Science & Engineering Career Fair Magazine
Nexen’s New Graduate Program: A World of Opportunity See who’s attending the 2015 Science & Engineering Career Fair
Career Fair Tips Are you ready for the fair?
Meaningful Connections Making the most of your network
Problems and Possibilities
Understanding your potential
@UofC_CS
Contents 4 7
12 18 2
Nexen-Platinum Sponsor Monica shares her experience with the Nexen New Graduate Program.
24
Rethinking Recession A new view on landing career opportunites during economic uncertainty
26
Problems to Possibilites Kelly Galant discusses misconceptions surrounding strengths and weaknesses in leadership and the workplace.
34
2015 Exhibitor Directory Need to find out where your new employer could be? See the exhibitor list here.
Online Career Fair Magazine
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Career Fair Tips Make sure you’re on track and ready to meet with employers at the fair. The Benfits of Informational Interviews Read all about the potential benefits you can take away. Wanted: Someone Unique Employers know how much hard work it takes, and they want to hear your unique story. Thanks to our Sponsors See which companies sponsored our 2014 Science & Engineering Career Fair.
A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY FOR NEW GRADUATES A career at Nexen is all about moving forward: learning new skills, broadening experiences, making meaningful contributions, and adding value. New graduates at Nexen are challenged through employment programs that offer training, mentorship and development assignments. Together, these components develop technically skilled, confident, motivated and innovative employees who contribute to Nexen’s ongoing success.
TOP EMPLOYER In 2015, Nexen won two high-profile awards that recognize employers who lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. According to Mediacorp Canada Inc., Nexen’s recognition is highlighted by: •
Ongoing employee development with in-house apprenticeship programs, career planning services and formal mentoring
•
Engineering, Geology and Geophysics (EGG) Exchange program, which offers engineers and geoscientists an opportunity to self-nominate for a role change
•
Talent Exchange program, which provides employees with an opportunity to transfer with Nexen’s parent company, CNOOC, for short- or long-term work assignments
•
Unique hybrid pension plan that lets employees choose between defined benefit and defined contribution options
WIDE RANGE OF STUDENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES In addition to our flagship New Graduate Program, Nexen has three Canadian employment programs for students to consider. Co-op/Internship Program – 4, 8, 12 or 16 month opportunities. Paid internships for engineering students lasting 12- or 16-months. Students develop technical skills which complement their academic learning. Nexen’s paid co-op opportunities allow students from various disciplines to gain practical experience and contribute to projects in their field of study. Technical Summer Student Program – Four-month paid program aimed at students studying engineering, geoscience and land disciplines. Students must be in their second or third year of their program to be eligible to apply. Summer Student Program – Four-month program provides students with paid experience by performing a variety of tasks and projects. Open to all postsecondary disciplines.
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SET YOUR CAREER IN MOTION One of Nexen’s signature human resource initiatives is our New Graduate Program, a development opportunity offered to new and recent graduates across a range of disciplines, including engineering, geology, geophysics, finance and accounting. These young professionals learn on the job by rotating through different areas of the business, working on high-profile projects, and learning from leaders in the energy industry. Assigned mentors provide coaching and feedback to each of the graduates. Training is an integral part of the program and new grads are encouraged to attend training and conferences to improve their skill sets. Monica Bereznicki began working for Nexen in September 2013 after graduating from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering and a minor in petroleum engineering. Although she had work experience with other energy companies, Monica chose Nexen specifically because of the New Graduate Program. “Rotational programs are great for new grads because you can branch out of your comfort zone, try new types of engineering, and build your skill set. What’s important about Nexen’s program is you have a say in what areas you want to work. That was the deciding factor for me.” Monica’s first rotation was with production engineering in shale gas in northeastern British Columbia, followed by work with the completions team in shale gas. She is currently in her third rotation in technical analytics, a corporate group that works with assets in North America and internationally. Her long-term goal is to be an exploration engineer. The work environment in all three rotations has been highly engaging, says Monica. “Nexen pushes you to be your best by giving you responsibility and allowing you to gain skills. You’re not stuck crunching data.” “You also get a lot of guidance with your career. If you know your end goal, Nexen will do their best to get you there. If you’re not sure about where you want to specialize, they’ll help you find your passion. As long as you take an active role in learning and gaining skills, you’ll be rewarded.”
