March is National Engineering Month, an annual occasion celebrating engineering excellence and all the ways engineers make a difference in our communities. This year, we had the pleasure of speaking with Jeanette Southwood, FCAE, FEC, LL.D. (honoris causa), P.Eng., ICD.D, Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Strategic Partnerships at Engineers Canada, the national organization of the 12 engineering regulators who license the more than 330,000 members of the engineering profession in Canada. A chemical and environmental engineer by training, Jeanette led the Canadian Urban Development & Infrastructure Sector and the Global Sustainable Cities teams at an international consulting firm prior to joining Engineers Canada. She has been inducted as a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering and recognized as WXN Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women, among other honours. Thank you very much for taking the time to share your insights on the important and evolving role of engineers in shaping a brighter future!
- What skills and qualities do you think are most critical for success in the engineering profession today? Are there any underrated ones that engineers overlook but really matter?
Success in engineering goes far beyond technical expertise. Knowledge and strong analytical skills remain essential, but engineers also need to work collaboratively, communicate clearly, and bring diverse perspectives together to solve complex problems. Engineering challenges increasingly sit at the intersection of society, the economy, technology, and the environment which means teamwork and collaboration are critical.
One quality that is sometimes underrated or overlooked is empathy. Engineers serve the public, and our work ultimately affects people’s safety, well-being, and quality of life. Bringing empathy to analysis and an understanding of how decisions impact communities and future generations leads to better solutions. Equally important is professional judgment grounded in accountability and ethics. At its core, engineering is a profession built on public trust.
2. Where do you see engineers making the greatest impact in the coming years? Are there any problems in the world that you think engineers are uniquely positioned to solve?
I see engineers continuing to collaborate within and outside of engineering to contribute to solutions to some of society’s biggest and most pressing challenges. For example – the challenges expressed by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. From poverty reduction to good health and well-being, to gender equality, to clean water and sanitation, to affordable and clean energy, to infrastructure, to sustainable cities and communities, to climate action (and those are just a handful of the 17 goals), you’ll find engineers creating, contributing, and collaborating on solutions in all of these areas.
In Canada in particular, engineers will have innovative solutions to contribute to some of our government’s current priorities. At Engineers Canada, we are the only national voice of the engineering profession, and we advocate on behalf of the profession to the federal government. We were pleased to see the government’s focus in the last federal budget in areas like Canada’s Climate Competitiveness strategy, Canada’s security and defence procurement, and the building and renewal of local infrastructure and new housing. These are all areas where engineers are contributing every day.
And though engineers are often top of mind in sectors like infrastructure, transportation, resource development, and manufacturing, there are other areas where the need for engineers is no less critical, such as health, research & development, and emerging areas like artificial intelligence. You will find engineers working in almost every industry and sector of the economy. We play a key role in enhancing overall growth, productivity, and innovation leading to the development of the country’s workforce and economy—important factors in maintaining and improving the quality of life.
3. What advice do you have for engineering students and new grads as they begin their careers?
First, take the time to celebrate! Graduating with an engineering degree is a significant accomplishment. And though you might face challenges ahead of you as you embark on your career, remember that “every failure is a step to success.” Persevere, listen, continue learning, keep an open mind, and take the time to experience your journey.
Remember that we don’t journey alone. After graduation, keep in touch with your university and with the engineering profession. Find mentors and sponsors who can offer advice and guidance, and who can support you as you advance in your career. And, as you progress through your career, mentor and sponsor others.
And also consider getting your engineering licence. A license is so much more than a legal requirement. Having a P.Eng. has opened doors to me and my colleagues throughout our careers. It’s also a demonstration to potential employers, clients, and the public that you are committed to upholding the values and ethical standards of the engineering profession. Engineers Canada has a great resource about licensure. At pathwaytoengineering.ca, you’ll find information, resources, and events that can help you on your journey to your P.Eng.
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