Name: Renya Benjamen 

Position: Student 

Field: Chemical Engineering – McMaster Engineering

What is your Educational Background? (i.e. Degree, Diploma, Certificate, etc.)

I am completing my final year of study towards a Chemical Engineering degree.  Will graduate with a specialization in the Process Systems Engineering stream.

Are there any Special Certifications/Licenses Required?  If so, please describe them

Not required or attainable with a 4 year undergraduate degree.  With 4 years of work experience related to field of study, and successful examination on ethics, practice, engineering law and professional liability, an Engineer may become certified Professional Engineers of Ontario (PEO).  When a PEO, an Engineer may sign off on designed work, ensuring it meets all safety and ethical requirements.

What are the Day-to-Day Responsibilities in your Position?

In the 2 completed summer co-op terms, responsibilities included: was a team member assigned to design and fabrication of a new chemical reactor including its piping and instrumentation, apply for a Certificate of Approval (Air) from the Ministry of Environment.

What is the Work Environment for an Entry Level Position? (i.e. Clientele type, Working Space, etc.)

Excellent communication and team work skills are essential in the working environment.  A new engineer should expect to have some exposure to the site of which they are working (i.e. Chemical plant) although; the majority of the work day will be spent in the office.

What is the Highest Position you can reach in this Field and Describe its Work Environment?

Whether on the design or safety team, opportunities will open for the engineer to take on the task of team leader or department manager.

What is the Most Valuable Thing you have learned in your Career?

To be successful, you must actually enjoy your job.  It is hard to go to work everyday unless you really have a passion for your profession.  You shouldn’t settle for anything less than what makes you happy.