In celebration of International Women's Day, ATCO Structures is proud to highlight the achievements and roles of women in leadership within the company. Next in our series, Sandra Morales, a Manufacturing Manager at ATCO Espaciomovil, the Mexican division of ATCO Structures, exemplifies the strength, resilience, and vision that drive our organization forward.

From Columbia to Canada to Mexico

Sandra Morales began her career in Colombia at the age of 20, working in her husband's home construction company while studying Civil Engineering. Her early roles involved purchasing and construction control, laying the foundation for her future in the industry. When she emigrated to Canada, Sandra faced significant language barriers that initially hindered her ability to showcase her true potential. However, her determination and hard work paid off when she was hired by ATCO Structures as a Production worker.

Sandra's journey at ATCO is a testament to her resilience and dedication. Despite her limited English skills, she earned the trust of her superiors, including Tim Cheston and David Cook, who recognized her abilities and promoted her to Leader Hand and later to assistant to Shaun D’Alessandro. Her big break came when she was sent to Mexico to lead a significant project, where her leadership skills shone through. This opportunity led to her current role as Manufacturing Manager at the Guadalajara plant.

Inspiration for Leadership

Sandra believes that leadership is an innate ability that can be honed through academic preparation. She feels fortunate to possess this natural talent and has continuously worked to perfect it through education and experience.

Milestones of Success

Sandra's career at ATCO is marked by several key milestones. The first was when David Cook promoted her to Leader Hand, followed by her role as Shaun D’Alessandro's assistant. Her successful completion of the Peñasquito project in Mexico was another significant milestone, leading to her current position as Manufacturing Manager in Guadalajara.

Leading with Respect and Motivation

Sandra's leadership style is rooted in respect, motivation, and the promotion of personal and technical development among her team members. She believes in fostering a high degree of motivation and creativity, making her team feel valued and integral to the company's success. Sandra emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and effective communication, using various strategies to achieve the company's objectives.

Challenges as a Leader

Sandra has faced numerous challenges throughout her career. In Canada, her primary challenge was overcoming language barriers to demonstrate her knowledge and skills. In Mexico, she encountered cultural differences, particularly in work habits and responsibilities. Her biggest challenge has been adapting to and implementing Canadian work systems in Mexico, while addressing the traditional customs of her collaborators.

The Makings of a Great Leader

Sandra believes that respect, effective communication, motivation, leading by example, taking responsibility, honesty, and maturity are essential qualities for effective leadership. She strives to embody these qualities in her daily interactions with her team.

Impact and Inspiration

Sandra's biggest inspiration is her husband, who has been a mentor and a source of support throughout her career. She advises young women aspiring to be leaders to be persistent, patient, and continuously seek knowledge. One of her most significant impacts at ATCO was her work on the Peñasquito project, where she demonstrated exceptional dedication and resilience.

Future Goals and Support for Women

Sandra's future goals at ATCO include implementing Canadian standards and processes in the Guadalajara plant and continuing to improve her personal training to meet her superiors' expectations. She sees a growing role for women in leadership and advocates for more opportunities and academic and technical preparation for women to compete for leadership positions.

Championing Diversity

Sandra is proud of ATCO's commitment to diversity and inclusion, allowing both men and women, regardless of nationality, to participate equally without discrimination. She acknowledges that while women in Mexico hold many executive positions, more efforts are needed to ensure their participation in plant jobs.

Sandra Morales's story is a powerful example of resilience, dedication, and the impact of strong leadership. Her journey at ATCO Espaciomovil inspires us all and underscores the importance of gender diversity in the workplace.