Dr. Ana Stefanova, Education & Research Division Director, ISA USA.

Can you share about your journey into the education industry? What motivated you to pursue this career?

My inherent desire to continuously learn is strongly linked to my motivation to help others learn. Since I started my undergraduate studies in Mechanical Engineering in Skopje, Macedonia, I have been tutoring other students. As a graduate student at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, I worked as a teaching assistant. When I moved to Edmonton, after finishing my doctoral degree, I was actively seeking a teaching position, and when the opportunity came to join the Instrumentation Engineering Technology program at NAIT, I had no doubt that this was a perfect match with my educational background, the experience that I gained through applied research, my desire to concisely learn and improve, and help others do the same.

What is your teaching philosophy, and how does it inform your approach to educating students or supporting educators within the industry?

As educators, we serve as facilitators of learning. Success in this role hinges upon our ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, fostering an environment of idea exchange and mutual support. Our primary objective is to inspire students and establish a structured, safe space for learning. Here, students are encouraged to experiment, make mistakes, and continually improve without fear of judgment. By prioritising collaboration and creating a supportive learning environment, we empower students to thrive and reach their full potential.

What are some of the common challenges you encounter as a woman in technology, and how do you approach overcoming them?

Despite the underrepresentation of women in technology, I've personally found that being a woman hasn't posed any significant challenges for me. Perhaps working in academia has played a role, but I've consistently been treated as an equal contributor and valued member of the team.

How do you stay updated on best practices and innovative approaches to education, and how do you incorporate them into your work?

I actively engage with research papers, articles, and presentations to stay informed about the latest trends and advancements in adult education. Additionally, I prioritise seeking feedback from both students and colleagues, allowing me to continuously refine and adapt my teaching methods to better meet the needs of my learners. 

How do you approach mentoring and supporting the professional development of faculty, particularly women, within your academic unit?

I foster mentorship and coaching relationships through informal dialogues, actively listening to understand the individual's unique goals and needs. This approach allows me to tailor my support to their specific circumstances, empowering them to achieve their full potential.

How does your research contribute to your field?

At my institution, NAIT, research activities are separate from teaching responsibilities to accommodate differences in demands for resources and timelines. Although I've been involved in publishing papers and presenting at conferences during and after my graduate and research assistant work at UBC, except actively supporting my students' research projects during their final year, I haven't been formally engaged in a research role at my current institution.

How do you perceive the future of education and research, and what role do you hope to play in shaping it?

We're in an era brimming with opportunities where education and cutting-edge research are accessible to all eager learners. As AI continues to advance, we anticipate swift progress in research and a transformation in the educator's role. I aspire for my role as an educator to evolve into one that not only imparts knowledge but also fosters critical thinking, creativity, and a profound sense of humanity, empowering students to navigate an ever-changing world with confidence and compassion.

Maintaining a work-life balance can be challenging in demanding roles. How do you prioritise self-care and well-being outside of work?

This is indeed a challenge I actively navigate. Despite the demands of work and volunteer commitments, I prioritise carving out time for self-care and well-being. Spending quality time with my family and friends is essential, as is immersing myself in nature through long walks outdoors. These moments provide a much-needed balance to my busy schedule and rejuvenate me for the tasks ahead.

Who has had the most significant influence on your career and served as a source of inspiration for your professional endeavors?

I was very fortunate to have Dr John R Grace as a mentor for my graduate studies. His calming presence, genuine curiosity, and willingness to help others were an inspiration. He was a renowned expert in fluidisation, a recipient of the Order of Canada, and many other prestigious awards in the field of chemical engineering both nationally and internationally. He passed away in 2021, and I will miss him dearly.

What advice would you give to women aspiring to pursue careers in the industry?

Set clear, achievable goals and work diligently towards them. Seek a mentor early for guidance and support. Don't hesitate to ask for help – it's a sign of strength. Keep learning to stay relevant in an evolving industry.

How would you describe your life in 3 words?

Creative. Helpful. Connected.

What would you write on your own fortune cookie?

‘Embrace curiosity; it leads to boundless discoveries.’

Dr Ana Stefanova is an associate chair and instructor in the Instrumentation Engineering Technology Program in the School of Applied Sciences and Technologies at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in Edmonton, Canada, where she leads curriculum development and industry collaboration initiatives, supports the teaching team, and teaches Industrial Measurements, Introduction to Unit Operations, Instrumentation Engineering, Process Control, and Technical Report courses. She earned her B.A.Sc. and M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering at the University of "Ss. Cyril and Methodius" in Skopje, Macedonia, and her Ph.D in Chemical Engineering from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. Dr Stefanova's research interests are in multiphase fluid flow, fluidisation, and measurement systems. Her research is published in the International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, Powder Technology, and other international journals. She is actively involved in the International Society of Automation (ISA), as a Director of the Education and Research Division and Student sections Liaison for the Edmonton section of ISA. Her contributions to the Edmonton Section were recognised by the ISA Edmonton President's Leadership Award in 2020 and 2023.

You can find more in this article: https://www.isaedmonton.org/isa-insider/posts/featured-member-ana-stefanova/

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