Member Spotlight | Understanding the value of STEM community means a lot to Rayna

Rayna Davis, EIT at Avalon Mechanical

Are you a corporate or individual member?

My company, Avalon Mechanical, has a corporate membership.

When did you join or learn about iWIST?

We learned about iWIST back in January of this year. I met with the faculty chair of the co-op program at Camosun college – and she introduced me to iWIST. Avalon joined as a corporate member shortly after.

Why does iWIST matter to you and to the community?

This organization matters to me because women need to see other women in a male dominated field. It may feel isolating to not have a group within your field you can relate to, or feel comfortable sharing your experiences with, whether positive or negative. Organizations like iWIST help encourage women to join and stay in STEM, as it gives an inclusive space with individuals you can relate to.

What is your background in STEM?

I did a mechanical engineering degree at UVIC. I did the co-op program and after completing a co-op at Avalon Mechanical, decided to pursue a career in HVAC.* HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

On your career journey how important was it to have/ provide peer support? why?

For me it’d been extremely important to have peer support throughout my career journey. In university, I had a group of friends that supported each other in learning. When I joined the co-op program, I realized the companies I enjoyed working at most were those where I felt comfortable and supported by my peers. I returned to Avalon Mechanical as a full-time employee as I felt very included and comfortable in the working environment. When I joined iWIST I realized just how enjoyable it is to be a part of a community within STEM, of women. I was able to share career experiences with peers I knew would understand.

What do you see as an opportunity for women in STEM?

I believe we can support women in STEM by helping encourage more women to join the field. I realized after talking to my peers, most women who go into STEM (specifically Engineering) joined due to a family member or relative being in the field. We agreed none of us had a good understanding of the type of careers you could pursue in STEM (or with an engineering degree), and only joined with some encouragement from someone in the field.

I believe that engaging in community programs that get students exposed to STEM careers is important. I don’t think I would have pursued engineering had my dad not been an Engineer, based on my knowledge of the field. I also believe if young girls can hear from women about their careers in STEM, they will be more likely to pursue a career in the field. I am really excited about the upcoming iWIST panel event at Vic High School.

What is the difference between iWIST and other sector-based associations?

IWIST is different because it has such a strong focus on building community. I have felt extremely included and welcome at every event I have attended.

What would you say if someone asked you about iWIST?

I would tell them iWIST is a fantastic, supportive group to join if you are a minority in the STEM field. There is a strong sense of community – and people ensure you feel welcome.

What was the most fun you had at an iWIST event?

I had the most fun at my very first iWIST event. I attended a panel event at Swans pub. I loved listening to such successful women in the field and hear their career stories. It was a very cozy environment with appetizers and drinks – which made for the perfect evening.

Headshot of Rayna Davis