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Online Career Fair Magazine
A GREAT PLACE TO WORK Nexen Energy ULC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, is an independent, global energy company operating in some of the world’s most significant basins including the UK North Sea, offshore West Africa, the United States and Western Canada. We are strategically focused on three businesses: conventional oil and gas, oil sands and shale gas/oil. Nexen has over 2,500 employees, with more than half working in Canada. The company is the recipient of many top employer awards and has been recognized for its training and skills development, employee engagement and community investment. Our people practices focus on individual growth, and managers and employees work together to map out tailored plans for career development. The foundation of our growth strategy is the energy and expertise of our high-performing employees. Key aspects of Nexen’s work environment include: working with integrity, collaborating within teams to drive better results, and upholding our strong track record of safe, reliable and environmentally responsible development.
Nexen’s owner, CNOOC (China National Offshore Oil Corporation) Limited, is a global energy powerhouse. The company is China’s largest producer of offshore crude oil and natural gas and one of the largest independent oil and gas exploration and production companies in the world. CNOOC Limited has four major producing areas in offshore China as well as oil and gas assets in Asia, Africa, North America, South America and Oceania.
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WHY WORK FOR NEXEN? Because you value innovation and seek opportunity. Tap into your spirit of adventure – join Nexen, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, as we put innovative ideas to work to get the most energy out of every barrel. Our high standards of integrity and governance have earned us a global reputation for valuing the big picture: people, safety and the environment. Check out Nexen for the best opportunities to grow your career.
The Nexen Student Connection
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@nexencampus
Online Career Fair Magazine
R
ETHINKING ECESSION by Saimia Asad
Canada officially went into recession on September 1. While this news may be especially daunting for students of the science and engineering faculties, it is not all gloom and doom for students and alumni of these fields. Although many oil and gas companies are experiencing massive layoffs, many are hiring as well. Some companies prefer to hire students and interns in times of economic vulnerability as the price of hiring experienced professionals is significantly higher. Therefore, now is as good a time as any for students to seek careers related to science and engineering. And what better way to do so than attending the upcoming Science and Engineering Career Fair. The Science and Engineering Career Fair provides students with great opportunities to network with individuals in their respective fields, inquire about career paths and gain invaluable career advice from established professionals. Amongst the wide range of companies present are Nexen, Stantec Consulting Ltd, Imperial Oil Services of Canada, ConocoPhillips, and the Public Service Commission of Canada. The career fair provides students with opportunities to seek employment with these companies as well as with smaller, local ones. The 130 employers present will be able to discuss your inquiries about internships, summer employment and full-time. Students attending will have the opportunity to receive invaluable knowledge regarding career and lasting connections with the employers present. However, the rewards reaped from the career fair are in congruence with the effort and preparation a student puts into it. Career Services provides a wide range of workshops and services to enable a student prepare themselves and make the most out of their experience at career fairs. Career Services provides feedback on resumes, practice for interviews and even advice on how to dress professionally and appropriately. And of course, students from other faculties are welcome to come as well and learn about how their degrees could also apply to careers in these industries as well. Haskayne School of Business students are always needed in marketing, finance and administrative departments. Students from the Faculty of Arts can seek positions as financial analysts or public relations specialists, for example. A growing concern amongst the many engineering companies’ operations are issues related to cultural sensitivity, particularly in regards to the First Nations people. Students of Canadian History or Aboriginal studies would have much to offer to the science and engineering industries. The event takes place on campus at the Jack Sympson Gymnasium on Tuesday, September 22 and features 130 companies that are ready to hire. A full list can be found on Career Services’ website, as well as a map and many helpful tips. 2015 Science & Engineering
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Online Career Fair Magazine
careers.slb.com
85
years of
innovation ~115,000 employees >140 nationalities ~ 85 countries of operation Who are we?
We are the world’s largest oilfield services company1. Working globally—often in remote and challenging locations— we invent, design, engineer, and apply technology to help our customers find and produce oil and gas safely.
1Based on Fortune 500 ranking 2011. Copyright © 2015 Schlumberger. All rights reserved.
Who are we looking for?
Every year, we need thousands of graduates to begin dynamic careers in the following domains: n Engineering, Research and Operations n Geoscience and Petrotechnical n Commercial and Business
What will you be?
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To the optimist, the glass is HALF FULL. To the pessimist, the glass is HALF EMPTY. To the engineer, the glass is
TWICE
THE SIZE IT NEEDS TO BE. -Unknown
You are the future of engineering. Kiewit is waiting for you.
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Online Career Fair Magazine
390
University of Calgary graduates currently work at Stantec
University of Calgary graduates are shaping the future of their communities with Stantec. Ervina helped bring curiosity and wonder to Calgary with TELUS Spark, The New Science Centre. What will you create? stantec.com/designyourcareer Ervina Hendra, U of C graduate 2005
Stantec is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran.
