International Day of Women and Girls in Science

To mark International Women’s Day 2023, we’re profiling an accomplished Englobe colleague: Jill DeMerchant, Traffic Engineer in Saint John, New Brunswick, who offers some insight into her career path and a few words of advice for women entering the profession.

 

E: What inspires you about your work at Englobe?

JD: Definitely, it’s my team who inspires me. Working with a group of amazing people has been one of the highlights of my time with Englobe. I’ve been so fortunate to be surrounded by people who are extremely knowledgeable and are eager to share their knowledge with me.

 

E: Have you had a mentor in your career? How has this mentor supported you?

JD: My mentor, Ryan, has been a huge support in my career. He’s always available to lend a hand where needed and has given me the opportunity to grow by challenging me with new and exciting projects.

 

E: As a woman, did you face any challenges when you entered this field?

JD: Finding my place in this industry was a challenge for me, given the lack of female representation out there. Entering the work force after school, I was the only female engineer in my office. I battled feelings of self-doubt and a sense that I didn’t really belong.

 

E: How did you overcome this challenge?

JD: I was able to overcome this by surrounding myself with colleagues who genuinely believe in my capabilities and want to see me succeed, and by reminding myself that what sets me apart from everyone else isn’t a weakness, but an asset.

 

E: What advice would you give to a woman hoping to pursue a career in this sector?

JD: I would tell them to go for it! You’ll likely face some obstacles along the way, but in the end, they will make you a better engineer. Believe in yourself and you can do anything!

 

Warmest thanks to Jill for these encouraging and inspiring words!