Ashita Anand

Age: 26
Education: Graduated with Bachelors of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering, University of British Columbia
Occupation: Protection and Control (P&C) Planning Engineer at BC Hydro
Years of experience: Four years at BC Hydro. 

Personal and professional philosophy: Ashita truly believes that apart from academic prowess, a person who exhibits leadership, athleticism, creativity, and/or social responsibility will ultimately produce a more imaginative and involved citizen. She has worked hard to build these qualities in herself.

Awards and honours: Ashita was recently nominated as this year’s “Emerging Leader” by the Minerva Foundation for her work and commitment in the field of energy. Only twenty-six years old, this full-time registered Professional Engineer is active in the community. Her dedication to give back and share her knowledge began as early as Grade 9, when she became a Sempei (Senior Belt Martial Arts Instructor). Ashita went on to win gold medals at national and international martial arts competitions and also received the Best Musician award. 
Currently, in addition to being Vice-Chair for the BC Hydro Women’s Network, she’s also the Vice-Chair for the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC (APEGBC) – Vancouver Branch, where she provides guidance on initiatives and events geared towards elementary, high school and university students, including women in engineering and internationally trained engineers. 
Ashita is also a Mentor for UBC Engineering students, helping young women and men transition from undergrad to industry. For the past two years, Ashita has served as a Broader Based Admissions (BBA) Alumni Reader. The BBA Program is an application process for candidates of direct-entry undergraduate programs at UBC. Her experience in the energy sector and commitment to volunteering and mentoring is inspiration for other young women in the South Asian community and beyond. 

Future goals:  Ashita is excited to move her career forward with BC Hydro. Through her involvement in many committees and by acting as a positive role model, she aims to advance the role of women in engineering. Additionally, she intends to continue promoting volunteerism, athleticism and artistic ventures apart from strictly academic pursuits to the upcoming generation.