DOEC in the Field: Dan Schriks on Professional Development & Career Growth in the Engineering Industry
Please introduce yourself and share a little about your professional background before and after completing the Designing for Organizational Effectiveness Certificate (DOEC).
I'm Dan Schriks, and my journey before joining the program was primarily rooted in engineering. After completing my Master’s degree in structural engineering, I worked as an engineer for almost a decade. However, I harbored a growing curiosity about improving workplace dynamics and nurturing the professional growth of junior and mid-level staff. This inspired me to seek ways to enhance engagement and development opportunities in the workplace. I joined Stantec three years ago, coinciding with my enrollment in the DOEC program. Motivated by the uncertainties surrounding hybrid work models during the pandemic, I sought out the program as a means to leverage technology for optimizing team performance. With the support of Stantec's tuition reimbursement program, I embarked on my DOEC journey, where I found the perfect fit for my aspirations.
How has the Designing for Organizational Effectiveness Certificate (DOEC) influenced your career trajectory?
The DOEC program provided me with a unique opportunity to bridge my engineering background with business acumen, enabling me to engage in more meaningful conversations with leaders. This newfound perspective gave me the confidence to take on a managerial role within my organization. I've since been able to recruit talent effectively by emphasizing personal and professional development over mere financial gain, resulting in positive feedback from my team and contributing to our overall success.
I've successfully integrated data analytics, inherent to engineering, design thinking and knowledge management tools to streamline work procedures. For instance, implementing frameworks from the Designing Solutions for Organizational Effectiveness course has revolutionized how I approach teaching and developing my team. By conducting interviews to understand their learning challenges and leveraging tools like AI for safe question environments, we've accelerated our young team's growth remarkably. This not only enhances team productivity but also serves as a tangible example of my leadership impact, positioning me favorably for future advancement opportunities.
Additionally, the intentional use of frameworks like liberating structures in meetings has fostered greater participation and idea-sharing among team members, enhancing collaboration and problem-solving. Overall, DOEC has empowered me with the tools and confidence to navigate complex organizational dynamics effectively, laying a solid foundation for future career growth and leadership roles.
How has being part of the community benefited you in terms of connections and/or collaborations?
Being part of the DOEC alumni network has been immensely beneficial. The support from instructors, peers and program staff has been invaluable, especially in navigating career decisions post-program completion. Additionally, while I haven't attended many alumni meetups due to family responsibilities, I've appreciated the opportunities to participate in discussions and networking opportunities. Despite the challenges of balancing work and family life, I look forward to further engagement with the community and recognize the ongoing value of staying connected.
What advice would you give to current or potential students pursuing the Designing for Organizational Effectiveness Certificate?
My advice to current and potential students pursuing DOEC is multifaceted. Firstly, I highly recommend actively networking both during and after the program. Building connections within and beyond the community can open doors to valuable opportunities and collaborations. Secondly, leverage the program to establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry. Introducing DOEC concepts to professionals outside the program can showcase your expertise and potentially lead to innovative initiatives. This certificate equips you with the ability to shape your role within your industry, offering unique opportunities for career advancement and impact. Lastly, maintain a commitment to lifelong learning. Continuously seek out new knowledge and stay updated on relevant literature to further enhance your expertise and credibility. Remember, DOEC is a stepping stone; ongoing learning post-program completion is crucial for continued growth and success.