Share some of your most memorable career-related experiences

I will always remember in my first week as Recreation Facilities Manager, a salesperson came to the office and asked if I was the new secretary and if he could speak with the manager. It was funny to see his reaction when I told him that I was the manager and was responsible for purchasing – he was not expecting “the boss” to be a woman. It is great to see the number of women now in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Last year our community hosted the Queensland Cyclones Bantam and Pee Wee hockey teams from Australia. The teams came to Milverton to experience Canadian Hockey. Team members were billeted with families in the community, and they made the Perth East Recreation Complex (PERC) their home facility for over a week. It was great to see these young kids coming to the arena daily for training and games. They received various training sessions with a power skating coach, a Triple-A coach and Junior B coach. Many experienced snow for the first time and skated on a pond – some glowed with excitement; some complained about how cold it was. The group went to a London Knights game and to see the Leafs play as well. Residents opened their homes to the Aussies and, by the end of their stay, became family. It was amazing how quickly relationships were developed and how friendships remain. It was great to be able to organize such a memorable, once in a lifetime experience for these kids.

Another one of my most memorable experiences is a combination of many. I take great pride in our facility and the services that we provide, and I have created a work environment where staff also take great pride in their work. When I receive letters, phone calls and messages thanking me on the support they received on making their special event or occasion successful – it is a feel-good moment for both staff and myself.

Another one of my most memorable experiences is a combination of many. I take great pride in our facility and the services that we provide, and I have created a work environment where staff also take great pride in their work. When I receive letters, phone calls and messages thanking me on the support they received on making their special event or occasion successful – it is a feel-good moment for both staff and myself.

What would you describe as some of the most significant workplace and/or industry challenges you have faced over the past five years?

Change is constant. It is always a challenge to ensure that operations policies and procedures are kept up to date with regards to changes in laws, regulations and best practices. ORFA has provided up to date resources that assist with keeping up with the changes.

How has your involvement with the ORFA affected your career?

I started working at the Perth East Recreation Complex 15 years ago. I came with experience in management and program planning and people skills. I knew very little concerning facility operations. I took the opportunity to take as many ORFA courses as I could to better equip myself to operate a recreation facility. From Basic Refrigeration to Legal Awareness to Aquatics, ORFA has provided the necessary educational opportunities and offered me the tools to carry out my responsibilities with confidence.

List any best practices or tips learned at an ORFA professional development opportunity.

Safety First! ORFA courses always identify the importance of Health and Safety for workers. Whether it is arena, pool, parks or equipment operations, there is still a strong emphasis on the importance of keeping staff and the public safe. Regular checks of equipment, keeping work areas clean and tidy and identifying hazards are somethings all of my staff have learned at ORFA courses and have implemented into their work.

What advice would you provide to colleagues considering teaching or mentoring within the industry?

Building relationships is critical. Whether it is with organizations, service groups, staff, co-workers, Council, business partners, industry colleagues or the general public, a trusting and respectful relationship is essential to meet your organizational and personal goals. Take the time to get to know people. Find out what their needs are. Listen to what their challenges are and work to reach that common goal together.

Final Thoughts

There are so many resources available through ORFA and colleagues. Get involved with professional organizations, ask questions, engage in networking opportunities and participate in training. Take every opportunity you can to educate yourself further. You can never know too much.