Chemical engineering student Leah Edmondson is a go-getter with a passion for nuclear energy. She's entering the workforce having built a network of engineers and a great deal of experience in her field. Embracing her university experience inside and outside the classroom, Leah first volunteered at the Engineering Undergraduate Society’s (EUS) orientation during her second year of studies – and it wasn’t long before she was involved in many corners of the engineering community. “I am extremely grateful for my experience,” says Leah, “Being involved in the EUS has helped me build confidence, and develop professional leadership and teamwork skills.”

Leah served as EUS Outreach Director from 2016-17 and participated as a delegate at the Atlantic Engineering Competition, funded by the EUS. Throughout her four years on campus, Leah jumped at any opportunity to get involved in the broader engineering community. She served as President of the Atlantic Council of Engineering Students, Atlantic Ambassador for the Canadian Federation of Engineering Students, co-president of the UNB Women in Engineering Society and as a Girls Club Volunteer with Worlds UNBound, promoting the field of engineering to young girls.

As an active member of UNB’s Women in Engineering Society, Leah is a strong advocate for women in engineering and says the experience has helped her realize the importance of diversity and inclusion. In Canada, the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists aims to reach 30% professional female engineers by 2030. “I want people to know that it doesn’t just take higher female enrollment numbers, or more women entering the workforce to break the stereotype; we have to work collectively in order to change the conversation and encourage women to follow their goals and pursue a career in any science, technology, engineering, and math field,” she says. “I am going to continue to break the stereotypes and attain my goal of being a successful, well-rounded engineer.” 

Leah credits much of her experience in engineering to UNB and the EUS, and is looking forward to giving back as young alumna. “I would help in any way I could to boost female enrollment in engineering and spark conversation on diversity. Due to my positive experience at UNB, it will be easy to support and promote UNB Engineering to any young aspiring engineer-to-be.

The EUS encourages its alumni to share their experience or come back to campus to connect with current students at society events and help make a positive impact on a student’s experience, just as it did for Leah.

Visit the EUS’ alumni page to stay informed, get in touch or give back financially to the student group.