Empowering Girls to Achieve their Education and Career Goals
Career Fair
Join us for an inspiring in-person event in North Vancouver, BC, Canada!
The Dream It Be It Girls Career Fair 2024 is a unique opportunity for young women, transgender, non-binary, and two-spirited individuals aged 16* - 21 to an evening of Career Support, especially in non-traditional career roles.
Engage with career role models from a variety of careers, occupations, and trades; speak to them about their career choices: how they got there & what obstacles they overcame; hear an overview of their education and career journey while they share resources that may benefit you. The focus will be on interaction, with ample opportunity for girls and young women to engage one-to-one with the career role models.
We aim to inspire and support girls and young women in pursuing their passions and achieving their goals. Don't miss out on this incredible event that will ignite your imagination and empower you to dream big. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
ABOUT THE CAREER FAIR
The Career Fair is designed to equip young women with the tools needed to pursue their educational and career aspirations, empowering them to achieve career success. This program is dedicated to fostering the strength, accomplishments, and financial independence of youth in our communities.
Geared towards 16–21-year-old girls (including those identifying as female, transgender, non-binary and Two Spirit) in high school or recent graduates, the initiative opens doors to alternative career paths, increased job prospects, and support to turn their dreams into reality.
By reaching youth while they are still young, we can help them stay
healthy and safe in the short term, putting them on a path will
help them realize their dreams.
Event Details:
Date: March 6, 2024
Location: Carson Graham Secondary School, North Vancouver
Time: 4:00 PM
This event is being held In partnership with North Vancouver School District, and
West Vancouver School District
Funding for this event is generously provided by The Bonnie J. McLaren Memorial Fund held at The West Vancouver Foundation
Our thanks also to Claire Yeung who has donated a draw prize voucher of $500 towards education and training costs.
Meet our MCs
SHANNA KNIGHTS
Chemical Engineer, Retired
previously worked for Ballard Power Systems, Inc.
Shanna Knights, PEng, MASc, FCAE, is a chemical engineer with 35 years of research engineering, project management, and leadership experience in the Environmental and Clean Energy industries. For much of her career she worked on the development of hydrogen fuel cells at Ballard Power Systems, Inc. Fuel cells are electrochemical devices, similar to batteries, but they deliver zero emission electrical energy with no compromises. They offer fast refueling, no weight penalty, and high range compared with battery only electric vehicles. Shanna is driven to work on zero emission solutions to powering our world and doing her part to fight climate change. Shanna is a member of Soroptimists International North and West Vancouver to improve the lives of women and girls through access to education.
BRODIE POUNTNEY
Provincial Child Protection Consultant
Ministry Of Children and Family Development
Brodie Pountney is a Provincial Child Protection Consultant for the Ministry Of Children and Family Development with 15 years experience working with children, families, and communities. She worked with Indigenous and non-Indigenous families as a child protection social worker assessing reports of abuse and neglect. Brodie is the author of the children’s book I’ll See What I Can Do Buckaroo. This is a therapeutic children’s book that includes 5 coping strategies parents can teach their children when stressed, overwhelmed, or upset. I’ll See What I Can Do Buckaroo is also available as a colouring book. Brodie is the owner of Happy Thoughts Greeting Cards and designs custom greeting cards for special occasions. Brodie is motivated, creative, and consistently growing as well as improving her abilities.
Meet our Keynote Speakers
SUSSANNE SKIDMORE
President
BC Federation of Labour
Sussanne Skidmore was elected BCFED president in 2022 after being elected as the federation's secretary-treasurer in 2018 and 2020. A well-known human rights, social justice and queer rights activist, she served as executive vice-president of BCGEU for 5 years. She has co-chaired the BCFED’s Human Rights Committee and is active in the federation’s Women and Gender Rights Committee. Sussanne is the national treasurer for the New Democratic Party of Canada and a Vice President of the BC NDP.
