February 11 is International Day of Women and Girls in Science
What do a winemaker, behavioral scientist, food technologist, and biotechnology engineer have in common?
A love of science!
February 11 International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day recognized by the United Nations to underscore the critical role that women and girls play in science and technology. The day is also an opportunity to strengthen their participation and representation in the field.
In honour of February 11, we are pleased to profile four inspiring women – Allison Findlay, Amie Huisman, Ana Valarezo Valdivieso and Chevell Clarke – doing exciting work in the sciences at Niagara College.
College winemaker Allison Findlay in the barrel room.
Allison Findlay, Winemaker, School of Food and Wine Sciences
In 2022, NC welcomed Findlay back to her alma mater to break new ground as the Teaching Winery’s first female winemaker. In her role, she brings the joy of wine to viticulture students and a desire to raise the bar in the wine industry.
Findlay graduated from the College’s Winery and Viticulture Technician program in 2014, but her passion for the sciences started early in life
“I have always been interested in the sciences, specifically biology and plant sciences. When I found out wine was the perfect blend of art and science, soil and sunshine, I was hooked.”
As winemaker, Findlay manages the day-to-day operations of the Teaching Winery and Vineyard, as well as supports student wine projects throughout the year. She has taught courses and is currently working to replant the remainder of vineyard at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus.
“A big part for me, coming up as a young woman, was that I never shied away from the hard jobs. If I didn’t know how to do something, I asked and I learned until there was no difference between myself and a male that could fill a role.”
“Grapes do not care that you are a woman, that’s why they are the best.”
As the College winemaker, Findlay inspires and educates the next generation of wine professionals.
“If you love what you do, work hard to educate yourself and talk to as many people as possible. Get your hands dirty, and have fun, because it’s an amazing industry.”
Amie Huisman, Placement Officer, School of Community Services.
Amie Huisman, Placement Officer, School of Community Services
Huisman navigated her learning and professional journey shouldering the many responsibilities of women in today’s society. Following back-to-back diploma programs (Ed. Res & Spec. Needs, 1998), she embarked on a part-time journey to earn her Bachelor of Professional Arts in Human Services while balancing full-time work and single parenthood.
“Drawing from my personal journey, I empathize deeply with our adult learners who are navigating a multitude of responsibilities,” said Huisman. “I often remind them that they serve as extraordinary role models for their children, and that their dedication will be cherished by them in the years to come.”
Huisman continues her balancing act today as she pursues a Masters in Post-Secondary Education while helping students in the Educational Assistant & Adult Support and Autism and Behavioural Sciences programs navigate field placements.
Thriving in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, Huisman has managed more than 200 students at peak times concurrently engaged in experiential learning placements.
Huisman found her own calling during a placement – working with individuals with behavioral challenges.
For thirteen years, Huisman worked on the front lines at Bethesda as a Behavior Analyst, including working with adults with brain injuries.
“I had a very challenging and interesting career working with extremely complex needs… Subsequently, I made a significant decision to return to Niagara College, the institution that had ignited my professional journey. In this capacity, I found myself facilitating the very foundation of my career, reflecting on the invaluable experiences that had shaped my trajectory.”
“Perhaps it’s my inclination as a behavior analyst, but I find immense satisfaction in working with students facing challenges, witnessing their transformation from struggle to success, and reading their glowing evaluations at the conclusion of their journey.”
Huisman embraces her role as an advocate, and encourages others – especially female students who may feel a sense of “imposter syndrome” – to do the same.
“I believe strongly in empowering my female students to prioritize self-advocacy, finding and asserting one’s voice is paramount. After all, if you can’t advocate for yourself, how can you effectively advocate for the vulnerable populations you aspire to serve?”
“I encourage students to confront the fear of failure head-on. Often, the fear of failure is a sign that an opportunity is worth pursuing.”
Ana Valarezo Valdivieso, NC student and Horticulture/Greenhouse Research Assistant, HESIC
Ana Valarezo Valdivieso, Horticulture/Greenhouse Research Assistant, HESIC
Valdivieso’s interest in science started to blossom at a young age from a love of nature.
“I was always surrounded by plants and flowers. Being in nature has always appealed to me, making me observant and curious. This curiosity grew to the extent that I felt the need to fully understand it.
Courses in molecular biology in high school piqued her interest, leading her to earn a Master of Science in Biotechnology.
“Biotechnology is the perfect blend of understanding life and biology, coupled with the application of that knowledge to create something useful. This satisfies my desire to comprehend life at the micro level and fuels my creativity.”
Valdivieso is on track to graduate from NC’s Landscape and Horticultural Techniques program in April 2024. She also works as a Research Assistant in the Teaching Greenhouse and Cannabunker.
Valdivieso’s interest in studying cannabis sprouted a few years ago and she is excited to begin her studies in the Commercial Cannabis Production in the fall.
“I feel like I’ve come to the perfect place.”
To those considering a career in biotechnology, Valdivieso had this to say:
“Investing in your knowledge yields the highest returns… Stay curious and remain true to your passion, especially exploring facets of your own self,” she said, citing the “versatility” of a career in biotechnology and its pervasiveness across fields like environmental science, food production, agriculture, medicine and forensics.
“Whether it’s in the context of environmental initiatives, sustainable agriculture, or the fascinating realm of cannabis, I find boundless fulfillment in understanding and contributing to the green world.”
Chevell Clarke, NC student and Research Assistant, FBIC
Chevell Clarke, Research Assistant, FBIC
Clarke brings an appetite for culinary research to her studies in the Advanced Diploma program in Culinary Innovation and Food Technology.
An international student from Jamaica and a Research Assistant in NC’s Food and Beverage Innovation Centre, Clarke was drawn to the field by a “passion for food and all aspects from farm to table.”
“I’ve worked in the fresh fruit industry for over three years wherein I started to develop a deeper interest in food chemistry, product development, and repurposing food waste… I then decided to continue my studies but with a more hands-on approach and that is how I ended up in the Culinary Innovation and Food Technology Program.”
As a Research Assistant, she works on benchtop product development such food and beverage analytical testing, raw data collection and interpretation, desk research, and presenting information to clients.
Leveraging the latest technology in food innovation, Clarke examines food at the molecular level to better understand it.
“As a student of CIFT program, I am fond of the level of practicality of the courses offered, appreciative of our lecturers for the time taken to expose students to real life situations in the food industry and for their continuous words of encouragement.”
Clarke credits many inspirational women for their mentorship in the ever-evolving field of food science and technology.
“I can guarantee that I would not be where I am now without the support and the many female role models I have had along my journey.”
“The industry fosters an environment of inclusivity, creativity, anticipation, and amusement. I would strongly recommend women and girls who want to pursue a career in this field, all you have to do is start! There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”
Learn more about the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
