I chose to study at McGill largely because of its international focus and diverse program and learning experience. I found this extremely valuable as it provided one with the ability to adapt, learn, respect and understand differing perspectives. As one of the top universities in the world, I also knew the city and the University had a lot to offer.
I completed a Bachelor of Arts at McGill and continued my education by pursuing an MBA as well. I strongly believe that an Arts degree provides a well-rounded education and allows for critical thinking and an understanding of broader perspectives. I also understood the importance of a graduate degree and, for me, the MBA was the right opportunity to help me build upon my foundation and ensure my success in the future. Upon completion of my MBA, I also earned the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
I began a career in banking, and soon after moved through various industries including utilities, heavy equipment and infrastructure (P3), finally arriving in the field of clean technology and sustainability. I joined Ballard Power Systems in 2010 as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). I truly believe clean energy is the next disruptive industry that’s not only going to have a tremendous positive impact on our environment but is also going to create massive employment opportunities. Although joining this company was a high-risk opportunity, I knew it was something that would challenge me, and I’m thrilled to see the success we have reached with the company today.
I firmly believe in the importance of sustainability, and this will only be achieved with our future leaders of tomorrow and it’s exciting to see McGill at the forefront of this vision of building this future. This kind of forward thinking among universities and industries will lead to opportunities for further collaboration and partnerships, allowing us to share ideas and build upon each other’s successes.
My advice to McGill students and graduates: continue building on your foundation, never stop learning, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Over the course of my career, I have learned to embrace change and value each experience and opportunity. While I had no direct education in many of the industries in which I worked, and certainly not fuel cells, my foundational education and ongoing learning really helped me with each move and helped me take on many different roles. I’ve had to learn different skillsets than those gained in school, including leadership, relationship building, and raising capital, to name a few.
The world is your oyster. Continuous education is the key to success. New opportunities and industries are being created each day, and the skills you learned through your education and experiences will always be behind you and helping you in your future. Most importantly, remember that you don’t know where life will take you, and don’t get hung up on what you’ll do 10 years from now. Go for every opportunity as it comes along and enjoy each experience.
I’m proud to be a part of an incredibly diverse, talented and forward-thinking McGill community.