Darlington’s LED light replacement project continues to illuminate the power of diversity and innovation. Phase two of this ambitious initiative involves replacing over 12,000 fluorescent lights with energy-efficient fixtures throughout the station. Each location presents unique challenges, but none more so than the women’s locker room, where access restrictions could have severely hampered progress.
To overcome this, IGS field leadership took the innovative step of assembling an all-female crew of electricians and apprentices. This brilliant solution not only ensured the project progressed safely and efficiently but also fostered a more inclusive work environment. By embracing this challenge, what could have taken months was completed in a matter of weeks.
We are incredibly proud of our diverse team and their ability to adapt and excel. This success underscores the strength that comes from embracing diversity and fostering a culture of inclusion at every level.
Growing our team with Indigenous talent:
Since June 2024, we’ve welcomed four skilled professionals from the Ontario Power Generation (OPG) Indigenous Opportunities Network (ION) as electricians and general laborers at OPG sites.
We have recently added a Project Coordinator to our team from the Metis Nation of Ontario and are currently recruiting for a Project Administrator.
Year to date Indigenous employees hired: 12
Exploring New Partnerships with other Trade Unions: Looking to expand Indigenous engagements agreements with other trade unions in addition to Liuna and CUSW. Other trades to be added in the next couple of months.
Promoting awareness and support:
In September, we partnered up with local charities, Their Opportunity and the Indigenous Hockey Equipment Drive, to host a charity golf tournament as well as ran a hockey equipment drive all of September to be donated to the Indigenous Hockey Equipment Drive. In addition to the donated equipment, we were able to raise over $2300 for the charity. Our staff proudly participated in the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation with the entire office staff attending a sunrise ceremony.
Our president, Dayna Pavich, was a speaker at B&M’s Pullman Court division for their National Day of Truth and Reconciliation Event where she spoke about IGS, shared her knowledge of Indigenous partnerships, and strategies for meaningful community relations.
Continued Engagement with Local First nations: Strengthening relationship with Curve Lake First Nation and Hiawatha First Nation. Looking to support various infrastructure and upgrade projects on reserve including a water treatment plant at Curve Lake First Nation. IGS was recently accepted as a local indigenous supplier at Curve Lake First Nation.
Support for Indigenous Workers:
Connecting employees with our wrap around program and with OPG’s Indigenous circle for support. Initial union dues paid by IGS to help remove barrier to employment. Tutoring support provided during new hire training.
Recent Events
CCIB AGM
Lunch and Learn with Ishkode Indigenous Art Collective
National Indigenous Peoples Day with Smoke Trail Singers hosted by OPG
Métis & Energy Knowledge Symposium
Métis Heritage event – sponsored face painters
OFNEDA 2024 First Nations Economic Advancement Conference
IGS Employee Charity Golf Event and Fundraiser for Indigenous Hockey Equipment Drive
Curve Lake Pow Wow Volunteer
Rama First Nation Forward Summit East
Sunrise Ceremony in honour of National Day of Truth and Reconciliation hosted by Ontario Tech
Speaker at Black & McDonald National Day of Truth and Reconciliation Event at Pullman Court
Hiawatha First Nation Orange Shirt Day Celebration
IGS First Nations Hockey Equipment Drive
ANEDO 2024 Economic Development Opportunities Forum
Alderville First Nation Career Fair
What lies ahead for IGS
Winner of IGS Scholarship to be announced in the fourth quarter of 2024. The IGS team is growing, with at least 3 ION candidates scheduled to be hired in October.
With potential to work with other trade unions, we see opportunity to provide additional Indigenous employment opportunities, grow our community relationships, and give back in a meaningful way.
As the year winds down, we reflect on the vibrant energy of past Pow Wows and Métis events and look forward to deepening our relationships with Indigenous communities in the new year. IGS remains dedicated to Indigenous engagement, and we are eager to embark on new initiatives in the months to come.
