Marie Drinkwater

Marie is the Eastern Canada regional manager of Control, Automation, and Electrical based in our Montréal Canada office.

Since joining Hatch over 25 years ago, she has made maintaining a safe and healthy workplace a top priority by working to create a work environment where everyone feels safe to express themselves. Her dedication to pushing the boundaries and encouraging those around her is what makes her a true inspiration to her teammates.

Marie was one of the recipients of the 2024 Positive Change Awards, a program to recognize employees who contribute to building Hatch’s inclusive organization, who exemplify the values of our Manifesto, and who actively work towards strengthening our diverse teams.

Why do you believe in diversity and inclusion?

Diversity is what allows for a difference in thoughts and ideas, driving innovation in everything we do. We should be curious and listen to the stories of others to give us a better understanding of their own reality. We should work towards creating an environment where everyone feels safe to express their thoughts by reducing our personal biases.

What do you think we need to do as individuals to improve inclusivity?

We should treat others the way we would treat ourselves. It is important to take the time to get to know ourselves, appreciating our own strengths and weaknesses. This will allow us to have a positive inner dialogue, which is essential to being kind and accepting others.

What does positive change mean to you?

Positive change is about empowering ourselves to bring about improvements in all areas of our lives. It is also about taking action when we see an opportunity to make a difference, without waiting for others to do so first.

What do you think are the toughest challenges facing our clients?

I think the toughest challenge facing our clients are the different views on diversity and inclusion. Although our clients work with stakeholders from around the world, we have a responsibility to act like a leader and remain true to our values.

What are you most proud of?

In my role, I have had the opportunity to engage with great people who want to make a difference. I am proud of the diverse team that I have contributed to and watched grow over the years.

What do you like most about working at Hatch? How do you think the Hatch culture is different from other cultures?

In my 25 years at Hatch, I have always felt that maintaining a safe and healthy workplace should be a priority and that there is no tolerance for disrespect or disparage. I have always found it reassuring to know that if a problematic situation occurred, I could raise it knowing it will not be taken lightly.