Meet Bethany Helaine Poltl

Bethany is planning on graduating with a major in Environment and Business, and a minor in International Development from the University of Waterloo, in 2025. She currently attends University full time, and is a Residence Don, Imprint Newspaper Science and Tech Editor, all at the University of Waterloo. In her spare time, Bethany enjoys nature photography, dance, gardening, writing, and baking.

When did your love of STEM begin?

I’ve loved being outside my whole life. As a child my mom and I would spend hours planting in the garden, bird watching and going on “nature hikes” (walks around the local park) where we’d look for cool bugs, rocks and leaves. I love climbing trees and seeing what is up in them. This inspired me to learn more about our environment, the science behind how every part works together and how we can care for it.

My curiosity led me to science fair, competing with my first project about nutritious, medicinal and easy to grow plants for space travel when I was 9. At 11 I discovered how HFCS affected the longevity, fertility and behavior of Drosophila, then at age 13 I engineered my own piezo-flooring tiles. At 16 I had the opportunity to work alongside agricultural scientists at the Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, where I discovered the Maclura pomifera can be used as a natural repellent for common vegetation pests. I have met amazing mentors over the years at my local science fair and at the CWSF which inspired me to become a mentor for young scientists so I can share my love of STEM and spark curiosity in others.

Since starting university in my ENBUS co-op program I have worked as a Policy Analyst for Environment and Climate Change Canada and Communications and Outreach Coordinator for the University of Waterloo Sustainability Office, broadening my perspective on the connections between STEM and sustainability.

What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?

I love the continuous learning of STEM and being able to work together with others to make a difference. Through classes, workshops and clubs I’ve connected with so many amazing people and met dozens of new friends and mentors doing awesome things in STEM fields. Everyone I’ve met is working on their own problem solving project - one piece of the STEM puzzle. I think that there is an opportunity to assemble some of these puzzle pieces and help people through interdisciplinary solutions.

What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?

My personal motto is “Together we achieve great things” - as a young woman in STEM I encourage everyone to find and create your community. It’s important to surround yourself with good friends and support each other on your personal journeys. Also be brave and pursue what you’re passionate about. If you love something you can make your voice heard and find others to work with and learn from.