CLAIRE YEUNG
Lawyer, Writer, Teacher, Certified Life Coach
Website
Claire received her law degree from the Allard School of Law at UBC in 1988 and practiced law until 2012, when she left the practice of law to become a coach and educator. Claire joined the Justice Institute of BC as adjunct faculty in 2015, teaching courses in civil law and labour law in the Bachelor of Law Enforcement Studies program. Claire's coaching practice centres around helping women to find their "permission slips" to live their best lives. Claire sees her purpose as being a guide and champion for others to help them achieve their dreams. In her spare time, Claire enjoys running, cycling, kayaking, ocean swimming, and vacationing in France.
Meet our Career Role Models
Check back regularly to see updates about our participating role models!
MAGGIE SMITH
Senior Geotechnical Engineer
Klohn Crippen Berger
I am a Senior Geotechnical Engineer with KCB. I design and build dams to help mining companies safety manage their waste. I love consulting engineering for the diversity of the projects, the ability to solve challenging technical problems, and because I am constantly learning. In geotechnical engineering we spend some time in the office designing things and some time in the field drilling below ground so we can tailor our designs for the site conditions or observing construction to confirm that what’s being built is consistent with our designs. I’ve been lucky enough to travel around the world and have spent a lot of time in Alaska, the Dominican Republic, and the Northwest Territories for work. I am also a Team Manager at KCB, which means I help young engineers chart their careers and I coordinate their project work so they can become well-rounded experts. Helping people develop and grow is very rewarding.
SANDEEP SIDHU
Chief Information Officer,
Emily Carr University of Art & Design
With 20 years of active leadership in the technology space, Sandeep currently serves as Chief Information Officer at Emily Carr University of Art + Design (www.ecuad.ca) in Vancouver, British Columbia, where she is advancing the university's digital transformation strategy by developing effective organizational capabilities (people with technology) and leveraging digitalization. Sandeep is an innovative, collaborative leader with deep ties to higher education providing strategic connections between the university community and its technology teams. Her passion for higher education continues beyond the CIO role as a visiting professor at Beedie School of Business at Simon Fraser University. Sandeep has been in higher education since 2011, after a decade of working in the private sector. She has been an active volunteer at BCNET, the Canadian University Council of Chief Information Officers (CUCCIO) community, and an EDUCAUSE Board member. Sidhu is honoured to have the opportunity to co-host BCNET 2023, and hopes to live up to her leadership credo, "I will leave this world a little better than I found it".
Dr. RACHEL ROBERTS
Doctor of Chiropractic
The Pelly Clinic
Dr. Rachel Roberts grew up in Waterloo, Ontario where she was introduced to chiropractic care at a young age. As a competitive dancer of 15 years, injury accumulation was unavoidable. Chiropractic care not only kept her performance at optimum and reduced recovery time but kept her overall healthier and higher functioning. With a new mindset around healing and the human body, Rachel knew she wanted to be a chiropractor. She obtained her bachelors degree in biology from Wilfrid Laurier University and graduated valedictorian, honours magna cum laude from Life Chiropractic College West. Rachel is a principled chiropractor with a strong commitment to providing the highest quality of care and helping people to reach their optimal innate potential. Her passion lies in advocating for women's health and is committed to providing the whole family with insight on the importance of developing a healthy lifestyle and put your family on a path to wellness. When she is not in the office, she can be found enjoying coffee with friends and exploring all that BC has to offer.
VICTORIA BALLANTINE
Home Inspector
Allegiant Inspections
I am the only female home inspector in the lower-mainland and my passion is empowering homeowners in two ways: enabling them to budget for large expenses looming in their futures, and by educating them on the immense value of fixing small inexpensive issues before they balloon into unnecessary large expenses. I get extreme satisfaction from putting people on a path to financially successful and headache-free home ownership; far more satisfaction than I ever did from my 20+ years of owning a company that built expensive houses for clients. Every day I get to play detective, every job is different, and this combined with the gratitude of my clients makes me truly love my career.
