Dr Helen Walter-Terrinoni

What drew you to science rather than more traditionally accepted societal roles for women?

In 1948, my mother, educated as a mathematician, “demonstrated mathematical skill of the highest order” and was one of ten women to gain an appointment at the Taylor Model Basin, where jet plane designs were tested. She left that opportunity to teach Mathematics and English in Cuba, which was a childhood dream of hers.

There was never a question, in our bustling, low-income household with six children, that we could choose to become anything. That strong foundation meant that societal messages about particular roles for girls seemed largely irrelevant, as a child.

My parents were unshakably committed to making the world a better place. They cared very deeply about other people and loved the outdoors. I think that’s why I’ve always been drawn to environmental science and engineering as a way to understand why things unfold the way they do and how to address issues to make the world a better place.

What were the two main obstacles you encountered in your career as a woman and how did you overcome them?

As a society, we are learning to select women for more technical leadership roles, acknowledge their scientific contributions more and give credence to their technical findings. However, this has been a slow road with setbacks.

Excellent work, commitment, and clear communication help to address these issues, in most situations. While tenacity may be needed to keep publishing and presenting work to continue to clarify technical findings for more contentious issues.

What sacrifices have you had to make to get where you are today, and do you have any regrets?

There is no way to avoid the many hours that it takes to do the work that I believe is important to support policies, such as the Montreal Protocol, including the Kigali Amendment. I am looking forward to continuing my efforts to understand and eliminate barriers to refrigerant recovery and reclaim and refrigerant management, this year. I’m also looking forward to continuing to build models of emissions, bans, consumption, and production. I think I would regret not striving to achieve the goals that I have set for myself.

What advice, or encouragement, would you give to young girls and women who are considering a career in science?

First, be insatiably curious. Don’t be satisfied with superficial explanations. Take the time to research and understand concepts deeply.

Second, there are many surprising career opportunities to work in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. I learn about new ones every day. You may be surprised by the variety of opportunities that await you in a STEM career.

Finally, there are many, many people that want to help you succeed! We are interested in your thoughts and helping you to find opportunities. We are pleased to answer questions and share knowledge and advice in the hope that you gain more experience as a scientist. Don’t hesitate to ask someone about their career and to find opportunities to work with mentors.

What has been the highlight - or most memorable event - of your scientific career to date?

I have had the honour to work with accomplished experts through the Montreal Protocol Technical and Economic Assessment Panel (TEAP), including the Scientific Assessment Panel (SAP), and the Environmental and Economic Assessment Panel (EEAP). I am very pleased to have the continuing opportunity to work with the members of the Flexible and Rigid Foams Technical Options Committee (F-TOC) with my well-respected co-chair. I continue to be impressed by the work of the Women of TEAP (WOT), and I look forward to our work together, amongst all the panels, this year.