AltaLink and Women+Power spark connection and conversation
AltaLink continues to demonstrate its commitment to building community, fostering inclusion, and creating space for women to grow and lead in Alberta’s power sector. On November 12, AltaLink hosted the third annual Women Leading ‘the Charge’ event in partnership with Women+Power. AltaLink is a proud Gigawatt Sponsor of Women+Power and an ongoing champion of our mission.
Building on the success of past years, this year’s event brought together professionals from across Alberta’s electricity industry for an engaging evening of connection, conversation, and collaboration. Attendees from across the sector filled the room to network and hear an insightful panel discussion exploring policy, government relations, and the realities of navigating careers in historically underrepresented spaces.
AltaLink’s Johanne Picard-Thompson, Executive Vice President, Corporate Services and Women+Power Board Chair, opened the evening with introductory remarks before welcoming the panel:
Nicole Spears, Executive Director, Generation, Transmission and Markets, Alberta Affordability and Utilities, Government of Alberta Ruhee Ismail-Teja, Vice President, Policy and External Affairs, Calgary Chamber of Commerce Cayla Saby, Vice President, Government Relations and Commercial, AltaLink Moderator: Carly Duerr, Director, Capital Replacements and Upgrades Projects, AltaLink
The discussion touched on everything from industry transformation and stakeholder collaboration to leadership development and the importance of mentorship. Panelists shared perspectives on the work underway to advance the electricity sector and the opportunities ahead for women across the industry.
The event concluded with an engaging audience Q&A followed by networking, where guests exchanged ideas, built new connections, and reflected on their shared commitment to strengthening an inclusive and resilient electricity sector.
Women+Power extends its sincere thanks to AltaLink for its leadership and continued partnership in championing women’s advancement in the industry.
Industry leaders explore how collaboration, innovation, and proactive planning are shaping Alberta’s wildfire response
Women+Power, in collaboration with the Alberta Wildfire Utility Coalition, recently hosted a compelling virtual panel discussion: Wildfires and the Grid: Reducing Risk and Increasing Resiliency.
Moderated by Mike Shaw (ATCO), the conversation brought together Amanda Sadleir (AltaLink), Kate Hovland (ATCO), and Jennifer MacGowan (FortisAlberta) for an insightful look at how Alberta’s utilities are working together to address one of our province’s most pressing challenges – the growing threat of wildfires and their impact on communities, infrastructure, and the electricity system.
🔑 Key Takeaways
The risk is real and rising. As Kate Hovland outlined, Alberta has seen a dramatic increase in wildfire activity. In 2018, the 5-year annual average was 234,000 hectares burned, and by 2024, this annual average had grown to well over 500,000 hectares. In 2023 alone, more than 2.2 million hectares, roughly 4.4 million CFL football fields, were affected. The consequences ripple far beyond the burn zones, affecting air quality, insurance premiums, and the cost of rebuilding critical utility infrastructure.
Utilities are leading with innovation. Jennifer MacGowan shared how predictive technologies and infrastructure upgrades, from insulating wires to installing advanced protection devices, are helping utilities act earlier and more effectively. New situational awareness tools enable teams to anticipate high-risk conditions, mobilize crews in advance, and mitigate potential ignition sources before a wildfire starts.
Collaboration is key. As Amanda Sadleir emphasized, as the owners and operators of the electric transmission and distribution networks in Alberta’s higher risk fire areas, AltaLink, ATCO, and FortisAlberta, are stronger together through the Alberta Wildfire Utility Coalition. The Coalition’s focus on prevention, resiliency, and coordinated response has led to shared working groups that exchange best practices, align strategies, and enhance emergency preparedness across organizations.
Safety comes first. Sadleir also discussed one component of a comprehensive utility wildfire mitigation plan called a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), a last-resort safety measure designed to protect people and communities. During dangerous weather conditions where the threat of a spark is extreme, power to impacted lines may be proactively turned off to prevent an ignition that could lead to a catastrophic wildfire. Each situation is unique and a range of conditions are continually monitored and assessed before a PSPS decision is made. Wildfire mitigation and response, including potential PSPS events, requires careful planning, coordination, and communication. Coalition members are committed to working closely with the customers and communities they serve, including municipalities and emergency management teams, to plan and test protocols and enhance emergency response plans.
Throughout the session, the panelists highlighted how shared learning, technology, and proactive planning are essential to keeping Albertans safe and keeping the lights on in an era of increasing wildfire risk.
💡 Missed the live event? The replay will be featured in our upcoming Women+Power newsletter.
