Happy International Women's Day from the SCAA! Today, we honour the women who are breaking barriers through their knowledge, passion, and dedication in support of the siding industry. Learn more about some of the women who inspire us today and every day.
Francesca Gazzetto: Production Manager – TradePros
After moving to Canada in 2016, Francesca embraced opportunities that led her to specialize in the siding industry, initially focusing on quantifying materials for an ACM manufacturer.
What inspires Francesca most about her role is the blend of communication, technical expertise, and problem-solving it demands. She finds bridging the gap between designers, contractors, and installers particularly fascinating. Despite facing hurdles such as language barriers and resistance to change, Francesca's perseverance and innovative approach have propelled her forward in her career.
Looking back, Francesca advocates for women to harness their strengths in communication, attention to detail, and planning. She emphasizes the importance of networking, seeking mentorship, and consistently delivering high-quality work to elevate standards within the industry.
Selena Manes: Inside Sales Representative - Convoy Supply
With nearly 11 years in the building materials industry, Selena's passion for understanding the intricacies of the construction industry has been a driving force in her career. She finds fulfillment in working with diverse customers, projects, and materials and embraces the dynamic nature of her role.
While Selena hasn't encountered many personal challenges in the industry, she acknowledges the occasional hurdles related to supply chain issues. She credits her approach to honesty and upfront communication as being key to overcoming such obstacles.
Selena encourages women to embrace learning and to persist in pursuing opportunities within the siding industry. She emphasizes the importance of support networks and mutual empowerment among women, highlighting the progress made in creating a more inclusive environment.
Kim Peloquin: Regional Sales Coordinator – Convoy Supply
Celebrating five years at Convoy Supply as a pricing coordinator, Kim values the opportunity to contribute her insights to an ever-evolving industry. She believes that self-worth, confidence, and pride are essential in breaking down barriers, particularly in male-dominated spaces.
Kim advocates for diverse leadership that recognizes and celebrates the unique contributions of every employee. She emphasizes the importance of values and attributes, regardless of gender identity, in fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
Angie Bereza: Alberta Sound Exteriors
For Angie, working in the construction industry wasn't a conscious choice but rather a passion that found her. Over the past five years, she has cherished the relationships built with customers, vendors, and colleagues at Alberta Sound Exteriors.
Navigating the fast-paced nature of the industry has been a challenge for Angie, requiring effective time management and forward planning. Her advice to other women is to seize every opportunity for learning, networking, and personal growth, underscoring the importance of adaptability and resilience.
Michelle Dagenais: Exterior Products Business Manager – ABC Supply Co., Canada
Michelle's journey into the construction industry was driven by a vision of long-term opportunities and the fundamental need for homes in Canada. With several years of experience under her belt, she continues to be inspired by the diversity of people she encounters. For Michelle, the most rewarding aspect of her role lies in the connections shared with meeting and working with new people.
While Michelle navigates the intricacies of the industry with grace and determination, acknowledges her biggest challenge: finding a bathroom on a small fishing boat!
Reflecting on her journey, Michelle offers insight to aspiring women in the industry. She emphasizes the importance of curiosity and embracing discomfort as catalysts for personal and professional growth. Michelle encourages individuals, regardless of gender, to speak up, ask questions, and relentlessly pursue answers—a formula she believes leads to success.
