Jennifer Currie’s Career Story
Principal, Civil Engineering Manager – Stantec
This series features the professional journeys of a wide range of individuals across Canada’s real estate development industry. Often, these stories highlight how rewarding careers in real estate development are the result of following your interests, fostering personal and professional networks, and keeping an open mind about what a career in real estate development might be.
Meet Jennifer Currie – Principal, Civil Engineering Manager – Stantec.
How did you get started in your career?
Civil engineering was not initially on my radar, as I originally envisioned a career in architecture, inspired by iconic buildings and my interest in design. A high school career counselor encouraged me to consider engineering as an undergraduate degree due to my strength in math and science, which led me to enroll in engineering at the University of Calgary. Through my coursework, I discovered a strong interest in the practical application of science, problem solving, and team-based work, and I ultimately specialized in civil engineering with an initial focus on structural.
What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?
During the University of Calgary’s internship program, I joined Stantec. I was drawn to the urban land team and accepted an internship that ended up shaping my future career path. Working on a redevelopment project in the Kensington community in Calgary, and collaborating closely with architects and multidisciplinary teams, solidified my passion for civil engineering that supports and integrates with building design.
What inspired you to pursue this career path?
Following my internship, I returned to Stantec after graduation and have continued to build my career there. Beyond technical growth, I have developed a deep appreciation for collaboration across disciplines and the collective effort required to deliver successful projects in the real estate industry. Seeing projects my team has worked on throughout the city, while also mentoring and supporting the growth of my team, is both motivating and professionally fulfilling.
Have you considered a career switch within or outside of the broader real estate industry?
I have truly found my passion in civil engineering & within the real estate industry and have never seriously considered switching careers; although there have been many challenging projects and difficult circumstances along the way. What has consistently kept me motivated is the people, both my immediate team and the exceptional clients we work with. While not every aspect of any career is easy or enjoyable, working through complex situations creates perspective and makes the eventual accomplishments even more rewarding.
Who was your biggest influence or mentor in your career?
I have not had a single mentor who stands out as my sole influence; instead, my career has been shaped by many, many, many individuals along the way who have supported me. I have relied on different people at different times for technical guidance, mentorship, support, or simply someone to bounce ideas off of. Learning from a variety of perspectives has helped me grow more well-rounded and adaptable in my career.
What is one project or achievement you are most proud of?
I don’t think I can point to a single project, as there are many that I am proud of! However, hands down, the achievement I take the greatest pride in is the success of our team, seeing their growth, development, and the high-quality work they contribute every day. Supporting their success and impact is the most rewarding accomplishment for me. I am beyond luck to work such an incredible group of people.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the field?
My greatest advice is to embrace challenges and say yes to unfamiliar or uncomfortable opportunities, as this is where the most growth occurs. Many of my most rewarding professional experiences came from moments where I initially felt out of my depth. Developing comfort with change is essential, as adaptability and resilience are critical in our ever-evolving industry.
Do you belong to any association groups?
I have remained actively involved in the industry through volunteer leadership roles with CREW Calgary, including serving as a committee chair and board director. These roles have provided valuable professional development and meaningful connections across the real estate and development community. I am also actively involved with BILD and the Urban Land Institute through committee participation. Volunteering has always been a cornerstone to my career development and growth as it has allowed for me to gain exposure to many more viewpoints and perspectives across the real estate industry than what I typically see day-to-day.
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