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What is your role and how long have you been working at NAV CANADA?

I am currently a Flight Service Specialist at NAV CANADA’s Kamloops Flight Information Centre. I started with the Company in August 2005 and my first posting was at the Flight Service Station in Fort Nelson. I also spent time training in Edmonton and working at the Flight Service Station in Williams Lake, British Columbia.

How do you describe what you do for a living to your family and friends?

I tell them that I help pilots plan their flights so they can do them safely and informed. We provide detailed weather briefings and information with our local area knowledge. We deliver any information they may need while enroute. We also offer an alerting service to ensure they get to their destination safely. Additionally, our team does various administrative tasks, such as disseminating important notices, called NOTAMs.

What has surprised you about working at NAV CANADA?

In December 2020, I made the decision to come out as a transgender woman to my colleagues at NAV CANADA. The amount of support and love I have received has been phenomenal! I initially came out to a few co-workers I trusted. Then, after liaising with my manager and HR, I came out to the rest of my co-workers with an email, in which I enclosed a letter with a story about myself and my new name and pronouns.

I was off for a couple of weeks to let the news digest and, to my delight, when I returned my colleagues called me Emily and she/her. There were slip ups near the beginning, which is understandable, but now I’m just Emily and that’s all I wanted. I wish every trans person could work for such a supportive company and with such supportive people.

What does a trans-inclusive workplace look like to you?

A trans-inclusive workplace looks much like where I currently work. A place where employers and colleagues accord the same respect to trans people as they do non-trans people. Where employers protect transgender rights and the benefits, including health and wellness resources, health coverage, and adequate leave policies, help a person live as themselves.

In your opinion, what is essential for employers and colleagues to understand about someone who is transitioning? How can they become an ally?

I think it is essential for employers and colleagues to understand that transgender people do not undergo transitioning lightly. It is extremely difficult to go against societal norms. Trans people have some of the highest rates of mental health issues, suicide, and violence committed against them. The best way to be an ally is to remember we are human and just want to live our lives like everyone else. Show understanding, empathy, intervene, and educate if you encounter ignorance and bias from other cisgender (non-transgender) people. Speak up for transgender awareness, acceptance, and inclusion in places and spaces where you hold power.

When it comes to choosing a career path, what advice would you give to yourself as a teenager?

I would give myself a lot of advice if I could speak to myself as a teenager. As far as choosing the right career path goes, think long and hard about who you are, what brings you joy and try to find a career that aligns with that. It doesn’t have to be your passion, but it should bring a sense of satisfaction. I loved aircraft as a child and am pleased to work in the aviation industry.

What are some of your favourite things to do outside of work?

I started burlesque dancing last year, which has been so fun and I have performed in two shows. I also enjoy travelling, hiking, mountain biking, snowboarding, and meeting friends for coffee. I have two wonderful children and enjoy spending time with them.

What is your biggest achievement to date?

Aside from my children, I would say my biggest achievement would be discovering who I really am and taking the steps to live my truth.