Callie Kennedy, Engineer-in-Training

What is your personal background (hometown, schools, family, etc.)?

I grew up in the town of Kindersley, SK, with my three sisters (one older, my twin, and one younger), and that’s where I graduated from high school in 2009. As I finished high school, engineering seemed like it would be a great fit for me as I had always enjoyed math and science and I had an interest in oil and gas because my dad had worked in the industry for years.

Why did you choose engineering and what is your area of specialty?

I originally entered engineering in 2009, but I was slightly intimidated by the program and all the changes that came with moving away from home. I switched to arts and science for a year, and then went and gained experience working in civil construction as a labourer and heavy equipment operator in Hardisty and Fort McMurray, AB. These experiences solidified my decision to return to school and pursue an engineering degree.

Where and when did you study engineering/get your degree and how would you describe your experience?

I studied at the University of Saskatchewan and graduated from the Chemical Engineering program in 2016 with a petroleum specialty. I found the program to be challenging, but going back as a mature student was advantageous and I had developed the time management skills and focus required to complete the degree.

What jobs/roles have you held as an engineer?

I always imagined myself working in the oil and gas industry. As a student, I had completed two summer terms with ARC Resources in Calgary, AB, but the year I graduated, the industry was at a low and jobs were hard to come by. I took a role as a project coordinator with Graham Construction in Saskatoon within their industrial division where I gained experience in project management, quality control, safety, and estimating. After working a few years at Graham, I was looking for a change where I would be able to develop my design skills, which led me to work for Delco Water as a project engineer.

What have you appreciated about your career opportunities and experiences?

I have been with Delco Water for four years now, where I have also gained experience in a leadership role as the Engineering Manager. I never imagined myself working in the water industry, but I have grown to love the work and challenges associated with it. I have learned there are so many unique opportunities available for engineers, the sky is really the limit.

Who has inspired or mentored you in your career? What insight or wisdom did they impart?

Grant (Ryan) Guenther, the Chief Engineer at Delco Water has mentored me since my first day at Delco. It was his way of coaching and mentoring me that instilled my passion for the work we do. I have had many other great mentors along the way who have believed in my potential, and I am forever grateful for the opportunities I have been provided.

What activities or interests do you enjoy outside of work?

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, golfing, curling, and spreading mental health and suicide prevention awareness through my business and non-profit (The Life is Worth Living Way/Life is Worth Living Foundation). I am currently enjoying being on maternity leave with our son, Jack, and I am soaking in all the cuddles and enjoying watching him learn and grow.