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PROBLEMS
to
POSSIBILITIES
Kelly Galant, CCDP, Career Specialist
“Great leaders are not defined by the absence of weakness, but rather by the presence of clear strengths.” ~ John Zenger
D
o you spend more time focused on your weaknesses or your strengths? I presume that we spend lesser time on our strengths and most tend to have a critical self. If you are open to making a paradigm shift in your mindset, you could be cultivating a more accurate self-assessment; stimulate tendencies and attention to, “what is right in you, and what is right for you” versus “what is wrong;” your self-schema could change. I welcome you to contemplate a perspective, philosophies and principles that do not deny people to experience their problems and challenges, discerns that everyone has potential and emphasis is not placed on the problem or the deficits of the individual for cause. Through strengths based discovery and development; engagement in strengths based conversations and strength spotting, meaningful change can transpire and you can go from thinking: “I will believe when I see it – I believe and I see.”
L
ike any transformation, this practice instructs self-reflection, but evidently, alongside with observations from others and listening to others. Have you ever been curious and asked someone what they see and hear from you? It is quite possible that you do not see yourself congruent with another’s perspective; an inverse relationship.
I
f you are receiving positive evaluations from others and if you see yourself as worthy and capable, this can be a driver to develop a self-concept that is willing to see the past, present and future self – the person you are innately and the person that you may become.
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Online Career Fair Magazine
I find that it is often the case, whether it is with students, co-workers, spouses, or whomever, in work or personal lives that we spend more time looking at what is in the gap of where we were, where we are and where we want to be. I invite you to relentlessly nurture and build upon the good in your life, repair the worst and affirm your progress in the meantime. In my opinion, Martin Seligman states it best in this declaration:
“
We can remain pleasantly stuck at this stage or we can go on to experience the Good Life, which is achieved through discovering our unique virtues and strengths, and employing them creatively to enhance our lives.” His extensive research shared that the most satisfied, upbeat people were those who had discovered and exploited their unique combination of “signature strengths…”
H
ave you ever heard of the Miracle Question? The miracle question is a strategy used to have the individual envision as if the “problem(s) is gone.” A technique that can offer an incentive to catapult from a problem saturated career story or narrative into construction of new reality.
“
Suppose tonight, while you slept, a miracle occurred. Imagine that when you awake tomorrow, a magical transformation has taken place. Your life has turned out exactly the way you always wanted it. Your world is not as it is now; it is just as you would like it to be. You have resolved the problem(s) and there is renowned acceptance to anything that was bothering and all barriers have dispersed. What has changed?”
A
teacher, advisor, friend, manager, parent or whomever, can support inquiry and examination into what would noticeably be different and better in this novel life. Robust questioning can probe descriptions of how that future and even preferred or possible self would be different when that problem no long exists or intrinsic resources are determined. This technique is a query and the trust, dialogue and interactions could create the means for individuals to survey the situation and participate in strength based conversations. A probing question such as: “How have you managed to handle this thus far?” is an approach that grounds in a strengths perspective and an individual’s resiliency, and may offer an opportunity to reveal a repertoire of problem solving strategies, coping skills and capacities. I recall a personal story of a friend who studied long and hard for this one particular exam that would influence her career and allow her to practice her profession. When she shared her pass and mark, my initial thoughts and response was: “no surprise, you are very clever,” surprisingly, her reaction seemed closer to shock to me. I said to her, ”I knew you had it in you.” She stared at me with a look of confusion; it seemed that this simple observation brought her to tears.
-CONTINUED-
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I
want to see individuals come to appreciate self and others, rather than endure a bias to a negative collection of beliefs. My underlying motives to stimulate strengths conversations and development is to act as an agent of change, to source motivation, to promote individual potential and levels of commitment and achievement, excellence and even mastery.
W
hat do strengths sound like or look like in action? Well, why not call upon an individual and ask: “Tell me when you are at your best?” In my experience, this can be a paramount example that instigates more ease for conversation, memories that narrate words such as “I love it when...” and an observable change in energy from the speaker and even a vision. The rate of speech may be rapid and increase as the story continues, the individual seems ‘present’ in conversation with you and then you hear something like, and “the pieces would just fall into together.” Now, that would make me curious – you? I would be listening for clues in that conversation that indicates a yearning for an activity, even an attraction. Has there been any insight into an inherent, natural ability that allows this individual to approach something new yet seamlessly achieve success, a rapid learning or even a ‘glimpse of excellence.’ Has there been any gauge that denotes the “feeling of time flies or that feeling of flow. Have often do you feel this?
