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Inspirational Women in STEM: Stephanie Gnissios, P.Eng

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Project Engineer

Where are you from and where do you work now?
“I grew up in Kelowna, in the central Okanagan of BC. Now, I live and work in Vancouver, with short-term work-related travel to various countries. So far, I’ve spent time in Japan, Peru, Turkey, and Romania. I currently work for Eldorado Gold Corporation, a Canadian low-cost gold producer (TSX:ELD, NYSE:EGO).”

Why did you choose to work in this field?
“I started in Mining because that was the first job offer I received, after University. But – I choose to stay in Mining because I love being a part of the industry. There’s so much potential and so many exciting opportunities. The mining industry is an integral part of our world, and because I am a part of the industry, I can influence how it happens.”

What is your favourite thing about your job?
“My favorite thing about my job is the diversity. I never do the same thing from one day to the next; every day is different. I also appreciate the opportunity to work on projects around the world – it’s exciting, and has taught me the importance of valuing diversity of people and cultures.”

What are some of the challenges in your job?
“Working on projects at an international scale, it can be challenging to work effectively with such a diverse team. Different cultures, different timezones, different communication styles, different thought processes, different context – it takes deliberate effort on everyone’s part to work cohesively and efficiently as a team.”

What do you like to do in your spare time?
“I like to spend time outdoors with my husband hiking, walking, or doing yardwork. I like to bake and I read a lot of books, and I enjoy spending time with family and friends.”

Is there anything you wish someone had told you when you were in high school?
“Have confidence in yourself. If you have confidence in yourself, everyone else will too. Even if you don’t feel confident, walk with your head up and your eyes forward, and speak with conviction.”

In a nutshell, why are engineering and science AWESOME?
“As engineers (and scientists), we directly influence how our communities and our world evolve. We have a responsibility to keep people safe and healthy, to improve quality of life, to protect the environment; and – all these things have a direct economic effect by creating and supporting jobs and industries around the world. Engineers shape the world!”

Tell us a joke.
“What do you get if you divide the circumference of a pumpkin by its diameter? (Answer: Pumpkin Pi!)”



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