About

I’m Erica Wodzak, and I’m an over-achieving, almost-vegan, super nerdy, snow-loving, travel-hungry twenty-something. Does that make sense?

Originally from Whitby, Ontario (near Toronto, Canada), I moved to Vancouver, BC to pursue my engineering studies in 2005. I graduated in 2010, and went on to complete a Master of Management degree in 2011. I know what you’re thinking: what. a. nerd. Don’t I know it.

I’ve spent six years of my life working to get an education that will help me achieve one of my greatest goals: to break the glass ceiling that separates women from men in executive careers. I also believe that the blame shouldn’t be placed solely on traditionalist views, but that we women don’t do enough to push the limits to change them. That’s why I make a point to learn and absorb as much as I can about things like how to use my networks, how to take charge of my career (especially in a recession), and finding success in the workplace. I understand that this mindset isn’t for everyone, and neither is engineering. But I totally believe that the lessons are transferable, and that corporate and entrepreneurial types alike can benefit from the people skills and business savvy that are vital to success in both arenas.

When I’m not plotting corporate domination, I have a ton of hobbies that I like to spend time doing. For one, I’m an avid baker/cook, which comes from the abundance of food sensitivities I’ve developed over the years–I don’t eat dairy and am vegetarian (pesca-ovo-veg, actually). Because this seriously limits the store bought foods I can eat, I love the challenge of making classic dishes like mac ‘n cheese or chocolate ice cream, and making them to suit my limitations. I also love snowboarding, outdoor activities, and pushing my own limits whether on a mountain or in an ocean. I like living a healthy life, but one that doesn’t impose restrictions on what I can and can’t do. I want to try everything once (even skydiving one day–yikes), and thus have a serious bucket list–I may need to live to 135 to get it all in. And that’s me, in a nutshell!

About the blog:
Cupcakes & Coffee Breaks was born from the need to find (or inspire) more women like me–driven, independent, goal-oriented, and fricking unstoppable. I’m fairly feisty and all, but gender equality in the workplace is no one-woman show. And really, it’s not about bringing the boys club down anyway, it’s about bringing the girl’s club up to par. It’s a little difficult to start a club though when there are only a handful of ladies in the room. Amiright?

The purpose of the blog is absolutely to provide some insight into career progression (in any industry, but especially for us women in science & technology). It’s also to provide inspiration for all aspects of the working girl’s life. When we’re not behind a microscope or a drafting table, even the nerdiest of us girls have to go home, cook, clean, and find things to do with ourselves to keep sane. And you know, occasionally go shopping (!). So yes, I definitely love sharing a good career anecdote or tips and tricks for getting yourself noticed, but I also love the idea of the ‘career woman’ as a well-rounded, intelligent, athletic, creative, and funny human being. Who does what she wants!

If any of this describes you, inspires you, or maybe even pisses you off, I’m open to it all. I’d love to hear what you have to say, and I’d love for you to stick around and hang with me.

images in my blog header via 1, 2 (I do my best to give credit where credit is due. If you know the origin of the other three photos, please inform me and I’ll be happy to credit those responsible!)