According to research published by Statistics Canada, women make up the majority of young university graduates but are vastly underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computer science (STEM) fields. In Canada and around the world, there is much discourse surrounding the need for more women to enter the engineering profession. June 23rd is recognized worldwide as International Women in Engineering Day (INWED). In honor of this significant day, we took the opportunity to learn more about one of Modern Niagara’s accomplished engineers who is utilizing her skills to find innovative solutions and make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.
Meet Maryam Afshin, Lead Electrical Engineer, who has been working at Modern Niagara for over a year. Her decision to pursue a career in engineering stemmed from an early fascination by the sciences with a peaked interest in physics and mathematics. With a budding passion for the sciences accompanied by a desire to learn “how things work”, Maryam was well on her way to becoming an engineer.
A Day in the Life of an Engineer
Given the complex nature of the field of engineering, being proactive is considered a necessary skill. For Maryam, starting the day with an agenda helps to set the tone.
“Early in the day, I usually have a meeting with my team to set the agenda for the day and catch up on their progress on various tasks,” Maryam detailed. “Between or after all meetings, I spend the day by developing or modifying our design approach and providing feedback to our management and construction team.”
Outlook for the Future of Engineering
As more and more data point to the need for sustainability, industry professionals as well as individuals are looking to engineers to develop innovative solutions to help combat the climate crisis.
“I believe the future of engineering is zero-carbon. Achieving zero-carbon is an ambitious yet increasingly achievable goal that is gaining momentum across the industry. The future of zero-carbon buildings is full of opportunities for us to undo some of the damages we have done to the planet and the environment,” explained Maryam.
Advice to Young Girls Interested in Engineering
Over the past few decades, women have made significant advances in STEM. However, the industry remains largely male-dominated. Maryam joins the call urging more young girls and women to consider a career in engineering.
“By pursuing a career in engineering, you open up your own potential to make meaningful contributions to individuals and society. There is no shortage of solutions to be discovered in engineering,” Maryam added.
Modern Niagara is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workplace as we support the building of Canada’s infrastructure. Learn more about our current opportunities and become a part of our talented team impacting communities across the country.
