EFC Honours International Women’s Day on March 8
Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge gender equality. Get ready for #IWD2026.
The 2026 IWD theme, Give to Gain, underscores the strength of mutual support and shared progress. By giving generously—whether through mentorship, advocacy, or opportunity—we help unlock greater possibilities for women. Giving is not subtraction; it is purposeful multiplication. When women succeed, everyone benefits.
EFC acknowledges International Women’s Day on March 8 and the contributions of women across our industry. To reflect this commitment, we invited members to share how their organizations champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. We’re proud to feature the stories here of several outstanding women leaders.
Industry Stories, Initiatives, and Events
Submitted by Roberta Hood, Graybar Canada
Sharon Masuda’s involvement with Period Promise has been a powerful example of how individual commitment can spark meaningful, organization‑wide change. Through her advocacy and personal dedication to addressing period poverty, Sharon helped bring visibility to an issue that too often remains overlooked, even though it affects dignity, equity, and access for so many people across our communities. Her willingness to speak up, engage colleagues, and lead with both empathy and action resonated deeply within Graybar Canada. Her partnership with Ruby Hill of the United Way and her commitment to Graybar Canada WINGS (Women Influencing Graybar Success) has influenced change. As a result, Graybar Canada is proud to launch the Period Promise initiative nationally this March, aligning the theme of International Women’s Day—Gain to Give.
Sharon’s example reminds us that meaningful progress often starts with one person choosing to act, and that when those values are embraced collectively, they can scale into initiatives that reflect who we are as an organization. This national launch is not only a reflection of our commitment to community and inclusion, but also a testament to the influence of values‑driven leadership in action.
Thank you, Sharon, from the whole Graybar team!
Submitted by Clémence Marseille, Agence Ricard
At Agence Ricard, being a women-driven business is not just part of our story, it’s part of our responsibility. In such industry, we believe it’s essential to actively create space for women to lead, contribute, and influence decision-making.
We encourage the women on our team to pursue leadership development, participate in Electro-Federation Canada initiatives, and sit on industry committees so their voices are represented at every level. Advancing equity isn’t a one-day initiative for us, it’s a long-term commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive electrical industry!
Submitted by Karen Witzel, Hammond Power Solutions
At HPS, equity, diversity, and inclusion are part of how we show up for our people every day. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported, and able to thrive. We do this through inclusive hiring and promotion practices, ongoing education, and global tracking of our DEI progress. We also take time to celebrate the cultures and experiences that make our teams stronger through moments like International Women’s Day, Diwali, Pride, and Truth and Reconciliation Day.
In 2025, our efforts led to meaningful progress. Overall female representation and the number of women in leadership roles continued to grow year-over-year, and nearly 90 percent of employees say people are treated fairly regardless of gender, race, or sexual orientation. DEI principals are woven into our global training programs, policies, and hiring practices to ensure inclusivity is reflected across our business.
Looking ahead, we will continue expanding our DEI training to further support a safe, inclusive, and welcoming workplace for all.
Submitted by Krystyna Leblanc, Eddy Group Limited
At Eddy Group Limited, International Women’s Day is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the women who help shape our business, strengthen our culture, and move our industry forward.
Since 1895, our commitment to service has shaped our company, and we recognize that our people are the key to our success. Each year, we take time to highlight women across our branches and departments — from sales and operations to leadership and support roles — inviting them to share their journey at Eddy Group, their favourite memories, and the experiences that have shaped their careers. These stories highlight the depth of talent within our organization while reinforcing the significant role women play across the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC industries.
Through our Build. Lead. Inspire. International Women’s Day initiative, we also express our appreciation in a tangible way. Over the years, we have gifted custom bookmarks, branded tote bags, personalized journals, and water bottles — thoughtful tokens of thanks that recognize the dedication and impact of the women on our team.
While these gestures are simple, the message behind them is meaningful: women at Eddy Group are valued, supported, and empowered to grow. International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the progress made and the work that continues. At Eddy Group, investing in women — and fostering an inclusive, supportive environment — remains part of how we build on service every day.
Submitted by Elisabetta Garofalo, Wesco Canada
Wesco is recognizing International Women’s Day (IWD) this year by celebrating women’s contributions, strengthening connection across teams, and promoting awareness through meaningful daily moments.
Recognizing Women Across Our Locations
- In the days leading up to IWD, each Daily Management meeting will open with a short IWD‑related highlight. This may include a quick fact, a spotlight on women’s achievements, or a thought‑provoking statistic to spark awareness and conversation.
- Leaders have been encouraged to take a moment to personally recognize women on their teams, whether through a handwritten note, our employee recognition platform, or a simple message of appreciation.
Photos and Sharing
Teams will be taking individual and group photos using the #GiveToGain poses, and sharing them on social media with the hashtags: #IWD2026 #GiveToGain
Local Activities and Events
- A guest speaker
- A coffee chat
- Networking session
- A small celebration or informal gathering
- An office‑based themed activity (e.g., a short presentation, a quick game, or anything tied to this year’s IWD message)
- Leaders may also share brief remarks about IWD and encourage employees to wear purple and white to show support.
WIN BRG Virtual Events – Week of March 3
To complement local activities, our WIN BRG will host:
- A BRG panel discussion
- A supplier panels
- A guest speaker session
Submitted by Kathryn McGuire, Liteline
We’ll be sharing the below graphics on Liteline’s LinkedIn and Instagram to highlight the amazing women on our team.
Submitted by April Gibson, Habitat for Humanity
Submitted by Electro-Federation Canada
Happy International Women’s Day 2026 from the EFC team!
Upcoming EFC Women’s Network Events
International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.
IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. IWD is not country, group or organization specific.
For more information on IWD, visit: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/
#IWD2026 #GiveToGain