“With technology, we can build a more sustainable future”

For many children who are handed a smartphone to play with, the number one priority is to open a video app, find a great cartoon show, and play it on repeat until the adults in the room cry out for mercy. But some children go one step further, by asking the question “how?” “How does the cartoon show get into my phone?” Sarah Scharf from Canada was one of the curious kids who always asked “how.”

 “I have had the opportunity to test the code of many interesting features."

Today, Sarah is in the perfect position to give elaborate answers to “how” questions about modern communication solutions. Her degree in electrical and electronics engineering from Carleton University, combined with experience in radio frequency (RF), has made her a part of the communities that develop and improve advanced ICT solutions. Yet, Sarah’s curiosity and passion for technology remain as strong as ever. “I still find the general idea behind technical innovations – for instance that a phone can get internet out of thin air – fascinating,” she says. “To form part of the RF world is like being in a secret circle of people who have that knowledge and who know what happens behind the scenes.”

Career development

Sarah was already familiar with Syntronic’s work, through professional contacts, when she joined our Canada team four years ago. Since then, she has had the opportunity to explore various roles and leave her mark on a myriad of different projects. After an initial period as a radio software verification engineer, Sarah conducted software tests as an embedded team member at one of Syntronic’s long-term partners.

Today, Sarah is involved in advanced feature verification tests. “I have had the opportunity to test the code of many interesting features. For instance, I recently tested a flexible solution that will allow for more efficiency with bandwidth use",” she explains. “Features of that calibre  improves the download speed and allow us to make the most of our 5G use”.

To make the most of the available resources is a crucial principle for Sarah. “I believe that with technology, we can build a more sustainable future for everyone. I have always had a passion for environmental protection and for social justice” she says. “It is important that we promote those values on all levels, including in our professional roles.”

"We have a team-oriented culture and a shared commitment to sustainability."

A positive impact

Inclusiveness, equality, and freedom in terms of life choices are important values for Sarah. Over the years, a large fraction of her free time has been spent teaching young children about social values, in her role as a Girl Guide Leader. “For me, working with children and helping them grow is one way to constructively work towards a better and more socially-conscious world, where everyone is respected, regardless of ethnicity, sexuality or gender,” she says.

Moreover, Sarah is convinced that it is possible for companies to make a difference at their level, by actively promoting social values. “Here at Syntronic Canada, we have a team-oriented culture and a shared commitments to sustainability and social issues,” she says. “We regularly organize activities, such as food drives, to help members of our local community who need support. We are looking into how we can intensify that work and make an even greater positive impact in the future,” she concludes.