Two decades after starting at McMaster, Jodi Abrams (Ellenzweig) still can’t easily explain why she chose to specialize in Software Engineering.
“I’m really not a hard-core programmer,” she says. “I sometimes say I mis-bubbled when I filled out my scantron form to select my choice.”
Despite that, the 2003 graduate has built a successful career in the industry, and today is VP Applications with CONTAX Inc., a medium-sized SAP consulting company with nine international locations.
“I’m responsible for overseeing the development of software applications and subscription services,” she says. “I’ve managed over $5M in annual revenue from clients, as well as our Toronto office with a budget of $4M.”
A series of increasingly senior positions with CONTAX has required Abrams to develop a range of skills, from training and mentoring, to project management and sales.
“Having an engineering background teaches you to be prepared for anything, and work hard through any challenges,” she says.
“I love that I get to work with an incredible team of people every day and that there is always something to keep me challenged. I also enjoy a large amount of flexibility which is very helpful considering I have two young kids at home.”
With her own uncertainty in mind, Abrams empathizes with students who may not have a firm career goal in mind.
“Don’t worry too much if you don’t know what you want to do,” she says. “Just get into the workforce and work hard to get the opportunities you want.”