Not yet part of our community? Join Women+Power to stay informed about upcoming events, resources, and opportunities to connect: https://womenpower.ca/connect/
On September 17, 2025, Women+Power proudly hosted our 4th Annual Gala Luncheon in Calgary. This sold-out event brought together nearly 350 leaders from Alberta’s power and energy sector to celebrate women’s leadership and the importance of diversity, collaboration, and authenticity in shaping the future of energy.
We were honoured to welcome Nancy C. Southern, Chair & CEO of ATCO Ltd. and Executive Chair of Canadian Utilities Limited, as our distinguished guest speaker. In a thought-provoking and personal conversation moderated by Marie Rajic, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at ENMAX, Nancy shared insights from her leadership journey that inspired everyone in the room.
Her reflections on authenticity, courage, and diversity deeply resonated with attendees and set the tone for a powerful afternoon of connection and inspiration. Nancy also spoke about the power of diversity in driving innovation and growth.
💡 Key Takeaways from Nancy’s Reflections:
Regulators, governments, and industry must work together toward the common goal of growing economic prosperity for Alberta and Canada.
Exceptional leaders surround themselves with individuals whose talents surpass their own.
Great leaders cultivate openness and welcome differing viewpoints.
🎥 Relive the Inspiration
We’re delighted to share three videos that capture the spirit, energy, and inspiration of this year’s Gala Luncheon:
1️⃣ 2025 Gala Highlights Relive the moments that made the day unforgettable—from heartfelt conversations to the energy and excitement that filled the room.
2️⃣Be True to Yourself Hear Nancy’s reflections on authenticity, integrity, and what it means to lead with courage.
3️⃣Anything Is Possible Experience Nancy’s closing message—an inspiring call to action reminding us that with vision, resilience, and collaboration, anything is possible.
A heartfelt thank-you as well to our volunteers, Board of Directors, and Executive Director, Leah Iszakovits, whose dedication and leadership made this event a resounding success.
The 4th Annual Gala Luncheon was more than a celebration—it was a call to action for women across Alberta’s power and energy sector to lead authentically, champion diversity, and believe that, in Nancy’s words, “anything is possible.”
On September 24, Women+Power hosted “Inverter-Based Resources and Grid Reliability: Navigating the Future of Electricity,” an engaging panel discussion bringing together leaders and experts from Alberta’s electricity sector. The event explored the growing role of inverter-based resources (IBRs), such as battery storage, and the implications for grid reliability, operational planning, and energy transition strategies.
The panel featured Astrid Schneider (AltaLink), Tracy Spratt (ENMAX), and Mike Schoenenberger (Enfinite), collectively contributing over 50 years of experience in Alberta’s electricity sector. Bre Fox (AESO) moderated the discussion, guiding participants through the technical, operational, and leadership perspectives critical to the evolving grid.
Key Takeaways from the Panel:
Leadership and Team Development: Panelists emphasized developing people and empowering teams. Tracy Spratt shared that leadership is driven by a desire “to have more influence on change and a greater capacity to support my team members,” while Mike Schoenenberger noted that leadership allows him “to bring new people in and help them grow into what they can be.” Astrid Schneider highlighted that effective leadership involves removing obstacles so employees can succeed.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): Inclusive teams strengthen innovation and performance. Mike Schoenenberger encouraged women seeking leadership roles to connect with leaders supporting their growth, reinforcing the importance of equity and inclusion across the sector.
Technical Insights on IBRs: Panelists explored how inverter-based resources are reshaping grid reliability. As Alberta shifts from conventional generation to IBRs, new approaches to maintaining grid stability are essential to ensure reliable electricity delivery.
Collaboration is Essential: Successful integration of IBRs requires close coordination among regulators, system operators, and industry experts, along with ongoing training to equip teams for emerging technologies and operational realities.
Moderator Spotlight: Bre Fox
Bre Fox is a seasoned industry leader with over 20 years of experience in Alberta’s power sector. She is a passionate advocate for leveraging a full range of technologies to support the energy transition. Throughout her career, Bre has built a strong reputation of excellence in leadership, project execution and strategic business planning, all of which she brings to her current role. She plays a key role in enabling development for both generation and load across Alberta while ensuring the reliability and resilience of the provincial grid.
As a founding board member of Women + Power she is also committed to advancing diversity and inclusion within the energy industry. Driven by innovation and collaboration, Bre continues to shape the future of Alberta’s energy landscape with a clear focus on sustainable growth and long-term impact.
Reflecting on the panel, Bre shared:
“It was wonderful to connect with industry leaders on IBRs and grid reliability. This served as a positive reminder that, as the energy landscape continues to evolve, there isn’t a single ‘silver bullet’ solution. By staying authentic and fostering collaboration among great minds, the industry can truly thrive.”
The Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) is responsible for the safe, reliable, and economic planning and operation of the Alberta Interconnected Electric System. We provide open and non-discriminatory access to Alberta’s interconnected power grid and also facilitate Alberta’s competitive wholesale electricity market.
