Engineers find fulfilment in federal roles

Michael Nassar joins the department through co-op programs

"I've always liked math and science," says Nassar. "In high school, I really enjoyed projects where we built a bridge, for example, and then tested how much weight you can put on before it fails. That's why it was natural for me to go into engineering." During his studies at the University of Ottawa, Nassar completed several co-op terms in various federal departments before accepting a position with PSPC.

"I went from working at a landfill and with National Research Council Canada to the job I do now, which is very different, supporting the renovation of the judicial precinct in the National Capital Region," Nassar explains. "In my current role, where I've been for nearly 4 years, I'm contributing to the rehabilitation of important heritage sites like the West Memorial Building and the Supreme Court of Canada Building. It's amazing to be part of the transformation of these historic assets."

The projects in the government differ from one another as much as Nassar's daily tasks, so there's never a dull moment. "I do mainly project management right now. I review design documents, requests for information, as well as change orders to make adjustments to projects during construction. That means collaborating with project partners to confirm the change makes sense and fits our budget and schedule."

While he's happy to venture into project management, Nassar notes that he has been able to satisfy his technical engineering interests at PSPC as well. "We have a centre of expertise with engineers in every specialty. I've sought their advice many times to address technical issues we've encountered on a project." For example, his team discovered that a significant number of the concrete beams in the West Memorial Building had less steel in them than expected, and he worked with the centre of expertise to find a solution to reinforce the beams. Through these interactions on technical matters, Nassar has gained the relevant work experience required to obtain his professional engineer's license.

According to Nassar, the compelling projects and array of engineering pathways to explore are the key benefits of a PSPC role. "In the private sector, you may have a chance to work on big projects, but you are usually limited to a single engineering discipline. At PSPC, you're involved in all aspects of the projects."

Beyond the scope it offers, PSPC has a culture of mentorship and possibilities for advancement. "I've benefitted from a lot of guidance and increasing responsibilities, which has allowed me to learn and gain new skills," says Nassar. "This is while taking advantage of a work-life balance that's rare in the industry."

Ryan Tannahill comes to the department from the private sector

"I initially aspired to be an architect," says Tannahill. "But, since I lacked artistic abilities and still wanted to build stuff and excelled in math, it made sense to choose engineering." After completing a degree in civil engineering at Carleton University, she landed a position with construction services firm EllisDon.

Tannahill was in the private sector for 4 years when, ready for a change, she joined PSPC in 2020 and embarked on a diverse and exciting roster of projects. "I led and delivered the first rapid modernization project to fit up a federal office, as part of a national workplace transformation initiative," she remarks.

She was asked if she wanted to continue with these projects or try her hand at others. "It was great to have a choice. I opted to broaden my horizons and go on another adventure," she explains. Tannahill was put in charge of a project on the "opposite end of the spectrum" from her previous work: a sewer system investigation at the Tunney's Pasture site, a campus of federal buildings in the National Capital Region. "My team assessed components and critical areas to determine how to extend the system's service life."

She now works on the Tunney's Pasture Redevelopment project, which aims to transform the site from a single-use federal employment hub into a sustainable and accessible mixed-use community. Her role involves managing the design of the roads and infrastructure, as well as engaging with the City of Ottawa and the public. "It's exhilarating to see the big picture, rather than just a small slice of the pie," she says.

Tannahill has found her PSPC career satisfying on many levels. "Outside of the freedom to move around, making sure we provide value for taxpayers adds a distinct layer of complexity and reward. It makes some challenges more significant, but the accomplishments are more meaningful," she notes.

She is quick to point out that government engineers also have many avenues to enhance their skills. "The talent here is amazing. We have all kinds of specialists you can consult to get exposed to their way of thinking." That's on top of formal education. "The government encourages continued learning, so I'm studying for my Project Management Professional designation. I've definitely been able to stay sharp," she concludes, "with a healthier approach to juggling work and private life than I've seen elsewhere."

As a female engineer, Tannahill says the support in the government is unparalleled. "There are many top-notch women in engineering here. The private sector may be in the vanguard in some aspects but, in terms of equality in this field, the government is leading and the private sector is catching up."