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Lianne Wong
Professor & Co-ordinator of Computer Programmer Analyst Program, Fanshawe College
And - Member, Women Techmakers
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Excellence happens when you feel passionate about what you are doing.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
I am a Professor in Computer Programming in a Post Secondary College. The main courses that I teach are C++ and Mobile Development in Android.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS FIELD?
I was in high school and the University of Washington came and described a new Bioengineering program that they were starting up that combined engineering with applications to the medical field and they listed all the different research activities that were going on in that department. That was the moment that I decided that I wanted to be a Bioengineer. I went to the University of Washington and did a Bachelors of Science in Electrical Engineering and a Masters of Science in Bioengineering. I had a Women in Engineering scholarship and joined the Women in Engineering group.
WHAT DO YOU LOOK AT & THINK, "I WISH YOUNGER ME WOULD HAVE KNOWN THIS WAS POSSIBLE?"
While I focused my high school subjects in Science and Technology, I really wish that I did more extra curricular work or hobbies in that field. I have two daughters who are now studying Science in University and am happy when I see them join Science Fairs and Math Competitions.
WHY DO YOU LOVE WORKING IN STEM?
I look forward to seeing the next generation have passion in technology and learning. Every year it amazes me what they can do after 3 years of school. I look forward to seeing more women in STEM. Fanshawe College has hosted Girls Rock IT for the past seven years - a conference for girls to introduce them to all aspects of Technology. We feel that getting girls interested in STEM before the get to high school will encourage them to choose STEM as a career path.
BEST ADVICE FOR NEXT GENERATION?
Always pursue what inspires you. Excellence happens when you feel passionate about what you are doing. When you are in high school, volunteer in Science labs, do a co-op, go to STEM conferences.
INSPO / FUN FACT
I went to high school with Barack Obama and went to many of his basketball games. To know him as a high school student and then becoming the President of the United States is inspiring.