Feature Articles

International Women’s Day 2024 – Recognizing Women in the Forest Sector

In honor of International Women’s Day 2024, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable women leading the way in the forest and manufacturing sectors at Alberta-Pacific Forest Industries Inc. (Al-Pac). Their diverse roles and unique career paths exemplify the invaluable contributions women make to the forest and manufacturing industry.

KAYTE SUTHERLAND – ENVIRONMENTAL PROCESS ENGINEER, TECHNICAL

As an Environmental Process Engineer, Kayte Sutherland has been with Al-Pac for 4.5 years. Her journey in the forest sector is marked by a passion for making a difference. “A career at Al-Pac’s pulp mill site allows you to see the value in the work you do, and to experience the physical impact your work has on our pulp manufacturing process. I really enjoy being able to see the difference my work makes to our process, to our reputation with our stakeholders, and to my friends and colleagues at the mill,” Kayte shares. With a background in science and engineering, Kayte’s role involves a blend of optimization, compliance reporting, and in-house engineering. She emphasizes the importance of big-picture thinking and the opportunity to see the tangible impact of her work on the pulp manufacturing process.

When asked what advice she would give to someone interested in pursuing a career in the forest/manufacturing sectors, Kayte responded, “There is something for everyone in the forest industry. As an integral part of our global economy, a career in the forest sector is a unique blend of conventional manufacturing and sustainable ecological management – giving a perspective quite unlike any other.”

NATALIYA VORONOVA – MANAGER, FINANCIAL REPORTING

Nataliya Voronova, Manager of Financial Reporting, brings over 16 years of experience to Al-Pac. Her career began in the audit sector before transitioning to the forestry industry. “I gained a lot of valuable experience about the specifics of accounting and reporting in the forestry and manufacturing industry,” Nataliya recalls. Her expertise in accounting and reporting has been instrumental in her role, where she enjoys applying her mathematical skills to business challenges. Nataliya spoke of her transition from working in an audit firm to working in the forestry/manufacturing sector, “I joined Al-Pac in August 2017 in the role of Financial Reporting Accountant, and I was excited to apply my knowledge from the firm and continue extending that knowledge within the forestry sector.”

She advises future CPAs interested in the forestry/manufacturing sector to first gain experience in audit and consulting firms, and specifically ones that have the opportunity to audit different forestry and manufacturing companies. “This is important so that you can build up your own knowledge kit and understanding of the industry, so that it may be applied in a future role.” Nataliya advised. “Having an understanding of the manufacturing process will also serve as an asset.”

When asked about the most passionate aspect of her job, Nataliya said, “When I came to Canada, the first industry I was exposed to was forestry during my days as auditor. I learned a lot when I was on-site at the pulp and sawmills, as well as other manufacturing companies, and it has always been the most exciting part to be able to apply accounting to the manufacturing and production process.”

CARRIE SCAMMELL – ACCOUNTS PAYABLE TEAM LEAD, FINANCE

With an impressive tenure of 17 years at Al-Pac, Carrie Scammell, Accounts Payable Team Lead, has seen significant growth in her career. Starting in accounts payable, Carrie has embraced the opportunity to lead and foster the development of her team. “I have found that my most valuable experience has come from supporting the growth and achievement of my fellow team members,” Carrie reflects. She values the creative and collaborative environment at Al-Pac, which allows for problem-solving and efficiency in financial operations. When asked what advice she would give to someone interested in pursuing a career in her field, Carrie emphasized, “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and take on new challenges. Always be open to learning and growing in your career.”

These women exemplify the diverse opportunities and pathways available in the forest and manufacturing sectors. Their passion, expertise, and leadership continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations of women in the industry. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognize the contributions of women like Kayte, Nataliya, and Carrie, who are not only shaping the future of Al-Pac but also making a lasting impact on the forest sector at large.