![blaney](/sites/default/files/2021-03/Steven-blaney-4x2.png)
In this first in a series of interviews with engineers who hold federal public office, the Honourable Steven Blaney talks about being an engineer and an elected official.
![blaney](/sites/default/files/2021-03/Steven-blaney-4x2.png)
Over the coming weeks, Engineering Matters will feature a series of interviews with engineers who hold federal public office. Below is the first in the series, a Q&A with the Honourable Steven Blaney, ing.
A member of the Conservative Party of Canada, Blaney represents the Quebec riding of Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—Lévis. First elected to Parliament in the 2006 election, he was re-elected in 2008, 2011, 2015, and 2019. Prior to entering politics, Blaney worked as a consultant, entrepreneur, and advisor in the fields of urban infrastructure and environmental technology. He holds a civil engineering degree from the Université de Sherbrooke.
Engineers Canada: What sparked your interest in engineering?
The Honourable Steven Blaney: I have always been fascinated by large engineering works. For me, the Manic 5 - Daniel Johnson dam symbolizes the know-how of Québec's engineers and illustrates our collective ability to carry out large-scale projects...of sustainable development!
EC: What prompted you to work towards and earn your professional engineering license? Would you encourage other engineering graduates to earn their P.Eng.?
SB: What attracts me to engineering is providing pragmatic solutions to technological challenges to improve our quality of life. I encourage young people, especially women, to embrace engineering education and of course to join the profession which leads to everything, even politics!
EC: After a career as an engineer, what motivated you to seek public office?
SB: I chose politics to contribute to society and to be an agent of change. Quite frankly, meeting people is a privilege!
EC: Has your engineering background helped you in your role as a parliamentarian? How?
SB: The rational and pragmatic aspect of our training is invaluable to me in politics, and I believe we would benefit from having more engineers in politics.
EC: What value do engineers and/or an engineering perspective bring to public policy decisions?
SB: Engineers bring common sense to politics and decision-making based on rational factors.
EC: In what ways can we encourage more diversity within the engineering profession?
SB: We can encourage diversity by highlighting success stories like Farah Alibay, a systems engineer and a native of Joliette, Québec, a member of the team that landed the PERSEVERANCE rover on Mars.
EC : What would you say to a young person who is considering whether engineering is the right choice for them?
SB : Choosing engineering means deciding to use a formidable instrument to shape your destiny and open up a world of possibilities.
EC : What would you say to an engineer who is considering running for public office?
SB : That’s a great idea. We really need more engineers in politics!