Carolyn Cross - 2022 SPIE Women in Optics Planner
CEO
Ondine Biomedical Inc., Canada
SPIE Member
 |
Born in Canada |
I was inspired by the technology itself. The idea that a little blue liquid and a little red light could eradicate deadly pathogens was too alluring to pass up. I also knew that it was going to be difficult to undertake and that I had the right personality to get behind this important technology and see it through.
As CEO, I am responsible for running the company and making sure that it has the right resources and strategies to drive it to success. People are our greatest assets. My top responsibility is to ensure that we have the right people on board who have the right talents and share the right core values.
The biggest obstacle and challenge in my career is always finding the right resources to achieve the success that is needed. Having enough personal commitment, perseverance, and passion is the only way through this challenge. Starting out I wish I was told to network more. That and to think bigger sooner.
So the advice I would give to young girls and women interested in STEM is to go for it. Together we can make the world a much better place for everyone. We need your creativity, fresh ideas, work ethic, and perspectives. But don’t go it alone: there is strength in numbers, and speed through mentoring. Give back more than you take. Most importantly, leave the ladder down.