After completing a Ph.D. in materials and sustainability in buildings, it was challenging to find a role that fit. So, when I got an email from a previous university colleague about a company called Granta Design, it felt like it was meant to be. That company was acquired by Ansys in 2019, and here I am.
How I’d Explain My Job to a Kindergartener
My job is to help teachers teach with Ansys software in universities all over the world.
What I Actually Do
I’m part of a team that fosters deep relationships with our academic customers. We support university professors and students in using Ansys tools for teaching and research. There’s a large scope there: collaborations, curriculum development, guest lectures, creating teaching resources, webinars, training sessions … and more.
Why I Choose Ansys
From the outside, a big tech company like Ansys might seem intimidating. But once you’re through the door you discover a collaborative, supportive and inclusive environment. A culture of continuous innovation and improvement in terms of software and talent management. I don’t think that combination is common.
A Sense of Belonging
For me, it’s small things, like the immediate group of people I worked with when I first joined the company. It was a fun, diverse, and very supportive team. When I walked in, I felt right at home. I try to carry that atmosphere around with me, so that everyone I have the opportunity to meet can hopefully get a ‘piece of belonging’ as well.
My Best Advice
It took me a while to realize this myself. Ansys is huge so make the most out of it. Get involved in an activity or project outside your day-to-day role. Step outside your (comfort) zone, there’s more than enough room for you to grow and shine.
Getting Involved
At Ansys, I’m privileged to be on the leadership of two employee resource groups (ERGs). I joined Women in Technology (WIT) because I had good friends who were very involved and needed support to get things done and I wanted to support them. I’m also part of the Black Employee Network and serve as the EMEA lead. It’s such a great opportunity to be a part of these communities that celebrate diversity inside and outside Ansys. I also have the chance to interact with people across Ansys, including senior leaders, in a way I may never have been able to otherwise.
What You Might Not Know
I stumbled into cake decorating some years ago and it became a little bit of an obsession. It may have to do with all the tools you get to use.
I’m fascinated by space and trying to fully grasp concepts like space-time and the nature of black holes — it’s an ongoing journey.
I never learned to ride a bike.
"It’s such a great opportunity to be a part of these communities that celebrate diversity inside and outside Ansys."
— Bridget Ogwezi, senior education development manager, Ansys
