Recognizing International Day of Women & Girls in Science
Published: Feb 08, 2023
A gender gap continues to persist at all levels of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines all over the world. Even though women are making tremendous progress toward increasing their participation in higher education, they are still underrepresented in these fields.
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is an annual observance each February 11th. The observance was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 to promote the full and equal access and participation of females in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
It aims to connect the International Community to Women and Girls in Science, strengthening the ties between science, policy, and society for strategies oriented toward the future.
Nutrien proudly provide opportunities and work alongside women in STEM and would like to share a few stories from these women about their journeys toward fulfilling careers:
Meet Victoria Orenuga, Process Safety Management Engineer, Fort Saskatchewan, Nitrogen
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM?
My journey as a Chemical Engineer began when I realized my passion for mathematics and chemistry could get me into the program at the university. I also enjoyed solving problems and was always curious to know how things worked.
What has your experience been like working at Nutrien?
My experience working at Nutrien has been filled with great opportunities to learn, share and achieve strategic objectives. I’ve had the opportunity to work with very supportive teams that provide the enabling environment to thrive. Every day comes with its challenges, but the company’s culture makes it easier to achieve so much without feeling overwhelmed.
Why do you think girls and women should consider this career path? Any advice?
As the world continues to face mounting and diverse challenges, a career in STEM will offer girls and women opportunities that are satisfying, rewarding and inspiring while contributing to solve some of the world’s problems. A career in engineering will give girls/women the freedom to explore things and learn a lot.
Meet Emily Adams, Business Specialist, Business Development & Improvement, Phosphate (previously Mine Geologist at Aurora, NC)
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM?
I feel my personality and overall interests are geared toward innovation and creativity. I felt that a career in STEM best aligned with these interests and would allow for my goals and aspirations to thrive.
What has your experience been like working at Nutrien?
Overall, my journey has been very positive and progressive. When I first got to Nutrien, I was one of the few women in the mine area and felt there was a need for an employee resource group (ERG) or support group for the women at the Aurora facility. One thing I take pride in is being a co-leader of the WiNTER (Women in Non-Traditional Environments and Roles) ERG at Aurora, which has worked to bring women and men together to make positive changes at the site.
Why do you think girls and women should consider this career path? Any advice?
I would give girls/women the advice to “do what makes you happy.” I know this is a cliché saying, but it’s true. If I hadn’t followed what made me happy, I wouldn’t have the everyday reward I get for being in a STEM career. Don’t be afraid to break the mold of what society or others want for you and be brave to step outside the box!
Meet Elora McLeod, Chief Mine Maintenance Engineer, Allan site, Potash
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM?
I have always enjoyed problem-solving and developed a love for math, science, and art at an early age. When it came time to look at career options, I initially considered becoming a high school teacher (math or science), a doctor, or an artist. Engineering didn’t cross my mind until Grade 12 when a friend suggested it. I opted to try it out and found it blended the things I enjoyed most with a focus on creative problem-solving practical applications of theory and design work.
What has your experience been like working at Nutrien?
I joined Nutrien in 2019 as a Project Manager at the Allan Potash site and moved into my current role of Chief Mine Maintenance Engineer at Allan in 2022. During this time, I have been involved in the Women in Non-Traditional Environments and Roles (WiNTER) Employee Resource Group as a site member, site representative, and most recently co-chair. Through my day job and involvement in WiNTER K, I have seen the company looking to understand how they can make our workplaces more diverse and inclusive through removal of barriers and challenging the way we do things. I have found Nutrien to be a great place to grow my skills and advance my career.
Why do you think girls and women should consider this career path? Any advice?
Don’t be afraid to try something that you didn’t see modeled. Just because you don’t personally know of women who have taken a career path you are interested in; doesn’t mean you can’t go for it!
Nutrien’s commitment
Nutrien is committed to a safe and inclusive work environment where everyone belongs, fostering a diverse and inclusive global community with a focus on bringing more women into agriculture, mining, manufacturing, the trades and technology.
Found out how Women Grow Here.