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Hear from students and graduates working at the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada

Hear what our students and graduates have to say about their experience at the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC).

Julia Pilon

My name is Julia Pilon. I am an FSWEP student. I just graduated with a bachelors in sociology and creative writing from the University of Ottawa.

How would you describe the work environment and culture at IAAC?
I bring my queer and disabled identities to work with me every day, they aren't things that I store in a backpack until I'm off work. And having people in my circle who understand my perspective without me having to explain it makes me feel really supported.

Was there anything you were pleasantly surprised about when you started?
Nearly everyone that I have met feels that their work is purposeful, and it seems to motivate them to want to contribute generously. Working with people who not only enjoy what they do but believe in it, makes me want to put in my best effort into collaboration.

(Disclaimer: This transcript is available in both official languages)

Sonny Amos

Hello, my name is Sonny Amos-Lefebvre. I am a financial analyst for the Agency's internal budgets, and I studied finance at the University of Ottawa.

[What was your favorite part about being a student at IAAC?]
As soon as I arrived, I had a mentor who was with me every step of the way. This person really helped me answer the thousands of questions I had. Also, for me it was the flexibility of the schedule. It was important for me to reconcile school and work.

[Did you have any preconceived ideas about government work when you started at IAAC?]
When you apply at the federal government, well, you spend time mopping and sweeping, but that's really not it because clearly, the goal of the program is to gain experience in your field.

[What advice would you give to the future students?]
Get involved in everything and say yes to everything! By getting more involved in your work, well maybe that means participating in different committees and it allows us to take advantage of networking within the Agency. But also, by saying yes to everything, we get to diversify our experience. What I appreciate about saying that was that it allowed me to diversify and learn about the different teams and really understand how the organization works.

[Government of Canada]

Kendra Jordan

Hi, I'm Kendra Jordan. I'm a human resources advisor, I went to the Telfer school of management, and I graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce.

[How did IAAC support your transition from student to professional?]
Since my arrival, I have been so happy to say that I have seen some promotions and some career changes. I have also been fortunate enough to join some social committees, take advantage of mentorships and informal coaching opportunities. They have also supported me through many professional goals of mine, one being earning my certified human resources professional certificate.

[What have you gained and how has it contributed to your success?]
It also gave me a nice sense of networking. You know, as a student, we get to have all these opportunities to meet a lot of colleagues, and they want to mentor you. You get a lot of opportunities to get some informal coaching from many different people.

[What advice would you give future students?]
My three pieces of advice are to stay open-minded and don't forget to put yourself out there. Discover what you love, it will definitely motivate you in your work, and finally start creating healthy habits early when it comes to your work-life balance.

Jean-Ridel Basigura

My name is Jean-Ridel Basigura. I am presently an advisor in communications. I went to the University of Ottawa in communications, more precisely in organizational communications.

[What do you appreciate the most about IAAC's culture?]
The family spirit that we find and the fact of being a small agency allows you to meet a lot of people and build connections.

[Did you have any preconceived ideas about government work when you first started that proved unfounded?]
I was surprised to meet intelligent people, passionate about their work and their duty to serve Canadians.

[How did IAAC contribute to your career progression?]
The fact that we're a small agency, you meet a lot of people, you get to know them. You develop a relation that can go a long way. People are always open and generous with their information. They want to see you flourish. I've received a lot of advice that has helped me throughout my career, even to this day.

Salah
Junior Environmental Assessment Officer (Student)
Prairie and Northern Regional Office, Operation Sector

“Given that every project requires a multidisciplinary approach, we are all encouraged to work together to achieve common goals.”

  • Read Salah's testimonial

    What I find most exciting about my role at IAAC is the opportunity to work on a wide range of different tasks every day. This keeps my day interesting and enjoyable, as I am constantly challenged to learn new things and apply my knowledge in different ways!

    Furthermore, my team is incredibly supportive. My colleagues are always willing to lend a helping hand and provide guidance whenever I need it. This has created a positive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected. I feel fortunate to be a part of such a talented and dedicated team!

    What stands out to me most about the culture at IAAC is its focus on collaboration and inclusivity. Given that every project requires a multidisciplinary approach, we are all encouraged to work together to achieve common goals. This collaborative and inclusive culture has fostered an environment of innovation and creativity, where individuals from different backgrounds and areas of expertise are encouraged to bring their unique perspectives to the table. This has resulted in more effective and comprehensive impact assessments that better reflect the diverse environmental, economic, social, and health impacts of potential projects.

    It's inspiring to be part of an organization that puts collaboration and inclusivity at the forefront of its work, and I believe this approach is a key factor in IAAC's success in promoting sustainable development.

Salah

Bonian
Junior Policy Analyst (COOP student)
Strategic Policy and Programs Sector

“Since the beginning of my journey with IAAC, everyone I worked with has been very helpful and friendly.”

  • Read Bonian's testimonial

    My favourite part of the job is to receive feedback on my work from colleagues. Because of those comments, I feel my work can help other people and make a difference. I work with some wonderful people on the engagement policy team. We work very well together. We are happy to help and support each other with different projects. This makes me feel I belong to the team.

    What stands out to me most about the culture at IAAC its friendly and welcoming environment. Since the beginning of my journey with IAAC, everyone I worked with has been very helpful and friendly. This assisted me greatly with my work and tasks.

Bonian

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