What is your current job?
I am a Ph.D. candidate in Environmental Engineering at Carleton University. In other words, I’m a researcher. I am looking at using ultraviolet light and chlorine alternatives for wastewater disinfection.
What made you want to pursue a career in engineering?
In high school, my favorite subjects were math and science but I also wanted a career that would allow me to be helpful to society. Environmental Engineers help reduce the impact that societies have on the environment. It really has been a great fit for me.
What’s your favourite part of your job?
Doing a PhD is one of the most challenging things I have ever undertaken, which is at the same time my favorite and least favorite part of my job. It can be easy to distract yourself and I have to remind myself every day to do something productive with my time. Thankfully, I’m surrounded by encouraging people who really want me to succeed.
How do you celebrate National Engineering Month?
This year, I think I’m going to take my nieces to the museum of science and technology and do a couple of experiments at home with them. It’s never too early to get the next generation interested in engineering!
What advice do you have for young women who hope to pursue a career in your field?
Go for it! There is increased pressure and need to further protect our natural resources and environment. Environmental Engineers try to think of innovative ways to protect our environment. It’s a rewarding field.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Natalie Linklater is an environmental engineering PhD student at Carleton University, where she also earned her undergraduate and master’s degrees in engineering. Her current research is focused on the use of UV irradiation and alterative chemical disinfectants for water disinfection.
In 2012 she was awarded the Claudette MacKay-Lassonde Graduate Engineering Scholarship by the Canadian Engineer Memorial Fund and serves as an ambassador for the engineering profession. When she’s not in the lab working on her thesis she is speaking to students about engineering and engaging them with hands on activities.
