Michelle Lindemann is a second-year Métis student pursuing her Civil Engineering Technology diploma at CNC. Passionate about all things nature and fascinated by the engineers she saw on TV shows, she has focused on combining science and arts to create meaningful structures and tools.
“I thought that I wasn’t capable to go into engineering,” Michelle shares candidly. “And I was also a bit intimidated stepping into a male-dominated industry. But I decided that I’d never know what it would be like unless I gave up my fear and give it a try. So I just went for it.”
Studying local
For Michelle, it was important to study local so she could stay close to her family in Prince George. “Originally, I was looking at a degree at the university. But upon research, I saw that CNC had the
Civil Engineering Technology (CET) diploma. I thought it would be a better route for me to get my technologist designation and maybe bridge into the degree later,” she reflects.
In her first two semesters, Michelle got to explore much of the four seasons and outdoors she enjoys so much in Prince George. “While it wasn’t always easy combining classroom time and field trips on top of the hours for studying and homework, it’s been great to gain so much hands-on experience during the courses. We did a hydrology lab (study of water in the environment) at McMillan Creek Regional Park and used photogrammetry software on ancient artefacts at the
Exploration Place.”
The tutoring services at CNC’s
Academic Success Centre helped Michelle to get some extra help with the tougher subjects. “My classmates, instructors and tutors have been amazing, supportive, and great to get along with.”
Building your confidence and support network
Michelle considers herself lucky with the support she’s received from family, friends and
Métis Nation British Columbia to explore the career she’s always dreamed of. That support network has now expanded with a $10,000 scholarship she received from the BC Scholarship Society this fall in Vancouver.
The
Women in Technology Scholarships annually recognize up to 15 women who are excelling in their post-secondary study in Computer/Data Science, Physics, Engineering or Mathematics. Two of these awards are dedicated to Indigenous applicants.
Michelle beams with pride when talking about her newfound award. “I’m incredibly grateful and honoured to receive this scholarship. It will elevate some financial stress for my second and final year so I can put all my attention toward getting good grades and doing well in the program.”
She stresses that the scholarship is more than just financial support. “Scholarship programs like these will provide women with a pathway into technology programs and access to a job that is well paid and something they’re truly passionate about. It’s an encouragement that builds confidence and hopefully inspires other women to pursue their dreams.”
Did you know that… the tech sector in B.C. is one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy, supporting over
220,000 high-paying jobs? The province is home to more than 11,000 innovative tech businesses, from Vancouver to Nanaimo and from Kamloops to Prince George.
Labour market forecasts expect close to 117,000 STEM-related (science, technology, engineering, and math) job openings over the next decade, with 16 per cent of the overall high-opportunity jobs belonging to the tech sector.
Curious to learn more about CNC’s Civil Engineering Technology or other tech programs? Visit our
program pages or speak to a
Future Student Advisor.