
Amanda Buer
Project Manager & Consultant
ESRI Canada
Sector: Technology
Born: ON
Location: ON
Education: College/Technical / University
Type: Career Profile
Subjects:
Computer Science, Earth Science, Geography

I really enjoy planning and being able to communicate with others. Being a project manager, I get to apply those skills on a daily basis. I also get to work on many different projects. This helps create variety in the work I get to do. No day is ever the same and I am always learning new things. I also really like the company I work for and the team I get to work with on a daily basis. I think a good work culture makes such a difference. I work from home and get to do some travel across Canada. This makes a difference in my life, as I am able to have a good work, life balance.
When I was in school, I had absolutely no idea this is where I would be today! When I finished my postgraduate work in GIS, I got a summer student work opportunity. I got to GPS infrastructure in provincial parks in Alberta. That summer position evolved into me becoming a project coordinator for the program. In that role, I supervised 14 staff across the province. I also worked at implementing the software I do now in my current job. One opportunity lead to another. My job/role is constantly evolving and it's something I really enjoy. Check my LinkedIn profile for more information.
Project management opens up so many doors as every industry has projects that have to be managed. I think it is important to specialize in something you are passionate about. If you enjoy planning and managing, project management would just come natural to you!
After work, I spend a lot of time with my new puppy, Etta. I enjoy training her and taking her on adventures. I enjoy back road car rides, finding hidden gems. I love experimenting with cooking and trying to create new recipes. I also enjoy yoga. Additionally, I help project manage a Canadian R&B artist on the side. This allows me to be a project manager in a whole other industry.
In my role as Project Manager at ESRI Canada, I manage a variety of software implementation projects. I ensure project deadlines are met and communicate with the client’s project team. I also ensure all project costs are delivered on budget. There is a lot of administrative work with this role but it is all part of delivering a successful project. I also help create proposals for new projects for potential new clients.
Because I have a technical background and experience installing software, I get to play a technical role on some projects. I work with the client to configure the software to meet their needs. I also run training and workshops for the client’s employees.
I was born/grew up in: I was born and raised in Sudbury, Ontario and moved to Kelowna and Edmonton throughout my career journey.
I now live in: Toronto, Ontario
I completed my training/education at: I did an undergraduate degree in Geography with a minor in Sociology from Laurentian University in Sudbury. I then did a post grad in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) online from Fanshawe College in London, ON. Then I did Project Management at NAIT College in Edmonton, AB. followed by obtaining my Project Management Professional certification.
When I was
- Art
- Drama
- Geography
- Foods & Nutrition
- Physical Education / Health
- Technology
- Computer Science
- Music
- Brought people together
- Enjoyed doing things on my own
- Liked helping people
- Organized activities for my friends
- Enjoyed working with my hands
- Was motivated by success
- Wanted to be in charge
- Liked being given free range to explore my ideas
- Engaged in volunteer activities
- Felt great satisfaction in getting good grades
- Wasn't sure what I wanted to do
- Engaged in activities such as fishing