Employee profiles
The following employees found their niche at Public Works and Government Services Canada ( PWGSC). They have diverse interests, skills and backgrounds; in fact, we suspect many are just like you! Read their stories.
What Exactly Does a Terminologist Do?
Audrey began working for the Translation Bureau in October 2005. A native of Montreal, she was offered a position with the Bureau in Gatineau after completing her Honours Degree in Translation (co-op stream) at the Université de Montréal. She completed three internships, including one in Paris and two at the Bureau.
A Passion for Words
Do you know what a pitahaya is? Audrey can tell you, just as she can tell you about a host of other exotic words. The pitahaya is a little-known fruit that she discovered while running errands. She decided to look it up in TERMIUM Plus®, the Bureau's indispensable tool for language professionals and public servants. Finding no record of the term, Audrey set about preparing the entry that will soon be found in TERMIUM Plus®.
Audrey enthusiastically explains that she loves her job as a terminologist because it allows her to deepen her understanding of words. She loves getting terminology queries from language professionals and finding the terms they need to do their work. Her duties at the Bureau include assisting translators and other employees who are required to write or arrange for the translation of documents from all federal departments. Her clients always appreciate the precision of her precise answers.
The Translation Bureau – A Place to Grow
As soon as Audrey started working at the Bureau, she realized that there would be room for her to grow in her chosen field of terminology. She explains that the Bureau gives her opportunities to get involved in a wide range of projects. The Bureau organizes activities that allow Audrey to further her knowledge and forge ties with her colleagues. For example, she has taken a number of terminology training workshops and she participated in the language game entitled Chassez les proverbes, ils reviennent au galop during the Rendez-vous de la francophonie in March. She's also a member of NeXus, the Bureau's youth network geared mainly to retaining new government employees by giving them opportunities to cultivate professional and personal ties amongst themselves.
For Audrey, "The Translation Bureau is the ideal place to have a career as a terminologist.
"
My Career. My Life.
I found my niche @ PWGSC
A happy discovery
While studying toward a university degree in translation, Emmanuelle discovered the Translation Bureau at Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC). Her professors and former translation students raved about it and often talked to her about the job opportunities in Ottawa and the advantages of working for such a prestigious organization; the second largest translation service in the world after the European Union. In the last year of her translation studies, an inspired Emmanuelle registered for an internship in a federal government partnership program. As a result of this program, she was able to learn more about the Translation Bureau and consider her career opportunities on the horizon.
A job lined up
Working for PWGSC was an easy choice for Emmanuelle, since her decision was in line with the choices she had made as a student. After her internship, she quickly received an offer to work full time for the federal government - she had lined up a job even before completing her bachelor's degree! The only advice she would give to those who would like to follow in her footsteps would be to register as soon as possible for a co-op or internship program, which could lead to full-time employment.
Emmanuelle was not disappointed in her career choice and has been pleasantly surprised by the opportunities that have come her way. In addition to working with experienced people who share her love for the French language, she has made many friends.
A thriving career
Emmanuelle is a passionate person who comes alive when she talks about the advantages of a career in the public service. In her opinion, a competitive salary is not the only advantage. She believes that she has ideal working conditions since she is surrounded by experienced colleagues who show her the ins and outs of her profession. Obviously, this equation includes job security, benefits, training, a pension plan, in short, multiple advantages for those who dream about meeting interesting challenges, in addition to securing a bright future. Moreover, Emmanuelle is aware of the great number of public servants who are about to retire; this increases her opportunities for advancement tenfold.
For Emmanuelle, the Government of Canada represents an unequalled career choice, opportunities to grow professionally and personally, and the assurance of an interesting and fully rewarding professional life.
My Career. My Life.
I found my niche @ PWGSC
A road less travelled
From mystical to practical
With a B.A. in Classics and Religious Studies, Jessie is living proof that the path to a career in government is not always obvious.
Yet it's not so hard to imagine how the skills she needs as a human resources officer at Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC) were honed by her studies. The skills Jessie sees as most important to her work include attention to detail, setting priorities, speaking and writing clearly, teamwork, synthesizing, judgement, flexibility and creativity.
A 27-year-old native of Buckingham, Quebec, Jessie hadn't even considered a career in the federal government until the day she applied for a position on Canada Revenue Agency's own recruitment site. She chose this route, since she figured fewer people would know to apply there than jobs.gc.ca. Talk about attention to detail and creativity!
Once she had a foot in the door with the Revenue Agency, she was in a position to apply for jobs available only to public servants. She landed a spot in PWGSC's HR Development Program. A combination of training, coaching and work experience saw her move from an entry level position up two levels in two years.
