International Women in Engineering Day: Stories, perspectives, and advice from women at Englobe

Engineering thrives on a diversity of perspectives — different ways of thinking, problem-solving, and understanding the world around us.  

At Englobe, women across our teams bring these perspectives to life every day — in the field, in the lab, on worksites, and in the many roles that support complex projects across Canada. 

To mark International Women in Engineering Day on June 23, we invited several Englobe colleagues to share what shaped their professional paths, the career moments they remember with pride, and the advice they would give to the next generation of women considering a career in engineering and related fields. 

Here’s what they had to say. 

What first drew you to the engineering field? 

Lucie Gauthier 

Senior Technical Director, Geo-environment — Québec 

“A geology introduction course at CEGEP immediately sparked my interest in everything related to this science and to minerals. I enrolled in geological engineering at Université Laval in 1990 with the firm intention of building a career in mining, but my interest in the environment and its contaminants led me to work in geo-environment as soon as I entered the job market.” 

Johanna Chavez Lares

Project Manager, Metallurgy and Corrosion — Québec

“I studied chemical engineering in Venezuela, mainly because I really loved mathematics and laboratory work. Along the way, I had to take a mandatory course on corrosion, and it was a real love-at-first-sight moment from the very first day. I immediately knew that I wanted to focus my career on this field.” 

Harvir Kaur

Project Coordinator — Western Canada

“I developed an interest in engineering and construction during my high school studies in India, where I was particularly drawn to subjects like mathematics and science. This interest led me to pursue a Civil Engineering diploma after moving to Canada, where I became even more interested in how construction projects come together and the engineering behind them.” 

What career moment are you most proud of? 

Lisa J. Grasse

Senior Project Manager, Civil — Atlantic

“I was the project manager on the design and construction of major infrastructure projects, which required in-depth modelling, coordination with multiple utilities, and significant mechanical, electrical, and structural design. I was also the project manager for a multi-year industrial development project that is now entering its final phase of construction.” 

Ana Maria Gutierrez

Project Manager, Pavement — Ontario

“I am proud of several projects that I have been involved in, including my work with major clients and on large-scale transportation and infrastructure initiatives across the Greater Toronto Area. I am also very proud of receiving an Englobe Leadership Award for my role during an internal systems implementation, where I provided training and support across multiple offices.” 

Harvir Kaur

Project Coordinator — Western Canada

“I’m especially proud of being promoted from a Soil Laboratory Technician to a Project Coordinator role within a short period of time. Moving to a new country and adapting to a new work environment was a significant transition, so earning that opportunity strengthened my confidence in my abilities and work ethic.” 

Myriam Goulet

Environmental Project Manager — Québec

“I recently completed a climate adaptation plan for a municipality in which we included a wide range of tools to help the city become more resilient to the impacts of climate change, such as flood and erosion maps, a complete action plan, and monitoring indicators. This kind of turnkey project, filled with concrete actions, is extremely useful in helping municipal teams move forward and implement measures that can make a real difference.”

What advice would you give a young woman interested in a career in engineering? 

Jinette McCormack

Administrative Assistant, Operations — Atlantic

“Recognize how valuable administrative roles are and do not underestimate the impact you can have. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential in every industry, and they play a key role in helping teams succeed. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, take on new challenges, and step outside your comfort zone — those experiences are often where the most growth happens.” 

Emmanuelle Morin

Environmental Engineer — Québec

“We have a place in this industry just as much as men do.  Our perspectives can help uncover new solutions or unexplored angles. It’s important to assert yourself and trust your point of view.”

Ana Maria Gutierrez

Project Manager, Pavement — Ontario

“Go for it! There are many fields in civil engineering, and it is very likely that you will find one that you will feel passionate about - like I do. You just have to love and enjoy your job — it is very fulfilling.”

Mariam Keita

Engineer-in-Training, Materials — Québec

“I would say to be disciplined, patient, and persistent. This field can sometimes be demanding and complex, but with courage and determination, it is always possible to achieve your goals.” 

Women across Englobe are contributing to major projects, advancing technical excellence, supporting teams, and strengthening communities in every region where we operate. On International Women in Engineering Day, we are proud to celebrate their expertise, their achievements, and the many paths they are forging across our organization.