Celebrating the contributions of women on International Women’s Day

With a renewed focus on diversity and inclusion, we’re reaffirming our commitment to gender equality at Enbridge

Edie Bates has worked at Enbridge for more than two decades—and over that time, she’s seen a lot of change.

"One of the biggest shifts I've seen over the course of my career here is an increase in awareness of and appreciation for the differing perspectives and leadership styles women bring to the table,” says Bates, Manager Lands and ROW Operations and Chair of Enbridge’s Edmonton chapter of FEMINEN, an internal employee resource group (ERG). “I'm proud of the work our ERGs are doing to foster inclusion and support our members to do great things.”

This year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) theme, Choose to Challenge, prompts each of us to think critically about how we can be more alert and active in calling out gender bias and inequality.

At Enbridge we’re taking up the challenge.

When asked how she personally challenges stereotypes, Bates answers, “The best way to challenge biases is to acknowledge that they exist and be conscious of your own tendencies. Acting as allies and calling out biased behavior is critical to making change and promoting equity.”

She adds that recognizing and celebrating achievements is just as important. “At Enbridge we have some of the most impressive female leaders in the industry. Recognizing and sharing their accomplishments helps bring awareness to these successes.”

“That said, it's also about letting people know when they’ve done something great,” adds Bates. “Never underestimate the value of a personal message to acknowledge an accomplishment.”



As we celebrate IWD across the company, proudly recognizing women like Edie, we also reaffirm our commitment to gender equality.

In November, we announced social goals to achieve 40% representation of women in both our workforce and on our Board of Directors by 2025. We also partner with exceptional organizations, like Equal by 30, that enable outreach and inclusion to ensure we are connected to diverse communities and keep in touch with leading practices.

Just last week, Equileap released its 2021 Gender Equality Global Report & Ranking, naming Enbridge one of the top five Canadian companies in terms of gender equality performance. Enbridge was also named one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers earlier in March. Both honors help validate our commitment to progress on our way to equity.

“Advancing progress within the company and beyond our walls is something I’m proud to be a part of,” says Bates.

“I have two amazing daughters that delight, surprise and challenge me every day. I want to ensure that they have every opportunity available to them to do anything they set their mind to. Through my work and how I live my life, I hope I leave this world a bit better than when I entered it.”