Michelle J. Ardron
Keene,ON
Summary
Results-driven management professional with proven ability to lead teams to success. Strong focus on team collaboration, operational efficiency, and achieving measurable outcomes. Adept at strategic planning, process improvement, and fostering culture of accountability and excellence. Known for adaptability and consistently meeting changing organizational needs.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Manager, Transportation
VIA Rail
08.2021 - Current
- Developed a strong company culture focused on employee engagement, collaboration, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Improved safety procedures to create safe working conditions for workers.
- Achieved departmental goals by executing strategic plans and performance metrics.
- Boosted employee morale and reduced turnover through implementation of comprehensive rewards and recognition program.
- Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and supported mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
Senior Specialist Operating Practices and Regulatory Compliance
VIA Rail
11.2016 - 08.2021
- Drove change through quality-oriented strategies to help operations accomplish ambitious short- and long-term goals.
- Identified areas in need of critical improvement and implemented strategies to achieve targets.
- Managed complex projects from inception to completion, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction.
- Supported department leadership in implementing new policies, procedures and controls.
- Coordinated with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with industry standards, mitigating risk and safeguarding company's reputation.
- Followed all company policies and procedures to deliver quality work.
- Conducted regular reviews of operations and identified areas for improvement.
- Gathered, organized and input information into digital database.
- Maintained database systems to track and analyze operational data.
Manager Train Operations
VIA Rail
06.2013 - 11.2016
- Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
- Maintained professional, organized, and safe environment for employees and passengers.
- Resolved employee conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
- Developed and maintained relationships with external and internal stakeholders.
- Maximized performance by monitoring daily activities and collaborating with team members.
Railway Safety Inspector/Occupational Health and Safety Officer
Transport Canada - Surface
01.1997 - 06.2013
- Enhanced workplace safety by conducting thorough inspections and identifying potential hazards.
- Established strong relationships with regulatory agencies, facilitating open communication channels for sharing information and resolving concerns promptly.
- Conducted regular audits of company facilities, ensuring adherence to established safety standards at all times.
- Strengthened employee involvement in workplace health and safety initiatives by creating opportunities for workers to contribute ideas and feedback regarding program enhancements.
- Monitored industry trends and emerging technologies, proposing innovative solutions for enhancing workplace safety measures as needed.
- Conducted regular safety inspections and audits to identify potential hazards and prevent accidents and injuries.
- Provided guidance and resources to employees to maintain safety procedures and enhance protection.
- Reviewed and analyzed safety data and statistics to identify trends and areas requiring improvement.
- Inspected worksites, practices, and gear for compliance with established safety standards.
- Responded to any emergencies as instructed and with utmost efficiency.
- Investigated accidents and incidents to determine root causes and develop corrective actions to address underlying issues.
- Monitored workplace activities to determine compliance with safety regulations and standards.
Yardman/Trainman Instructor
CP Rail - Toronto Division
02.1994 - 01.1997
- Interviewed and selected new candidates for the position of trainperson
- Assisted in training new employees on proper yard operations, equipment usage, and safety protocols to ensure a smooth onboarding process.
- Instructed in class and field the proper application of safety policies and Rules to new hires.
Trainman/Conductor/ Locomotive Engineer
CP Rail - Toronto Division
09.1988 - 02.1994
- Operated the locomotive together with a train to the destination as well as minor repairs en route with the locomotives
- Spearheaded Diversity at CP Rail Toronto Division as the first female locomotive engineer
- Responsible for the train and crewmembers to operate safely and efficiently to destination
Education
Hon B. A. - English Literature And Political Science
University of Toronto
Toronto, Ontario06-2021
Travel and Tourism Program -
Sir Sandford Flemming College
Peterborough, Ontario06.1988
Graduated Grade 12, OSSGD -
Lakefield District Secondary School
Lakefield, Ontario06.1987
Skills
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Operations management
- Troubleshooting and problem resolution
- Documentation and reporting
- Team leadership
- Problem-solving
- Work Planning and Prioritization
- Negotiation and conflict resolution
Accomplishments
- Collaborated with team of Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity in the development of an Employee Resource Group for women.
- Achieved effecitive Health and Safety Committee by completing employer Co Chair role with accuracy and efficiency.
References
Available upon request.
Industrymanagementtraining
- Canadian Rail Operating Rules qualified as Locomotive Engineer
- Completed VIA Rail Leadership School
- Attended Niagara Leadership Training
- Successfully completed Fundamentals of Management Course
- Completed Transport Canada Lead Auditor Course
- Completed CP Rail Train Accident Investigation Program
- First Aid and CPR certified
- Completed HRSDC Accident Investigative and Analysis Techniques Course
- Achieved Minister’s Observer Designation
- Excellent Computer Literacy
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Manager, Transportation
VIA Rail
08.2021 - Current
Senior Specialist Operating Practices and Regulatory Compliance
VIA Rail
11.2016 - 08.2021
Manager Train Operations
VIA Rail
06.2013 - 11.2016
Railway Safety Inspector/Occupational Health and Safety Officer
Transport Canada - Surface
01.1997 - 06.2013
Yardman/Trainman Instructor
CP Rail - Toronto Division
02.1994 - 01.1997
Trainman/Conductor/ Locomotive Engineer
CP Rail - Toronto Division
09.1988 - 02.1994
Travel and Tourism Program -
Sir Sandford Flemming College
Graduated Grade 12, OSSGD -
Lakefield District Secondary School
Hon B. A. - English Literature And Political Science
University of Toronto
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