Tell us about your early career and what led you to your role as CEO of CCMTA.

In my early career, I began working with the Ontario government in education and training, focusing on promoting skilled trades as a viable career option. After my children were born, I transitioned to working for myself, taking on small contracts for better work-life balance.

In 2000, I began working for the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF-FCA), a nonprofit organization that connects Canada’s apprenticeship community. In the forum, participants work collaboratively to support vibrant and innovative apprenticeship systems and policies to develop a highly skilled, inclusive and mobile skilled trades workforce.

Working for the CAF-FCA was the first time I had the opportunity to work for a board in a not-for-profit environment, and I loved the experience. I had a great boss and mentor, Keith Lancastle, who encouraged me to return to school for my Master of Business Administration. The combination of experience working for a board at the CAF-FCA and my formal education led to the opportunity to join CCMTA
as CEO in 2010.

These two experiences resulted in almost 25 years of leading not-for-profits and expanded my knowledge in board governance, accountability, meeting member needs and all other aspects of ensuring a strong value proposition for members. I believe the work we have done together—the board, the CCMTA team and myself—will provide a strong foundation for the next leader to build on.

What career accomplishments are you most proud of?

I am very proud of my contributions to CCMTA to strengthen the organization, building on a strong foundation. Reflecting on my time at CCMTA, I know that my contributions, professional investment and dedication made a difference in the organization’s ability to respond to members and owners. I’m also proud of my contributions to revising governance and our enhanced technology services.

You just retired—congratulations! What do you miss the most about your job?

I miss the people! I worked for a great organization. Board members are wonderful, committed and knowledgeable people. And my team—wow—not seeing my team and connecting with them brings melancholy for sure. They are amazing people, and I learned from them every day.

What do you plan to do in retirement?

Retirement from CCMTA brings an opportunity for me to gain more knowledge and invest in myself physically. I would like to keep moving in retirement, whether walking and training my dog or playing more golf. I would like to contribute to my community through additional board work and perhaps take some additional courses to learn more about board governance and enhance my Spanish.