"In the Waiting with Eka Ukaobasi"

In this inspiring episode of our podcast, we delve into the life and career of Eka Ukaobasi, a first-generation Canadian with Nigerian roots and a trailblazer in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Eka shares her journey from being the firstborn child of Nigerian immigrants to becoming a prominent figure in the automotive and consumer goods industries. Her story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence.

Eka recounts her early days, starting with her education in Industrial Engineering at the University of Toronto, where she was among the few women in her class. The challenges of finding employment post-graduation led her to explore her heritage in Nigeria, providing a deeper understanding of her roots and a fresh perspective on her career path.

The conversation takes us through Eka's varied roles, from a process engineer at a Rubber Company to her leadership positions in quality management and sourcing in the automotive sector. Eka's transition to the consumer goods industry with Weber Inc. highlights her ability to adapt and thrive in new environments. Her story of being laid off for the first time in her career sheds light on resilience and the importance of staying grounded through life's unexpected turns.

Eka's passion for STEM and her involvement in volunteer work to inspire the next generation are central themes of the discussion. She emphasizes the joy of teaching and the fulfillment derived from making a positive impact on others, particularly young minds interested in engineering.

The conversation also explores Eka's personal beliefs and how her Christian faith has guided her through various stages of her life and career. She shares insights into the values instilled by her family, the influence of her Nigerian heritage, and the role of spirituality in her professional journey.

As we discuss the future of technology and its implications for society, Eka expresses both excitement and caution towards emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. She advocates for a balanced approach that harnesses the benefits of technology while being mindful of its potential drawbacks.

Eka's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing one's identity, the value of lifelong learning, and the impact of serving as a mentor and role model for future generations. Her journey encourages us to pursue our passions, remain adaptable in the face of change, and contribute positively to the world around us.

Connect with Eka on LinkedIn to follow her continuous contributions to engineering and her community and on instagram to be inspired by her fitness and bodybuilding jounrey!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ekanem-ukaobasi-0a351810/

https://www.instagram.com/efigfit/

Join us in this enlightening conversation that bridges the worlds of engineering, leadership, and personal growth.

Connect w/ Lynn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-gravatt/.

Book a complementary Purpose Clarity Call and let's get you on your way to BEing you best self! https://tidycal.com/lynngravatt/purpose