In her three years working at our Atikokan (Ontario) sawmill, Jillian has had the opportunity to occupy several different roles. She was hired as an equipment operator, before becoming a continuous relief operator, a role in which she developed the operational skills and technical understanding to run most of the equipment in the planer. She was then promoted to lead hand, where she continued to advance her understanding of sawmill operations. And last year, she was offered a job in quality control, which offered new challenges.
”Quality control has been a very rewarding experience thus far. I love that I am still directly involved in production where I started my journey. I enjoy teaching others about the importance of quality and how, if we hold it to the highest standard – only second to safety – we can lead the business to great things.” Since starting her career, she has witnessed many operational changes and technical enhancements. She enjoys how progressive and dynamic the forest products industry is. ”It is ever changing and requires me to stay on my toes. I love that I learn new things every single day!”
As a mother of four, Jillian appreciates the flexibility of her current role, which allows her to work steady day shifts. ”I have a very strong support system of family and friends that help with the day-to-day challenges of family vs. career. Resolute has always been very flexible when it comes to putting my family first! That means in my off time from work, I can enjoy camping, fishing and spending time with my family. The outdoors is my happy place!”
Jillian has some words of advice to other women thinking about joining the forest products industry. ”Don’t be timid. If you find your dream job within the forest products sector, pursue it! There are many opportunities for career advancement and development. Do not be apprehensive. Take each opportunity that is available and embrace the challenges. It is the challenges that are going to be your biggest chance at personal development and will ultimately be what carries you through to the bigger and better opportunities.”
