International Women’s Day 2017
At TransEd, we have great employees who are accomplishing a lot to ensure a safe and efficient transit system. On International Women’s Day, we are highlighting two women who are crucial to our project and how they stand out in our industry. Meet Cindy and Melissa.
What is your name and job title?
Cindy Brouwer – Assistant Area Manager Track and Stops
What are your responsibilities on the TransEd project?
I’m responsible for the organization and direction of construction and related activities for all Track Work, At Grade Stops, Utility Complexes, Retaining Walls, Kahasiniskak Bridge and Churchill Connector Station. Along with my Area Manager, we ensure that assigned job site operations comply with design and specifications, are completed on schedule, within budget, and meet quality standards.
How did you start on your career path?
Upon graduating high school, I posed one question to the man I most trusted, who knew me better than I knew myself. “What do you think I should be when I grow up?” My father then answered, “I think you should become an engineer, you would be great at that.” This short dialogue set my career in motion, allowing me to develop my passions and confidently build relationships along my journey. I am thankful for my father for having the foresight to set me on the right path.
This year’s theme is #BeBoldForChange. How would you help forge a better working world – a more gender inclusive world?
If we empower those who embrace change, a better working world won’t be far behind. Boldness comes from within and therefore I plan to lead by example. As a woman in engineering, I have immense opportunity to pave the way for women to follow and I have been fortunate to follow the footsteps of strong women before me. By leading and striving for excellence in every position I hold, I am empowering myself to be bold and initiate change and equality in the workplace and beyond.
What is your name and job title?
Melissa Brown, MSc., RPBio – Environmental Scientist
What are your responsibilities on the TransEd project?
I ensure project compliance with environmental performance obligations, developing and delivering meaningful training and tools, helping all project personnel understand our obligations and specifically with weed management and the restoration of native plant communities. I also work to ensure our Environmental Management System is in compliance with its governing standard, ISO 14001, the Project Agreement with the City of Edmonton, our existing permits and regulations, as well as best management practices.
How did you start on your career path?
My career path started in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Alberta, where I obtained both my Bachelors and Masters of Science in Environmental Biology and Ecology, and my training as a research and field biologist. Since then, my path to the present has followed many exciting turns, each contributing to where I am today; as a consulting biologist for impact assessments across Alberta for many industries, teaching undergraduates at two institutions to inspiring community understanding and ownership of environmental issues. I then found myself focusing on environmental compliance and permitting, in southern British Columbia for almost 7 years, with mining operating permits, and helping to develop a successful environmental assessment application for a complex extension. Just before joining the TransEd team, I completed a short contract with Edmonton Fire Department as the Environmental Manager.
This year’s theme is #BeBoldForChange. How would you help forge a better working world – a more gender inclusive world?
Always lead with integrity; take time to truly listen to and understand; build credibility as a valued team member. Support initiatives that empower women and inclusion of diversity in sciences, industry and leadership. Above all, always challenge yourself to keep learning not only within your discipline; but in developing and practicing interpersonal and leadership skills.