Jennifer Lowe

MAIN OBJECTIVE OF WIMC?

One of my personal objectives for WIMC is to increase the visibility of women in the mechanical industry. Increasing visibility will increase interest and the involvement of women, in what has been, a traditionally male-dominated industry. Young women may not consider this as a career path if they do not see themselves represented in this industry. As women of the mechanical industry, we need to show others that there is an opportunity here for women.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT THIS INDUSTRY?

There is much I like about this industry. I enjoy the variety it has to offer in the people I work with and also the type of work we provide our customers. I also like the idea of building things. I’m proud to think of the projects our team has completed over the years. We have left our mark not only in our city but also in our province and throughout Canada. Most importantly, I find it rewarding in helping our customers. Whether it’s troubleshooting a service issue, maintaining their mechanical system, or completing a project, we are enabling our customers to focus on what’s most important to them…their business.

COMMUNITY GIVE BACK?

If you’re in the position and have the ability, I believe it is important to give back to the community.

As a company, we recognize the importance of bettering our community, which is why we support organizations whose mandates are to assist those in need. Our support takes many forms from fundraising to volunteering to providing emergency supplies needs. We also partner with many of these organizations providing them with their mechanical system maintenance at no cost. This enables them to allocate their funds where they are needed most, helping the people they serve.

On a personal level, I am a member of Project Search’s Business Advisory Council. Project Search is a program through SCE Lifeworks which helps students with developmental disabilities gain essential employability skills for their resumes with the goal to secure competitive employment.

ADVICE TO WOMEN STARTING IN THE INDUSTRY?

Find a mentor. Female, male, it matters not, as long as they have your best interests at heart. Find someone who has experiences to share and someone who will not hesitate to “hold up a mirror” to you. They will be there to provide guidance through the tough times, which will come. They will help you grow both professionally and personally and they will celebrate your successes.