“At work, I was fortunate to have good role models who encouraged me to always continue developing.”
ANGELA CLIMENHAGA, E.I.T.
ANGELA CLIMENHAGA, E.I.T. For Angela Climenhaga, E.I.T., earning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering in 2012 was the first step in her ongoing educational evolution as an engineering professional. Step two involved more homework and classrooms. Two years after graduating, she returned to the University of Alberta campus, this time enrolled in the Management Development Certificate Program for Professional Engineers and Geoscientists. Ms. Climenhaga’s goal? Become a better project manager and team leader. Courses on strategic management and budgeting gave her a broader understanding of what drives a business, and how new policies and procedures can financially impact them. An
interpersonal communications elective introduced her to new listening and communication techniques. She balanced the evening and weekend classes with a full-time job at WorleyParsons. She was responsible for the development and delivery of capital projects in the oil and gas industry. “At work, I was fortunate to have good role models who encouraged me to always continue developing,” Ms. Climenhaga says. Still, going back to school wasn’t easy. It took two years to finish the program, while juggling busy work and personal lives. “It was challenging, but I knew it would be worth it, to achieve my long-term goals, so I was able to stay motivated throughout the entire program. Plus, I drank a lot of coffee,” she jokes. In June, she walked across the stage at convocation to receive her certificate — and an award from APEGA for achieving the highest GPA in the program. “As an E.I.T., my engagement in continuing professional development has helped me grow as a professional. It’s introduced me to courses I was able to relate to in my everyday job,” Ms. Climenhaga says. It also pointed her towards a new career goal. She’s currently pursuing a full-time MBA at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management, with a focus on finance. Her dream is to work in corporate finance and be a mentor to other women in engineering and finance. She was recently elected as a representative of Rotman’s Women in Management Association, a volunteer role which will offer her
403-770-5155 www.directionsforimmigrants.ca
NPPE & FE Study Groups o ered at no cost * in Calgary
For internationally educated
engineers & geoscientists
Directions for Immigrants is operated by Bow Valley College. This Service has been funded by the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada.
*For eligible clients
30 | PEG WINTER 2016
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker