Transcript
My name is Farrah Fleurimond, and I'm the Executive Director of Policy and Engagement for the Transportation of Hydrogen Branch.
This branch has become the focal point to be able to carry out and coordinate all activities related to the massive export of hydrogen throughout the world.
My role is to manage the project as a whole, i.e. to map all the activities that are necessary until export begins in 2030.
After that, it is a question of being able to develop the entire strategic policy behind this project, to submit Memoranda to Cabinet, to make submissions to the Treasury Board and to ensure the commitment of the provinces, municipalities and, of course, Indigenous peoples.
I did my bachelor's degree in immunology and microbiology.
Afterwards, I earned a certificate in quality assurance.
When I was in university, I remember being in the lab and thinking: “I don't see myself doing this my entire life, talking to petri dishes and bacteria all my life. I need to talk to people.”
That's when I found the inspector job at Transport Canada and I coupled that with my degree.
I started out as a transportation of dangerous goods inspector in the Quebec Region.
Four years later, I was a transportation of dangerous goods manager. I was also an operational equipment manager for rail safety.
I was involved in project management in civil aviation.
I was also Acting Director General of the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Directorate, so I spent a lot of time in the rail and dangerous goods world.
I can't get Transport Canada out of my heart, out of my veins. I am committed to this department. It's also about being able to develop ties between programs and taking advantage of the relationships I've built over time.
I think that's where the true wealth is today.
It is very important to maintain good relations with the other directorates, directors, employees and, of course, the partners.
I am fortunate to be here today because there are many people who supported me, who cleared the way for me, even if they did not look like me.
And today, I think it is my duty to do the same for others.
Transport Canada is not just about health and safety, innovation, protecting the environment or having an impact on economic development; Transport Canada has an impact on the everyday lives of Canadians.