The AESO is committed to inclusion, equity, and diversity by fostering a culture of belonging and respect where different ideas, experiences, and backgrounds are valued to drive innovation. We are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for employees to learn, grow, and connect with the diverse communities we serve across Alberta. From the beginning, we have taken a grassroots approach to build strong foundations and frameworks that guide this work.
They have an internal council committed to enabling culture transformation.
They have four employee resource groups: Amp It Up, Powered Up Parents, Energizing Pride, and Balancing the Load.
Their first employee resource group Amp It Up, is geared to empower women and their advocates in amplifying the learning and career journey for women in our industry.
In total, AESO leadership is currently 60% Men and 40% Women.
Looking ahead:
The discussion highlighted the exciting opportunities and challenges that come with Alberta’s energy transition. Women+Power thanks all panelists, moderator, and participants for sharing their expertise and insights. As the sector continues to evolve, fostering collaboration, leadership, and innovation will remain essential—empowering women and all professionals to shape a resilient and sustainable energy future.
At Women+Power, we’re committed to creating spaces where women in energy can lead, innovate, and inspire. Alberta’s power industry is undergoing a historic transformation as inverter-based resources (IBRs) like wind, solar, and battery storage become central to the grid. Meeting this challenge requires technical excellence and inclusive leadership. That’s why we’re excited to spotlight Astried Schneider, Director, Engineering – Projects at AltaLink. With more than 20 years of experience shaping Alberta’s transmission infrastructure, Astried combines engineering expertise with a deep commitment to collaboration. Her leadership reflects how innovation and inclusion work hand in hand to build a more resilient, future-ready grid.
Headquartered in Calgary, with offices in Edmonton, Red Deer and Lethbridge, AltaLink is Alberta’s largest electricity transmission provider, with more than 13,400 kilometres of transmission lines and more than 310 substations. AltaLink is partnering with its customers to provide innovative solutions to meet the province’s demand for reliable and affordable energy.
AltaLink supports a diverse and inclusive work environment that celebrates the differences of its employees, ensures everyone feels valued, respected and empowered, and enhances the connections we have to the communities in which we live and work. AltaLink is proud to support Women+Power in connecting and empowering women in Alberta’s power industry, while working to promote increased diversity and inclusion within the sector.
A registered professional engineer with over two decades of dedicated service at AltaLink, Astried brings engineering and leadership experience to her role overseeing the engineering teams responsible for the planning and design of new transmission facilities. In addition to guiding the development of Altalink’ s infrastructure, she oversees the company’s quality management and engineering standards, ensuring technical excellence across all projects.
Throughout her career at Altalink, Astried has held a range of leadership and engineering positions across both project execution and operations. Notable accomplishments include; Incident Commander for AltaLink’ s emergency response team, led the selection and design of a new outage management system and processes to improve coordination with customers, co-authored technical papers with peers and utility vendors, and developed a variety of engineering standards. This breath of experience has given her a deep understanding of Altalink’ s business, its people, and customers. Astried is known for her commitment to employee development, operational excellence, and exceptional customer service.
Q & A with Astried
What excites you most about your work in IBR and grid reliability?
IBR type generators like solar panels, wind turbines and battery storage do not operate like traditional gas or coal generators. This technology uses power electronics to interface with the existing electric grid resulting in a re-design of the regulatory framework and fundamental principles of grid operation. It drives substantial engineering challenges and opportunities for innovation to solve real world problems using new technology and data analysis.
What emerging challenges or opportunities are you seeing as Alberta’s grid evolves?
Voltage and frequency control, modeling and simulation of IBR controls, and energy supply dispatch are among some of the engineering challenges that are driving cutting edge research and technology development in Alberta. We are looking into Grid Enhancing technology (GET) like Dynamic Line ratings, advanced conductors and other voltage and control equipment to optimize the capacity of the existing Grid and ensure system stability. Improving IBR models and simulation also present an opportunity for engineering development and grid operation.
Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped your leadership journey?
In my previous role in System Operations, I had the opportunity to work directly with large industrial customers, gaining insight into their operations and the importance of uninterrupted power supply. I also led restorations efforts during emergency events, which was a highly rewarding experience.
How have you seen innovation and inclusion intersect in your work?
Innovation and inclusion have intersected my work through the collaboration with professionals from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds. These teams composed of individuals from across the globe have come together to scope and execute projects aimed at reducing interconnection costs for costumers, enhancing the efficiency and affordability of grid access. The variety of perspectives and experiences on our teams consistently drive creative problem solving, operational resilience, and customer-focused outcomes.
What’s one piece of advice you’d offer to women pursuing careers in the sector?
