SASKATOON — International Women’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate women’s contributions throughout the world. To highlight the Accelerate Action theme for 2025, Saskatchewan Polytechnic showcases three instructors who have become role models to female students in underrepresented programs.
Allison Zerr is the program head for Women in Trades and Technology (WITT) powered by Orano. WITT is dedicated to supporting students through award and scholarship access, mentorship opportunities, drop-in consultations, networking opportunities, campus tours and career development. Zerr explains the impact of women in non-traditional careers. “We’re seeing more women showing an interest in underrepresented industries. At Sask Polytech, we’re fortunate to have many women in leadership positions.” she says. “The future of women in trades and technology looks bright.”
Hannah Kopytko, Business Information Systems (BIS) instructor
“I always dabbled with IT as I was interested and curious about the field. I thought technology was cool and fun, so I took a gamble and enrolled in the Business Information Systems (BIS) program. I absolutely loved it,” she says.
As part of her program Kopytko had the opportunity to do a co-operative education work term with Co-operators Insurance. After her work term, the company hired her part-time while she completed her studies and she joined their team full-time after graduation. Kopytko worked there for five years, going from software developer to team lead. Taking on a leadership role in the industry helped her realize her passion for teaching.
“I thought teaching would be fun, so when my former instructor approached me, I knew it was right. I wanted to help shape the standards and practices of our industry while fostering students’ enthusiasm for learning,” Kopytko explains.
Kopytko had a chance to share her knowledge internationally during an exchange to a prep school in China last November. She taught a Java Programming course to nearly 200 students.
“It was a rich experience. I was the first instructor in my faculty to attend the exchange. I felt very lucky to have the opportunity to help people get invested in technology,” she says.
Through her involvement in panels and camps in Saskatchewan, Kopytko has noted an increased interest in technology among girls aged 11-15.
“It is encouraging to see this. There were times in my career where I’ve failed and thought of giving up, but I got through the hard times. A lot of women are facing inequality, but things are changing. Setbacks are minor and they can be overcome.”
Heba Desouky, Bachelor of Construction Management instructor
Heba Desouky’s journey to Sask Polytech took many turns. After completing her education in civil engineering at Cairo University in Egypt, she moved to the United States in 2004 to complete a master's degree in project management. She later moved to Saskatchewan and began working as a senior project engineer at Sask Water. Her position allowed her to explore both facets of her extensive educational background.
“I was lucky because I got to develop water systems and work in project management,” Desouky explains.
She was approached to develop courses at Sask Polytech and started tutoring students.
“Tutoring one-on-one helped me learn what students need to help them achieve success. It was an introduction to teaching and a good starting point,” Desouky explains, adding she transitioned to instructing some classes part-time before going full-time.
Desouky often shares words of encouragement to her female students.
“This is the career you have chosen for yourself. You have to be up to the challenge and go for it. It will show you what you can accomplish when you prove yourself. Construction is much more accepting of women than it once was,” she says.
Charity Karcha, Auto Body instructor
Charity Karcha’s interest in vehicles started in high school.
“I did some work on my car, and I realized I liked working in a shop and working with my hands. I liked accomplishing something of my own doing,” she says.
Before pursuing her post-secondary education, Karcha took a break to expand her horizons by working in Alberta and British Columbia. While on the coast, she applied to the Sask Polytech Auto Body program.
“It was meant to be. Doors kept opening and I made my way through each one,” Karcha shares.
She worked in the field before returning to Sask Polytech for apprenticeship training. Shortly after becoming a journeyperson, she started instructing in the WITT auto body exploratory sessions. Since then, she’s become a full-time instructor. She has noticed a difference from when she was a student in the program.
“The female students coming in are more knowledgeable than I was when I started. There’s more of an introduction to the trades. Students have a better idea of what to expect in the program,” Karcha says. “I would like to see more retention in trades for women. WITT is a great program because you can connect with women in multiple trades. You can find mentorship, help and support.”
Adds Zerr, “The WITT community is there to support Sask Polytech students. Mentorship has an impact. Women leaders are always there to offer guidance and encouragement.”
Learn more about WITT powered by Orano: saskpolytech.ca/witt
— Submitted by Sask. Polytech Media Relations
