Indigenous relations

We are excited to introduce Terri-Lynn Woods, our new Director of Indigenous Relations and Inclusion at Siemens Energy Canada. With nearly two decades of experience in the nuclear industry spanning across Human Resources, Radiation Safety, Training, Supply Chain, Project Management, and, notably, Indigenous Engagement, Terri-Lynn is set to make a significant impact on our team and the communities we serve.

"I joined Siemens Energy to focus on sustainable energy solutions and advance reconciliation efforts," Terri-Lynn shared. "My goal is to build strong, meaningful relationships with Indigenous peoples and promote inclusive and equitable opportunities within the sector."

A Commitment to Indigenous Engagement

Terri-Lynn’s career is deeply rooted in her passion for Indigenous relations. Holding a Bachelor of Arts degree with a focus in psychology and human development, along with a Project Management designation, she has led numerous initiatives to increase Indigenous participation in the nuclear supply chain and workforce across Canada.

Before joining Siemens Energy, Terri-Lynn made significant contributions to the nuclear sector. At the Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries (OCNI), she served as the Manager of Indigenous Engagement and Special Projects. In this role, she led the organization's Indigenous relations program, supported member companies with their engagement initiatives, and efforts to boost Indigenous participation in the nuclear supply chain and workforce across Canada.

Bridging Heritage and Professional Path

Terri-Lynn’s journey is a blend of personal and professional growth. Of mixed ancestry, with Scottish roots on her mother’s side and European and Anishinaabe heritage on her father’s side, she has always felt a deep connection to her Indigenous background. "My Indigenous ancestors lost their status due to the Indian Act, and as a result, my family lost their language, culture, and traditions," she explained. "I grew up feeling displaced but always felt deeply connected to my Indigenous heritage."

About 25 years ago, Terri-Lynn began a journey to reconnect with her roots, learning about the history and enduring impacts on Indigenous peoples. This journey has greatly influenced her professional path, driving her to create change and a better, more equitable future for Indigenous peoples.

Last December, Arne Wohlschlegel, Managing Director and Terri-Lynn Woods, Director of Indigenous Relations and Inclusivity, both of Siemens Energy Canada, participated in Wasaya Airways’ annual Santa Run to donate more than 90 laptops to elementary schools in three fly-in fly-out Indigenous communities.

Woods says, “This was my first time participating in the Santa Run, as well as my first visit to remote communities, and the experience was impactful. It was heartwarming to see how the Santa Run brought joy and connection during the holiday season, and it served as a powerful reminder of the difference we can make when we come together.”

Wasaya Airways is an Indigenous-owned airline that has been donating holiday turkeys and treats to Northern Ontario First Nation communities since 1977 through their Santa Run initiative. This year, the Bearskin Lake First Nation, Muskrat Dam First Nation, and Fort Severn First Nation communities were visited and received more than 90 refurbished laptops from Siemens Energy Canada. These laptops will bring much-needed technology to these communities and aim at closing the digital divide.

Ardelle Kamenawatamin, Bearskin Lake’s Band Councilor says she was surprised by the donation. She mentioned how the school staff can greatly benefit from the devices, as the staff did not have any laptops and all shared one computer in the office. The refurbished laptops will also help prepare elementary students for high school. As students advance in their education, computer literacy is crucial for success, especially since school curriculums are adapting to the digital world and finding new ways to enhance teaching and learning methods.

Donating refurbished laptops is not only a great way to spread holiday cheer, but it also creates a sustainable approach on how corporations repurpose digital devices. According to a study by the University of Waterloo, e-waste has tripled in Canada. The tech industry plays a part in this but has the power to change its environmental impact.

Many companies navigate through a competitive market and require the latest cutting-edge technology. In doing so, the shelf life of a laptop is four years. Instead of allowing older models of laptops to end up in landfills, Siemens Energy Canada is determined to make a positive change for Indigenous communities and the environment by giving them another life.

Learning through workshops 

In addition, a laptop refurbishment workshop led by Corporations for Community Connections (CFCC) was introduced to Indigenous youth at Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School (DFCHS), an Indigenous high school in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The workshop was in collaboration with Siemens Energy Canada and HIP (Honoring Indigenous Peoples). 

“During the workshop, we gained insights into the enriching cultural programs offered at DFCHS and the challenges students face while adapting to life away from their families,” Wohlschlegel explains. The students attending DFCHS come from fly-in, fly-out remote communities and move to Thunder Bay for schooling. This transition can be difficult for youth who are leaving their close knit communities and experiencing city life for the first time, while living away from home.