Tell us about your personal and professional background. Where are you from? Where did you attend university?
I was born and raised in Shandong, China. I obtained my engineering bachelor’s degree in Wuhan, China in 2010 and then went to the University of Regina for my engineering master’s degree in the same year.
Why did you choose to go into engineering?
I’ve always been good with math and interested in science. When I was young, my mom was an accountant working in a machinery research institute. I enjoyed visiting her workplace to watch the engineers work and design agriculture equipment for farmers. There, I saw engineering make people’s lives better and it translated into a lifelong passion.
Did you have any engineers in the family who influenced you?
The one who influenced me most in my family is my husband. He is an electrical and control engineer. We have discussions often on engineering projects. We’ll debate what is the best approach to get the job done. He really helps me to stay balanced and encourages me when I encounter roadblocks at work.
What was your first job after university?
I was fortunate to have two co-op work terms when I was at the U of R, which made me obtain basic work skills and experience. In my second co-op work term with SaskPower Transmission and Distribution, I got a chance to be interviewed as an engineer-in-training in the EIT Pool Program and then I started my first job with SaskPower Poplar River Power Station in 2013.
What’s your single greatest accomplishment as an engineer?
I’ve been involved with a lot of innovative projects and it is hard to pick one. When I started working in the power plant, I helped with the procurement and installation of some equipment such as piping parts, valves and pressure vessels. In addition to studying the plant operation system and specifying the equipment, I had to overcome language and cultural barriers and get used to the new working environment. I’ve learned how to communicate with stakeholders and solve problems. I am so proud of what I have learned and achieved as a plant engineer.
What is one goal you would like to accomplish during your career?
I am now trying to polish my communication, writing and presentation skills and expand my vocabulary.
What are your interests outside of work? What do you do for fun?
I enjoy the summer months and do outdoor activities with my kids. I also like doing exercises at home and in the gym to keep fit.
What is your favourite vacation spot? What makes it special?
My favourite vacation spot is always the next one. My husband and I are now trying to travel back to China each year to visit some new cities and places. China has long-running civilizations with its unique and attractive culture which I love most.
What is your favourite book?
I like to read Chinese prose and fiction and my favourite book is called ‘Dream of the Red Chamber’ by Cao Xueqin, a Chinese writer in Qing Dynasty. I like it for its rich characters and the depiction of the delicate emotions and it seems so ancient while extremely familiar.
What do you do for continuing professional development?
I am leading some capital projects and providing mechanical support to the power plant, so my CPD is constant in my everyday work. I study technical papers, tool books and standard code when doing design work. Each year I complete a development plan and review with my manager and seek training opportunities that apply to my individual development plan. I also attend the workshops and seminars provided by vendors to learn about the new innovative equipment.
Who has had the greatest influence on your life and career?
One of the greatest influences in my career life is my mentor when I started my first job. He taught me not only lessons from work, but also how to balance family and career. And my parents were always supportive of any decision I made and encourage me to chase my dream and do my best. They also have great influence on my life.