For women pursuing a career in the transmission utility industry, I would recommend:
Pursue degrees in electrical engineering with focus in power systems and energy management.
Join industry networks like IEEE Power and Energy Society.
Learn regulatory frameworks and industry policies.
Stay informed about the latest technologies, the industry is shifting towards smart grids and automation.
Build leadership and interpersonal skills alongside technical expertise.
What role do you think diverse leadership plays in advancing grid reliability and energy transition?
Leaders from varied backgrounds and across the globe bring their unique experience in the integration and operation of renewable systems. This enables the adoption of advanced technologies like smart grids and grid enhancing equipment. It also fosters collaboration and sharing across the industry including Regulatory frameworks and industry policies.
Why is it important to bring more voices and perspectives to technical leadership in energy?
Diverse leadership teams offer a broader range of experiences and problem-solving approaches, which leads to more creative and effective solutions. This is especially important as the power industry navigates through complex challenges like grid modernization, renewable integration, and climate adaptation. Inclusive leadership also attracts and retains talent as employees feel valued and empowered.
Hear more from Astried…
Astried will bring her expertise and perspective to Women+Power’s upcoming virtual panel, Inverter-Based Resources and Grid Reliability: Navigating the Future of Electricity Panel Presentation, on September 24, 2025. Alongside leaders from Enfinite, ENMAX, and AESO, she’ll explore the innovations, challenges, and collaborative strategies shaping the future of Alberta’s electricity system. This conversation is essential for anyone navigating the energy transition—from utility professionals to policy advocates and emerging leaders in the sector. Don’t miss this chance to learn from Astried and her peers. Register today to secure your spot.
Mike leads Enfinite’s project development, regulatory engagement, and market integration strategies, helping to advance innovative energy storage and generation solutions that strengthen grid reliability. With a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, he is also shaping a culture that empowers women and underrepresented groups in energy and leadership.
Enfinite is a Canadian leader in power generation and energy storage, delivering innovative solutions that enhance grid reliability and support a resilient energy future. As an owner and operator, the company is committed to seamlessly integrating its technologies with existing infrastructure to ensure energy stability and progress for all.
At the heart of Enfinite is a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. The company proudly supports and empowers women in energy and leadership, recognizing their critical role in driving innovation and shaping Canada’s energy landscape. As a signatory of the Electricity Human Resources Canada Leadership Accord on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Enfinite actively fosters a workplace where every voice is heard, valued, and respected. Guided by its core values – safety, people, collaboration, innovation, integrity, and resilience Enfinite is building a culture that celebrates diverse strengths and perspectives. For Enfinite, people are their greatest source of energy, and inclusion fuels shared success.
Mike Schoenenberger is the Vice President of Development & Markets at Enfinite, where he leads the company’s project development, regulatory, and market integration strategies. With over a decade of experience in engineering, project development, and smart grid technologies, Mike brings a deep understanding of both the oil and gas and power sectors. He holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Calgary and is a registered Professional Engineer (P.Eng.).
Since joining Enfinite over four years ago as a Facilities Engineer, Mike has advanced through several key roles, reflecting his strong leadership and technical expertise. He now represents Enfinite in regulatory working groups and plays a pivotal role in advancing energy solutions that support a resilient grid.
A strong advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion, Mike has been a panelist with Women+Power and is actively building an inclusive Development and Markets team, including the advancement of women in leadership roles.
Q&A with Mike
What excites you most about your work in IBR and grid reliability?
Grid reliability ensures lights stay on, hospitals operate, data centers run, and economies function. My work allows me to contribute, in a small but meaningful way, to the backbone of modern civilization, solving problems that have real, immediate impact.
What role do you think diverse leadership plays in advancing grid reliability and energy transition?
We are currently experiencing a generational shift in how power is generated and used. The needs and requirements are fundamentally different which requires a shift in how we approach solutions. A diverse perspective is critical to drive new and innovative ideas that break the mold.
Don’t miss this exciting Panel Presentation
Mike’s insights will be invaluable as we explore how inverter-based resources are reshaping Alberta’s grid and what it takes to ensure system reliability in a time of rapid change.
Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from Mike and our other expert panelists at Women+Power’s upcoming session:
The Women+Power Gala Luncheon is officially sold out, but we’re thrilled to share a new way for you to be part of the celebration — even if you don’t have a ticket.
For the first time, we’re hosting a silent auction in support of Women+Power, featuring one exclusive item that couldn’t be more aligned with our mission:
✨ Executive Coaching Package – 3 Private Sessions with Megan Gill, Certified Executive Coach and founder of Repowered Leadership (Value: $1,250)
This one-on-one coaching experience is designed for women in mid- to senior-level leadership roles in Alberta’s power sector who are ready to lead with confidence, influence, and impact.
