For some time to come, women in STEM will still be the non-majority. Being different from others is a powerful tool for getting noticed. However, you have to be proud of this difference for it to work. You must not hide; you must wear your difference proudly, no matter what it is.
One of my physics teachers helped me discover the power of physics. During our physics labs, he made us do unorthodox lab experiments. This professor loved hands-on experiments that made us experience the rules, not just learn them. I liked the way we could experience the problem, not just memorize the theory for an exam. This new teaching method really resonated with me and it’s because of these lab experiments that I did see myself doing physics as a career.
I always knew I wanted to have a position of responsibility in a photonics company. I currently have two focus areas: business development and sales. My business development responsibilities range from strategic planning to partnership development, to structuring innovation in my company. I like to start a day and not know how it will end. I thrive in the chaos. The goal of all these tasks is to make sure my company has a good plan to achieve financial success. Another portion of my job is to oversee sales and supervise the sales team. I like to teach what I have learned practically to the team. After each quarter, we have to start from zero sales again; it’s a wheel that is always turning.
The path to obtaining these responsibilities has not always been clear to me. I started in marketing and moved to sales and business development. I had to always be on the lookout for opportunities that were sometimes hidden, and sometimes create them myself. I had to find allies who helped me prove my strengths and worth to obtain a position with more opportunities. Finding my own path to obtain the position that I wanted was the biggest obstacle for me.
Career paths are multiple and difficult to know when you start your career. Get involved as much as possible to gain the maximum experience during your studies, to help you experience what you like and what you don’t like. Experiences will help you believe in yourself and find your true self. Be proud of yourself.
Marie-Christine Ferland
Business Development Director and Acting Sales & Marketing Director, Photon etc.
Born in Canada / Resides in Canada
Educational Background: BS in Physics and MBA, Université Laval, Canada
