Job Title: Vice President of Operations
Company: Energy Aware Technology Inc.
Industry: Energy
What I Do
I am the Vice President of Operations at Energy Aware, a company I co-founded with several other UBC students in 2005. Energy Aware develops products to promote sustainability, and our first product is an In-Home Energy Display unit. The company began as part of a UBC entrepreneurship course called New Venture Design (APSC 486). I have been involved in all aspects of growing the company, from fundraising to business development. My role is now mainly focused on the operational side of the company, such as managing the company’s manufacturing, tooling, and supply chain as well as project management for R&D
A Day in the Life
I tend to work a regular business day, but working for a small company offers us all a lot of flexibility with our work hours and vacation time. I interact regularly with my team, both on the business and engineering side, as well as suppliers for manufacturing and logistics. I spend the majority of my day in front of the computer, but also meet regularly with suppliers, business contacts, and advisors.
Why My Job Is Great
I love that I get to work on something that I feel passionately about and that I have had a hand in developing from the beginning. My team is young, energetic and very innovative, and I love working with them. Having a lot of variety also keeps things interesting and I am constantly challenged and learning something new.
The Downside
A lot of responsibility comes with running a company, and it can be stressful at times. The lack of mentorship can also be challenging.
Off the Job
Having a good work / life balance is extremely important to me, so I make sure I always make time for my friends and family. I love to travel and spend time outside as much as possible.
Experiences to Learn From
During my Mech undergrad, we had a number of project courses where we needed to work with a team to develop an idea from concept, through the design process, and to the prototype stage. These types of project helped shape my teamwork, analytic and project management skills.
The Best Part
Working with a great team, meeting new people, and seeing all of the aspects involved in bringing a product to life.
My Advice to You
Engineering in general opens a lot of doors, and mechanical engineering can lead to a wide range of opportunities. If you find something you feel passionately about, pursue it with all your heart, and don’t let anyone tell you that you are too young or inexperienced to make it happen.