Why event chairperson says 'relationships are vital to your success'
The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre will be buzzing with energy as hundreds of safety professionals gather for the sixth annual Women in Safety Summit. This year’s theme is all about connection, mentorship, and advancing women in the safety profession. Paula Campkin, vice president of operations and training excellence at Energy Safety Canada and chairperson for the summit, sets the tone with an enthusiastic message about the transformative power of networking.
“I hope women leave with tools and tips to advocate for themselves, advance their careers, and ultimately grow the presence of women in the safety profession,” says Campkin. She emphasizes the critical role that events like this play in addressing the barriers women face and creating opportunities for meaningful connection.
Campkin reflects on her journey in the safety industry and her role as a founding member of the Women in Occupational Health and Safety Society (WOHSS), which began with a small group of women in a Calgary pub. “Our first meeting was at the Cat and Fiddle Pub,” she recounts. “I came in with a business plan, a vision, and a mission, and we launched from there.” What started as a grassroots Alberta initiative quickly gained national attention, demonstrating the demand for a community dedicated to empowering women in safety.
This year’s summit agenda offers diverse opportunities to connect and learn, with sessions focusing on mentorship, self-advocacy, and embracing technological advancements like AI in safety. Campkin is particularly excited about the AI session, saying, “we’re looking at how AI can predict future events in our organization. That’s something I’m eager to explore.”
Networking, however, remains a central theme. “Find yourself a network,” Campkin advises young professionals. “Whether it’s attending summits like this, joining WOHSS, or connecting through Health and Safety Professionals Canada, relationships are vital to your success.”
Throughout the day, attendees engage in breakout sessions, panels, and informal discussions. A highlight is the mentorship program, designed to foster relationships between established professionals and those newer to the field. Campkin believes in the mutual benefits of this dynamic. “Having a mentor was instrumental for me,” she shares. “I’ve also been a mentor, and I get a lot out of that relationship.”
For those just beginning their careers, Campkin has clear advice: “Get as much field experience as you can, find a network, and get a mentor. These are the building blocks of a successful career in safety.”
The summit takes place on Tuesday March 4th and Campkin expects a rewarding event. “For me, it’s always about helping those next in line. Expanding my network and giving back to the women in safety community are priorities,” she says. “This summit is a great start for anyone interested in joining the safety profession.”
The Women in Safety Summit continues to stand as a beacon of empowerment, proving that the power of networking can break down barriers and propel careers forward. “It’s about finding your value and building your confidence,” Campkin asserts.
