Alpine Proudly Celebrates International Women's Day 2022
March 08, 2022
Celebrating IWD2022
Alpine Building Maintenance is proud of our commitment to creating diverse workplaces across Canada and imagines a gender equal world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. 43% of Alpine’s management team, from Supervisor to Executive, self-identify as women in our traditionally male-dominated industry.
To celebrate International Women's Day, we're shining a spotlight on some of the women on our team making a difference to Alpine Every Day.
Grace Mascardo, Director of Operations
How did you end up in your profession?
I’ve been in this industry for 30+ years. I started as a Room Attendant many years ago, and worked my way up by applying to any available position, eventually becoming Director of Operations. I’ve dedicated my time, learned a lot, and gained many experiences. The key is to have an open mind and to believe in yourself.
What do you like about working at Alpine?
I like that there is equal opportunity for all, and room for growth within the company. I feel appreciated.
What advice do you have for women starting out in their careers?
- Failure is not option, keep going.
- Listen and have an open mind while learning, learn from constructive criticism, and always ask questions along the way.
What is one way that you/we/society can #BreakTheBias?
One way is to encourage other women to believe in themselves, and lead by example. I myself have raised two daughters as a single mother. By providing continuous support and motivation, they are now confident, successful women in their careers as a Registered Nurse and as a Human Resources Manager with CPHR designation.
Tori Burns, MBA, Human Resources Business Partner
How did you end up in your profession?
I began my education in a general business program with no real idea of what I wanted to do. When I took my first Organizational Behaviour course I knew I wanted to go into Human Resources. I love the idea of learning what truly motivates people and finding ways to ensure people feel supported and happy at work. I went on to get a Masters in HR and another in Change Management to ensure that I had the tools needed to make a real difference in the workplace. My passion is people and I am lucky to spend every day doing what I love.
What do you like about working at Alpine?
I really love working with the Alpine HR team. Starting at Domus with an HR team of two and then being introduced to and supported by a much larger team, has been amazing. Everyone is always so quick to help and I feel like we all get along really well.
What advice do you have for women starting out in their careers?
Surround yourself with like minded women. Surround yourself with people who encourage you and support you. Imposter syndrome is a very real thing and it is important to have a good support system around you when you are starting in a new position. Women need to understand their value, understand what they bring to the table and have the courage to demand respect in the workplace.
What is one way that you/we/society can #BreakTheBias?
As a society I think one way that we can #BreakTheBias is by normalizing men taking extended parental leave. Women take longer parental leaves compared to their male counterparts and the time away from the workforce can have a negative impact on career growth. If we were to normalize the non-birthing parent taking an extended period of time away from work when a baby is born into their family then we could level the playing field and break the bias that women can’t have a highly successful career and be a mother.