Angela Chinn

Angela Chinn is a Digital Home Technician with TELUS, and champions women working in non-traditional roles that previously were male dominated. Since starting this position in 2016, Angela has experienced a lot of success, and attributes some of her success to what are typically known as "female" qualities, and has been promoted into a leadership role within the department. 

When did you start your career path and why did you choose it?

I started my career in 2012 when I enrolled in the Information Technology and Applied Systems program at Vancouver Island University. I chose this program because I grew up with a curiosity and interest in Technology and knew that this field would have numerous career possibilities and paths. I would say my career really began when I joined Telus in May 2016 as a Digital Home Technician. I chose to apply for this particular position because I was looking to join a team that was passionate about what they did and made an impact in people’s lives. The description of the role really peaked my interest by emphasizing teamwork and innovation and offering the chance to combine my technical skills and interests with customer service.

What or who helped you get you to where you are today?

In the year and a half I’ve been with Telus I’ve been able to move up to Team Lead and then more recently to Field Support Manager. Telus has an amazing program setup that really encourages growth within the company. This includes having frequent conversations with our leaders to help us grow our skills that align with our interests. The Digital Home Technician role provided an opportunity for me join the company and meet some amazing people that have helped me become more aware of my strengths and work to build on them. Our Director Michelle Gaites has been really supportive and encouraging to me and the main reason I am where I am today. She took the time and effort to recognize my strong work ethic and analytical skills and helped me turn that into being a confident leader where I’m able to make a positive impact to our business and our customers.

What are some challenges that you faced in your career? 

It took me most of my twenties to figure out what I wanted to do for my career. I struggled with finding confidence in knowing what I was good at and how to apply that to a career. After much trial and error, I surrounded myself with supportive people that were able to confirm and build up my strengths and guide me into a path where I felt I had a purpose and was making an impact.

When you look around the room in meetings, do you see enough diversity?

I work with an amazingly diverse group of people of different gender, race, ethnicity, religion, and orientation. I would like to see more women represented on our team though. We have some inspiring women already on our team and obviously I’m biased but I think women have some qualities and strengths that they can bring to the role, more so than men in some cases. In general, the women on our team are some of the highest performers and it makes us want to encourage more women to join us and make their mark as well.

What advice would you give your younger self?

To my younger self, I would say be confident in yourself and your abilities. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and find a group of people that share and embrace the same strengths and passions you do. For any young women out there considering a career in this field, I would advise to be patient and seek out a group of people or company that promotes a supportive and collaborative culture. Take a risk, accept a role that may not seem perfect but will get your foot in the door of the company. Dedicate yourself to excel in that role and you never know where that could lead you! '

What is a quote that you live by?

My life’s motto is “It’s all part of the adventure”. Life is full of ups and downs and you never know where it’s going to lead you.

Learn more about TELUS's Digital Home Technician role, and how it can be a great career men and women.