Meet OFNTSC Asset Management Specialist, Madison Hill!

In anticipation of International Women's Day on March 8th, we're highlighting some of the young inspirational women who are paving the way for women in STEM here at OFNTSC.

Check out the interview below with Madison Hill, and be sure to follow @OFNTSC on social media to meet some of our other incredible team members!

Q: As a young woman working in a STEM field, what would you say inspired you to pursue the career you're in right now?
A: Growing up, I spent a lot of time on the land with my family hunting, fishing and just being outside. When I was in high school I had the opportunity to work with Ontario Parks as a Student Park Ranger. During this summer job, I learned that I could take my passion for being on the land and learning from the natural world and apply it to a long, exciting career working in STEM & natural resource management. I worked for several years in the municipal & provincial government, I loved my job but felt something was missing. When I began researching Indigenous Organizations in the STEM sector and found OFNTSC, I knew that I was meant to be using my background & education to support building capacity in our First Nations communities. 

Q: Do you think it's important for women to pursue a career in STEM fields and why?
A: Absolutely! The STEM field was quite male dominated when I first began working almost 10 years ago. Since that time, women are emerging as powerhouses in this field and it has been amazing to have female leadership & mentorship from women who have paved the way. 

Q: What do you love the most about your chosen career?
A: I really love the diversity of this career. There truly are a million different pathways & opportunities you can take which always makes my work so exciting and refreshing. Further, I love seeing how our work directly impacts the future of our First Nation communities in a good way.  

Q: How do you incorporate Traditional Indigenous or Ecological Knowledge into your work?
A: After working for a few years after my undergrad, I actually went back to school where I got a master's in education specifically in the implementation of Traditional Ecological Knowledge. There is no western science without Traditional Knowledge. I would say Traditional Ecological Knowledge is always at the centre of what I do and I always try to bring that local cultural or ecological knowledge into my work. 

Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?
A: To take time to "stop & smell the roses"! It is so easy when you're starting out to get caught in the hustle & bustle of trying to get your career started that we forget how important it is to enjoy the journey and to appreciate the world around us!