Job Description
My job is to ensure the process of building cars does not have a negative impact on the environment. I make sure our company is complying with all the legal requirements that are applicable to the automotive industry, and promote environmental protection from within (by making and delivering environmental training materials, working with other employees to brainstorm and execute new ideas that will have positive environmental impacts, engaging people to feel excited about environmental preservation both at work and at home, etc.) I deal with many different aspects of the environment (climate change/air emissions, use of energy and water, waste production, protection of soil and storm/groundwater outside, nature and biodiversity on our working lands, etc.), making my role challenging, diverse and rewarding!
Relevant School Subjects
- Mathematics
- Science
- Technological Education
Areas of Expertise
- Energy/Utilities
- Engineering
- Environment
- Manufacturing/Production
Career Story
In high school, my interests were pretty diverse - science, math, gym, geography, french - but I decided I would study Biochemistry and French in university. I took all the required pre-requisite courses and completed first year in a program called Bachelor of Arts and Science. At this point, I decided maybe Biochemistry wasn't the direction I wanted to take as all of my peers had aspirations to pursue some kind of medical-focused career (doctor, dentist, pharmacist, etc.), but this was not what I was interested in. I then found out about Environmental Engineering and discovered this degree and career path better fit my interests. I hadn't taken Algebra in high school, so I had to take grade 12 Algebra during the summer, and I switched into Environmental Engineering after that. Many engineering programs, including mine, provide the opportunity to do co-op placements and earn both work experience and money to help pay for tuition and better prepare you for jobs after graduation. My co-op placements were done at the Chrysler Research & Development Centre, Environment Canada and the Windsor Salt Mine. I also worked as an Engineering Outreach Program Leader during school semesters. I really loved university, so I decided to pursue a Master's degree after achieving my undergraduate. Post-graduate studies are a lot different than undergrad, as it is mostly self-driven/self-motivated. After achieving my Master's education, I decided that was enough school (for now) and I began my career as an Environmental Engineering Analyst at Toyota.