Rachel Firth | Mechanical Engineering in Training | Vancouver

Why did you choose engineering as a career?

I’ve always enjoyed creative problem solving and understanding how things work, so engineering was a pretty logical path to choose. Now that I’m in it, I like that it’s such a broad field where every day is different and interesting.

What advice would you give to women starting out in engineering?

I think the biggest thing is to find something that’s a good fit for you, and that probably looks a little different for everyone. People tend to think of engineering as only doing spreadsheets behind a desk, but there’s a lot more to it! Whether you like collaborative processes or working solo on a specific problem; being in an office or out in the field; there’s a role in engineering that suits you – it might just take a little bit of searching to find it. I think it’s also important to work somewhere that has values and a culture that suits you, since being able to show up as your best self every day makes a big difference.

What’s a project at DIALOG that made you feel proud or excited to be an engineer?

The engineering precinct expansion at UVic is one of my favourite projects so far. It’s two new engineering lab buildings at UVic – one brand new, and one expansion of an existing facility; both made of mass timber. The whole project was designed with sustainability in mind, with mechanical systems that are high-performing and able to support a lab facility at the same time. It was one of the very first projects I started on at DIALOG, so it’s pretty cool to know that the project has been instrumental in teaching engineering long before the first students even arrive in class.

Georgia Barras | Specifications Writer – Mechanical EIT | Edmonton

Why did you choose engineering as a career?

Once I began studying engineering, it didn’t take long for me to realize it was where I wanted to be. I found myself being very passionate about design and was continuously challenged. As I progressed through my engineering degree,  I quickly recognized the intricate details and the vital role engineering plays in public safety. After choosing mechanical as my discipline, each group project and work term deepened my enthusiasm for the field. I ultimately realized that engineering was the career I wanted to pursue long term.

What advice would I give to women in engineering?

My dad once told me that success lies within passion, and I would like to pass that along. When you truly love what you do, success follows naturally. For other women starting in engineering, my biggest encouragement is to find the aspects of the field that truly matter to you and let that be your focus. Engineering can be challenging, but when you are driven by genuine interest, the challenges are manageable and rewarding. Additionally, stay curious, don’t shy away from asking the questions on your mind, and never hesitate to take up space in this field – you belong.

What is a project at DIALOG that made you feel proud or excited to be an engineer?

The first project that comes to mind is MIC Covenant Wellness. It was one of the first projects I had the opportunity to contribute to at DIALOG, and the experience was incredible. The team welcomed me midway through the project, creating an environment where I immediately felt valued and supported – an experience that still brings a smile to my face.

An upcoming project that I am excited to work on and that truly makes me proud to be an engineer is NiGiNan Supportive Housing (Ambrose Place II). I am incredibly grateful I get the chance to be a part of something so valuable and impactful for the community, and it summarizes exactly why I am in this field.

Lauren Hardy | Senior Mechanical Engineer | Toronto

Why did you choose engineering as a career?

I was always very strong in math and science, and I wanted to be in a career where I could apply those subjects and see my work in some capacity in the real world.

What advice would you give to women starting out in engineering?

I feel this applies to starting out in any career, but it’s important to figure out who you are and to stay true to that, and know that this may change! There are so many different fields within and adjacent to engineering that there’s no shortage of options if you feel that what you’re doing now doesn’t suit you. Whether it’s the type of projects, your role or even the company, don’t be afraid of change or speaking up to find yourself the right fit.

What’s a project at DIALOG that made you feel proud or excited to be an engineer?

I’m inspired by projects such as 25 St. Clair East Rehabilitation project, where the deep carbon retrofit was able to incorporate multidisciplinary elements to substantially reduce greenhouse gases and increase efficiencies on an existing building. There are many new and evolving technologies that we can incorporate to provide efficient mechanical systems for our projects, and collaborating with our team members across studio gives us a great perspective of what is being done industry wide.

Israa Taha | Electrical Designer | Calgary

Why did you choose engineering as a career?

I chose engineering because I enjoy solving problems and making a real impact. It’s a field that challenges me, allows creativity, and opens doors to innovation.

What advice would you give to women starting out in engineering?

Believe in yourself and your skills—your voice and ideas matter. Build a strong support network, seek mentors, and don’t be afraid to take up space. Engineering needs diverse perspectives, and you belong here just as much as anyone else.

What’s a project at DIALOG that made you feel proud or excited to be an engineer?

I really admire the Vivo for Healther Generations Centre for its innovative design and community focus. I’m especially inspired by its award-winning lighting design—it recently received the IES Illumination Award of Merit, which shows how impactful well-designed lighting can be in public spaces.