A Conversation with Rachel
What is your current job? Please list the title and briefly describe what it involves
I am currently working as a Junior Project Engineer in the Corporate Development Group at Brookfield Renewable. As part of an internal mentorship program, I report to the Chief Technical Officer and provide technical support on strategic acquisitions, the development of renewable assets, as well as assessing the viability of cutting edge technologies for our business.
What made you want to pursue a career in engineering?
I was always intrigued in understanding how things worked and, more importantly, how they were developed. This curiosity led me to gain the academic knowledge and tools that would allow me to apply logic and critical thinking to problem resolution, which is what I thrive on. Needless to say, the engineering profession fulfills this need perfectly!
What’s your favourite part of your job?
The continuous diversified learning is what motivates me every day. With the global and rapid growth of the renewable energy industry and the ongoing development and improvement of technologies, there is no shortage of exciting things to discover.
How do you celebrate National Engineering Month?
I celebrate National Engineering Month by taking every opportunity to motivate and coach local youth in pursuing a career in engineering and to explain the various advantages of this fulfilling profession.
What advice do you have for young women who hope to pursue a career in your field?
Young women occasionally approach me with an interest in pursuing a career in mechanical engineering but are questioning their place in a mostly male-dominated environment. My advice to them is that they should not be dissuaded since my experience has been very positive! Furthermore, I am impressed by the various professional responsibilities and challenges available for young women in engineering and am encouraged by the growing number of women entering the field.
Rachel’s BiographyRachel obtained her B.Sc.A in Mechanical Engineering and graduated with Magna Cum Laude honours from the University of Ottawa in 2013. In 2014, she went on to complete an M.Eng. in Engineering Management, in order to complement her scientific knowledge with business insights. During her studies, Rachel completed three consecutive summer internships at Brookfield Renewable, which served as a stepping-stone to her current position as a Junior Project Engineer within the Corporate Development Group.In 2015, Rachel was given the opportunity to enter a mentorship program with Brookfield Renewable’s Chief Technical Officer where she assists on strategic acquisitions of renewable assets, provides technical support to Brookfield Renewable’s current operations, and assesses the viability of cutting-edge technologies.
Learn more about Rachel’s workAn action shot of Rachel in the field during the inspection of the Calderwood Hydroelectric Power Plant.
Brookfield Renewable High Falls Quebec Canada. One of Brookfield’s hydropower asset “High Falls”.
