WEMADEIT began its journey with the mission to increase the number of women in engineering, inspire girls to study STEM, and encourage girls to explore their passions without barriers. Now, thanks to the help of Hydro One, our consortium schools, and youth participants, we are able to expand that mission to include other underrepresented individuals in the world of engineering. To learn more about our expanded communities, check out the “For Students” tab.
2023 was a major year for us at WEMADE IT! Since 2012...
Highlights
Western University
HIGHLIGHT: Girls Club
Girls Club brought together girls and non-binary youth from Grades 3 to 8 this winter for three afternoons of science filled fun!
University of Waterloo
HIGHLIGHT:
Waterloo Engineering Outreach hosted their annual Girl Guide Badge Day, an opportunity for Girl Guide Units in the Waterloo region to come to the University of Waterloo campus for the day to engage in hands-on STEM activities run by current women in engineering students and to earn an Ontario Network of Women in Engineering (ONWiE) badge.
Ontario Tech University
HIGHLIGHT: Engineering our Society Grade 7-8 Girls Camp
Wearable Health Tech - Micro:bits (above image)
Ontario Tech Engineering Outreach hosted the 'Engineering Our Society All-Girls Summer Camp,' where female-identifying students in grades 7 to 8 immersed themselves in the exciting world of Mechanical Engineering. Participants took on the challenge of designing and constructing wearable health technology using household materials, Micro:bits, wiring, and block coding to power their innovative creations.
Toronto Metropolitan University
HIGHLIGHT:
Toronto Metropolitan’s Engineering Outreach team welcomed girls ages 5-8 from sparks, Embers and Girl Guides, to earn their Engineering badges. Girls designed and created their very own Ferris wheels and learned about how civil and mechanical engineers contribute to society.
ENG HEROES
Hailey Fielder
1. What is your current role and what does it entail?
I am currently a New Grad with Hydro One; New Grads spend one year in their home base team, before completing two six-month rotations within the company. With my home base team, Project Management, I ensured the successful execution of Customer Capital Projects. I then completed a rotation in Field Protection and Control (P&C), working in a Field Engineering capacity where I handled commissioning, maintenance, and testing of relays and power equipment in Transmission and Distribution stations. I then spent time in Telecom Engineering, where I was responsible for designing and inspecting teleprotection mediums. This diverse experience has allowed me to develop a well-rounded understanding of both the operational and technical facets of Hydro One and the power industry.
2. When did you know you wanted to be an engineer? What inspired you to pursue this field?
I realized I wanted to study Electrical Engineering from an early age, largely inspired by my dad, who is also an Electrical Engineer. My interest in math and science during high school further solidified this decision, as I enjoyed tackling complex problems and exploring how things work. This natural curiosity guided me towards a career in engineering. The challenge of solving complex issues with the opportunity to innovate in a meaningful way drew me to the field. Today, I find great satisfaction in my work, knowing that my efforts contribute to powering Ontario, my community, and my home.
3. What has been your proudest accomplishment as an engineer so far?
My proudest accomplishment as an engineer has been promoting safety in the workplace. Ensuring the safety of customers, equipment, and personnel is my top priority, and this extends to supporting the psychological safety and well-being of myself and my colleagues. Over the past year, I have actively participated in a Hydro One Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative, where I delivered full-day workshops across the province. These workshops focused on respect, inclusion, and the critical link between psychological safety and physical safety. I am particularly proud to champion psychological safety in my workplace, reinforcing the importance of operating in a safe and supportive environment.
4. How does your work as an engineer contribute to society?
My work at Hydro One contributes to society by ensuring the robustness and reliability of Ontario’s power system. By powering the province and connecting customers, we support daily activities and drive economic growth. Our efforts in electrifying the grid advance sustainable energy solutions, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, maintaining and upgrading infrastructure enhances safety and reliability, directly improving the quality of life for communities. Through innovation and efficiency, we support long-term environmental goals, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable energy future.
5. What advice would you give to young individuals from underrepresented groups who are pursuing a career in STEM?
To young individuals from underrepresented groups pursuing a career in STEM, my advice is to remember that your voice matters. Even if you don't see many people who identify like you, don't hesitate to seek help and ask questions. Joining or creating resource groups at your school or workplace can offer valuable support and help build a strong network. Whenever you can, give back by mentoring or volunteering with younger STEM enthusiasts to help them navigate their journey. And above all, be honest about your experiences; you deserve to feel valued in your future career, and there are companies and individuals committed to recognizing your skills and contributions.
6. How did Hydro One’s One Award help you in your engineering pathway?
Winning Hydro One’s Women in Engineering Scholarship was a pivotal moment in my engineering journey, recognizing my potential in a traditionally male-dominated field. I then started a 16-month Co-op in Project Management, I received mentorship from Senior Project Managers, eventually leading my own projects and refining my management skills. The Co-op Induction Program further enriched my experience by fostering connections with fellow co-ops from across the company. The New Grad Program’s rotational opportunities exposed me to diverse lines of business, engineering, and technology, broadening my skill set. Collectively, these experiences have equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to excel in my engineering career.
