Finding your footing.
You moved to Canada full of hope—and credentials. A degree in engineering. Years of experience. But once you got here, it felt like starting over. Sound familiar?
WES 2025 Marketing volunteer Tanisha Sahu, sat down with past WES attendee Keyla Marmol.
TS: You came to Canada in 2009 with a Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering from Venezuela. What challenges did you face?
KM: My first challenge in Canada was the language barrier. I improved my communication skills through courses at Bow Valley College and ESL clubs at the Calgary Public Library—essential steps, even with a full-time role in the Oil and Gas sector. Strong communication was key to excelling in manufacturing progressive cavity pumps and developing elastomers for downhole applications.
One of my toughest projects was leading the planning and construction of an R&D lab while still learning the language. Managing a multidisciplinary team under those conditions pushed me to grow—and we succeeded in building a state-of-the-art facility that boosted our technical edge.
Once I settled, I launched a renovation business focused on bringing clients’ visions to life. Like many internationally trained professionals, the road wasn’t easy, but with resilience and support, I found my footing. Now, I’m passionate about helping others navigate that same path and giving back to the country I proudly call home.
TS: How did you come across WES?
KM: I first heard about WES through my work network. It sounded like exactly what I needed—an empowering space for women and gender-diverse folks in engineering.
TS: How did WES help you?
KM: WES was a game changer. Before the summit, I felt stuck on how to move my career forward. But after attending, especially the session “How to Humble Brag” by Claudia Gomez-Villeneuve, I felt inspired. That session taught me the power of owning your achievements and marketing yourself confidently—whether you’re networking, applying for jobs, or working on your P.Eng. It gave me the tools to push forward and keep progressing on my career journey.
TS: What advice do you have for someone pursuing their P.Eng.?
KM: Make it a priority! Getting your P.Eng. opens doors to higher recognition, better pay, and more career opportunities. I started working on mine right after WES 2023, and with support from Martha Vega-Smith, I’m planning to apply within the year.
TS: What would you say to someone considering attending WES?
KM: Don’t hesitate! WES isn’t just about networking—it’s about finding a supportive community that gets you and your goals. It’s an inspiring, inclusive space that empowers you to take control of your career and push boundaries. You’ll leave with new ideas, strategies, and connections that can truly propel you forward.
Learn more about Keyla’s journey and company Kainos Renovation Inc., which she founded and owns with Chantal Bracho, in this article: https://calgaryherald.com/life/homes/kainos-renovations-pays-it-forward-with-real-estate-guidance-for-new-canadians
#WES2025 #WomenInEngineering #PursueYourPEng #ImmigrantEngineers #EngineeringInCanada #WESCommunity #CareerShift #OwnYourStory #InternationallyTrainedProfessionals #HumbleBrag
