Advancing women in construction: a conversation with Micheline Gervais

At Englobe, the way we define leadership combines technical expertise with purpose, mentorship, and community impact. 

Recently, we spoke with Micheline Gervais, Project Director, Hygiene, Health & Safety at Englobe. Earlier this year, Micheline was appointed Chair of the Women in Construction (WIC) Committee of the Northeastern Ontario Construction Association (NOCA). 

During this conversation, Micheline described her career journey, her commitment to advancing women in construction, and the legacy she hopes to build in Northeastern Ontario.

About NOCA 

Since its inception in 1948, NOCA has supported and advocated for its member contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, service providers, consulting firms, training and personnel providers, promoted their interests, and provided specialized services to help them succeed in the rapidly-evolving construction industry.

Englobe: Micheline, what can you tell us about your role at Englobe and your professional journey? 

Micheline Gervais: In my current role as Project Director in Hygiene, Health & Safety at Englobe, I support projects related to occupational hygiene, indoor air quality, and health and safety across Northern Ontario. My role allows me to collaborate closely with clients, solve complex problems, and provide science-based solutions that protect people and communities. 

Over the 20 years that I’ve been at Englobe, I’ve progressed into leadership roles that have allowed me to mentor others and influence project outcomes. I’m proud to have contributed to building the company’s presence in northeastern Ontario and to projects that ensure safe working conditions while creating meaningful impacts in Northern communities.

What inspired you to take on the Chairwoman’s role on the Women in Construction Committee? 

Taking on this role felt like a natural step for me, both personally and professionally. 

I’m passionate about opening doors for women and young people and showing them that construction can be a fulfilling and meaningful career. The WIC Committee provides a space to promote inclusion, mentorship, and outreach — areas where lasting change can truly happen.

What does this nomination mean to you? 

Being nominated as Chair is both a privilege and a responsibility. It reflects the trust of my peers and my commitment to advancing women in construction.

In your opinion, what strengths, skills, and experiences do you bring to this role? 

I believe that I bring leadership, collaboration, and practical problem-solving skills to the role, informed by my background in health and safety. 

I believe strongly in consensus-building, mentorship, and advocacy. I strive to lead inclusively and transparently, while ensuring that our efforts result in tangible outcomes that make a real difference.

What initiatives are you most excited to drive forward during your term as Chair?

Engagement is a key priority, particularly with students and young women who may not yet see themselves represented in the construction industry. Initiatives that connect Women in Construction with schools, training programs, and community organizations are especially important to me. 

I am also committed to strengthening mentorship networks within NOCA by fostering relationships between emerging professionals and established leaders who can offer guidance, encouragement, and practical expertise. My mandate focuses on supporting existing initiatives while proactively identifying new strategies to advance inclusivity and accessibility across the sector.

How would you like to be remembered at the end of your mandate? 

I would like my legacy as WIC Committee Chair to be one of impact, continuity, and empowerment. 

For me, success means creating momentum that continues long after my term ends — ensuring that women in construction feel supported, represented, and empowered to lead.