In this episode of Sympa SaysHeather Grandy discusses her career journey from a curious child to a successful engineering and technology career. She highlights the importance of problem definition, collaboration, and resource utilization. Heather shares her co-op experiences, early career challenges, and transition to the tech world at Microsoft. She reflects on how the pandemic influenced her career and her passion for data and analytics, leading her back to Microsoft. Heather also addresses job search challenges, communication skills, pursuing passions, the value of a master's degree, and offers advice for new professionals.Become part of our community by watching or listening and subscribing or following Sympa Says.Links and locations of the podcast Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/0zu1gsYgd0rmXCXNwXTRWIAmazonhttps://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9c73deb7-75af-44fa-ae40-70506949bdccApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sympa-says/id1809071990Castboxhttps://castbox.fm/vh/6572789Goodpodshttps://goodpods.com/podcasts/sympa-says-681171iHeartRadiohttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sympa-says-272967966/OvercastPocket Castshttps://pca.st/67eufjizChapters00:00 Navigating Early Career Challenges02:57 Exploring Career Aspirations and Education05:55 The Role of Co-op Programs in Skill Development08:50 Experiences in Diverse Work Environments12:01 Transitioning to Microsoft and Initial Roles15:03 Finding Passion in Data and AI17:57 The Journey Through Microsoft: Growth and Learning20:46 Career Decisions and Regional Differences24:02 The Impact of Communication and Collaboration26:57 Shifting Roles and Embracing New Challenges29:52 The Transition to Training and Mentorship35:56 Passion for Teaching and Learning41:13 Transitioning to Startups and New Opportunities45:47 Pursuing a Master's Degree and Academic Experiences52:23 Navigating Career Challenges and Growth01:01:10 Reflections on Career Highlights and Lowlights01:07:00 Advice for Future GenerationsFollow Heather:https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathergrandy/