Caroline Mekodom: Biomedical Technologist on Systemic Change in STEM
Take a break, we’re on Smoko. In this special episode, we partner with CCWESTT (Canadian Coalition of Women in Engineering, Science, Trades and Technology) to feature a live interview with Caroline Mekodom, recorded at the 2025 CCWESTT conference: Charting a Course, Navigating Systemic Change in Victoria, BC.
Caroline is a certified engineering technologist specializing in biomedical instrumentation. Born in Cameroon and now based in Canada, her journey into STEM was sparked by childhood curiosity and driven forward by fierce resilience—despite cultural barriers, racial bias, and systemic exclusions faced as a Black immigrant woman in a technical field.
“Curiosity was my compass, resilience my engine. They told me I’d never belong in electronics, but here I am—an engineer, a dreamer, and a builder of my future.” – Caroline Mekodom
Today, Caroline supports medical labs across North America, specializing in genetic screening instruments for reproductive health. During the COVID-19 pandemic, her behind-the-scenes contributions in healthcare were essential to keeping critical equipment running in times of urgent need.
In this episode, Caroline opens up about founding her voice through ASET, mentoring other women in trades and technology, and how organizations like CCWESTT are building stronger, more inclusive ecosystems for underrepresented voices in SETT (Science, Engineering, Trades, and Technology).
We also explore CCWESTT’s latest findings from their national Gap Analysis, highlighting three essential strategies for systemic change:
- Scaling Out: Shifting culture through inclusive leadership, decolonization, and male allyship.
- Scaling Up: Embedding equity goals in legislation, tracking KPIs, and increasing accountability.
- Scaling Deep: Valuing lived experience and compensating equity work beyond performative statements.
Caroline’s story is one of hope, strategy, and solidarity. This conversation is not just about engineering—it’s about building systems where everyone can thrive.