Canoe Inclusion & Diversity

Describe your experience as a woman in engineering. What are some of the challenges you’ve faced, and how have you overcome them?

The information technology and security space is classically male-dominated, although it’s becoming less so by the day. Since entering this field, I have always been acutely aware that in order to be heard, I couldn’t just be “good” at my job — I would have to excel. I always bring my best into work every day because I believe my attitude, work ethic and know-how will shatter any predispositions. It’s not easy, and I’ve had more than my fair share of awkward or belittling interactions, but I’m always learning and growing with the support of my team at Canoe!

What are your professional goals, and how has Canoe enabled you to pursue them? What career growth resources/opportunities are available?

At the moment, I am really enjoying being as hands-on and technical as possible. Analyzing suspicious events, restructuring technological workflows and sending out security public service announcements about the latest threats are all parts of my job that make me feel the most fulfilled. I’m grateful to be allowed to tackle such challenges as valuable hands-on experience, as well as have professional training and textbooks at my disposal. Canoe is invested in my future, no matter where I want my career path to go, whether that be as an engineer, an architect, a manager or, eventually, a chief information security officer. 

What advice do you have for women in engineering or other technical roles regarding how to identify a company and team that will support their growth and development?

For me, it has been a “when you know, you know” experience. The difference between a company that values you as an individual and one that does not is completely night and day. My advice would be to speak up and speak your mind as often as possible. Be thoughtful, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to be wrong. How people respond to you after failure is the ultimate indicator of whether or not you will be able to flourish. Trust your gut! A supportive team at a company that cares is out there waiting for you.