By John Karkavanidis / Mohawk College
The road to a career in STEM is rarely linear. For the women of the McMaster University & Mohawk College’s BattChallenge team, their diverse journeys highlight how unique experiences converge toward a shared goal: advancing innovation and sustainability. These women shape the future of electric vehicle battery technology through their distinct backgrounds and perspectives.
Sarah Alabdulrazzak
For Sarah Alabdulrazzak, a member of the Battery Pack Software swimlane and a final-year McMaster University undergrad majoring in mechatronics engineering, the appeal of engineering lies in tackling challenges.
“Engineering gives you the tools to solve open-ended problems, and I’ve always loved a challenge,” Alabdulrazzak said.
As the software algorithm sub-team lead, Alabdulrazzak ensures battery health monitoring systems are effective. For her, seeing their work transition from theory to real-world applications is particularly rewarding.
Stephanie Desmond
Stephanie’s journey into STEM began with practical considerations.
“I didn’t have a prior interest in STEM,” Desmond said, “but electrical engineering felt like an exciting field with great opportunities.”
Now studying energy systems engineering technology at Mohawk College, Desmond hopes to inspire others. “I want young women to see STEM as a valid and rewarding choice,” Desmond said.
Salena Jandu
Salena Jandu, a member of the Battery Pack Hardware swimlane and a McMaster University second-year undergrad majoring in electrical engineering, discovered her passion for STEM during a Go ENG Girl workshop in grade eight.
“I fell in love with programming,” Jandu said.
Madison Mackenzie
Madison Mackenzie transitioned from a career in recruitment to study energy systems engineering technology at Mohawk College.
“I wanted to work in renewable energy and sustainability,” Mackenzie said.
Despite challenges returning to school, Mackenzie values combining technical knowledge with advocacy.
“I hope to show others, especially those who don’t fit the traditional mold, that there’s a place for them in STEM,” Mackenzie said.
Shared goals of innovation and sustainability
Though their paths differ, these women share a commitment to sustainability and innovation. By participating in the Battery Workforce Challenge, they are building advanced technologies and contributing to a better future. Combining perspectives across disciplines and institutions, they creatively tackle challenges, proving that diverse experiences strengthen teams.
Alabdulrazzak, Desmond Jandu and Mackenzie exemplify how different journeys can lead to the same destination — a future powered by innovation and clean energy. Their stories underscore the importance of inclusion and collaboration in STEM.
Follow our team’s progress on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to learn how diverse voices are shaping the future of electric vehicles.