"A new public service renewal strategy, the Public Service Modernization Act and increasing staff shortages make it an exciting time to be an HR advisor," says Jessie. "One of my roles is to help managers benefit from the flexibility of the new Act." She finds the application of the Act both interesting and challenging.
Jessie feels that a large department like PWGSC offers her more opportunities than small ones. And even within her field, she has the opportunity to explore many different areas, from classification and staffing to employment equity and official languages.
Before she began her career, Jessie wondered whether the public service would be a productive environment. She quickly found her colleagues to be hard-working and professional. Nor are they averse to a good time, as they gather for lunches, happy hour and parties. There are plenty of young people among them, but Jessie is quick to point out that her older colleagues are no less fun.
By working a bit less than an extra hour each day, a practice known as a compressed work week, Jessie has every second Monday off. She is also exploring income averaging, whereby a slightly reduced salary is offset by increased time off. This may allow her the time to plan a more leisurely trip to Spain, perhaps brushing up on the Spanish she learned on a recent trip to Peru.
If you could look over Jessie's shoulder when she is relaxing at home, you might see her reading the kind of books she studied at university. But if you could listen too, you might hear a little blues guitar from the late, great Stevie Ray Vaughan.
In school, at the office and in her personal life, Jessie can't be pigeon-holed. But she has found a home at PWGSC.
My Career. My Life.
I found my niche @ PWGSC
For love and money
"Show me the money.
" Kumar, a Finance and Accounting graduate, says that his class at McGill University was pretty much programmed to make that request of any potential employer.
Like many of his fellow students, he was dreaming of dollar signs and big consulting firms. Until he stumbled across a Government of Canada kiosk at an off-campus job fair, he hadn't given a thought to a government career. At the time, the government was not a prominent on-campus recruiter and was simply not on his radar.
Earning
He was surprised to learn, however, that entry-level federal salaries in his field are higher than with many companies. So Kumar applied to the Financial Officer Recruitment and Development program, was accepted and has never looked back.
After completion of the program in 18 months as a trainee, participants are offered a position in financial management, at a salary of at least $54,000 (as of summer 2007), with plenty of room to move up. After five years in the public service, Kumar's salary has risen by almost 80%.
Learning
Participants in this program take three six-month assignments that include finance, accounting, banking and compensation. Participants also benefit from time and financial support for corporate training, as well as Certified Management Accounting and Certified General Accounting training.
As a financial advisor with Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC), he is heavily involved in the reporting, tracking and scrutinizing of budgets and other corporate finance documents.
"I like PWGSC because everyone is made to feel important, appreciated and accepted
" Kumar says. "You are encouraged to pursue new skills sets, such as professional designations and the ability to speak a second language.
"
Although some find too much red tape in the public service, Kumar has an interesting perspective. Having his work reviewed by several experienced managers allows him to gain experience without fear of making costly mistakes. He also appreciates the mentoring program that saw him twinned with a senior manager.
Feels like home
When it comes to his colleagues, Kumar considers them both highly professional and "like family." Over his five-year career, he has also noted the presence of more young people.
For a guy who never considered a career in government, Kumar is a great ambassador. "If you like to be constantly challenged and acquire new skills in a stable place and you cherish your social and family life, then this is the place for you. The money, pension and benefits are just a bonus."
My Career. My Life.
I found my niche @ PWGSC
PWGSC a good fit
Lasitha heard about jobs in the federal government through friends at University. "All of my friends were talking about applying for the Federal Student Work Exchange Program (FSWEP) and I thought that maybe it was something that I could get involved in too.
"
Continuing education
Lasitha started working at PWGSC as a student and found herself studying and working at the same time. "They were willing to adjust my schedule and let me work while I was studying,
" she says. "That was a big help, gaining work experience, and earning money to put towards my education.
" The following summer she worked at Industry Canada in the Technology Partnerships Canada division. Currently Lasitha works for PWGSC as an FI-02, after completing her Bachelor of Commerce with a concentration in Finance and Human Resources at Carleton University in Ottawa.
Something to offer
While most of her friends went on to careers in the private sector, Lasitha heard the same comments about how they didn't want to work for government because they didn't want to be bored. However Lasitha is quick to dismiss this claim, "I am never bored, it is a non-stop environment, everyone is so supportive, and they offer great training and professional development.
" The benefits she now enjoys rival those of her friends in the private sector.
Through her experience as a finance systems analyst, she has gained skills in financial processes and accounting transactions. Lasitha is a strong leader who believes in teamwork as a path to success. "There are so many opportunities for advancement! I think that the job security, the work-life balance, and the support, offers real advantages over any other jobs that are out there right now.
