Ryley Gray

About me

I was born/grew up in: Red Deer, Alberta

I now live in: Calgary, Alberta

I completed my training/education at: I completed a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Civil) at the University of Calgary.

What I do at work

At Fluor Canada Ltd., my job is to perform engineering design of steel and concrete structures. I select the size, shape, connections, and other details for the structures. I base my selections on their weight and other loads (e.g., snow, wind, seismic) that they will see during their lifetime so that they can safely perform their function. I use math, science, and technology skills every day. In particular, physics and math skills are vital to my job. These skills and background knowledge also are important for making decisions, as you use the knowledge involved to make judgments.

I always work as part of a team. The size of the team varies with the project. However, I am usually working closely with a handful of people who all work as part of a larger team on a project. Communication and teamwork skills are critical. This is especially important, as some of the people I work with may not share the same language or culture as me.

My career path is

When I graduated high school, I decided to go into engineering school as I preferred science and math over other subjects. I went to the University of Calgary straight out of high school. At first, I thought I would do chemical engineering, as I liked chemistry best in high school. However, after my first year, I chose to go into civil engineering instead, as I struggled with chemistry in first year engineering. After my third year of university, I did a one-year internship with a construction contractor in Calgary. I spent a lot of time on construction sites and applied many of the things I learned in engineering school. I also learned that I wanted to try a more technical job. I graduated with a bachelor of science in civil engineering and got my current job, which I have been at for the last eight years.

I am motivated by

I enjoy solving problems and working with people. It is nice to be able to use the skills I have learned in school and apply them to real world problems. It is rewarding to be able to see the things I design once they are built.

How I affect peoples’ lives

The projects I help build create products that are used to make many different things that are in demand by nearly everyone around the world.

Outside of work I

Outside of work, I spend a lot of time with my family. I play basketball, train martial arts, play video and board games, play with my kids, go on the occasional hike, and visit with family and friends.

My advice to others

Try your best in school. Consider what you like before making a decision. Make sure to take calculus in high school, as you will need it if you go into a career in science or engineering.