jetz, Air Canada Charter Operations. I hope to, one day, advance my career to consulting roles to support the future of aviation safety and efficiency.”
Kate Viger, student, Mining and Mineral Resource Engineering
“I think my dad was a big inspiration for me to become an engineer. He’s an architect, so I grew up looking at his drawings and with him teaching me how to design. I never expected to pursue becoming a mining engineer. Still, I’ve always loved geology and discovering BCIT’s mine engineering program — which combines geology and design — ticked all the boxes for me. I want to create real physical things that shape the present and future, and to positively impact this world. Becoming an engineer is how I can achieve that!”
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Are you curious about a career in engineering? Join our annual engineering panel Engineering+ virtually on March 2 at 5 pm. You’ll hear from more women in engineering at BCIT and about our engineering-related programs.