Electrical engineering alumna Lorraine Gray says she always saw a hardhat in her career path.
Today, in her role as Superintendent of Stations Services with Hydro One, she leads a team of over 100 people who service and maintain crucial electricity equipment in more than 40 transmission and 200 distribution stations.
As one of only three women to ever hold this position, Gray is a fierce advocate for women pursuing non-traditional roles.
Her work in successive leadership positions has led to her recognition as a Women’s Executive Network (WXN) Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award Winner.
I strive to create a culture that lifts people up and empowers them to realize their true capability and potential. This recognition is an honour, and it reaffirms the amazing work I’ve been empowered to do at Hydro One.
Through participation in Hydro One’s Women in Trades, Technology and Engineering employee resource group, Gray works to support women working in non-traditional jobs.
“It still surprises me how far we need to go when it comes to true equality,” she says. “I’m very proud of my work to support women and to normalize them in all roles.”
She says she loves the tangible and visible accomplishments of working with the equipment that provide electricity for the province.
During her free time, she calls on a different side of her brain to explore interior design.
“I love the creative side – the colour, texture, harmony, and comfort that one can bring with the design of spaces at home,” Gray says. “It’s a fun thing that I do for my own entertainment.”
She urges students to follow the type of curiosity that indulges both sides of the brain.
“Keep following your internal compass toward what feels like the right next step to you. And if you love it, great. If you don’t, that too is powerful learning.
“Keep going and do what draws you – pull that left and right brain together in your own unique way, and you will be highly successful.”
