MOOSE JAW - 15 Wing Airbase’s first female chief warrant officer (CWO) says it’s “extremely important” to have women in leadership roles in the military since they can assess situations from a different perspective.
CWO Micheline Bertrand took over the role from retiring CWO Erik Keur during a change of appointment ceremony in mid-July. Bertrand is the third person — and first woman — to hold this role, which the base created six years ago.
“The number of women in the senior roles has almost doubled since 2015, which is fantastic because women bring different viewpoints and experiences (that) will enrich decision-making and problem-solving processes,” she told the Moose Jaw Express.
Women in leadership roles are role models not only for younger servicewomen but also for the public and demonstrate that leadership positions are attainable by everyone and that citizens should always aim high, Bertrand continued.
It also shows there is equality and fairness in the military, which are two values that many Canadians believe are important, she added.
Bertrand noted that women are naturally more empathetic than men and can foster a deeper understanding and connection among all members. Moreover, their skills enhance co-operation and create a more understanding and welcoming environment.
“So I think it’s great to have a lot more women in there to embrace the emotional intelligence and empathy that can also be aligned with leadership,” she said.
Bertrand sees herself as a role model for more than just servicewomen since she wants to use her outreach abilities to positively affect everyone around her regardless of their sex or rank. However, she understands that it is important for women to have same-sex role models since she rarely saw such leaders while moving up the ranks.
She didn’t realize how much she missed having female leaders until she heard other servicewomen discuss the topic. She noted that “it’s huge” to have same-sex leaders who can offer inspiration and motivation to others. Moreover, success can breed success down the line.
“Serving as a role model helps break down barriers and challenges the stereotypes, which is, I think, a big thing that all females feel,” Bertrand said. “And our success helps to dispel myths about gender limitations and it leads to far more inclusive opportunities.”
Most women don’t want to be the first one to do something new or to break a barrier, and instead, want to be one among many, she continued. However, having female role models can boost women’s confidence and show that they can lead effectively regardless of the obstacles.
“… I don’t always see myself as a role model, but I have had people come up to me and tell me that I’ve made a difference in their day-to-day life and their work life,” Bertrand remarked. “And I think that that is all I try to do, is just … help people bring the best version of themselves to work.
“I don’t target a gender or rank, but I’m happy when I can definitely be a role model for females.”
Bertrand noted that while she may be 15 Wing’s first female CWO, that accolade would have greater significance if this position had existed for 30 years. However, there have only been two other people — both men — who have held the role over the past six years, so her appointment is “just the way it happened.”
“Most women in the military don’t want to be selected for something because they are female,” she added. “They want to be selected for positions because of their efforts, because of their accomplishments and because of the potential they carry to do great in that position.”
