In honour of International Women in Engineering Day, we asked Sylivia Ng, Systems Design Engineering alumnus, a few questions about her journey as a woman in Engineering. She shares her story to highlight the importance of gender equity in Engineering. Women belong everywhere.
Introduction
I'm Sylvia, a mom of 2, cancer survivor, and a tech professional. I have done a number of things which include: analytics, marketing, growth, and product at companies like Google, eBay, and 500px. My last role was a General Manager role at Shopify. Right now, I run two companies, an e-commerce returns business called ReturnBear, and a cancer care box brand called Amidira.
As a young girl, what were your goals and aspirations?
I have always wanted to do something at the intersection of art and science. I considered studying architecture or biomedical imaging, but eventually landed on Systems Design engineering which allows me to build creative things. Nowadays I like to think that I’ve managed to merge my creative and analytical sides through building businesses.
In a male dominated field, what major qualities helped you break through the glass ceiling?
I wouldn’t say I possess this quality naturally, but over time I have come to realize that not having a victim mentality is key. It’s great that women are sharing their stories more and more, but those stories can be constant reminders that we’re victims of a rigged system that seems impossible to change. I’ve seen this victimhood mentality lead to depression and anger, cause closed minded dialogues, makes people withdraw from finding solutions, and generally causes women to give up in frustration. We may be victims of certain things, but I try to not let that define who I am. After all, only 10% of life is what happens to you. The remaining 90% is how to react to it.
Any advice for aspiring and current women in engineering?
Stay positive and happy! Happiness breeds success, not the other way around.