S
o think about the next time you get faced with the critical and commonly asked interview questions, “What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses?” I wonder if you will be sure of self. Will you give, what I call, “the old song and dance” or say something that you think the potential employer wants or needs to hear? I believe that so many individuals take this standard question for granted. I would guess that the crucial stage of knowing self within career development gets bypassed. You do need to be the best at offering a compelling and authentic declaration that describes you in the most accurate, specific and relevant way, as interviewers have heard many clichéd answers. Thomas Jefferson once said, “Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom”. Finding ways to discover, label and invest time and energy into practice to your strengths while working on your weaknesses better qualifies you and generates commodity. So, my proposition to you is, learn to affirm and apply your signature strengths. You didn’t get a call back from that interview? Well, the individual who is problem focused will most likely dwell on “what’s wrong with me?” while the solution-focused candidate will focus on gaining feedback and reflect
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Online Career Fair Magazine
on what may work better next time. So I ask you, “Is the glass half full or half empty? Will it be Problems or Possibilities?”
I
f you would like to learn more about the StrengthsFinder tool used by the Career Services office, University of Calgary or would like to complete the assessment for yourself, here is the link for your reference: https://www.gallupstrengthscenter.com/?gclid=CKCFuYG4u78CFYpffgodkhYAPA
“See the positive side, the potential and make an effort.” ~ Dalai Lama
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Discover what’s possible for your career. There’s more than one way to make a difference. That’s why at Imperial, one of Canada’s largest companies and a leading member of the country’s energy industry, we offer multiple career paths that align with your ambitions. From developing new innovations in the oil sands to delivering high quality petroleum products, whatever your career, you’ll always have a place on a team that’s working towards creating a better future. Currently hiring students and graduates in engineering, science and business.
imperialoil.ca/careers
At ExxonMobil Business Support Centre Canada, we rely on information technology (IT) to explore, develop, produce and market petroleum and petrochemical products. IT services support a large 11010 and growing global customer base, including Imperial, one of Canada’s premier employers. The biggest challenges attract the best. If you are looking for a career that includes a variety of computing challenges and the opportunity to support diverse global businesses, then a career in IT at ExxonMobil is the place for you.
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2015 Science & Engineering Career Fair Directory Organization
Sponsor
Organization
Sponsor
ABB Canada
Bronze
1
Bronze
www.accenture.com
Emerson Process Management
Accenture Inc.
Bronze
46
Aecon
53
www.aecon.com
Engineered Air
Alberta Electric System Operator
65
www.aeso.ca
Epic Silver
85
www.altagas.ca
ExxonMobil Companies of Canada
AltaGas Ltd.
43
www.altalink.ca
Fluor Canada Ltd.
Bronze
11
www.amecfw.com
35
www.arcresources.com
Garmin Cochrane / Dynastream Innovations
Arcurve Inc.
79
www.arcurve.com
Athabaskan Resource Company
62
BAUER Foundations Canada
49
Cana
90
AltaLink
Booth # Website
Bronze
AMEC ARC Resources Ltd.
Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.
Silver
Bronze
Canadian Society of Exploration Geophysicists
24
www.athabaskan.com
General Dynamics Canada Golder Associates Ltd. Graham Construction
www.bauerfoundations.ca
Hatch
www.cana.ca
HRPO Group of Companies
www.cnrl.com
IEEE
www.cseg.ca
Imperial Oil Companies of Canada
Hitachi ID Systems
CH2M Hill
Bronze
42
www.ch2m.com
ISNetworld
Clark Builders
Bronze
41
www.clarkbuilders.com
Jacobs
Client Spectrum
Bronze
44
www.clientspectrum.com
JV Driver Group
CollegePro
Bronze
18
www.collegepro.com
Keyera Corp.
Communications Security Establishment
Silver
www.cse-cst.gc.ca/en
Keywest Projects Ltd.
75
Computer Modelling Group Silver Ltd.
72
Conestoga-Rovers & Associates Ltd. (GHD)
8
ConocoPhillips Canada Resources Corp.
Bronze
67
www.cmgl.ca www.ghdcanada.com/cra
Lehigh Hanson Materials Limited
10
www.corrpro.ca
Crescent Point Energy Corp.
