EMC Celebrates International Women's Day
In anticipation of the upcoming ‘International Women’s Day’, to be held March 8, 2022, EMC has interviewed several women from across our organization to further understand and explore their experiences as women in the construction and nuclear industry.
Our first feature includes a Q & A with Samantha Harvie, an electrical apprentice with CUSW:
How did you first enter the construction / nuclear industry?
I entered both the electrical trade and the nuclear industry not knowing much about either of them. I have always lived in Saugeen Shores and always knew about employment opportunities within nuclear, but felt unsure about how I would fit in the industry. Before I started my trade, I worked in customer service environments but always wanted to do something more. I was looking for a more fulfilling career, and finally, someone asked if I had ever considered a trade. I had considered it multiple times but wasn’t quite sure which route to choose or how to get started. I then learned more about electrical work and CUSW. CUSW offered to take me on as an apprentice! I quickly learned about the employment opportunities in nuclear and that is exactly where I ended up. I have been here for a year now and am still learning every day, not just about my trade but the nuclear industry as well and love it!
What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership or participation within the workplace?
I would say the most significant barrier to female leadership and participation would be being shy because these environments can be male-dominated. This is a barrier in instances where you want to learn but people assume you don’t want to do certain things, or that you don’t want to work hard, or that you don’t know what you are doing. The fear of looking inadequate or incompetent can also prevent you from asking questions and learning. So, the best way to overcome these barriers is to not be afraid to speak up. Your voice is just as important as everyone else. Don’t be afraid to say “I want to do that” or “I have learned about that before and would like to help do that again”. Don’t be afraid to ask questions - there are no stupid questions when it comes to learning your trade or learning about the nuclear industry.
What are the best examples of positive change in the workplace that you have noticed in the past five years?
In my short amount of time here, the positive changes I have noticed in the workplace is simply the number of women who are actually employed in these trades or within nuclear. It is awesome to hear that more and more women feel encouraged and driven to enter the trades.
How have you built confidence or resiliency over the course of your career?
I have built confidence by pushing myself to get involved, rather than standing back and letting someone else do all the work. Confidence comes with experience: the more you experience, the more confident you become in those situations. I would also say that getting to know the people that you work with is a huge help in building confidence. I work alongside a lot of really great men who are always willing to teach me and let me learn, so when I have questions or am unsure of what I am supposed to be doing, I am not afraid to ask questions because I am not afraid to approach them. Joining a company that also has many helpful and encouraging women has made a big difference in my confidence too! I stand alongside other women who go experience the same barriers I do.
What strategies do you use to promote inclusion in the workplace?
I would say the strategy that I use to promote inclusion in the workplace is kindness. It is important to stand up for others in situations where they may feel too scared to do it for themselves. I want people to feel like if they ever need help, they can come to me and that if someone is saying or doing something to you that makes you upset or uncomfortable that you are allowed to speak up. I want everyone, no matter who they are, to feel like they have safe and comfortable work environment.
What, or who inspires you?
Every woman that I have met through my short career here inspires me. It takes a lot of courage to jump in and speak up when it comes to a male dominated work environment and that in itself is a testament to the inclusive environment we enjoy at work. I learn a little from every woman I cross paths with!
What advice would you give to young women entering this profession or industry?
Some advice I would give a young woman entering the trades or nuclear industry is just don’t be afraid. It is way less scary than you might expect! EMC has a great team, including men that also want to see you be successful in your trade, who will encourage you to learn, and who are willing to teach you. Be open to suggestions and constructive criticism and if you feel like someone isn’t treating you the way you deserve, respectfully speak up. You are encouraged to do so. Use your voice, don’t ever silence yourself because you are afraid of what people will think or say!
Check back next week for another feature!