With nearly two decades in Alberta’s power sector, including senior roles in regulatory policy and advocacy, Megan has built her career in complex, high-stakes environments where the pressures are real and the stakes are high.
She knows what it’s like to lead from the middle: delivering strategy, managing competing priorities, and finding her voice in rooms not designed for her. That lived experience fuels her passion for helping women leaders cut through the noise, claim their seat at the table, and lead on their own terms.
Megan’s leadership in this space has been recognized with the 2022 Young Women in Energy Award and the 2023 Woman of Renewable Energy Award. Through private coaching, workshops, and her leadership accelerator WATT (Women Advancing and Thriving Together), she equips high-achieving women with the clarity, resilience, and influence to thrive in senior roles… without burning out in the process.
The winner of this auction will experience Megan’s coaching firsthand, gaining personalized support, practical tools, and a clear path to elevate their leadership.
💡 Whether you use it yourself or gift it to an emerging leader you admire, this is a unique opportunity to elevate leadership potential while fueling Women+Power’s mission.
👉 How it works:
The auction closes on September 18 at 9:00 AM
The winning bidder will be drawn the day after the Gala
100% of proceeds support Women+Power’s mentorship, networking, and leadership opportunities
And remember, everyone can bid. Men are encouraged to bid too — and even better, sponsor a deserving woman. A great opportunity to put allyship into action.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive power industry — and your bid helps make that possible.
As the energy industry undergoes one of the most transformative shifts in history, leaders like Tracy Spratt, Manager of ENMAX Power’s Office of the Chief Engineer, are helping shape how we navigate the challenges and opportunities of inverter-based resources (IBRs). With over two decades at ENMAX, Tracy has built her career leading technical teams, improving processes, and driving collaboration across the power sector.
In addition to her leadership at ENMAX, she serves as Chair of the Alberta Power Industry Consortium (APIC) and Electricity Canada’s Grid Modernization Committee, where she drives forward industry-wide conversations on reliability and technological change. Her insights on building strong technical foundations, embracing diverse perspectives, and leading through change are invaluable for anyone seeking to thrive in Alberta’s evolving energy landscape.
About ENMAX
ENMAX provides electricity services, products and solutions across the energy value chain—from regulated wires and power generation to energy retail. ENMAX is deeply committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We know diversity brings fresh perspectives, drives innovation and strengthens our culture. It’s not just a value—it’s integral to how we lead, grow and power the future. ENMAX is proud to have women represent 36 per cent of our workforce, 41 per cent of our leadership, and 63 per cent of our senior leadership. We are also building momentum toward long-term inclusion and belonging through both organizational and employee-led efforts, including employee resource groups and leadership training focused on equity and inclusion. By embedding these values across our culture, we’re creating a workplace where all employees feel respected, supported and empowered—and where diverse voices help shape the future of energy in the communities we serve.
Managing ENMAX Power’s Office of the Chief Engineer, Tracy leads a team that provides technical direction for ENMAX Power’s wide scope of Transmission and Distribution regulated business. Tracy has a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and is a professional engineer and responsible member with APEGA. Having been with ENMAX for over 20 years, most of it spent leading technical teams, Tracy has a passion for improving processes, inspiring collaboration and enhancing the development of the technical capabilities of ENMAX team members through mentorship and training. She is chair of the board of the Alberta Power Industry Consortium (APIC) as well as Electricity Canada’s Grid Modernization Committee.
Q & A with Tracy
What’s one piece of advice you’d offer to women pursuing careers in the sector? I encourage women pursuing careers in power to spend the first few years gaining a solid base of technical understanding in your area; and then to move to various roles if you can; or collaborate with other role partners if moving around roles is challenging. Find not only a mentor but a sponsor. Be curious and open to new opportunities and different perspectives to broaden your knowledge of the industry. Be ready for change.
Why is it important to bring more voices and perspectives to technical leadership in energy? There are incredible opportunities not only in leadership of people, but leadership of technological change and advancement. We grow when we surround ourselves with diversity of thought. We will advance faster as an industry with increased perspectives collaborating; including people who look at challenges from different perspectives based on their life experience and their strengths. Together there’s definitely a brighter energy future.
Women+Power proudly hosted Breaking Barriers: Women Pioneering Leadership in Power & Energy, a compelling virtual panel that brought together some of Alberta’s most influential women leaders in the energy sector. This event shone a spotlight on the experiences, insights, and leadership journeys of women who are shaping the future of an industry traditionally dominated by men.
The panel featured candid conversations about resilience, mentorship, career growth, and how diverse leadership strengthens Alberta’s energy landscape. Panelists shared valuable lessons learned, including insights such as “growth rarely happens in a straight line,” the importance of “not waiting for permission,” and that “title isn’t everything.” They emphasized the power of grounded authenticity and encouraged attendees to “get comfortable with being uncomfortable.” These practical pieces of advice offered fresh perspectives and encouragement for both emerging and established professionals considering leadership roles.