52
www.crescentpointenergy. com
45
www.dailyinst.com
Defence Research and Development Canada
58
Department of National Defence
55
Dillon Consulting
84
www.dillon.ca
EFCO Forms
51
www.efcoforms.com
Emco Corporation
60
www.emcoltd.com
Online Career Fair Magazine
Lafarge Canada Inc.
www.cea.ca
Corrpro Canada Inc.
www.drdc-rddc.gc.ca/en www.forces.gc.ca/en
Silver
Gold
Koch Fertilizer Canada, ULC Leadership & Student Engagement
57
Bronze
Kiewit
www.conocophillips.ca
Consulting Engineers of Alberta
Daily Thermetrics
18
2
www.new.abb.com/ca
Bronze
Lockheed Martin
Silver
LoyaltyOne
Bronze
MathPro Learning Center Inc. Matrix Solutions Inc. Maxxam Analytics Microsoft Corporation MMM Group Limited Nexen NOVA Chemicals Corp. NovAtel Inc.
Platinum
Exhibitor Directory Booth # Website
Organization
Sponsor
Booth # Website
3
www2.emersonprocess. com
Pacer Corporation
Bronze
30
www.pacercorp.com
Pason Systems
Silver
36
www.pason.com
4
www.engineeredair.com
25
www.careers.epic.com
PCL Construction Management Inc.
56
38
www.exxonmobil.com/careers
Pembina Pipeline Corporation
83
71
www.fluor.com/canada
PotashCorp
50
www.potashcorp.com
www.dynastream.com
Precision Drilling Company
26
www.precisiondrilling.com
22
www.gdcanada.com
Public Service Commission of Canada
47
15
www.golder.ca
PwC
81
www.graham.ca
Quorum Business Solutions
6
www.qbsol.com
19
www.hatch.ca
Sanjel Corporation
82
www.sanjel.com
27
www.hitachi-id.com
86
www.hrpo.com
Schlumberger Technology Corporation
61
Foyer
www.southern-alberta.ieee. ca
Silver
Gold
40
77
www.pcl.com www.pembina.com
www.psc-cfp.gc.ca www.pwc.com/ca/en
www.slb.com
Shell Canada Limited
5
www.shell.ca
Solium Capital
21
www.solium.com
Sproule Associates Limited
Bronze
68
www.sproule.com
Stantec Consulting Ltd.
Gold
34
www.stantec.com
www.isn.com
Synopsys, Inc.
Silver
39
www.synopsys.com
7
www.jacobs.com
Talisman Energy Inc.
Bronze
69
www.talisman-energy.com
89
www.jvdriver.com
Teck Coal Limited
Silver
74
www.teck.com
20
www.keyera.com
TELUS
63
www.telus.com
12
www.keywestprojects.ca
TransCanada
32
www.transcanada.com
33
www.kiewit.com
University of Alberta
80
www.ualberta.ca
www.kochfertilizer.com
University of Toronto
17
www.utoronto.ca
73
www.visier.com
Westpower Equipment Ltd.
14
www.westpower.ca
WorleyParsons
87
www.worleyparsons.com
Yellowhead Road & Bridge
54
www.yrb.ca
37 88
66 31 Foyer
www.imperialoil.ca/careers
www.lafarge-na.com www.ucalgary.ca/leadership
13
www.lehighhansoncanada. com
76
www.lockheedmartin.ca
70
www.loyalty.com
28
Visier
Bronze
Silver
www.mathpro.ca
59
www.matrix-solutions.com
48
www.maxxam.ca
64
www.microsoft.com/en-ca
23
www.mmmgrouplimited. com
78
www.nexencnoocltd.com
9
www.novachem.com
29
www.novatel.com
Find this directory & the Online Career Fair Magazine at ucalgary.ca/careers
#SciEng2015
2015 Science & Engineering
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You Belong Here
We’re hiring
interns from Computer Science and from Computer, Software, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering.
Pason is a highly successful technology company based in Calgary. We have a “work hard, play hard” culture where you’re encouraged to be creative, challenge the norm, and really contribute to the business. It’s a place where you can transform theory into practice, gain lifelong friendships, and have fun while doing it. It’s a place where you can be yourself. You belong at Pason.
So come on, be a Pasonite!
Go to Internships on www.pason.com/careers to find out more.
GET STARTED WITH ARC
Technical Expertise // Sustainable Growth // Outstanding People // Passion // Commitment ARC Resources is an industry leader and one of Canada’s largest oil and gas producers. Our strong track record of success has been built on our core belief that outstanding people, combined with a great corporate culture create a winning environment. ARC is dedicated to providing meaningful work experience and development opportunities. Come visit us at the Science & Engineering Career Fair
Join us after the Science & Engineering Career Fair at our Information Session
September 10:00am – 4:00pm
September 4:30pm – 6:00pm
22
at the Upper Track, Jack Simpson Gym. ARCRESOURCES.COM
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at SB 144, Science B Building.
