Isabel Deslauriers

About me

I was born/grew up in: I was born in Summit, New Jersey, USA but I grew up in the Eastern Townships in Québec.

I now live in: St-Eugène, Ontario, Canada

I completed my training/education at: I studied Electrical Engineering at McGill University and Science at John Abbott College.

What I do at work

Most of my time is spent helping our volunteer coordinators. These coordinators are in charge of volunteers at various locations in Canada. I answer their questions ("Do you know a good robotics activity?"), and help them with problems ("I'm having trouble recruiting volunteers!). I also help them get better at their role. I also spend a lot of time thinking about future directions for our volunteer program. I travel a lot across Canada to work directly with our volunteers.

My career path is

When I was a kid I always liked to invent stuff and understand how things worked. So I think I was meant to study engineering. But I only made the connection between my interests and the field of study when I participated in engineering outreach activities run by engineering students. From that point on, I decided to study engineering. After I finished engineering school, I had an opportunity to work with Let's Talk Science. Because of my own experiences growing up, I knew it was important work and would help kids make good career and life choices, so I jumped at it.

I am motivated by

At the beginning what motivated me most was getting kids interested in science. Over the years, I've become even more motivated by seeing how the experience can be transformational for our volunteers, too. Our volunteers gain communication and leadership skills that will serve them for their entire life. I also like that my job is varied. I also like that it's given me a chance to visit places across Canada in depth (even the far north). I also learned a lot of cool science!

How I affect people’s lives

Science and technology are all around us. So to make good decisions and thrive in this world, it's important for people to understand and be comfortable with science. Our volunteers work towards that by showing kids that science is fun and accessible. And I help them with their work!

Outside of work I

I love camping, kayaking, and traveling. I fly RC airplanes competitively. I'm also a beekeeper and I make stained glass art.

My advice to others

Explore everything that looks interesting to you; don't be afraid to try new things. But don't stress out too much trying to find 'the one right career' for you. There are many career paths that can make you happy.