In this month’s employee spotlight, we’re getting to know Renee Teo, our Business Systems Analyst at FISPAN. As part of the Facilities & Service Desk division, Renee facilitates the analysis, design and implementation of various business systems such as the creation of our Service desk, to aid in the creation of our Command Centre.
Her transition from a background in biochemistry to her role at FISPAN was a journey fueled by a strong interest in technology and a passion for project management. Her academic foundation in biochemistry cultivated a deep appreciation for problem-solving and through her time as a research coordinator and marketing manager, she found that perfect synergy at FISPAN.
Join us in learning more about her transition, interests and how she has navigated her life post-graduation.
How has your journey at FISPAN been so far?
My time at FISPAN has been marked by incredible mentorship opportunities. It’s an environment which provides a safe space for peers and mentors to readily offer guidance and support for continuous learning and development. I’ve learnt and built new programs, and am in the process of studying for further development certificates.
I’ve been able to work towards my career goals with support and have been provided as many opportunities as possible to grow towards them.
Renee with the team at FISPAN’s 7th anniversary event.
What is your favorite part about working at FISPAN?
Never having the same type of day. There is always something to keep you on your feet, I’ve been able to wear multiple hats and experience different areas in the company.
One of my favorite parts about working here has been the flexibility of the job. One day, I could be going through Service Desk tickets and maintenance issues, and the next, building API connections between different applications for scalability, then brainstorming about how to better onboarding or access requests. The past months, I’ve been part of the end-user process, internal scaling initiatives, and it keeps me excited to know that my day ahead could be different to the one before.
An outing to Twin falls with the FISPAN Team
What led you to working in Tech?
When undergoing my biochemistry undergraduate and working in research, there was always an underlying interest in technology particularly in healthcare/ biotechnology. As I entered post-university life, one interest that stood out was the application of technology in transforming traditional processes. I decided that I wanted to look into positions in technology and FISPAN was a company that stood out given that some peers had previously worked there before and recommended it to me.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned throughout the years?
Having lived for most of my life in Brunei, one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced was moving away from my family and coming to Canada. I’ve had to embrace change but also stay adaptable in the face of evolving circumstances. This resilience has carried out in both my personal and professional life.
It’s so important to look at an issue and identify ways to overcome it. Either through resolving or just alleviating it, the following impacts will always be rewarding no matter how big or small.
What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?
If you take a look at my personal google calendar, you will see it is riddled with little hobbies and activities. I definitely put a lot of time into whatever new obsession that I’m interested in. From Lagree classes, baking, and piano. I’ve recently gotten into pottery and backpacking. My partner and I went on a few trips this past Summer to take in the view of beautiful BC. We try our best to bring our dog, Pica, whenever we can as well.
I highly recommend doing Garibaldi lake and Panorama Ridge as a backpacking trip, the views are stunning and the rush at the top of the viewpoints is exhilarating.
What is your favorite mantra?
“I’m willing to put in the work to make my dreams a reality”
What are you most excited about for the 2024 new year?
A new year means new adventures and experiences. I’ve been planning a month-long trip to China to see my grandfather and then my parents will be coming back with me to Vancouver for a visit as well. It’s been around 5 years since they were last with me (due to the pandemic), so it will be really great to have them see this place that I call home.
At FISPAN, we have some big projects coming up, and I’m super excited to be a part of them and take them to the next level. We’ll be ramping up scaling initiatives and I think there will be some exciting changes coming.
A photo of Picarona, a big dog enjoying her life