Women in the UBC Department of Orthopaedics are making significant contributions in improving musculoskeletal health and patient care while inspiring and training the next generation of orthopaedic surgeons.
In recognition of International Women’s Day, the Department is highlighting a few of our many female faculty members and trainees.
Lisa Howard
UBC Orthopaedics Clinical Instructor – Division of Lower Limb Reconstruction & Oncology
What inspired you to pursue a career in orthopaedics?
When I first started residency at UBC, I didn’t think of my gender as being anything special or different. UBC tends to have a higher admission of females in Orthopaedics compared to other programs. As I finished my training and transitioned into a staff position, I noted that being a female in arthroplasty, particularly academic arthroplasty, is rare. This has provided me with a lot of inspiration to advance and break those glass ceilings. I want females coming through training programs to see strong, accomplished academic female arthroplasty surgeons in the operating room and on the podium as the norm, and I want to be central in that inspiration.
I love what I do, and there is absolutely no reason women should see arthroplasty as something not possible because of their gender. When I see my female colleagues advance through the ranks, it only serves to motivate me further.
What advice would you give to women wanting to pursue a career in the field of orthopaedics?
My advice is to find a strong female mentor and benefit from their experience and expertise. Talk to them about their challenges and what allowed them to overcome them. Find someone who will be open and honest about how their gender has influenced their experience. Work with people wherever possible that have taken steps to promote diversity. I believe females in Orthopaedics can balance an academic career and a family life. The more we demonstrate that through peer mentorship, the more common that will hopefully become. Being a female shouldn’t limit what you apply to or want to do. If you want to do Orthopaedics, then apply, find a strong female surgeon early, and enjoy breaking those glass ceilings. Plus, arthroplasty is typically pretty physically demanding which gives me a workout at the same time!