Inspiring Leadership Voices
Our distinguished panel included:
Marie Rajic, Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs, ENMAX
Heather Speers, Vice President, Human Resources, FortisAlberta
Georgina Newell, Vice Chair, Women+Power and Associate Director, Guidehouse (Moderator)
Each speaker brought unique perspectives on navigating challenges, driving innovation, and advocating for equity in the energy sector. The dialogue highlighted the power of mentorship and the importance of fostering inclusive work environments to accelerate industry growth.
Moderator Insights: Georgina Newell, Vice Chair, Women+Power
We were privileged to have Georgina Newell, Vice Chair of Women+Power and Associate Director at Guidehouse, lead this important conversation as our moderator. Reflecting on the event, Georgina shared:
“It was inspiring to facilitate such an open and honest discussion with leaders who are not only breaking barriers but actively creating pathways for others to succeed. The resilience and determination these women demonstrated reinforces the importance of supporting diverse leadership in energy. This event highlights that by fostering connection and sharing our stories, we build a stronger, more inclusive industry for the future.”
Looking Ahead
The success of Breaking Barriers underscores Women+Power’s ongoing commitment to empower women in Alberta’s power and energy sectors. With continued engagement, knowledge-sharing, and community-building, Women+Power aims to foster an environment where all women have the opportunity to lead and thrive.
Stay connected with Women+Power for upcoming events, programs, and initiatives designed to inspire, inform, and elevate women across the energy industry.
Today, we’re pleased to feature Marie Rajic, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at ENMAX—a strategic leader who brings depth, vision, and purpose to everything she does.
In this Q&A, Marie shares why the time is now to elevate women in energy leadership, how building strong networks fuels career success, and what ENMAX is doing to embed equity and inclusion at every level of the organization.
About ENMAX
ENMAX is a Calgary-based utility company that generates and delivers electricity across Alberta. Through its subsidiaries, including ENMAX Power and ENMAX Energy, the company provides reliable power transmission, distribution, and retail energy services. ENMAX is committed to operational excellence, customer service, and supporting the communities it serves.
About Marie Rajic
As Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Marie leads Government Relations, Public Policy, Sustainability, Indigenous Relations, Shareholder Relations, Communications and Community Impact. Marie holds a BA in Political Science from the University of Calgary, an MA in Political Studies, an MPA from the University of Manitoba, and an executive business management certificate from Columbia University. A Calgary Top 40 Under 40 alumna and Queen’s Jubilee Medal recipient, she is an active member of the International Women’s Forum (IWF) and the Women’s Economic Council of Alberta (WECA). She currently serves on the board of Pure Life Carbon and previously served as Vice Chair of MITACS.
Q&A with Marie Rajic
Why is this conversation about women in leadership in energy important right now?
Our industry is undergoing major transformation – from the Restructured Energy Market and the Rate of Last Resort to major regulatory changes, data centres, and smart grids. But beyond the infrastructure and innovation, there’s another critical shift happening: a shift in leadership. Now is the ideal time to talk about women in energy. We are essential to the industry’s future success. When women see themselves reflected in leadership – running grid operations, influencing policy, and driving change – they’re more likely to envision a long-term future in this field.
What advice would you offer to the next generation of women entering this industry?
Build your network! Surround yourself with mentors, allies, sponsors, collaborators, and peers. Our industry is broad and interconnected. Your network will be a source of learning, support, and opportunity throughout your career.
How has your organization contributed to advancing women in energy?
ENMAX is proud to be a founding supporter of Women+Power. We’re equally proud that our executive leadership team is predominantly women – a rare and meaningful distinction in the energy industry.
To further support inclusion across our organization, we’ve developed a Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging roadmap aimed at driving cultural transformation. This roadmap outlines our strategic approach to enhancing diversity and fostering a workplace where everyone feels a sense of belonging. We’re committed to putting these principles into practice, knowing that diverse perspectives lead to stronger decision-making, greater employee engagement, and improved financial and operational performance.
Closing Thoughts
Marie’s perspective is a powerful reminder that the energy sector’s transformation isn’t just technological—it’s deeply human. As leadership evolves, so must the faces and voices shaping the future. When women are visible in decision-making roles, running grid operations, shaping policy, and leading innovation, they help pave the way for others to imagine themselves in those spaces too. Join us on May 26 to be part of the conversation and the change.
Today, we’re featuring Heather Speers, Vice President of Human Resources at FortisAlberta—a dynamic leader whose journey in the industry is grounded in empathy, clarity, and a deep commitment to people.