"
Making her mark
Lasitha admits that the best part of working at PWGSC is that she is applying what she learned in University towards her career. "I love that I am working in my field and have the satisfaction that after so many years of studying, I am finally applying my skills.
" From providing system solutions to other government departments, to analyzing system changes based on client needs, Lasitha is always working with her team to find solutions to problems and make her mark.
Lasitha enjoys the balance of both work and play through her employment at PWGSC. As she puts it, "I love my job, and I love the people I work with. I am so fortunate to have such a great job, and such a great place to work.
"
My Career. My Life.
I found my niche @ PWGSC
Finding the suit that fits
On his first day at Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC), Nic was the only IT guy wearing a suit and carrying a briefcase. Nobody but Nic needed to know that the briefcase was empty, except for an apple.
As a Computer Science graduate of St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Nic had heard a few horror stories about government. Rumour had it that the software was older than most senior bureaucrats. So when he started, he was surprised and excited to work with cutting-edge software, much to the envy of his private sector counterparts.
A no-brainer
Upon graduation, Nic had several offers from well-known Canadian companies. But when he considered starting salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for training, the decision was a no-brainer. Nic upgraded his French skills and career prospects with seven months of full time language training. He works a compressed work week, giving him every second Friday off. And when he was married last summer, he took a week off without touching his vacation allotment, thanks to a one-time provision available to all public servants.
Whistle while you work
When he was interviewed fresh out of university, Nic asked the man on the other side of the table how he liked his job. The answer was short but sincere. "Some days are harder than others,
" he said. "But for the last 20 years, I wake up and whistle every morning on my way to work.
" So Nic knew he couldn't go wrong by starting his career with PWGSC.
Finding solutions
Nic is an IT problem-solver in an electrical engineering division, helping clients across government with everything from telephones to network management. He uses new technologies to increase productivity and efficiency, while saving taxpayers' money. Tasks such as writing technical specifications for the new products and dealing with the vendors are both challenging and interesting. But the support of great managers and colleagues makes a huge difference.
An innovator and leader
Nic and a colleague founded a national network of PWGSC employees who are young and young at heart. This gave him the opportunity to share ideas with some very senior managers, including the Deputy Minister, at an early stage of his career. Network activities included brown-bag professional development sessions and focus groups to provide feedback on departmental initiatives.
A fine balance
Even though Nic has moved up the corporate ladder in his six years with PWGSC, he still finds time to play "ultimate frisbee", basketball and, generally, strikes a nice balance between work and life outside the office. And he underlines the value of an IT job with stability. There's no place he would rather be.
Nic still carries an apple - in his backpack, slung over his shoulder.
My Career. My Life.
I found my niche @ PWGSC
Can't hold her back
Nicole doesn't have time to stop. Between traveling, working, and preparing to be a mother for the first time, she is a very busy woman. Her career has also been a whirlwind thus far - one that has taken her all the way from Scotland. She now works for PWGSC in Ottawa and hasn't looked back.
The experience she needed to succeed
Nicole grew up in Glasgow, Scotland, where she studied towards her undergraduate degree at the University of Strathclyde, and later pursued her Masters in Sciences in Translating and Conference Interpreting at Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh. As part of her master's programme, Nicole was able to participate in an exchange and attend the University of Ottawa, where students were given the opportunity to undertake a month-long placement with the Translation Bureau. "I was excited to be working for the Translation Bureau. Everyday is different and I like that there is a lack of routine,
" says Nicole. She continued to work in government after graduation as a term employee, later applying for and winning a competition for a full time position.
No ordinary day in the office
Nicole provides interpretation services for a variety of different events and conferences, such as interpreting official parliamentary proceedings and regular service for the House of Commons. This allows her to take part in very interesting, one-of-a-kind opportunities. "In the field of interpretation, I feel privileged to be a part of some really great events.
" One such notable event includes the Afghan President's first visit to Canada after 9/11 where Nicole was one of the interpreters providing services for the proceedings.
A career in translation not only offers interesting professional opportunities, but great benefits as well. Translation personnel are provided with training every year, which Nicole has taken advantage of with the goal of adding Spanish to her language combination in the future.
Work life balance is also important to Nicole and working for the Translation Bureau allows her to achieve this. "When the House is in session we are extremely busy and can be asked to work evenings, weekends and, very occasionally, through the night! However, to compensate, we are given eight weeks' parliamentary leave in addition to the three weeks' vacation that all federal employees have,
" says Nicole. This gives her plenty of opportunities to travel and return to Scotland. While working in the evenings can be demanding, Nicole is quick to add that the atmosphere on Parliament Hill at night is always a little bit special!
