Rachel Barr, P.Eng
Director of Engineering and R&D, Ambico Limited
Responsibilities:
I oversee the engineering and innovation team at Ambico. My responsibilities include managing submittal and manufacturing drawings for projects, developing bespoke solutions for specialized applications, and leading new product development initiatives.
What led you to the door and hardware industry?
My background is in mechanical engineering. After graduating, I gained experience in manufacturing, which provided a foundation in production processes and practical application. Moving to Ambico was a natural fit, as it allowed me to combine hands-on manufacturing experience with engineering design.
How many years have you been in the industry?
I have been in the industry for 10 years.
What was your first job?
My first role after university was in a medical equipment manufacturing facility, where I gained valuable hands-on experience with production processes, quality standards, and operational workflows.
What is your proudest professional moment?
One of my proudest professional moments was moving from a design engineer into leading the department, stepping into a bigger role with more responsibility for technical direction, mentoring the team, and guiding projects forward. Additionally, there’s nothing quite like the sense of accomplishment that comes from a successful test program after months of focused effort and hard work!
What has been your biggest challenge?
The biggest challenge has been moving from a technical role to a more people-focused one. It’s less about doing the work yourself and more about guiding the team, making decisions, and supporting others as they tackle problems. It’s been a learning process, but I’ve enjoyed it!
Who do you consider a mentor or hero?
Both of my parents are engineers and have been my biggest mentors. My mother, in particular, showed my sister and me that we can thrive in any field, even in male-dominated industries, simply by leading through example. At the same time, they always demonstrated the importance of balancing work with life, even while handling demanding careers, which has had a big influence on how I approach my own path. I have also had the opportunity to work with a number of great mentors through my years at Ambico.
What is the best advice you ever received?
The best professional advice I’ve received is to focus on what you can control, rather than worrying about things outside your control. It helps me stay productive, calm, and make better decisions.
What is the best advice you never received?
Take on challenges even when you don’t feel fully ready. It’s about diving in, figuring things out as you go, and trusting that you’ll grow and develop along the way. That mindset has helped me tackle new responsibilities, build confidence, and push myself further than I might have otherwise.
What changes have you seen in the industry over recent years?
On a technical side, I’ve seen specifications and project requirements increase both from a product performance perspective but also from a testing and verification perspective. It highlights the need for continuous product development ensuring we have a robust portfolio of test data to support an ever changing landscape.
What changes do you see facing our industry in the future?
Like many industries, the growth of AI is going to impact the way we work, the skills that are in demand, and how teams approach problem solving.
Fun fact you wish to share
In my spare time I enjoy hiking and traveling as much as I can. My bucket list is ever-growing!
I agree that my submission will be displayed on the public website.
Yes