As part of our celebration for International Women's Day and Women’s History Month, our March #coffeetalk features four women from various roles in mechanical contracting as they share their journeys and the challenges they face as women, and how they found success in building their careers in the mechanical contracting industry. All MCABC members are welcome!

Panel

Tania Johnson — Chief Executive Officer, Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada

Tania began her career as a school teacher in New Brunswick and then transitioned to adult education following her move to Ottawa, ON with her husband. In 2000, she moved into the not for profit sector joining the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada for a six month contract and she has never looked back. Tania oversaw MCA Canada’s education foundation, implemented middle management education, university student engagement, and the women in mechanical construction initiative. In March of 2020 Tania proudly stepped into the role of CEO of MCA Canada. Tania is married with two grown children. She enjoys spending time at her cottage, has recently taken up the game of golf and is extremely appreciative of spending time and travelling with her community of girlfriends.

Judy-Lynn Mason — Chair, Women in Mechanical Contracting

Judy-Lynn is the chair of Women in Mechanical Contracting (WiMC) and a Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) board member.  She is in her second year leading a committee to support and attract more women and children to the industry.  Through mentorship and leadership programs, awareness campaigns, government advocacy, or reaching out to young girls letting them know this career is an option for them too.

With over two decades of professional experience in the contracting & accounting field, Judy-Lynn Mason has honed her expertise, particularly within the dynamic realm of industrial construction. She is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at ServcoCanada.

Judy-Lynn has been on various projects in cost-related roles within the industry which has given her a unique perspective as CFO of ServcoCanada. Her grasp of both office and field challenges enables her to communicate and troubleshoot effectively within all departments and leaders at ServcoCanada.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Judy-Lynn serves as a director at the Samantha Mason Foundation, a Canadian charity organization focused on youth mental wellness. Her commitment to this cause reflects her dedication to community welfare and enhancing the lives of the next generation.

Le Hien Huynh — BIM Manager, Division 15 Mechanical Ltd.

Le Hien heads up the Building Information Modeling (BIM) department at Division 15 Mechanical. Le Hien leads and develops detailed, custom processes and procedures to successfully execute the BIM strategy. Her training and hands on experience from several recent projects combined with Division 15's BIM-trained field Foreman and use of Trimble Robotic Total Stations for Field layout, will ensure the successful execution of BIM strategy for this project.

Le Hien is a graduate of the University of Victoria with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Over the past 10 years, Le Hien has provided leadership in the development of Division 15’s BIM standards and procedures. She collaborates with general contractors, subtrades, and office/site personnel to ensure the smooth execution of BIM within projects. She develops 3D models, and uses the model for clash detection and creation of bill of Materials and fabrication drawings. In 2017, Le Hien became one of the first 30 individuals nationwide to receive CanBIM Certified Professional designation.

Jessica Bannister — HVAC Apprentice and Influencer

Jessica is a Level 4 HVAC/R Apprentice at her family’s business, Cam Cool Refrigeration Inc., where they specialize in commercial and industrial refrigeration and air conditioning.  She is also a member of Women in HVAC/R Canada. She loves her career in the skilled trades and wishes to bring more awareness to women that these careers are open to them too. They are challenging, rewarding and lucrative. She is on Instagram at @HVACjess and on YouTube as “The HVAC Diaries” where she has a weekly vlog about her job.

This #coffeetalk is sponsored by J&S Sales BC Inc.