Virtual Summits
Pursuing DEI – Enhancing your workforce and community
April 24, 2024 at 1:00pm ET

Michelle Branigan
Michelle Branigan is an influential industry voice at the forefront of the electricity and renewable energy sector’s labour market intelligence and human resources best practices.

She leads Electricity Human Resources Canada’s strategic direction, and has stewarded the organization’s growth to become the definitive source for valued insights, programs, and resources that drive industry solutions.

Michelle is a champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion—with the vision and foresight to lead the workplaces of the future. She holds numerous board positions, including the Energy Council of Canada (ECC), while her international perspective is informed by her Master’s in Education from the University of Leicester.

An accomplished moderator and commentator, Michelle was recognized at the COP27 Government of Canada Pavilion as one of 100 Canadian women leading Canada’s energy transition. She is also a recipient of the distinguished “Woman of the Year” award from Women in Renewable Energy.

Meg Mathes
Meg has been in the skilled trades for over 26 years, and holds numerous credentials: Alberta Red Seal Journeyperson Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Mechanic, Alberta Journeyperson Gasfitter (A), Alberta Achievement in Business Competencies (Blue Seal), and a Certificate of Professional Management specializing in Strategic Management (University of Calgary).

In her role as Senior Manager of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion with Modern Niagara Group Inc., Meg supports people, clients, and industry with their DEI efforts across the country.

An openly transgender woman, Meg is a strong supporter of equity-deserving groups and the skilled trades, volunteering extensively and giving back to industry. She sits on many boards and committees, advancing DEI in the skilled trades in Canada.

In 2021, she was inducted into the Alberta Trades Hall of Fame for her 18-year service with the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training Board.

Elaine Carelse
Elaine is a seasoned expert in building and retaining teams, with a rich background that spans continents, industries, and roles.

Born in rural Eastern Cape, South Africa, her educational journey in Marketing and Accounting laid the foundation for her diverse career, starting in London’s SME sector with British Telecoms, and furthering her skills at Inmarsat—the United Kingdom’s leading satellite service provider.

She embraced entrepreneurship in South Africa before moving to Canada, where she excelled in managerial roles across different industries, showcasing her expertise in operations, financial management, and cultivating a positive work environment that is diverse, equitable and inclusive.

Joining Orion Construction as Office Manager and later ascending to Senior Manager of People and Culture, Elaine draws on her extensive experience and skill set to enrich the company’s culture and team. Her journey is a testament to continuous learning, adaptability, and a deep commitment to propelling the construction industry forward by embracing innovation and growth.

Lindsay Janca
With more than 15 years of dedicated experience in marketing, communications, and public relations, Lindsay demonstrates exceptional expertise in driving brand engagement and strategic messaging.

She is passionate advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion, and has been an active member of Hatch’s D&I committee for several years, leading the committee’s global communications strategy and leveraging her expertise to foster an inclusive work culture.

Throughout her career, Lindsay has adeptly combined her marketing acumen with a deep understanding of diverse audiences, creating impactful campaigns and communications that resonate across varied communities, embodying Hatch’s commitment to a more inclusive and equitable world.