EHRC Awards Celebrate Human Resource Professionals’ Achievements in Electricity Sector

CEW EHRC logo 400

May 2, 2022

EHRC recently announced the recipients of their Awards of Excellence 2021 at an event, bringing together sector stakeholders from across Canada. The annual awards celebrate outstanding accomplishments by individuals and teams across the sector from employers of all sizes and training institutions. The event was livestreamed for viewers unable to travel.

“2021 still felt the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and continued to be a challenging year. It is inspiring to see so many professionals in the electricity sector rising to that challenge,” said Michelle Branigan, CEO of EHRC. “This speaks volumes to the resilience and resourcefulness of the many employees keeping the electricity on in Canada. As always, we are proud to be able to recognize the leadership and innovation of our colleagues coast to coast and share their inspiring accomplishments with others.”

A highlight of the annual awards is the naming of the Leader of the Year, a title honouring an individual who has performed exceptionally and who inspires professionals across the country. This year’s winner is Thierry Miras, Global Vice-President of Human Resources, Schneider Electric’s Global Sustainability Business Division. When presenting the Leader of the Year Award, Branigan said “Thierry is known for his strategic and innovative mindset in aligning both People and Business Strategies to make a real and meaningful difference to the business and fostering an unparalleled employee experience.”

In addition to the standard award categories, this year EHRC again included a Pandemic Response Award to acknowledge the extra challenges that every member of the electricity sector workforce has been facing as a result of COVID-19.

This year’s winners are:

  • Innovation in HR Practices by an Educational or Training Institution – BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology) Smart Microgrid Applied Research Team (SMART)
  • Innovation in HR Practices by an Employer – Chris Polsinelli, Director of HR Strategy & People Solutions with Hydro One
  • Workplace Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Champion Award – Bruce Power
  • Pandemic Response – Aaron Del Pino, Vice President of Health, Safety & Environment at Ontario Power Generation
  • Emerging Leader of the Year – Visha Gandhi, Ontario Energy Board
  • Leader of the Year Award 2021 – Thierry Miras, Global Vice-President of Human Resources, Schneider Electric’s Global Sustainability Business Division

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • Allan S. Gibbons, Former President of Hubbell Canada, Passes at 78

    Allan S. Gibbons, Former President of Hubbell Canada, Passes at 78

    Peacefully, at Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital, in his 78th year, Allan passed away surrounded by his family. Devoted son of the late Margaret Gibbins (Kilpatrick) and Arthur B. Gibbins. Beloved husband to Barbara (nee Pardiak). Proud father of Allison (Frank Belme), Jennifer, and Leah (Ben Goldlist). Adored grandfather of Adam, Ryan, and Georgia. Predeceased by… Read More…

  • 2025 President’s Club Winner: GB Agencies

    2025 President’s Club Winner: GB Agencies

    GB Agencies is thrilled to share that it was recognized by EATON at the 2026 NEMRA Conference in Orlando. This year’s event was an incredible opportunity to connect with other outstanding representatives and strengthen the partnerships that continue to drive GB Agencies’ success. GB Agencies is especially proud to be celebrated by EATON WIRING DEVICES as a… Read More…


Peers & Profiles