Millennials and the Workplace Culture Shift

Exponential complexity demands that we evolve beyond the old structures of the past. But the world does not move forward in a uniform way, and the forces of digitization, diversity, equity and inclusion mean different things in different contexts.

Millennial engineers are working to find new ways forward in an era of untapped possibility.

Anthony Sistilli, an alumnus of Computer Engineering at Ryerson University, works through equations on a whiteboard.

Urooj Siddiqui

Industrial Engineering Class of 2016

Industrial Engineer, MHI Canada Aerospace, Inc

Urooj Siddiqui, an alumnus of Industrial Engineering at Ryerson University, is standing alongside a colleague at MHI Canada Aerospace, Inc.

In my lifetime, at least, we as a society will continue to face challenges presented by gender, sexual orientation and race-based stereotypes. Most companies recognize the role workplaces can play in addressing some of these challenges, but more needs to be done. In order to overcome deeply ingrained power dynamics, everyone needs to strive for greater understanding and respect.

Urroj Siddiqui

Aidan Messom

Undergraduate Industrial Engineering Student

Graduating April 2019

Aidan Messom, an Industrial Engineering student at Ryerson University, sits in a hallway within the George Vari Engineering and Computing Centre building.

In my various summer jobs, I've always valued being trusted with responsibility. The organizations that will most benefit from engaged and eager problem solvers are those that celebrate employee diversity and support people to freely express themselves.

Aidan Messom

Sabrina Gomez Vila

Aerospace Engineering Class of 2016

Aircraft Economics Analyst, Bombardier

Portrait of Ryerson Aerospace Engineering graduate Sabrina Gomez Vila.

I have met many successful and diverse women within the aerospace industry, but I believe we need more role models with diverse identities to champion equity, diversity and inclusion at all levels of the organization, not only to mentor new graduates in the workforce, but also to inspire them to stay.

Sabrina Gomez Vila

Anthony Sistilli

Computer Engineering Class of 2017

Software Engineer, Intuit

Anthony Sistilli, an alumnus of Computer Engineering at Ryerson University, writes equations on a whiteboard.

Working at Intuit, right inside the heart of Silicon Valley, I quickly learned that top companies don't just hire for skill but for cultural fit. I pride myself on working for a company that looks at their employees as an asset to invest in and chooses candidates based on cultural longevity as well as growth potential. Being able to market and represent yourself properly is just as important as having the technical skills to be a rockstar at your job.

Anthony Sistilli

One attribute that sets people apart is emotional intelligence. Learning how best to engage with, and to effectively collaborate with colleagues, customers and management (from all generations) will really determine success in the workplace.

Irene Yang, Head of Business Development
BASF Canadian Leadership Team