Camosun College Student Finds Strength in Engineering and Identity
Makayla graduated from Victoria High School in 2019, having faced significant challenges with her mental health during those years, which made working and studying difficult. Determined to move forward, she worked hard to find employment and complete the admission process needed to begin her studies at Camosun in 2024. Initially enrolled in the University Transfer program with plans to attend UVic, Makayla considered pursuing math or physics—fields she was familiar with. “I didn’t even know what engineering was at the time,” she recalls.
Curious, she enrolled in an Intro to Engineering course that summer to explore her options. “In the first week, we were in the machine shop using the lathe and milling machine, and we started working with 3D CAD software,” says Makayla. “It was such a welcoming environment, and learning from professional engineers was incredible. I wish I had discovered engineering earlier.”
She soon realized that university engineering programs often lack the hands-on experience offered at Camosun. Motivated by this discovery, Makayla spent the summer completing the academic requirements and, by September, had enrolled in the Mechanical Engineering Technology program. “I love working with my hands, solving real-world problems, and diving into math,” she says. “I haven’t looked back since.”
Though she initially worried about the college workload, Makayla found support through Indigenous Advisors, the Centre for Accessible Learning, and Camosun’s Counselling Centre. “They helped me feel like I belong,” she says. “My instructors go above and beyond—they create a space where everyone feels welcome and supported.”
Makayla grew up in Victoria, with deep cultural roots in Alaska through her Inuit heritage. Her visits to her family’s fish camp in Nome were formative—fishing, berry picking, and spending time with her great-grandmother. “Those trips meant a lot to me,” she says. “I’m learning our Inupiaq language, throat singing, and reconnecting with our culture, even though it’s hard living so far away.” She’s made solo trips to Alaska to strengthen that connection and recently brought her younger brother for his first visit.
This past summer, Makayla also landed a Co-op with the Canadian Navy in Esquimalt, working in Marine Systems Engineering at the Fleet Maintenance Facility. “I use the skills I learned in my first year every day,” she says. “I love the work and hope to return full-time.”
Her supervisor, John Britto Daniel Paulraj, P.Eng PMP, praised her initiative and rapid growth: “Makayla quickly completed all required training and now independently drafts repair specs and technical reports. She’s built strong relationships and is a pleasure to work with.”
Looking to the future, Makayla plans to return to work at the Fleet Maintenance Facility in Esquimalt after she graduates. “I found my work in aiding the repair and maintenance of the Canadian Navy's Pacific Fleet very rewarding,” she says. She’ll also continue her work and pursuit of leadership opportunities with the Army Cadets as a Supply Officer. Makayla is passionate about giving back. “I plan on advocating and providing support for Indigenous peoples and women in engineering by going to events and volunteering.” Personally, Makayla is looking forward to starting a family with her boyfriend. “I look forward to the joy of raising kids and building a home together.”