“My AstroPassion is creating instrumentation for future generations to explore the universe with.”
Catherine's Biography
Catherine Tsouvaltsidis has been practicing space engineering since 2010. Currently she is the Head of Research and Development for Thoth Technology and works primarily at the Algonquin Radio Observatory located in Ontario, Canada. Catherine’s values and passions lie in being able to inspire others through mentorship and participation in events where she shares her enthusiasm for STEM activities. Her multilingualism in geek, designer, trainer, and student allows her to reach a variety of different peoples. The ability to see both the big and small picture is one of Catherine’s best qualities.
Head, Research and Development. Thoth Technology Inc. Pembroke Ontario
I am the head of Research and Development at Thoth Technology, a private space services and products company. I get to research, design and develop new technologies for the company divisions, including the Algonquin Radio Observatory. At times I also get to prepare and aid in space qualification testing.
Thoth Technology provides miniaturized space instrumentation and ground station services in Canada. They also perform space qualification testing for satellites and space components.
My favorite part of the job is being able to work on different projects and in different locations. I enjoy the varied settings I get to experience like being in the middle of the Algonquin Provincial Park or in the Space Hardware Testing Facility.
I think it’s hard to pick! I have worked on many enjoyable and interesting projects! One of the most interesting projects I have worked on was the restoration and upgrading of the 46m radio-astronomy dish. This project tested me to my limits.
My work helps to build future instrumentation that will be used in remote sensing projects – this will allow us to gain more knowledge about our world and how we choose to interact with it.
I would like to see more women pursuing careers in engineering. I plan on continuing to mentor young women and encourage youth to look at different streams of engineering and realize the potential they have in themselves.
My advice to young women who are thinking about their future and careers is to follow their hearts and dreams. I believe that if you follow your heart you can never go wrong and the end result will be that you are happy.
