Meet Elise Weissenberger
Elise completed her undergraduate degree in mathematics and mechanical engineering. Since graduating, she has followed her curiosity of the intersection of technology and people, bringing her to her current role where she focuses on product marketing and customer engagement strategy at Questrade, one of Canada’s leading online trading platforms. She currently lives in her hometown of Calgary, Alberta where she loves to spend time in the mountains, skiing and hiking, and spending time with her friends and family.
Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.), Applied Mathematics and Engineering - Mechanical Option, Queen's University, 2019
Who influenced you to pursue an education and/or career in STEM?
My parents both encouraged my curiosity toward STEM related fields growing up, and cultivated an environment where I was encouraged to pursue my interests and think critically about everything I was learning. They also modelled successful careers in STEM, showing me what was possible to achieve!
What has been your biggest challenge and how did you deal with it?
My first two jobs were at early stage start ups, during COVID! Working at a start up trying to prove our business is challenging at the best of times, but COVID introduced a whole new layer of uncertainty - challenging the very existence of the companies I worked for. During this time, I was so fortunate to learn from the teams that I worked with on how to adapt to new challenges, what it means to be a leader, and how to be focused on what drives meaningful outcomes against any barriers.
What do you believe is the best part about working in STEM?
The best part of working in STEM is being able to challenge the status quo and to enable better ways of doing things. Technology moves fast, and we have the ability to impact positive change by building new ways to approach age old problems. I have been fortunate to work at companies that have challenged industries known for their bureaucracy and rigidness - construction, real estate, and now finance. The pace of change inspires me every day, knowing that the improvements we are looking for aren’t as far away as we think.
“This is me graduating my undergrad!”
-Elise
