Meg Mathes: Creating an Inclusive Workplace for Transgender Individuals

Host Lisa Laronde speaks to Meg Mathes, a Red Seal refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanic and the Senior Manager of Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) with Modern Niagara Group Inc. In this role, she nationally supports the people, clients, and Industry with DEI efforts.

In this episode, Meg shares her incredible journey in the skilled trades industry as a transgender woman. Meg opens up about her experiences in foster care and leaving home at fourteen years old. Meg discovered her innate mechanical skills at Burger King which eventually led her to pursue opportunities in the skilled trades.

Meg discusses the challenges she faces as a transgender individual in the workplace and the importance of being open about her identity. Meg also shares highlights some of her advocacy work and the changes she's witnessed in workplace dynamics. She advocates for gender-affirming policies, gender-neutral facilities, and inclusive workplace language to create a more welcoming environment.

Meg offers heartfelt advice to her younger self and the next generation of skilled trades professionals through embracing diversity and fostering inclusivity in every aspect of our lives.

About Meg Mathes:

Meg has been in the Skilled Trades for over 27 years and holds credentials as an 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 from the University of Calgary.

Meg has volunteered extensively and given back to her industry in many ways. 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. She sits on many boards and committees advancing DEI in the Skilled Trades in Canada.

Topics

• Discovering Mechanical Skills
• Importance of Supportive Environments
• Meg Mathes' Journey as a Transgender Advocate
• Challenges in the Workplace
• Support from Employers
• Support Associations for Transgender Individuals
• Balancing Advocacy and Privacy
• Challenges in a Predominantly Male Environment
• Success in Alberta's Skilled Trades
• Influence on Gender Roles and Stereotypes
• Creating a Safe and Inclusive Environment
• Supporting Transgender Individuals in Society
• Promoting Safety in the Workplace
• Advice to Younger Self