Julie Carrier is a manager of municipal and water work in Quebec City, Quebec. She joined Tetra Tech in 1998 and specializes in civil, municipal, hydraulic, and infrastructure engineering. She received her bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Laval University, specializing in municipal and hydraulic engineering. We spoke with Julie as part of our #INWED19 campaign to not only celebrate our brilliant women engineers but also to raise their profiles and encourage those who aspire to become engineers and work in STEM. Follow #WomenInStem on social media for more stories.

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What do you like about working at Tetra Tech?

Tetra Tech is a leader in the field of consulting engineering. Because Tetra Tech is so well versed in engineering fields, I am provided with every tool I may possibly require to meet client needs and expectations. The company allows me to draw knowledge from innumerable projects and experts. There is real collaboration between teams at Tetra Tech; we can always rely on the rest of the group for their expertise. There also is no need to outsource to other suppliers, because we are like a “one stop shop!” Additionally, Tetra Tech’s reputation is excellent. This company is open to change, opportunities, and development of new markets and is always giving us new challenges. Finally, Tetra Tech’s management listens to its staff, treats its employees fairly, and highlights their accomplishments. One can be proud to work at Tetra Tech.

What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?

Engineering is a field that opens doors to endless opportunities. You can have a technical career, a management career, or both. In college⁠—when the time came to choose a career⁠—I opted for engineering because I loved science and wished to keep my options open. I wanted to understand how things worked and found an occupation that allowed me to continue learning new things. I have a thirst for knowledge, and it is nourished through engineering.

How can we encourage female students to pursue a career in engineering?

First of all, groundwork is required. We must raise awareness of the many engineering professions and provide students with contacts from a variety of fields early on. This would present female students with opportunities and increase transparency in the industry. Then we must show that women belong in engineering, and it is not difficult for them to find interesting work. We must show that the sky is the limit for women in engineering by sharing case studies that show the many amazing opportunities in engineering. Women have the power to affect the world of tomorrow—everything is possible, and I believe I am a living proof of this.

What are the greatest qualities you may find in a female engineer?

I believe there are many qualities that can be found in female engineers. These include:

• Determination 
• Fairness and sensitivity 
• Willingness 
• Self-confidence 
• Resourcefulness 
• Integrity 
• Innovativeness 
• Logical, yet creative 
• Rigorous work ethic 
• Organizational skills 
• Communication and team spirit 
• Curiosity and open-mindedness 
• Flexibility, adaptability, and versatility

What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of being an engineer?

My biggest challenge is trying to create my own path to help pave the way for future women engineers. The most rewarding aspect is making a real difference through action. Through our work, we can affect the world for years to come. The achievements of engineers improve the lives of many and the environment, because we create real and adapted solutions. We are pushing the limits in several sectors, and we are inventors!