DAINA McFARLANE
IT Security Professional
ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association)
Daina is an IT security professional with extensive experiences in DFIR, threat hunting and risk management. Passion for imparting knowledge, commitment driven and takes pleasure in helping others to achieve personal and professional growth. Daina enjoys building security culture within organizations and educating staff on security best practices. She volunteera for ISACA Vancouver Chapter as the Co-Director of Mentorship, an ambassador for SheLeadsTech and a SME for Cybersecurity. Daina strongly believes in empowering individuals and advocates for diversity, equity and inclusion in the cybersecurity industry..
KERRY GIBSON
VP, Strategic Partnership
ZiphyCare
Kerry Gibson (MBA, BA, CDMC), is the President of EcoCentury Technologies, an engineering and consulting firm promoting clean technologies. She is also the VP of Strategic Partnerships for ZiphyCare (a health tech company based in New York serving New York, New Jersey, Florida, Ukraine, and the Middle East with comprehensive diagnostic clinical services), and co-founder and Partnerships Manager for N-EAT (Nutrition through Engagement and Agricultural Technologies) under Simon Fraser University's Faculty of Applied Sciences which co-designs and implements doughnut economic systems change addressing primarily food sovereignty and clean energy in remote and Indigenous communities through government relations, curriculum development, workshops, community engagement, economic development, and innovative technologies. Kerry serves on the Board of Directors of many Foundations and Organizations, along with serving on the Diversity Advisory Committee for the Joint Task Force of the Canadian Armed Forces, is an Honorary Governor of the Vancouver Foundation, serves on the board of Vancouver Council of Women as Health Convenor, and a Cabinet Member of Salal. She currently is focused on several collaborations that address the SDG's both locally and globally using innovative solutions applying a business lens to causation. Kerry speaks on platforms internationally including the UN and the House of Commons, addressing economic development, clean tech innovation, diversity and inclusion, healthcare, and labour rights, and has represented the private sector's role in civil society at the UN. She has been named UN Women Planet 5050 Champion, a Global Goodwill Ambassador, and has received a Times of Canada award for Excellence in Innovation, a Shakti Award, and the Honour Award by the Iranian and Kurdish Women's Rights Organization.
KATE PATTERSON
Senior Civil Engineer
Klohn Crippen Berger
Kate was born and raised in Lower Mainland, as a first generation Canadian, whose parents built a small business. She attended the University of British Columbia, completing an undergrad in Engineering (Applied Science). She has travelled around the world and ended back home. Kate Patterson is a senior Civil Engineer with 17 years of experience in mine waste management with a focus in tailings and water strategic planning and design. She has worked on all aspects of tailings, water resource and environmental projects including baseline environmental studies, from concept to detailed design, impact
ERINN BRADLEY
Deckhand
Seaspan Marine
I have been working at sea full time since I was 19 years old ; I come from commercial fishing family and now have been working at Seaspan Marine for 5 years as a deckhand on every one of the fleets. I am the second female ever to work the log barge fleet for my company! I have worked at sea for the last 10 years, from Sitka Alaska all the way down to Eureka California.
GIULIETTA ROZ
Senior Civil Engineer
Westbourne Projects Limited
Born and raised in Italy, Giulietta has had a long relationship with Vancouver. In 1994, she had prepared her thesis "The not combustible buildings: the use of wood” at UBC. After running her successful architectural company for over 17 years in Europe, Giulietta then returned to Vancouver again in 2017. She was sponsored under the Skills Immigration BC PNP to lead the construction of a new Ski Resort in Valemount (BC).
Today Giulietta works as Project Manager and Owner Representative as part of Westbourne Projects Ltd. Giulietta brings to the company her extensive knowledge in designing and constructing new and retrofit buildings, responding to the principles of sustainable, self-efficient and Passive House architecture. She is an advocate of the importance of responsible design and construction, which respects the land borrowed from our future generations. She enjoys the challenge of making the impossible, possible.
ERIN QUON
Project Manager, Development
Barkley Project Group
Erin is a professional engineer and Project Manager with a decade of experience across infrastructure, renewable energy, and clean technology sectors. Her project experience includes geotechnical investigations and engineering design, construction monitoring, solar and marine energy development, wind farm optimization, data management, emissions management, and several business growth initiatives. Passion for earth’s natural environment and enthusiasm for people creating positive change drives her personal and professional life.
