Annie Yeo

After enjoying her years spent in the Political Science program and contributing to Concordia’s student community, Annie continued her passion for politics by pursuing a Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) at Carleton University.

She joined the federal public service and became a policy analyst for the Government of Canada’s Labour Program. As a policy analyst, she conducts research and proposes legislative and policy recommendations to enhance federal labour standards and labour relations for workers.

Annie is also proud to be the youngest woman ever to be elected as a vice-president in her union’s history. Her union is the Canadian Association of Professional Employees (CAPE) and they represent and defend the rights of 28,000 federal public service workers across Canada.

Career questions with Annie

What do you love most about your work, and what inspired you to pursue this career in the first place? 

I think it's important to remember the gains that were fought and won through the history of labour struggle in Canada. From the eight-hour workday to paid maternity leave, these were crucial wins for workers’ labour standards. As both a federal labour policy analyst and union leader, I’m happy that my work contributes to advancing labour standards in both fields of research and advocacy. 

Looking back, what skills have been the biggest gamechangers in your career? 

Time management! So much can be achieved when goals are broken down into smaller milestones. I’m old-school with my physical agenda, but scheduling tasks, no matter how small, pays off. 

How did Concordia prepare you for your career?

Concordia’s Political Science program equips you with the critical thinking needed for political decision making. When thinking of policy direction that enhances fair and equitable workplaces or the employer’s demands on the other side of the bargaining table, it’s strategic to anticipate your political opposition, assess your capacity and prepare your responses. 

What is a standout memory from your time at Concordia? 

A memory I’ll never forget is meeting my fiancé at Reggie’s bar that one fall night in 2018. 

If you could give your younger self one powerful piece of advice, what would it be? 

I would tell my younger self to always embrace extra-curricular campus clubs and activities that you are passionate about. The people you meet and the experiences you have will positively influence your identity and shape your interests just as much as attending lectures. 

What’s the most exciting shift happening in your industry right now? 

Workers in Canada are fighting for telework rights to improve their work-life balance, job security to co-exist with the rise in artificial intelligence, and they are pushing back against employer misclassification in a growing gig economy. 

Feeling inspired?

• Make friends through the Political Science Student Association (PSSA) or explore other clubs that interests you.
• Participate in learning workshops to develop effective time management strategies.
• Connect with Career Counselling & Education Transitions to plan your career path.