Dedicated to Research and Development
Apply ▪ Your Scientific Knowledge
Opportunities for Students:
CALGARY
HOUSTON
BOGOTA
Engineering ▪ Reservoir ▪ Chemical ▪ Petroleum ▪ Electrical ▪ Mechanical
CARACAS
LONDON
▪ Computer Science ▪ Mathematics ▪ Physics
DUBAI
KUALA LUMPUR
Copyright © 2015 Computer Modelling Group Ltd. 15.CMG.16
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TWEET AND INSTAGRAM USING
#SciEng2015 TO WIN GREAT PRIZES! from
Career Services 2015 Science & Engineering
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I R A I E A T C F E S R R I R P I A EE FA T CA R R S R I A EE FA IP AR T R C R S R A I E P I A C E FA T C R S R R A I C EE FA TIP IPS R T R R I A E C E FA AIR AIR R F F R A E C E ER ER R R E E E A R E R Be confident!
Approach each employer with a smile and direct eye contact. Practicing before hand with a friend may seem silly but it will help.
Have other tips? Tweet us @UofC_CS
Come Prepared
Having business cards or your resume printed out will make you memorable.
Do your homework
Who do you want to see? Research and identify the companies that you really want to meet. Targeting employers will help you prioritize.
Dress Professionally
#C
are
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Online Career Fair Magazine
It will help you be confident and make you stand out. Wear something that you feel comfortable in and choose shoes you can walk in!
A ER IR IP S E P T A I F R T R A R AI IR R I E F A A E R ER R F R F R E E E E E R E E R A R R R A A A A C C C C S PS S S S I T TIP TIP TIP R R T R R R I I I I A A A F F F FA F R R E R E R E E E E n-
nd E a e c Scien 2015 ng Fair ri ginee
Ask Intelligent Questions Having pre-researched questions will impress the employer & give them something unique to remember you by.
30 Second Commercial
Prepare to introduce yourself in 30 seconds; focus on: who you are, your education and your career goals (short and long term)
Don’t Travel in Groups
Look out for your career and travel alone. You’re more approachable alone and you can prioritize who you want to meet.
Visit the Career Services booth at the Career Fair for more tips!
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The Benefits of Informational Interviews Garrett Beatty, Employer Relations Specialist, Career Services
Figuring out your career path will be one of the most challenging things you’ll ever have to do in your professional life, and part of why it’s so daunting is that choosing a career path is about trying to determine what kind of job you’ll be happy doing for the majority of your life. As I was coming to the end of my Master’s degree I realized I had a big decision to make: I could either start a PhD program, spending another four to five years as an academic, or I could move away from the academy and try to find a career. While I knew that I wanted to stay in the world of higher education, I realized I wasn’t yet ready to do a PhD. The obvious solution, and one that would allow me to continue working closely with students, was to find an administrative position on campus in which I could utilize the skills and education in teaching methodology and student engagement that I had developed throughout the course of my Master’s degree. My first step was to seek out the advice of the career advisor in the Faculty of Graduate Studies. She was able to offer me a lot of useful tips on applying for university administration roles, but the most useful piece of advice she gave me was to reach out to different department managers at the university to request informational interviews. While I knew that I wanted to find a role where I could interact with students on a regular basis, I wasn’t entirely sure what specific role I was most interested in. Informational interviews, she said, were a great way to figure out some of the different positions available on campus that would speak to my educational experience and interests. Initially, I was skeptical of the usefulness of conducting informational interviews, but I chose to heed her advice and began the process of reaching out to some of the contacts she had provided me with. I sent a brief email introducing myself, stated why I was interested in meeting for an informational interview, and asked if they would be willing to meet with me. While not all of the people I sent requests to replied, those who did were gracious and welcomed the idea of conducting an informational interview with me. After I had made several appointments, I took some time figuring out the best questions to ask 26
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to determine whether the positions I was most curious about spoke to my interests and would allow me to utilize the strengths I had cultivated over the course of my degrees. It is important to take informational interviews just as seriously as job interviews and an important component of this is going in to the interview prepared with questions to ask as well as some knowledge and understanding of the position(s) you’re interested in and the company or organization at which you’re interviewing. Keep in mind that while an informational interview isn’t about landing a job, it is an opportunity to make a positive first impression on someone who may be considering you for an employment opportunity sometime in the future. The more prepared you are, the more impressive you look. Several of the career advisors in my department say that an informational interview is a lot like a first date. This analogy isn’t far from the truth because the reality of the situation is that quite frequently interviews aren’t only about qualifications and work experience but also personal chemistry between the interviewer and interviewee. While an informational interview isn’t about getting a specific job so much as it is about finding out what it would be like to be in the role, there is certainly the bonus of