KERRIN HAGBERG
Forensic Identification Examiner
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
I work for the Forensic Identification Services section of the RCMP, which is basically as close to real-life CSI as you can get! I go to crime scenes and look for evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, and shoe/tire impressions. This can help to connect a person to a crime scene or an object used in a crime. I love the variety of work that can happen in one day and feel good knowing that I can help a victim of crime, whether big or small, get a little bit closer to justice.
CAROLINE MURDOCH
Program Manager
Justice Institute of BC / BC Corrections
Caroline Murdoch is the Program Manager of the Adult Probation Officer training program at the Justice Institute of BC (JIBC). Caroline came to JIBC as a peer trainer before moving into her current role. She has been in corrections since 2001 after completing a BA(Hons) and MA (Criminology) at SFU. While in corrections, she worked in a variety of different regions and offices across BC, delivering services to Court-involved adults and youth in a variety of settings - sometimes one on one working on interventions with clients, at other times running group programming, attending court, liaising with other justice partners, or connecting with communities in rural offices. She has undertaken research, program evaluation, rewritten programming, and now enjoys supporting new probation officers as they embark on their journey with BC Corrections.
TIA SMITH
Electrician
Ainsworth Inc.
I just recently got my Red Seal as an Electrician. I have spent the last 4 years of my apprenticeship doing commercial construction. Since getting my ticket I join the union, ibew 213. I love my trade because not only is it a hands on career, it also challenges me mentally. I’m eager to help young ladies looking to get into the trades!
BARBARA KULHANEK
Forensic Identification Specialist & Bloodstain Pattern Analyst
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
I am a Forensic Identification Specialist and Bloodstain Pattern Analyst with the BC RCMP Integrated Forensic Identification Services.
I work throughout British Columbia and the Yukon, attending crime scenes and writing expert reports.
CAROLE ARNESON
Chief Operating Officer
Jastram Engineering Ltd
I had no idea what I wanted to do. I have been a marine biologist, an auditor, an accountant, a forensic accountant, a writer, a dreamer, a soccer player, a ski patroller and did it all again as a mom. I have worked in film, biotech, mining, insurance, law, engineering and many more industries. It wasn't until I was 50, that I knew what I wanted to do...tell other people what to do. My son says he could have told me that when he was 3 and saved me some time. As a highly accomplished senior level management professional, I currently work as the Chief Operating Officer of Jastram Group of companies. I have over 25 years of leadership experience working to develop high performing teams. As a Chief Operating Officer, I am most often working in Finance, IT, HR and Operations. I, essentially, oversee the day to day managerial and administration functions, ensuring all individuals working at Jastram understand and strive toward the same goal. Yes, I tell people what to do!
JESSICA BANNISTER
Level 4 HVAC/R Apprentice
Cam Cool Refrigeration Inc.
Jessica is a Level 4 HVAC/R Apprentice at her family's business, Cam Cool Refrigeration Inc., where they specialize in commercial and industrial refrigeration and air conditioning. She is also a member of Women in HVAC/R Canada. She loves her career in the skilled trades and wishes to bring more awareness to women that these careers are open to them too. They are challenging, rewarding and lucrative. She is on Instagram at @HVACjess and on YouTube as "The HVAC Diaries" where she has a weekly vlog about her job.
JENNY SHORT
Load Operator
BC Hydro
I am a Red Seal Electrician by trade. After a decade in the industry I changed career trajectory and began work in the BC Hydro Control Room. I’ve been there for five years, currently working as a Load Operator. From a large computer station I monitor and operate our street level power lines and electrical substations, as well as provide switching instruction and work permits to the Electricians and Power Line Technicians in the areas under my control. It’s a demanding and rewarding environment, with endless potential to learn about our electrical system. I have a passion for the labour movement, and find many ways to participate in my workplace and my union. Some of my duties include being a Shop Steward, and Co-chair of the IBEW 258 Women’s Committee. I’m looking forward to discussing my experiences and career and the pathways it presented along the way.
KATHLEEN NORMAN
Management Consultant
Kathleen Norman Consulting
I’m a management consultant in Vancouver, BC. As a generalist, I support cleantech companies and tech startups with operations support, systems thinking, environmental impact assessments, and strategic marketing. For fifteen years, I’ve helped nearly 500 companies to explore new perspectives, new ideas and processes to make employees and customers happy and have minimal environmental impacts. I have a Bachelor of Commerce from Dalhousie University and a Master of Environmental Design from University of Calgary in life cycle assessments. Bottom line? I'm passionate about creating environments for people and our planet to thrive for generations to come. I'm all about learning, supporting people, and my journey is making things better than I found it. I believe we need to be the change we wish to see in the world.
LEAH GILLANDERS
Certified Red Seal Mechanic
Leah’s Automotive
Leah, a certified Red Seal mechanic, launched her shop at 25, specializing in servicing BMW and luxury supercars. As one of the few female-run shops in Canada, she stands as a trailblazer in the industry. Her remarkable journey includes achieving Master Technician status at BMW and earning recognition with the Chamber of Commerce Service Excellence Award. Leah's commitment to excellence extends beyond her workshop to public speaking engagements at prestigious venues like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), where she advocates for inclusivity and empowers women in the automotive field. Leah is not only a leader in her field but also actively contributes to the development of the next generation of automotive professionals. As a member of Skilled Trades BC for the automotive industry, she plays a vital role in shaping the future.
ALEX ANDERSON
Youth Program Manager
AgedOut
I am the Youth Program Manager for the Adoptive Families Association of BC (AFABC) and the AgedOut.com website. AgedOut.com is a robust web resource that supports youth in and from government care, as well as all youth in the province who are transitioning to adulthood. I have worked in the non-profit sector for over 20 years in a number of capacities and communities, and I am very excited to bring my experience and passion for youth program development to AFABC. I am inspired by the many youth who advise us in our work and the stories they share of their lived experience in care, as well as the resilience and confidence they display through sharing their stories. I hope to continue centering and amplifying youth voice while advocating for the needs of youth in BC.
SUSAN NGUYEN
Professional Engineer
Bird Construction
As a Professional Engineer with ten years in industrial construction, I specialize in quality control, project coordination, and crafting strategic proposals. My work leverages on-site experience to develop proposals that address client needs and highlight our distinct advantages, requiring close collaboration with diverse engineering and construction teams. What drives me is transforming complex technical information into concise, impactful proposals, demonstrating the value of clear communication and critical thinking. These skills are vital, influencing not just my professional life but personal interests as well. I'm passionate about powerlifting, snowboarding, surfing, traveling, and hiking, where I apply the same principles of continuous improvement and strategic planning. This blend of professional expertise and personal pursuits shapes my approach to challenges, fostering both growth and achievement.
BARB MURPHY
Operations and Business Development Manager
Craftsman Collision
I have a strong industry background with over 10 years of experience in the automotive sector. Throughout my career, I have been associated with Craftsman Collision, a renowned company in the industry. Currently, I hold the position of Operations and Business Development Manager, where I oversee various critical aspects of the organization. As the fleet manager at Craftsman Collision, I am responsible for managing a fleet of over 500 vehicles. This involves handling leases, insurance, and other related tasks to ensure the smooth operation of the company's vehicle fleet. Additionally, I take pride in managing Craftsman Collision's exceptional apprentice program, which is widely recognized as one of the best in the industry. Currently, we have over 80 apprentices enrolled in both paint and body repair, receiving top-notch training and mentorship under our program. Another crucial aspect of my role is managing our OEM certifications. With Craftsman Collision operating across 47+ locations, it is essential to maintain these certifications, which demonstrate our commitment to delivering high-quality repairs and meeting industry standards. Beyond my managerial responsibilities, I am passionate about engaging youth in our industry. I actively promote the vast opportunities available for their careers in the automotive sector. By advocating for the industry and showcasing its potential, I strive to inspire and attract talented young individuals to pursue fulfilling careers in this field. With my extensive experience and dedication to the industry, I am committed to driving the success of Craftsman Collision and contributing to the growth and development of the automotive sector as a whole.