A place to call home
Nicole encourages young people who are looking for a career to consider translation and interpretation and all the opportunities that come along with that position. "I am so lucky, my job is so varied and covers a wide range of subjects,
" explains Nicole, "In what other career can you travel across Canada and sometimes overseas, get to take time off in the summer, and get to work with such amazing people?
" With a draw like that it's no wonder that Nicole has chosen to work for the Government of Canada.
My Career. My Life.
I found my niche @ PWGSC
A passion for language
For Olivier, being a translator runs in the family. Both his parents are translators. As to why he chose the same career path, Olivier explains, "translators are professionals, they are energetic and engaged, and they all have one thing in common - a passion for language.
"
A career that grows with you
Olivier started working for the Federal Government at 18, while a student at the University of Ottawa School of Translation and Interpretation. Now 26 years old, Olivier is entering his eighth year in government. In that time, he has steadily climbed the ranks and has gained experience as an acting manager at the Translation Bureau's CIDA and Foreign Affairs and International Trade Service Points. With opportunities for advancement, a competitive salary, and added benefits, Olivier is confident about his choice of a career in the Public Service. "PWGSC's Translation Bureau is the best place for me to achieve my goals.
"
Making a difference
What Olivier most appreciates about PWGSC's Translation Bureau is the variety of assignments. "Because the Translation Bureau's translators are THE recognized experts that the Canadian Government turns to when it comes to language requirements, you know that the work you do is important and appreciated. Every day you see either your translations or those of your colleagues on the Web, in public reports and in internal, national and even international communications.
"
Flexibility
Olivier believes flexibility is an important advantage of a career in translation, "The field of translation is a very flexible career environment. You can work on a wide range of files or you can specialize in a specific area, such as science, human resources, international affairs, or any highly charged area of expertise. This is a career that can also adapt to every lifestyle and there are plenty of work options to accommodate your specific needs and personal preferences. You can choose to work nine to five, or you can work extra hours if you wish. If you want to be involved in long-term projects, all you have to do is ask, but if you would rather work on high profile documents in a fast-paced environment, the possibilities are also endless.
"
Getting your foot in the door
It's all about taking initiative. As Olivier explains, when a manager has to choose between two people with the same qualifications, it's usually the one who is doing the rounds - and knocking on doors - that will get noticed. Olivier suggests e-mailing and meeting managers to let them know you are qualified and interested in working in the Federal Government. "There are so many opportunities; you are bound to find one.
"
As for the world of translation, Olivier is at the top of his game and has no plans to stop anytime soon. In his words, working in government gives you the tools, resources and development opportunities you need to be "the best you can be". Olivier is proud to say that the real training started when he became one of the language professionals at PWGSC's Translation Bureau.
My Career. My Life.
I found my niche @ PWGSC
Human Resources - Human Touch
As a human resources advisor who conducts job interviews, Philippe sees a lot of people sweat. "Seeing how nervous they are during interviews made me realize how nervous I must have looked when I was interviewed,
" he says. "It makes me wonder how I ever survived the interview process.
"
Pays dues
Coming to Ottawa from Sault-Ste-Marie, Ontario, to study Commerce at the University of Ottawa, Philippe was planning a career in marketing. After graduation, he found only contract jobs – as a clerk with the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada and in human resources with the University of Ottawa. Since both were contract jobs, he had no holidays or other benefits. But his career took off when he came across information on a human resources development program with the Government of Canada.
The process of getting hired was quite rigorous "but definitely worth it." After passing three written exams he was among those chosen to move on to the next stage. It included a day-long session which saw him study a mock problem scenario, present solutions to a panel of professionals and then role-play with a client.
His performance earned him the right to attend a job fair, where he was interviewed by several government departments. Philippe was sure of one thing: his top choice was Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC). "I was elated when I got the offer from my top choice,
" he says.
Enjoys payoff
Philippe finds his greatest satisfaction in meeting with clients. When they get stressed out about all the hoops they need to jump through, Philippe meets with them face-to-face to add the human touch. "They come in really frustrated, not knowing what questions to ask or who can help them,
" he says. "It's really great to have them come in later with their problems solved, and know that you were a part of solving them.
"
Getting the respect of more experienced colleagues can be a challenge for young professionals. But at PWGSC it was a pleasant surprise. "It's huge when your age and level of experience doesn't determine your worth.
" He was delighted when two senior executives met with him to get his advice on a file. "It was refreshing, and even pretty exciting. I even called my parents that night to brag.
"
No sweat "Public Works has given me so many opportunities to learn and grow through training and development, I am really in my element here.
"
And the next time Philippe has a job interview … bring it on.
My Career. My Life.
I found my niche @ PWGSC