AN INAUGURAL PATTI WILSON LEADERSHIP PROGRAM AWARD RECIPIENT
We’re proud to share that Anna, a Mechanical Systems Professional here at Efficiency Manitoba, has been awarded one of the first Patti Wilson Leadership Program Awards! This award is presented to early-career women who are emerging leaders in district energy, enhancing knowledge and understanding of the industry, it’s technology and applications.
ABOUT ANNA
While working in commercial building design, Anna became increasingly aware of the direct impact and influence she had on a building’s long-term environmental, financial, and social functionality as a mechanical systems designer. This inspired her to pursue a career in energy efficiency, allowing her to continue to have a positive impact on Manitoba’s built environment and help more Manitobans save energy and money.
Anna has been with Efficiency Manitoba since 2023 and has brought extensive knowledge and a reputation for excellent customer service to her role. She provides technical support to our commercial and residential teams on energy-efficient heating, cooling, and ventilation equipment.
Her role at Efficiency Manitoba has given her the opportunity to be actively involved in exploring district energy systems and how they can be applied in Manitoba. One such project includes The Forks Railside Development, which will explore the implementation of a ground source district energy system to serve as the site’s primary source of heating and cooling. This exciting project will receive support from our Innovation Fund to inform future projects and programs that Anna will be directly involved with.
ABOUT THE PATTI WILSON LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
The Patti Wilson Leadership Program was launched in 2024 to honour the legacy of Patti Wilson, a former International District Energy Association (IDEA) Chair and longtime Board member. The Patti Wilson Leadership Program Award is intended to encourage and support young women to participate in the field, hone their leadership abilities, and continue to advance the mission of the IDEA.
The award was presented at the annual IDEA Campus Energy Conference, where Patti helped advance the industry through her knowledge and leadership. It recognizes Anna’s inspiring work in district energy systems and her commitment to helping more people save energy and money through the education and innovation that her role at Efficiency Manitoba provides.
“I’m honoured to be awarded the Patti Wilson Award! Being chosen as a recipient means I’m doing meaningful work that has a real impact on peoples’ lives and the future of our province’s energy and environmental landscape,” said Anna. “Patti Wilson exemplified the type of leader I would like to be — one that is committed to continuous learning, is a connector and a collaborator, and is always in service of others. On a personal level, this award has encouraged me to continue pursuing my career goals and given me the confidence I need to do so.”
ADVICE FOR ASPIRING WOMEN & PROFESSIONALS IN THE ENERGY SECTOR
When we asked Anna if she had anything to say to aspiring women and professionals in the energy sector, she shared the following:
“I never considered engineering as a career until one my high school teachers, an engineer herself, encouraged me to look into it. The visibility of women in engineering is a key part of inspiring the next generation, and I hope initiatives like this award continue to contribute to that. While I entered engineering with an interest in math, science, and machines, I’ve come to realize this path can offer a broad range of opportunities. If you’re interested in getting started in mechanical engineering or in the energy sector, the best thing to do is ask questions, stay curious, and surround yourself with people who encourage you to reach for that next step.”
Please join us in congratulating Anna on this outstanding accomplishment and the impact she’s having through her great work at Efficiency Manitoba!