CEA’s Women In Leadership with Diana Dominique

The Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) is a leader in the conversation about gender equality in the electricity sector. As a way to continuously re-emphasize our commitment to NRCan’s Equal by 30 campaign, and to shedding a light on the importance of inspiring and educating other women in this sector, we have produced a short series of conversations with CEA’s Women in Leadership.

Diana Dominique, Director of Customer and Power Marketers at CEA, talked to us about what it means to be a woman in the electricity sector, the opportunities it presents and the importance of mentorship in advancing one’s personal and professional growth.

1. What initially drew you to the electricity sector?
   I have been working in the electricity sector for quite some time now. I was initially drawn to it due to its primary impact on our country and on our economy. This industry is constantly transforming. Its changing nature, along with the associated opportunities and challenges, makes the electricity sector a fascinating field to be a part of.I’m a hands-on type of person so I really enjoy working with members on a wide range of issues.
2. What is the greatest opportunity that exist for women in this sector?
   We are fortunate because there are many opportunities for women in this industry from Power-line technicians to CEO’s and Executive Management roles. As one well respected female CFO said to me, “as women we can do it differently.”I believe that we can create meaningful change and create safe and open workplaces that are inclusive of all, which create environments filled with innovative solutions. This, in turn, helps to address the monumental challenges that we face at this critical juncture in our history. It is imperative that women continue to step into leadership roles to ensure that every woman’s voice is heard.
3. What has been the most rewarding aspect about working the sector?
   I am proud to say that there have been so many rewarding aspects about working in this sector. One that stands out for me is connecting with members and leading initiatives of importance that yield real and tangible results for the industry.
4. What is something young women should look for in a mentor?
   The biggest piece of advice I give to young women who enter the workforce, is to reflect on the characteristics they would like to emulate in someone that you know or work with. For me, experience is not enough; it’s also about how that person lives. What they stand for. What their values are. These are some of the key things that they must consider when choosing a mentor.

We all learn from others, but a mentor should be someone that you greatly respect and admire.