Take a break, we’re on Smoko. This week, we sit down with Marg Latham, an influential leader in engineering, project management, and mentorship. With an impressive career spanning decades Marg has not only excelled in technical expertise but has also been a driving force in fostering inclusion and diversity in STEM.

Marg Latham, P.Eng., was the only woman to graduate in civil engineering from Queen’s University in 1974. Since then, she has continued to be a pioneer and trailblazer. After graduation, Marg began managing multi-family residential construction projects, the only woman on these sites. In 1984, she joined UMA Group as a construction superintendent. In 1997, Marg moved to UMA’s head office, first as director of quality systems, then as vice president of knowledge management—UMA’s first female vice president—and later as vice president at AECOM. In these roles, she led ISO 9001 quality management implementation, industry-leading CADD standards and automation, and a Canada-wide health and safety program.

In 2010, she founded Aqua Libra Consulting focusing on professional practice, quality management and project delivery. In 2011, she was instrumental in helping to develop Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Organizational Quality Management Program. Since then, Marg has assisted over 200 organizations in becoming OQM Certified. She is now helping several major organizations assess practice gaps and develop Professional Practice Management Plans to improve professional practice and public safety.

Marg has also been a champion for women in engineering across Canada. She has volunteered with Engineers and Geoscientists BC for many years and served on the Women in Engineering Task Force. She was president of Canadian Construction Women from 2004 to 2006. In 2012, she became a director, and then chair in 2019, of the Canadian Centre for Women in Science, Engineering, Trades and Technology (WinSETT. Marg Latham is a role model, mentor, and leader whose commitment to project management, professional practice, and diversity and inclusion has made a lasting impact on the professions in BC.

This episode goes beyond Marg's professional accomplishments, offering listeners a glimpse into her motivations, values, and vision for the future of engineering. Whether you're an aspiring engineer, a seasoned professional, or someone passionate about diversity and equity in STEM, Marg's wisdom will leave you with valuable lessons and actionable takeaways.

Marg Latham:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marglatham/

WinSETT:

https://winsett.ca/

The Smoko Podcast is sponsored by Peggy Workwear: workwear designed by women, for women. From the shop floor to the boardroom, Peggy Workwear creates workwear which fits and functions for your everyday. Whatever that may be! After all, we've been in your boots.

www.peggyworkwear.ca