Advancing Women In Skilled Trades

Overview

Kathy currently serves as Senior Vice President, Business Transformation at Alectra Utilities – the second largest municipally owned electric utility in north America. As a Senior VP, Kathy is also the Vice-Chair of the Electricity Human Resources Canada Board of Directors, and is an influential and well-regarded voice for removing barriers that contribute to under-representation of women in Science Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

Mentor Profile

Who:

Kathy Lerette

What:

Senior Vice President, Business Transformation

Where:

Alectra Utilities

Why:

It is a community based company with great pay and benefits

Education:

Electrical Engineering Technology

Average Salary:

$70,000 – $100,000

Technical Skills:

Able to use computer assisted design, computer skills, strong mathematics and physics

Soft Skills:

Strong Organizational Skills, Communication Skills, Attention to Detail and Accuracy

Let’s Know More:

1. I’m not sure what career path options are available to me. Can you help me make a final decision?

You should short list the jobs you think you are interested in and then speak to people who are in those jobs so you can see if the job is as you think it is.

2. What kind of professional development opportunities are available in your career?

Lots! Early in my career, I was giving technical training, I received apprenticeship training for two different trades, health and safety training, business skills training, leadership training.

3. What qualities do you need to succeed in this field?

The utility world has so many positions available that would suit many people. If I have to pick one, I would say customer oriented, because we are here to serve the customer.

4. What is your motto?

Be courageous, take on new challenges and ignore people who doubt your ability.

5. Can you tell me how your job helps or works with the community?

Alectra employs 1,600 employees who deliver safe and reliable power to our cities. For the City of Hamilton, Alectra provides regular dividends that are currently earmarked to fund the homeless program. Alectra also volunteers and provides support to agencies like YWCA.

6. What are some lessons you’ve learnt the hard way?

I have made lots of mistakes while I was learning new things. Make sure you learn from your mistakes and keep learning every day, and take advantage of all the training that is offered to you. Look for opportunities and take them; you may not get another chance. Treat people with respect, and support other women. Find something you love to do!

7. What are you most proud of?

That I have navigated this male dominated industry and risen to a very senior level where I can influence and drive change to achieve a more gender diverse workplace. Also proud of all the people that I have mentored and helped them achieve their goals.