Annie Lam, Architectural Technology Graduate 2011

Cet article de nos archives n'a pas été traduit en français.

For Annie Lam, the road led from Architectural Technology to a degree in Building Engineering – and great jobs!

When Annie Lam chose to attend Vanier, she knew exactly what she was doing because she wanted to study Architectural Technology, only offered in English at Vanier College.

"My father had started a design/drafting program at cegep back in the days but stopped and I inherited all his tools – his T-square and template for drawing circles etc."

"What I loved best about Vanier were the hands-on classes. I loved building models. I was always a "craftsy" type person so I liked classes where I built things."

"The Architectural Technology is great because you learn how to carry out a project from start to finish – in particular, you learn about all the phases of a major construction project like building a house. As a class, we would go to job sites every week over several months to see how something is built. We had to write reports and in the end we would see and understand the slow evolution of all the phases and steps for the construction of a small condo."

While at Vanier, Annie spent most of her time on schoolwork. "The program was very busy. There really wasn't time for extra curricular activities. I was always trying to perfect whatever project I was working on. It was great. I did my internship for two months at BCA Structure, which was a very good experience. I learned how to work with plans and talk to engineers. The internship helps you understand how it's like when you're out in the field; you learn and adapt to situations you don't learn in school."

After obtaining her diploma from Vanier, Annie decided to study Building Engineering at Concordia University. As she was completing her degree, Annie was lucky enough to get her first job at a job fair where Cogan Wires and Metal Products hired her on the spot even before she graduated. "I was lucky. I got the job because I had studied Revit at Vanier and also taught Revit at Concordia University. The starting salary was modest but the important thing is getting a job and some experience. "

Annie spent three years there doing a mix of many different things. When she decided she wanted to learn new things, she looked for a new job. She found what she wanted at Pratt and Whitney in the aftermarket business cases for engines. "It's completely different from my field of study, but it is very exciting dealing with large engines, and of course a very nice increase in salary!"

Along the way, Annie met and married her husband who is a mechanical engineer. In a few years they plan to start a family, but right now she is committed to her job.

Her advice to students:

"Do what you like. Don't waste time on something you don't like. Make sure to go to Open Houses and open your eyes to see what is available. Don't be afraid to talk to people and network. Ask questions. Talk to your teachers. All my teachers were very helpful. I only have good memories of my time at Vanier. Above all, even after you finish your DCS and university degree keep learning. Importantly, try to learn French. I get by, but I'm always trying to improve. It can be a struggle for me, particularly in job interviews where French is mandatory. So if you have a chance to learn French early on, do so! And take offers. You will always learn something and the next job offer might be even better. Your CV is the selling point for yourself, so build it don't be afraid to change jobs even within the same company!"

I'm happy with the choices I've made, and looking back I wouldn't change a thing."