creating a contact within an organization at which you may eventually wish to work, and that contact is more likely to remember you if the two of you make a positive personal connection. Considering the current job market, it’s incredibly useful to make connections with people currently employed in industries connected to your interests and experience, people who may be willing and able to speak on your behalf when a position is made available and you are selected for an interview. If I can give you one very important piece of advice when conducting informational interviews it is this: do not bring a copy of your resume with you to your interview as it may come across like you are trying to get hired for a position without being invited by the employer for a job interview. Certainly, if the individual who conducts the informational interview asks for a copy of your resume at the end of your conversation offer to email it to them but do not preemptively provide them with a copy. Finally, after the interview is over, make sure you take the time to email the interviewer to thank them for their time. Not only is this an acknowledgement of the fact that they took time out of their day to speak with you, but it is also a way of keeping a line of communication open with a potential employer and industry contact. If you, like me, were skeptical about the usefulness of informational interviews, let me assure you that they are a great place to start when you are unsure of what kind of career you would like to pursue. Trust me, I know – if it wasn’t for one request for an informational interview and a manager willing to sit down with me and discuss the various different positions in her department, I wouldn’t be in the career I’m in today. I am proof that the informational interview approach can and does work and that, by utilizing it, you can find a job that you can enter into with a fuller understanding of the role, as well as the knowledge and confidence that it is a job you can be passionate about and invested in.
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WE ARE BUILDING A DYNAMIC TEAM.
BE A PART OF IT! Whether you are just graduating, returning to work or a seasoned professional looking for a new challenge, AltaLink is a great place to grow. Visit www.altalink.ca/careers to view our current openings.
Let’s connect
Accountability + Performance We’re finding and producing the oil and gas needed to power the world. It’s what we do. And we’re fueled by a team of collaborative, innovative and responsible people — people who are more than just their qualifications and job titles. It’s how we do it. We know your career is only part of your life, and we want it to be a great part. We want to know what matters most to you. WhatMattersMost.cop.com
© ConocoPhillips Company. 2015. All rights reserved.
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Launch your career as a Technology System
Integrator Consultant!
Be part of the rapidly evolving world of Digital Marketing.
www.clientspectrum.com
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I HATE
when the term “networking” gets thrown around. What even is networking now? Meeting someone, adding them on LinkedIn, and then eagerly anticipating them to accept your invite so that they can become a “connection”? This lacks substance and, even more importantly in commerce, rapport.
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up to
of all jobs filled are referral based.
So what can you do to make m e a n i n g f u l connections?
CHANCES are you already have an established network of which you have yet to take full advantage. Family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues are a great starting point: often times, within these networks lies a rich source of business professionals who are willing to meet with you to discuss a wide range of job-seeking or businessrelated matters; whether it is individuals directly within this established network or a connection via someone in this group, a potential wealth of knowledge is within arm’s length once you start exploring these options. So ask. Ask your family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues whether they know anyone with particular knowledge about an industry you’re interested in. THERE are plenty of other ways to branch off this immediate path of networking as well: Corporate information sessions, trades shows, and of course, your own University of Calgary Career Services, provide unique networking opportunities where you can speak with tenured professionals about what they do and how they found success in their field. If you are looking for a quick overview discussing the basics of networking, Career Services offers Networking 101 each semester to go over the ins-and-outs of a proper introduction and business interaction. IF you are thinking, “Okay, but what’s in it for me? Why should I dedicate time and energy into improving my professional network?” Well, the statistics of vacant jobs that are not advertised publicly are staggering. Up to 60% of all jobs filled are referral based . In other words, your network is likely to get you that first job, not your resume. So, with that in mind...
A
lways strive to have a vibrant and valued network with connections that are actually meaningful.
And hey, maybe after you have met with someone you feel will assist your professional growth, consider sending them an invitation to connect on LinkedIn.
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We work a little differently. Because at CH2M, we accomplish more by working together. Connect with us on LinkedIn.
www.ch2m.com
Š 2015 CH2M HILL
Launch your career as a Technology System
Integrator Consultant!
Be part of the rapidly evolving world of Digital Marketing.
www.clientspectrum.com
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©2015 Accenture. All rights reserved.
