EJQ7 - Winter 2026 - Journal - Page 39
Having been with Schneider Electric for almost a decade now and in the
industry for over two decades, how has the conversation evolved? What
do you think has been the most remarkable change over the years when
it comes to environmental innovation?
The biggest shift we’re seeing in the industry is that sustainability has
moved from being a compliance checkbox to becoming a core part of
corporate strategy. It’s no longer just about meeting standards; it’s now
embedded in company culture and tied directly to business performance.
In fact, sustainability is proving to deliver real 昀椀nancial bene昀椀ts, which
means it’s not optional anymore, it’s essential.
For companies looking ahead, the focus is on enabling e昀케ciency and
evolving capabilities. That’s where technology plays a critical role—
helping organizations reduce waste, optimize operations, and build
resilience for the future.
Finally, how exactly is the company mentoring and encouraging the
next gen involved in electri昀椀cation and sustainable digital innovation?
I love this question because I love the next generation. Look, I’m a female
engineer, and I can tell you that when I graduated, only 20 per cent of the
engineering graduates were women, and unfortunately, these are still the
same numbers that we are seeing today in Canada.
It’s important to get into the school systems and help develop the engineers
of the future. Schneider Electric is working with partners to provide
institutions with co-op opportunities. We are the biggest co-op partner at
the University of Victoria. We also provide internships for other universities,
including McGill University and the University of Toronto.
I’m passionate about working with young, bright minds and I’m currently
doing a guest lecture series across the country. I’ve been speaking at various
engineering schools and business schools, and I’m just getting started. I want
to ensure that young female students see me in action and are inspired to
reach for the stars. If you can see it, you can be it.
James Sbrolla is a veteran of the 昀椀nancial and environmental
industries. Connie Vitello is editor of Environment Journal.
To pitch an idea for an upcoming Market Watch column, or to
suggest a stock, please contact connie@sitemediagroup.com.
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