Navigating Career Growth in the Water Industry: From Early Career to Leadership
Date: June 19, 2025 (10.15 AM -12 PM)
Location: ECERF W2-090, University of Alberta
Workshop Presentations
Presentation 1: YWP’s Perspective
- Transitioning from Academia to Industry (key steps and strategies)
- Early Career Challenges, Personal Stories & Lessons Learned
- Career Growth & Long-Term Planning (Setting goals and exploring opportunities)
Speakers:
Sanaz Mohebali | Researcher, Veolia WTS
Sanaz Mohebali holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in chemical engineering from Iran’s top universities, graduating in 2015. She began her career as a validation engineer in the pharmaceutical industry, ensuring compliance and optimizing manufacturing processes for two years.Driven by a passion for wastewater treatment and process optimization, Sanaz moved to Canada to pursue a master’s in water engineering at Université Laval in Quebec. Her research focused on process control and data management, applying advanced analytical techniques to improve wastewater treatment efficiency. Upon graduating, Sanaz joined Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions as an R&D researcher in November 2024. In this role, she leverages data science and machine learning to enhance the performance of Membrane Bioreactor and Membrane Aerated Biofilm Reactor systems, contributing to the advancement of innovative wastewater treatment technologies.
Connect with Sanaz
Sheila Fyfe | Researcher, Veolia WTS
Sheila Fyfe is a researcher at Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions, where she combines her technical skills with a passion for workplace safety and inclusion. In her role, she contributes to pilot-scale and full-scale projects while actively managing EHS responsibilities, including regular risk assessments and safety reviews with her team. As an active leader in Veolia’s Ontario Women’s Network, she champions workplace inclusivity and leads a province-wide mentorship program connecting new employees with established leaders in the company. Sheila graduated from Carleton University with an environmental engineering degree in 2020. As the job market was significantly impacted at the time, she decided to complete her master’s in environmental engineering at Dalhousie University. With over two years of experience as a researcher with Veolia, she is navigating her new work-life balance and settling into the transition from student to employee.
Connect with Sheila
Presentation 2: Senior Engineer’s Perspective
- What YWPs Should Prioritize in the Early Career Stage (Essential Focus Areas)
- Transitioning Smoothly from Junior to Senior Roles (common paths and strategies)
- Technical vs. Soft Skills (which skills matter most at different career stages?)
- Advancing Your Career (key factors for long-term success and getting a promotion)
Speaker:
Abubakar Waraich, M.Eng, P. Eng. | PMP, Project Manager, Associated Engineering
With over 13 years of experience in the water industry, Abubakar Waraich has led critical infrastructure projects across Alberta and British Columbia, specializing in assessment, process design, and construction management. He has built strong relationships with Indigenous communities, securing long-term agreements and delivering sustainable water and wastewater solutions. His expertise lies in managing multidisciplinary teams, ensuring project success through collaboration, safety, and technical excellence. Abubakar is dedicated to improving public health and community well-being through innovative and resilient water management strategies. As Chair of the Western Canada Section of the American Water Works Association, he is committed to advancing industry best practices while actively mentoring and empowering young professionals. He fosters knowledge-sharing, leadership development, and professional growth to cultivate the next generation of water industry leaders.
Connect with Abubakar
IWA YWP Canada 