Michelle Vestergaard
Sr. Advisor Residential New Construction, Enbridge Gas
Sector: Publicly-Traded Sector
Discipline: Engineering
Year: 2023
Magic Moment: My ‘magic moment’ happened when I participated in an Enbridge’s program called Bridges. It was designed to introduce women into non-traditional roles, and I applied to be a Pipeline Inspector. Over several years I spent most of my time in the field working with Enbridge contractors. My role was to supervise natural gas infrastructure installations, visual inspections and additional verifications required to ensure complete compliance. The program allowed me to gain valuable skills and experience by meeting multiple deadlines and handle multiple tasks within my work environment. I enjoyed working with a team who supported my personal growth and encouraged me while I learnt from them and advanced my technical knowledge. I knew during that experience the I wanted to be involved with the ‘dirt to door’
process by focusing on our Enbridge customers, the builders, and homeowners.
Key Influence:
My Dad: There was never a small problem or important decision I couldn’t reach out to my dad. His encouragement, his belief, and his confidence in me has helped shape who I am today.
Next Big Challenge As An Industry: I believe the next challenge we face as an industry is energy transition and how to address the transition’s negative impact. For example, high prices for consumers, the loss of carbon-intensive jobs and the impacts of technology. The city-region needs to foster collaboration and transparency with cross-sector industry leaders and the community to discuss innovation and resiliency to achieve the federal goal of zero carbon.
On Championing Others…: To champion others in the industry, I believe the key is to get involved. Attend professional networking opportunities, participate in educational courses to broaden your understanding and knowledge. I also participated in the Enbridge Mentorship Program which allowed me to facilitate knowledge sharing, bridge competency gaps, and provide other employees a unique and valuable opportunity to learn through relationships.
One word that captures you: The best word to describe me would be dependable. I have been in my current role for 22 years and have built strong lasting relationships with industry partners and co-workers. It takes time to earn trust, but once you prove yourself to be dependable through knowledge, commitment and communication, they will and do re-engage with you.