"Take the path that is right for you. I did not follow the traditional path for 'career-focused' women. While I delivered on my commitments at work and continued to take on new learning opportunities, my family was my priority. I liken my career path to a jungle gym as opposed to a ladder: it might not be straight up, but I’m still climbing toward the top. My encouragement to other women is that you can continue to advance and grow even if you don’t sell out to your career."

-- Sarah W., IT Portfolio Manager, Engineering Applications

"If something doesn’t go the way you want it to, don't think of it as a failure, look at it as an opportunity to do better. It's a challenge to try a bit harder. So take that extra step, then put that foot in front of the other and just keep going until you get where you want to be.  Make it yours."

-- Val S., Service Desk Manager

"As a woman in a male-dominated group, it can sometimes feel overwhelming.  Remember that all personality types are needed in our organization to help us create, develop and deliver complicated systems and products.  What you bring to the table as a woman is unique and valuable!"

-- Ruby H., Design Engineer & Technical Manager

"My advice to other women in my field is to let your passion for the job outweigh any disappointment over current challenges.  Strive to continuously educate yourself on industry trends and put them into practice.  Eventually, you’ll discover more solutions than setbacks."

-- Terri B., Engineering Manager

"Although it may not always be easy, always have a voice and dictate your worth. I would also recommend finding a good mentor and build a solid network of colleagues who are willing to listen and provide guidance for growth."

-- Carmel T., Project Manager

"Everyone has their own battles to fight. Don't let those battles, however large or small they feel, stop you from moving forward. If things don't work out, that's still ok.

Remember the power of small wins, track every minor achievement, and celebrate every victory, no matter how small, to bring a positive effect and boost morale. You are building momentum to create something big and successful."

-- Sharmila P., IT Manager

"I recognize that it is important for women to get recognized to the same degree as men.  That said, I have never really thought of myself as 'a woman in my field' whether as an engineer or a proposal manager.  What I project is that I am good at my job and that is what people notice and remember instead of my gender.  Take your gender out of the equation and focus on being as good at your job as you can possibly be."

-- Allison L., Proposal Manager