Can you tell me a bit about your background and your role at Calian?

I’m a Senior Project Manager for the Advanced Technologies division, working with the Aerospace and Defence Team. I work with our defence and aerospace customers to manage projects starting from the proposal phase through to contract closure. These projects range from build-to-print through to engineered-to-order solutions.  

My role is to establish a project team, which I lead and oversee—ensuring we meet all contractual requirements, on schedule, within budget and within scope. I act as the point of continuity throughout the entire proposal and project management lifecycle.  

Each day, I am focused on delivering the best solutions and exceeding customer expectations.     

How is your role linked with Canadian national defence?

The group I am part of specializes in partnering with defence clients, offering tailored solutions to meet their project requirements. With a deep understanding of the Canadian national defence landscape, we play a pivotal role in supporting defence and security initiatives. Meanwhile, our robust infrastructure allows us to be agile while maintaining strict compliance with government regulations. 

How does your role support the security of Canada and the rest of the world? 

As a PM, I’m responsible for executing projects that provide products and services used across combat platforms in Canada and internationally. We provide solutions to our customers that are on time and within budget. We stand behind our products and services and become partners with our defence and security customers.  

 Can you share your thoughts about women in defence and/or defence manufacturing?  

As a woman in defence over the last 17 years, I recognize I must be a role model to the next generation of women who have a passion to work in the defence and security industries. So, it’s imperative that I take the opportunity to pave the way for others behind me. 

I recognize the value I bring as a woman to creating a diverse team. Diverse teams are critical to growth and innovation—diversity allows for different perspectives and experiences to be shared when executing projects, solving problems and finding optimal solutions.  

I’m incredibly fortunate to have had many supporters along my journey. Building relationships with people who believe in you and want you to succeed is imperative. This support allows you to bring your authentic self to your work and enable your passion to shine through. Being an advocate for others is the most meaningful way to create a professional environment of diversity. 

What is your favourite part of your job? 

I get a thrill from overcoming challenges. I thrive when I work collaboratively with my colleagues, customers, and leaders to find a solution that resolves complex problems. Overcoming obstacles feels rewarding—it gives me a feeling of ownership, accountability, and connection. Once completed, I enjoy reflecting on the growth in those situations and adding knowledge to my toolbox.   

On the other hand, I love that I’m always learning. Learning about new products, new customers, new processes, and meeting new people gives me many opportunities to grow and evolve. 

 How does your work at Calian fit with your view of your place in the world? 

Calian’s values, combined with the work I do, align with my own personal beliefs and values. In all ways, we are helping people live healthier and safer lives.  

Ultimately, I see myself as creating an environment where people can feel connected, supported, and able to execute their day-to-day in a way that allows them to be the best version of themselves. I want to create an environment of trust and collaboration, ensuring that those I engage with know that I’m reliable and that I care.  

What are you looking forward to at CANSEC? 

I’m excited to connect with our partners. I want to learn more about what others are up to, what they need help with, and what they’re excited about or feel passionate about. I look forward to continuing to build relationships.   

 What do you enjoy doing outside of work? 

Outside of work, I enjoy watching my children play sports, spending time as a family and catching up with friends. When I have alone time, I practice yoga, hike/bike, listen to podcasts and read.