In this Q&A, Heather shares practical insights on how companies can foster more inclusive energy workplaces, the importance of intentional leadership, and the role everyday decisions play in driving long-term change for women in the sector.
About FortisAlberta
At FortisAlberta, we deliver electricity and light up lives across central and southern Alberta. As an electricity distribution utility, we manage over 133,000 kilometers of power lines and 1.1 million power poles. This ensures safe and reliable distribution of electricity for more than half a million customers in over 240 communities. With over 1,300 dedicated employees, we strive to create an environment where everyone feels safe, respected and empowered.
Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is central to our values. We actively support women, employees and customers alike, and strive to ensure they have the opportunities they need to thrive. We are proud to champion women in leadership roles within the energy sector, recognizing their invaluable contributions to innovation, sustainability and community engagement. Fostering diversity of thought drives innovation, collaboration and stronger outcomes for our people, our customers and the communities we serve.
About Heather Speers
As Vice President, Human Resources, Heather is responsible for FortisAlberta’s people and culture strategy, ensuring the company’s workforce is equipped to meet customers’ needs today and into the future. She is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees can achieve their professional goals.
With nearly 20 years at FortisAlberta, Heather has held progressively senior roles in Billing, Customer Care and Human Resources, gaining a deep understanding of the company’s business, employees and customers. She draws on an educational background in social work to lead with empathy and cultivate a supportive environment for FortisAlberta’s 1,300 employees.
Q&A with Heather Speers
How has FortisAlberta supported the growth and advancement of women in energy?
FortisAlberta has implemented several initiatives to support women in the energy sector, including leadership and mentorship programs for career development. Over the past three years, 36 per cent of vacant management positions have been filled by women and our Board of Directors aims to have five female members by 2025, showcasing a commitment to gender diversity at all leadership levels. We promote our Women’s Network Employee Resource Group, which organizes events on women’s health and offers a platform for women to connect and grow. We contribute to Fortis Inc.’s Leadership Lab Guiding Team and the Women in Executive Leadership group, extending our impact on women’s leadership development beyond our company. Additionally, we partner with the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters for domestic violence awareness training, sponsor Women+Power, and are involved with CAREERS to encourage young women to explore careers in trades and technologies.
What role do you see companies playing in creating more inclusive energy workplaces?
Companies like FortisAlberta foster inclusive energy workplaces by developing policies and practices that support diversity and inclusion, ensuring women feel welcomed and valued. We can establish mentorship programs where experienced professionals guide women in their career development and encourage senior leaders to sponsor and advocate for them. Achievements of women should be officially recognized and celebrated to inspire others. Educational programs can be implemented, such as ones that address issues like domestic violence given it disproportionately affects women. Internal networking opportunities and gender diversity at leadership levels further create a fairer environment for women to advance and succeed in the energy sector and inspire change.
Closing Thoughts
Heather’s perspective is a powerful reminder that meaningful change in the energy sector starts with bold policies, inclusive cultures, and everyday decisions that open doors for women. Join us on May 26 to hear more from Heather and other remarkable women who are helping shape a more equitable future in power and energy.
As we count down to Breaking Barriers: Women Pioneering Leadership in Power & Energy, we’re shining a light on each of our powerhouse panelists. This week, meet Janis Rogers, Chief Financial Officer at Rising Edge Group, a leader whose career has been shaped by bold decisions, pivotal moments, and a strong sense of purpose.
In this Q&A, Janis shares what it means to lead in a traditionally male-dominated field, how she’s navigated key career transitions, and the advice she has for women ready to step into leadership roles and advocate for themselves.
Rising Edge Group is a leading provider of high voltage electrical services, specializing in engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning solutions across North America. Our commitment to excellence is embedded in everything we do – which includes recognizing that diverse perspectives strengthen our teams and drive better outcomes. We are especially dedicated to supporting women, among others, in energy and leadership, working to breakdown barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields. Through partnerships with organizations like Women+Power and others, we actively promote mentorship, training, and career development opportunities for women across all levels of our organization. By fostering a culture where individual’s skills, ideas, and leadership are valued, we are building a stronger, more innovative future for our industry.
About Janis Rogers
Janis Rogers is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for Rising Edge Group. Janis brings a unique blend of financial experience and industry experience that drive business growth and informed decision-making. With close to 10 years of service with Rising Edge, Janis has progressed from Project Controls to Financial Controller and now CFO, leveraging her CPA designation and honors in Marketing and Management.
