Women’s History Month: Engineering the future of regenerative medicine
This October, USask Engineering is proud to celebrate Women’s History Month.
By Engineering CommunicationsThis October, USask Engineering is proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by sharing the stories and perspectives of our female students, faculty and alumni.
Since 1946, when Isobel (Izzy) Beatrice Daw became our first female graduate, women of USask Engineering have continued the tradition of being leaders, change-makers and innovators.
This year, we’re continuing the story through a series of Q&A features, highlighting the voices of women who define what it means to be a University of Saskatchewan engineer.
Kathryn Avery
Kathryn Avery, a graduate student in mechanical engineering, is passionate about regenerative medicine and advancing human health through engineering. She was the 2025 winner of the University of Saskatchewan Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition for her presentation, A Breath of Innovation: Combining 3D Bioprinting and Artificial Breathing Machines.
Discipline and year of studies: PhD, Mechanical Engineering
Who is a woman in engineering or STEM that inspires you and why?
There are numerous women in engineering I look up to and who have not only inspired me but also helped shape my career path. I am immensely inspired by the female engineering professors I had during my undergraduate degree. With over 40 classes, I had fewer than five female engineering professors, but their mentorship and research excellence left a lasting impact on how I view my place in engineering. I am also honoured to be a part of a primarily female research group whose support and passion inspire and motivate me every day.
What has been the most rewarding part of your journey in engineering so far?
One of the most rewarding parts of my journey in engineering is being involved in innovative research with strong implications in the field of regenerative medicine that can greatly influence millions of people. Another aspect I find very rewarding is being able to share this knowledge through mentorship of junior researchers and support them in their own careers in STEM.
What advice would you share with other women in engineering?
The advice I would share with other women in engineering is don’t be afraid to take up space and make your voice heard. It can be challenging and feel intimidating to be a woman in STEM but remember that you belong just as much as anyone else. Seek out mentors and peers who support you and continue to pass this mindset to future women in stem.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
For me, Women’s History Month is a chance to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of women and acknowledge their contributions in all fields. It is a time to reflect on how past generations have removed numerous barriers while realizing there is still more to be done for current and future generations of women in STEM.