Employee Spotlight – Meet Canada Lead EHS Manager, Martin Laverdière!

This month’s #EmployeeSpotlight features Canada Lead EHS Manager, Martin Laverdière! Martin has recently achieved 30 years of service in the boiler industry and has been with APM since 2018. Since then, he has played a key role in our EHS department, guiding safety excellence through kaizens, APM-led trainings, and innumerous outage audits and campaigns. Please join us in commemorating Martin and read the below to learn more about his perspectives on business and life.

What are some roles you have at work, and outside of work? (ex. Superintendent, parent, board member, etc.)

-        EHS Manager

-        Plant Maintenance Engineer

-        Parent

-        Soccer Coach

What is your official job title with APM?

Canada Lead EHS Manager

What led you to this industry and how did you first learn about APM?

I started my career in 1995 in a small Boiler Service Manufacturing Plant.  My first assignment was to implement ISO 9000.  My career evolved in Plant Maintenance and EHS was a key part of my role.  I transitioned to our Construction Division in 2011 as a Safety Specialist.  Our group joined GE in 2016 and then APM in 2018.  It has been an interesting journey so far!

When did you begin working with APM and how many years have you been working with APM?   

I have been working with APM since 2018 but, given I am from a legacy business, I have celebrated 30 years of service this year.

What’s one thing that surprised you about working with APM?

It’s one big family that evolves in time but continues to stay closely-knit together.   Any office or job site I go to, I feel like I am part of this family; everybody looks out for each other.

What is a typical workday for you?

In APM, there is no typical workday. You start your day early with your list of projects and to-do’s, but you’re always a phone call away from changing your plans. You must always be ready to assist anyone calling you from our field operations. 

What energizes you at work?

Our ability to come together as a team, be able to coordinate with different GEV/OFS entities and continue to achieve safety excellence project after project. That keeps me energized and proud to be with APM.

What do you find the most challenging in your role?

We must learn from the past and ensure that lessons learned continue to be passed on.  Everyone knows that there is not much room for mistakes in our business.  We must constantly challenge each other to maintain our high standard of safety excellence.

What do you like most about working with APM?

I most enjoy the people and the safety culture that we have built over the years! 

How has APM helped you in your career development?

I think working with such a diverse group in Canada (Turbine, Boiler, Gas, Steam, Nuclear industries) has been quite an interesting journey.  Also working with my US/Canada EHS colleagues helped me broaden my overall knowledge in EHS.

What courses, certifications, or programs did you complete?

I have a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering as well as an International OHS Certificate from RCC/NEBOSH. 

What is your proudest moment with APM?

I have many great moments with APM.  They are often simple and small accomplishments that help our teams in the field.  Last year, the SWAT Card Kaizen Team was recognized during the Gas Power Excellence Award.  It was great to be a part of this team and represent APM for this accomplishment. 

Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?

I can say that I have had many great mentors in my career. I do appreciate everyone that over the years has taken the time to engage with me. I learn a lot from everyone around me, and I am grateful for that. I also want to thank every single colleague and close friend over the years that has cheered for me and kept me going till now!

How do you prefer to spend your days off?

I either work on my to-do list at home (there are always a few projects waiting for me) or travel somewhere with my wife and kids.  It’s always great when we can travel and visit family.

How do you balance your career at APM and family?

I appreciate APM support and flexibility when it comes to balancing work commitments and family.  There have been some challenges but overall, it has worked out well for me. 

What advice do you have for prospective APM candidates?

Embrace the culture, be ready to adapt to something very different, work hard, and enjoy the ride as this may be the most interesting journey of your life!

People would be surprised if they knew:

As a teen, I had the opportunity to jump (parachuting) with the Canadian Airborne Regiment in Edmonton.  Also, my wife had a Thai Restaurant for more than 20 years and it was the craziest time of my life since I was starting my career as well.

Top three life highlights?

-        Meeting my wife Jessica in college

-        My two kids Jacob and Sophia

-        Reaching 30 years of service

When I look back, I am happy how everything turned out.  The journey is not over and there are still so many challenges and opportunities ahead.

What does true leadership mean to you?

For me, being able to influence others in a positive way (motivate them, inspire them, be a role model, keep them aligned, etc.) while helping them grow to their full potential.