Janis has made significant contributions to the company, including standardizing revenue recognition reporting, stabilizing monthly financial reporting, supporting the transition of ownership, optimizing bank relationships, implementing a new Timesheet system, and driving the Business Intelligence initiative. Her goals include streamlining data systems, supporting growth in new markets, and addressing emerging ESG trends and global standards for clients.Her ability to balance personal growth with excellence has earned her numerous awards, including CIAU Academic All Canadian status and recognition for her leadership in community outreach programs. She continues to lead effective change through her executive position which included partnering with Women+Power as one of several calls to action that Rising Edge has taken to support meaningful change within the energy sector.
Q&A with Janis Rogers
Why is this conversation—about women in leadership in energy—important right now?
This conversation is important because there are still important gaps to fill. Women still earn less than their male peers statistically. Women are still underrepresented in leadership. If by talking about the real choices that we make over the duration of our careers means that more women will ask for options, will put their hand up to be considered for a role, or will have the confidence to be heard in a room where they are the minority, then women will become represented. The choices that we make contribute to the statistical results.
What does it mean to you to be a woman leader in Alberta’s power and energy industry today?
Ironically it increases my faith in modern men! For years female leadership was an effort to rally against the patriarchy, which it still is, but it’s no longer a rally cry of female voices alone. The attitude of the modern leader is to embrace the impact of the individual, seeing beyond gender, ethnicity, religious or cultural beliefs. We are collectively better when we learn from each other.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that shaped your leadership journey?
The most pivotal moments in my career were also the ones that felt the scariest! There are several moments, but I’ll touch on two. First when I chose to enter the CMA program; I was on maternity leave with my third son, so not an ideal time to go back to school. But I had been toying with this idea for some time. At this stage of my career I had been working in Project Controls in the EPC industry for about 10 years, and I always wanted to understand the impact on our clients financial statements better. I wanted to see if from the other side, and the CMA program was an opportunity to learn this, so I decided to do this hard, scary thing.
The second moment was when I agreed to take on the Controller role at Rising Edge. When I first came to work for Rising Edge, I still had three small children, and I once again asked to work part time. I was working with their Project Controls group, where I worked directly with the President, Nick Maher, on the Harry Smith program. When Nick approached me about taking over as the Controller of the Accounting group, I was terrified! I had the training for it through my CMA, but I had no experience. Rising Edge had shown me through actions that they put people first, which aligned with the kind of person and leader that I wanted to be, so if I was going to take this kind of scary step in my career, this was the kind of place where I could do it.
What barriers have you encountered in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Work life balance; the mommy train is real! It is really tough to stay relevant when you disappear for a year or more. And there is also a personal transformation that you undergo as you step into the role of parent. It is a challenge not to lose yourself while putting your children first; and you go through this battle of not feeling like you are enough for either aspect of your life.
I decided that the best way for me to teach my boys to value women was to show them what I was capable of. It was extremely important that I was not afraid to ask for what I wanted. No one offered this option to me; I had to ask to work part-time; to adapt my schedule to be more available to my children. I knew that my skillset was highly sought after, so I took the risk and set my terms. “Yes I’m interested in working for you, but would it be possible to do so at 32 hours per week instead of 40?”
What advice would you offer to the next generation of women entering this industry?
Listen. Take risks. Understand what you value, and how you want to be valued. There will be moments in your life where you will have to make choices; listen to those around you to ensure that they value the same things. It is less scary to take risks in a space where your values align, and more imperative to take risks and branch out in new directions when you find yourself in a situation where those values don’t align.
How has your organization supported your growth or contributed to advancing women in energy?
I think Rising Edge has really taken hold of these values and through their partnerships have supported the progress of women in energy. In the last 2 years, Rising Edge has partnered with Women Building Futures (WBF), an organization that empowers women to build careers in skilled trades, construction, and other industry sectors where they have been historically underrepresented. As an Employer of Choice by WBF, we provide support services and career opportunities to women who have received their pre-apprenticeship training, career coaching, and other support services to help empower and create opportunities for economic security and success. Through this partnership, alongside Women+Power, we aim to foster mentorship, provide access to training and education, and build rewarding career paths for women to thrive in technical and leadership roles.
Additionally, we recognize the importance of representation. Ensuring that women are part of our workforce strengthens our teams by highlighting the diverse skills, capabilities, experiences, and problem-solving strategies that are brought to the table. Creating a more dynamic, resilient, and innovative workplace for everyone. We are proud to support these initiatives that not only support personal and professional growth but also contribute to building a stronger more inclusive energy sector overall.
What role do you see companies playing in creating more inclusive energy workplaces?
Supporting events like this where we can have open and honest conversations about the challenges. Not only does this educate women in the early stages of their career paths, but it will also educate leaders and help them to become more empathic.
Closing Thoughts
Janis Rogers is a remarkable example of what it means to lead with integrity, courage, and vision in Alberta’s energy sector. Her story is a testament to what’s possible when individuals and the companies that support them are willing to take bold steps toward change.