LARA OZDEN
Marketing Coordinator
Bird Construction
Lara is a dynamic marketing professional with a passion for creativity and innovation. Graduating from UBC Sauder, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role as Marketing Coordinator at Bird Construction. With four years of prior experience in marketing, Lara has honed her skills in graphics, social media management, and website creation, making her an invaluable asset to the team. Drawing from her eclectic background, which involved frequent moves during her childhood, Lara brings a unique perspective to her work. Her love for marketing extends beyond the office, influencing her personal passions, which include indulging in books and reading, as well as pursuing her interests in weightlifting.
SOPHIA LIVINGSTONE
Proposal Coordinator
Bird Construction
Sophia is a skilled proposal writer with a passion for language and a love of storytelling. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Simon Fraser University where she completed a joint major in French and English Literature. With four years of experience in the construction industry, Sophia brings enthusiasm and curiosity to all aspects of her work ranging from business development, writing proposals, and communications.
KIRA NISHI-BECKINGHAM
Intermediate Software Engineer
Kardium
Kira graduated from Simon Fraser University with a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering in 2021. They are now an Intermediate Software Engineer at Kardium Inc, a bio-medical company working on an Atrial Fibrillation device that utilizes pulse-field ablation technology. Currently, Kira develops software for Kardium Inc’s Information Systems team, writing custom tools to help developers, QA, production staff, and other teams perform their duties to a high standard and automate tedious, manual processes. Kira is proud of the work Kardium Inc. does, and loves hearing about the many successful trials and life-saving operations everyone at Kardium contributes to. As a passionate engineer and social advocate, they are involved in many areas within Kardium, including being a Co-Chair of the Pride ERG and a member of the Women’s ERG. Participating in the company’s social committee, Kira helps to make Kardium a second home for their growing pool of co-workers.
ASHLEY LLOYD
Business Application Development Manager
Kardium
Ashley is a Business Application Development Manager at Kardium, a company focused on building surgical devices to treat atrial fibrillation. In her role, she leads a team of six software engineers focused on developing and automating systems for manufacturing, regulatory, and clinical teams. Ashley is also very passionate about volunteering as it was a high school outreach event that initially inspired her to pursue engineering! In her spare time, she loves trail running, mountain biking and climbing with friends and family.
ELIZABETH PRATT
Quality Engineer
Kardium
I am a Quality Engineer at Kardium. I graduated from Biomedical Engineering in 2022. I enjoy working in the medical device industry since I know my work helps to better people's lives. In my role I am consistently challenged to solve manufacturing problems and work with my colleagues to implement solutions.
SARAH-KATE SALMON
YWCA Gear Up Program
YWCA
Sarah-Kate Salmon is a vibrant force for change, dedicated to empowering youth and championing gender equity. A former at-risk youth herself, she knows firsthand the transformative power of non-profit organizations. Inspired by her own journey, she brings boundless energy and passion to her role as a Youth Employment and Engagement Specialist with the YWCA Metro Vancouver. She facilitates the Gear Up Bike Mechanic Training program based in the WorkBC CareerZone in downtown Vancouver. With over a decade of experience, Sarah-Kate is a beacon of positivity and inclusivity, creating welcoming spaces where everyone feels valued and heard. She believes fiercely in the importance of gender equity, advocating tirelessly to ensure that all women, regardless of their background or journey, have equal opportunities to thrive. Driven by the belief that non-profit work is tough but immensely rewarding, Sarah-Kate is a relentless advocate for change. Through the Gear Up Bike Mechanic Training Program and her innovative approach to program development, she strives to make a tangible difference in the lives of young people, offering them the same support and opportunities that once changed her own life. Outside of her work, you'll find Sarah-Kate capturing moments through her photography lens, savoring the simple pleasures of good coffee, and basking in the warmth of sunny walks along the seawall. With her unwavering commitment to creating a brighter, more equitable future, Sarah-Kate is an encouragement in her community, spreading joy and empowerment wherever she goes.