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.

Today, we connect with Cara Thompson, EMC’s EHS Manager:

How did you first enter the construction / nuclear industry?

I started in the construction industry when I was 18 years old as a survey assistant. I entered the Nuclear industry 2 years ago when I moved back to Ontario (where I was born) after living in Alberta for over 10 years, where I worked in industrial construction in the oil and gas industry.

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

I believe that women are faced with general societal pressure to be/do everything to a high degree. Pressure to have a career and be a high performer, be the best partner, be the best parent and never miss a precious moment, be a great friend and always make yourself available when needed.

How have you been able to overcome this barrier?

Short answer is that I didn’t overcome it. I didn’t have a family at a younger age, so that I could pursue my career in my 20’s. When I got to a certain level in my career, I was able to attain more flexibility and then started to settle into the idea of having a family. I believe there is a season for everything in your life. I never wanted to spread myself thin by buying into the highly romanticized notion that women “can have it all” leaving people in my life feeling like they took a backseat to my career.

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

I think increase in the number of women working in both the construction industry and the trades is the most positive change I’ve seen throughout my career.

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

My thick skin and confidence come from experience and adversity. I don’t believe that it’s something that can be taught, its something someone has to grow through.

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

I believe the best way to promote inclusion is to lead by example. I try to treat everyone as equals and be inclusive I hope that by leading by example that others will too.

What, or who inspires you?

My mother inspires me. She is one of the strongest women I’ve ever met. She has always faced challenges with a problem-solving attitude, focusing on what she could control rather than what she couldn’t. She’s the one who encouraged me to carve out my own path in this world.

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

Avoid comparing yourself to other women. Women need like-minded women as mentors. Comparing yourself to other women can lead you down a path where you’re criticizing and judging yourself rather than keeping an open mind and learning from or being supported by other women.

Check back next week for another feature!

EMC Celebrates International Women's Day!