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.

This week, we feature Alannah MacLean, EMC’s Lead Scheduler:

How did you first enter the construction / nuclear industry?

I was hired after I finished my project management course. However, being local I was always aware of this industry and that is why I ended up going back to college to take additional courses.

What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership or participation within the workplace?

Unconscious bias and/or internalized misogyny is the hardest to overcome. It is still prevalent unfortunately and there is nothing as a person you can change about how another individual thinks. This also does not always come from male co-workers either. Whether it is an obvious transgression or micro aggression, it still affects your ability to be a leader in a typically male dominated work force.

How have you been able to overcome this barrier?

One of the ways I have overcame this was by working hard and showing I have a place at the table. Reaching out to build relationships and asking questions to subject matter experts so that I gain the same knowledge and they know I care. As well as calling it out when it happens to me; depending on the concern, it does not have to be handled in a negative way but comment on it as soon as it happens. That sets a standard/boundary which helps others stand up for you in future situations. Stand your ground and be confident in your actions because your feelings are valid, some things are just so ingrained that people don’t even understand how that could affect someone. I try to be a teacher instead of taking to heart pending the circumstance.

What are the best examples of positive change in the workplace that you have noticed in the past five years?

I think just awareness and starting these conversations. Most people are willing to listen and learn and to be corrected if needed.

How have you built confidence or resiliency over the course of your career?

It truly comes with time. You can’t rush it, but you can ask questions and ask for help. Most people will be happy to assist if you ask! If you are honest with your position of knowledge on the given topic, I find people are very willing to take you under their wing. As they say knowledge is power and it certainly builds your confidence and resiliency in your own and others’ eyes.

What strategies do you use to promote inclusion in the workplace?

Try and connect with anyone you work with even if that is just as much as a simple hello if that’s all you can offer on the given day. There are many different personality types that make up a workplace and you need to be aware of that to make it inclusive. What works with one person won’t work for next, always put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Empathy is very important.

What, or who inspires you?

My grandmother. She was a single mom in the seventies with four young boys to raise. She made a career within Bruce Power Stores when it was very hard for women to be taken seriously. She overcame a lot of adversity and never let it stop her.

What advice would you give to young women entering this profession or industry?

Know that you have value. No matter where you are in your career you have strengths that will benefit any company.

Check back next week for another feature!

EMC Celebrates International Women's Day