March Breakfast Session - Attracting & Retaining Top Talent: A Conversation on Inclusion

Join the British Columbia Construction Roundtable (BCCR) in celebrating International Women’s Day with a focus on creating workplaces where every individual is valued, respected, and empowered to contribute fully, regardless of their background or identity.

Join moderator Vanessa S. Werde (JML) and panelists Andrea Cadogan (FortisBC), Winni Shi (MetroVancouver), Holly Foxcroft (TransLink), and Mellisa Holland (BC Hydro) as they share case studies on how they’ve embraced diverse perspectives, ensured equitable opportunities, and cultivated inclusive cultures. Learn how these strategies not only enhance employee retention but also attract top talent, positioning your business for success in today’s competitive market.

Vanessa S. Werden, Partner. Vanessa is a seasoned construction lawyer with JML advising on procurement, contracting, construction, and dispute resolution. She has experience in major infrastructure projects, including stadiums, hydroelectric facilities, telecom, healthcare, wastewater, and commercial developments. She is Chair of the BC Road Builders & Heavy Construction Association and founder of its Women in Road Building Committee. Recognized in Lexpert for construction law, she was named a 2023 “Lawyer to Watch” in infrastructure. A recipient of the Canadian Bar Association’s Community Supporter Award, she recently became the first female equity partner in her firm’s construction group.

Andrea Cadogan, Vice President, People at FortisBC. Andrea brings over 30 years of diverse experience in leading human resources functions across both private and public sectors. Currently, as the Vice President of People, she is responsible for guiding the people related initiatives that support our long-term vision delivering a stronger energy future for British Columbia. She also focuses on our immediate goals of enhancing FortisBC's culture by promoting a Culture of Belonging, strengthening employee engagement, and developing the talent necessary for both present and future needs. Ms. Cadogan holds a BA in Economics from Simon Fraser University and a post-baccalaureate diploma in Human Resources Management from BCIT.

Winnie Shi is the project director for Metro Vancouver's Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Project, with over 25 years of experience in infrastructure planning, financing, and operations, including P3 models across Canada, the U.S., and internationally. She previously co-led InTransit BC and was a partner at KPMG, advising on infrastructure finance. Recognized as a WXN Top 100 Woman (2021) and a 2025 YWCA Women of Distinction nominee, she also chairs the BC Women's Infrastructure Network. 

Holly Foxcroft is a transportation planning professional with 17 years of experience in the public and private sectors, including eight years at TransLink. She has led teams managing TransLink’s bus network and advancing the Burnaby Mountain Gondola project. Since 2024, she has co-led TransLink’s Women + Allies Employee Resource Group, driving training, professional development, and advocacy initiatives to promote workplace equity for women.

Melissa Holland is VP of Project Delivery at BC Hydro, overseeing $22 billion in projects across dam safety, generation, transmission, telecom, and interconnections. With 23+ years in energy and utilities, she specializes in strategy, regulatory affairs, environmental assessment, Indigenous consultation, project management, and contractor claims defense. She values both the work and how it’s done. Melissa holds an MBA from the Ivey School of Business and a BA from McGill. She also serves on the PowerTech board.

Thank you, FlatironDragados Canada for sponsoring this event.