Women in Construction

Virtual Event
Women in Construction 2024
March 7, 2024 at 1:00pm ET

On DEMAND VIDEO
Session #1: Fireside Chat: Beyond the jobsite

Moderator: Jennifer Eastman, President, Imark Canada
Panelists:

  • Leslie Dibling, Conestoga Heavy Construction Association
  • Natasha Callender Wilson, Vice-President, Bass Installation
  • Summer Nicholl, National Shurjoint Sales Manager, Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems
The construction industry has numerous professionals, not just in the trades. This session will focus on the exploration of careers in distribution/wholesale, sales agencies, manufacturers, etc. beyond the traditional jobsite.


Jennifer Eastman
Jennifer is a creative and dynamic professional with a passion for business, backed by over 35 years of proven sales leadership and management experience.

This University of Guelph graduate has worked in numerous leadership roles across the Canadian electrical industry, successfully leading the sales organizations for Brady Canada, Philips Lighting, RC Lighting, Legrand Wattstopper, and CSC LED.

Her extensive knowledge and understanding of the electrical distribution channel—as well as the manufacturing and agent communities—positioned her as the perfect fit for her current role as president of Imark Canada (a marketing group for electrical and lighting distributors).

Jennifer has been an actively engaged with Electro-Federation Canada, participating in various committees, chairing the Ontario Women’s Network (2019-2022) and, most recently, serving as a member of the board (2021-2023).

Recognized as an accomplished and innovative manager who challenges and motivates others to strive for more, Jennifer is respected by her peers for her keen insights and a personality that exudes a curiosity and zest for life.


Leslie Dibling
Leslie displays an extraordinary knack for turning ambitious visions into tangible reality. From overseeing large-scale projects to revolutionizing industry practices, she has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in the industry.

An incredibly passionate advocate for women in construction, Leslie creates inclusive and diverse work environments, fostering an atmosphere of innovation, collaboration, and mutual respect.

By spearheading projects that incorporate friendly technologies and green building practices, she has effectively changed the way construction companies approach sustainability and technology.


Natasha Callender-Wilson
Natasha has led an interesting career in the construction industry over the past 20 years—most of which were in her family business, Bass Installation.

As vice-president, she oversees all business operations and executes business decisions that contribute to the long-term growth and value of the company.

Prior to her current role, she worked in accounting and finance for a variety of other subcontractors and developers in the Greater Toronto Area.

Natasha graduated from Humber College and York University with a diploma in accounting and degree in Psychology and Economics.

She is a proud Bajan-Canadian who loves swimming, playing the piano, and listening to audio books.

 


Summer Nicholl
When she entered the mechanical contracting industry in 2009, Summer admits she “I didn’t know the complexities of the mechanical systems”.

However, she had some great mentors from whom she absorbed knowledge and experience. Now, whenever she comes across someone new to the industry, she pays it forward and offers them support. “It is the least I can do … to give back and continue the growth and development of the industry.”

Sharing knowledge and working collaboratively positions Summer perfectly for her role as a member of Mechanical Contractors Association of BC’s board of directors. She has also served two board terms with the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (BC Chapter), where she chaired both the Young Executives and Women’s committees.

Summer is passionate about nurturing female involvement in the industry. While it has increased since her early days, she believes “We need to continue the recruitment and development of good people on all fronts. Not just on the tools, but from manufacturing to wholesale”.