We are so interested to hear from 2 incredible women in STEM from the Canadian Department of National Defense and Canadian Armed Forces. Tune in to learn more about their journeys and wisdoms built along the way. We hope that you will join Captain Kalina Yurick, Lieutenant-Colonel Melissa Reyes, and iWIST for a Zoom Lunch & Learn Zoom on Nov 10th!
Lieutenant-Colonel Melissa Reyes
Communications & Electronics Engineering Officer (CELE)
Lieutenant-Colonel Melissa Reyes has served over thirty-three years as a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) officer and is now specializing in space-related capabilities and tasks for the CAF. Her various military experiences, around the world and Canada, have given her a sound knowledge of satellites and space systems, operations, and management. Among her many assignments, Melissa has worked at the Canadian Space Agency, 12th Space Warning Squadron Greenland, North American Aerospace Defense (NORAD) Headquarters, and Kandahar Airfield (Afghanistan). She is presently employed as the Section Head for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Space Systems, within the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Melissa received her Master of Sciences Degree, specializing in Remote Sensing, from the University of Colorado (2008), and completed the International Space University / Space Studies Program (2012).
Melissa has been involved in various Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) initiatives and employment equity groups throughout her career and is honoured to be part of this event for Island Women in Science and Technology.
Captain Kalina Yurick
Captain Kalina Yurick joined the military in 2011 and attended the Royal Military College of Canada to earn her degree in Aeronautical Engineering. Throughout her time at school, she fenced for the RMC varsity team. Some highlights included captaining for her last two years and representing Canada at the World Military games in South Korea.
After school, she began flight training in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Captain Yurick completed her Phase 3 training on the CT-140 Harvard II and transitioned to Qualified Flight Instructor at the school for her first posting. She earned her Master of Science in Aeronautics Education throughout her instructor tour.
Captain Yurick’s current posting is with the 407 Long Range Patrol Squadron in Comox, British Columbia. She currently flies the CP-140 Aurora, which is a platform used for anti-submarine warfare and surveillance.
Her husband is also a pilot at 407 Squadron, where they are fortunate to work and fly together. They tackle the challenges of maintaining a healthy work-life balance as a team while progressing through their careers.
WHERE: Zoom event (Link sent upon registration)
WHEN: November 10th, 11:30am - 12:30pm
FEE: Free to attend