Explore Your Future in Energy
Who We Are
We are an industry leading oil and gas producer based out of Calgary, Alberta with operations in North America, the UK, and Offshore Africa.
Who We Hire
Bring your talent and passion to a global organization at the forefront of business, technology and innovation. Collaborate with diverse, talented colleagues and leaders who support your success. Help transform organizations and communities around the world. Sharpen your skills through industry-leading training and development, as you build an extraordinary career. Discover how great you can be.
Accounting and Finance Engineering Environment Communications Geology and Geophysics Human Resources Information Systems Oil and Gas Marketing Operations Petroleum Land Management Stakeholder Relations Supply Management
accenture.ca/campus
Apply Online at
Be greater than.
www.cnrl-careers.com
MAKE BIG THINGS HERE,
INCLUDING A
DIFFERENCE I AM A BUILDER. I AM FLUOR.
GET A GREAT START ON YOUR CAREER AT TRANSCANADA With pipelines, gas storage and power generation, millions of North Americans depend on us for the energy they need. We’re looking for new graduates and students who are ready to begin shaping their careers through contributing to energy infrastructure in North America. If that’s you, visit our website at jobs.transcanada.com.
Whether it’s a challenging EPFC project, a rewarding career, or stronger communities, Fluor employees have the drive to build and make it a reality.
Success starts here. Help us build long-lasting energy solutions that matter.
Build with Fluor today. www.fluor.com/careers
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©2015 Fluor Corporation. ADCA123615
2015 Science & Engineering
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?
WANTED: SOMEONE UNIQUE by Andrea Geeraert
So you have a degree. Congratulations! After all the pictures are taken, the speeches are given, and the champagne sipped, you’re left bright eyed & bushy tailed with your degree in one hand and your pride in the other. You’ve never worked so hard for something, slept so little, or spent so much on textbooks. So why aren’t employers chomping at the bit to hire you?! Did you know that more than 69% of Canadians aged 25-44 are post-secondary graduates?* That’s right- you’re competing with 70% of the working population for a job. In fact, Canada has more post-secondary graduates than any other country within the OECD & G7. Sorry to say, but that fancy degree you’re holding won’t make you special. Cue Sigh. But wait- There’s good news! Your degree may not set you apart, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need it. Employers need you to qualify for a job with your degree, but it’s not actually what they are most focused on. In fact, in many cases, they’re not even concerned what kind of degree you have. Here’s where all the ‘blood sweat & tears’ that went into your degree pay offemployers know how much hard work it takes, and they want to hear your unique story. You will get hired for what makes you ‘YOU,’ not the piece of paper hanging on your wall. Here’s the thing, companies know that they can teach you to use their computer system, to balance a spreadsheet, to write a proposal, or code a website. Sure, most jobs require experience in some technical skill. But the truth of the matter is that employers are looking for people who have attributes that cannot be taught. I’ve lost count of the amount of times I’ve heard an HR rep tell me that what they want most is to find someone with the right personality for the job. They’re not jumping out of their seats for a bachelor’s degree, they’re jumping out of their seats for the candidates who have the character they want. Ultimately, you need to know yourself before you can sell yourself. I’m not talking about taking a year sabbatical into the Himalayan mountains to meditate (although, it couldn’t hurt). I’m talking about the selfdiscoveries you make during 34
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exciting accomplishments, or challenging, character-building moments. Furthermore, being able to effectively communicate the connection between the employer’s needs and your personality traits is imperative. The better your understanding of what skills and attributes make you unique, the more articulate you can be in an interview when it comes to answering the questions that count. So how do you become better at talking about yourself? You learn the universal language of the corporate world, of course! Career Services at the University of Calgary offers formal assessments to help you do just that- MBTI, Strong Interest, and StrengthsQuest can help you build a vocabulary around your unique attributes that recruiters will recognize. Find a way to focus your job search efforts to areas where your unique person will fit with a company’s needs (check out: “What Color is Your Parachute”a resource I highly recommend). Finally, make sure what you want aligns with the jobs you’re searching for. You’re much more likely to build a sustainable career (and actually get the job in the first place) if you’re choosing a path that will spark your passions. So hang that degree up on the wall. Celebrate with your friends and family- you’ve earned it! But remember that the success of your job search relies on what can’t be read from your resume. In all the excitement of stepping foot into the big, exciting world of ties and professionalism, remember that your most important characteristics cannot be measured by grade point average. Instead, they are measured by the words you use to describe them and the experiences that have enhanced them. Remember that what the world is looking for is not your degree, it’s you. *According to Employment & Social Development Canada
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