Meet Dr. Saadia Nousir, R&D Technology Manager – a dynamic force driving change. Her journey in STEM showcases resilience in breaking barriers and advocating for gender equality in the heat treatment field. She stands as a catalyst for transformation, reshaping Nitrex and igniting inspirational change in the heat treatment industry.

 

1. Question: What insights can you share about the representation of women in STEM roles, and what are some of the key challenges you’ve encountered?

Answer: The increasing presence of women in STEM careers is truly inspiring, despite the ongoing challenges for gender parity. From my own journey, I’ve come to realize how unconscious biases and subtle stereotypes ingrained in our culture and society can hinder advancement in STEM careers and leadership roles for women. While these biases are unintentional, acknowledging them is crucial, as doing so can serve as a catalyst for change.

As a woman pursuing a career in STEM, I’ve faced unique challenges. Balancing the demands of an R&D role with family responsibilities remains a constant effort. Prioritizing this equilibrium is paramount, but the rewards of doing so are immeasurable. Moreover, working in the predominantly male field of heat treatment has its unique challenges. Nonetheless, my persistence and competence have earned me the respect of my colleagues.

The support I’ve received from my male colleagues, especially when challenges exceed my expertise, is something I deeply value. It’s uplifting to work in an environment where collaborative skills and mutual support triumph over any gender bias. It creates an enriching environment for both women and men, fostering growth and inclusivity.

 

2. Question: How does your background in science and technology influence your approach to innovation and leadership?

Answer: My background has significantly influenced my approach to innovation and leadership, which is guided by these pillars:

• Creativity & Diversity: Science and technology crave fresh, inventive solutions to complex problems. STEM’s strength lies in its ability to draw from various disciplines and diverse perspectives, fostering innovative approaches to challenges.
• Precision: Attention to detail, honed in scientific research, also plays a critical role in leadership. It involves identifying the right questions and embracing new approaches for effective problem-solving and adaptability in the face of challenges.
• Decision Making: As a scientist, I blend analytical thinking with data-driven insights. I approach problems methodically by breaking them down into manageable pieces for critical analysis. Relying on data provides the clarity and confidence I need to navigate opportunities, risks, and solutions more effectively.
• Lifelong Learning: Lifelong learning is not just a pillar but a driving force propelling me to pursue new knowledge, innovations, and methodologies. It’s about staying at the forefront of innovation and leadership, ensuring constant evolution within and beyond my field.

 

3. Question: In what ways do you anticipate ‘The A Effect’ will enhance your skills and perspective as a leader in technology and research?

Answer: The ‘A Effect’ program dives into strategies that hone communication, negotiation, decision-making skills, and executive presence. However, it’s more than that: networking with seasoned professionals, elevating my visibility in STEM, and the diverse perspectives it brings. Connecting with accomplished women in science and technology will bring diverse perspectives and insights, fostering collaborations that advance research and technology in my domain.

The program offers access to valuable resources and opportunities that will further boost my professional expertise and shape my strategic approach as a leader in technology and research.

 

4. Question: How do you foresee ‘The A Effect’ initiative enhancing your capacity to effectively influence and collaborate with predominantly male-dominated teams of scientists, researchers, and experts? In what ways can this initiative contribute to closing gender gaps?

Answer: I truly believe that change starts from within. The ‘A Effect’ initiative is key in my mission to bridge gender gaps. It equips me with a valuable toolkit to level up my ability to influence and collaborate effectively with male-dominated teams – enhancing my communication skills and building solid relationships regardless of gender.

The initiative is big on active listening, embracing diverse perspectives, and pushing for an inclusive space where every individual’s input matters. It focuses on understanding team dynamics and finding mentors who can truly make a difference. The various conferences, workshops, and networking events are not just about staying updated; they’re opportunities for meaningful discussions within the STEM community and for finding ways to close the gender gap. That means I can bring more to the table, progressively closing those gaps bit by bit in our field of heat treatment.

 

5. Question: What message would you like to convey to young women aspiring to enter STEM-related careers, and how does ‘The A Effect’ align with that message?

Answer: To young women aspiring to pursue a career in STEM, I want to share this message with you: Believe in your potential and dive into your passion for STEM with confidence and determination. Your unique perspectives and contributions are the very essence of this field. When faced with challenges, embrace them as opportunities for growth, learning, and collaboration, and remember that your journey will illuminate the path for future generations of women in STEM.

‘The A Effect’ initiative aligns beautifully with this message. It’s a transformative journey dedicated to empowering women to embrace their brilliance, nurture self-confidence, cultivate partnerships, and relentlessly pursue their dreams. Beyond offering skill development and valuable resources, it provides a platform to help you overcome personal and professional barriers, achieve triumphs, and carve out a successful path, whether it’s in STEM or any other field you choose.

 

6. Question: Hailing from Morocco and pursuing your career in Canada, how has your multicultural background influenced your perspective on gender equality and professional growth? Can these insights benefit ‘The A Effect’ initiative?

Answer: My multicultural background, coming from Morocco to France, then Spain, and now Canada, has profoundly shaped my perspective on professional growth and gender equality. Each step of my journey exposed me to diverse cultural norms and expectations, and in doing so, it challenged and enriched my understanding.

Living in Canada, known for its multiculturalism, has been particularly enlightening. It’s here that I’ve come to truly appreciate the profound strength that arises from embracing diversity within the workplace.

These insights are highly relevant to ‘The A Effect’ initiative, enabling to facilitate discussions on diversity, promote inclusivity, and advocate for equal opportunities for women from all walks of life. My aspiration is that by sharing my personal journey that brought me here, I can inspire others to leverage their own cultural diversity as they strive for career success and champion gender equality.