Empowerment & excellence: Ecora Engineering & Resource Group

When Parviz Karmali was deciding whether or not Ecora Engineering & Resource Group would be a good fit for her, there was one factor that stood out.

“I saw that there were women in leadership positions and on the executive team,” Parviz says. “That was a big marker for me in terms of the values of the company.”

As the Chief People Officer for Ecora, Parviz is now highly tuned in to how those values—people, environment, relationships, and community—are interwoven into every part of the company, including their recruitment, hiring, and retention practices.

“We are very intentional as we grow about building an inclusive team and a welcoming space for anyone with the skills and desire to work here,” says Parviz. “And once people are here, our goal is to bring out the best in them—whether that means investing in their learning or prioritizing internal hires or department transfers.”

Included on the Ecora team are Parviz and six other strong women who currently serve in leadership roles.

Fiona Barton, Eva Aylward, Dani Taillon, Catherine Piedt, Joanne Koepke and Marisa Sontag, are all women that Parviz and the rest of the Ecora team could speak highly of all day long.

Fiona and her Outland Landscape Architecture Team recently joined Ecora and have been an impactful addition to the Ecora service offerings.

Eva also recently joined Ecora and brings a wealth of experience to her role as senior leader of the Finance Team.

Dani has been with Ecora since its beginning and leads the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) team to provide a comprehensive range of innovative services and solutions to clients.

Catherine leads the Environmental Sciences Team, working to improve and protect the health and wellness of humans and the environment.

Joanne leads the Civil Team in planning and designing systems and structures to complete the highly sought after projects the Ecora Team takes on.

Marisa leads the quality, cost and service side for Ecora to ensure excellence in client and team member experiences.

“The exemplary leadership of these women is foundational for the growth and maintenance of Ecora’s business and its strong corporate culture,” Parviz beams. “These inspirational women, whose creativity, passion and vision for the Ecora brand know no bounds, continue to energetically lead Ecora into its bright future.”

The fact that Ecora has a group of strong female leaders is not a coincidence. It is the direct result of Ecora’s commitment to creating a safe and healthy workplace for all.

Having female representation at all levels, in fact, is something Parviz has observed to be unique to Ecora in comparison to other large engineering firms. And representation is key to achieving equity.

“You need to have a diverse perspective at your executive table and at every level below that,” Parviz says. “That’s the only way to make sure everyone truly has a voice and is empowered to make change, show leadership, and play a role in shaping the organization.”

Seeing the glow on Parviz’s face when she talks about her job and the people she works with, there’s no doubt that she’s happy with the way Ecora is being shaped by the voices of those past and present.

“I am so privileged to work with this group of women—they’re articulate, they’re bright, and they’re just all around amazing people,” says Parviz.

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This article was originally published in the inaugural edition of I Am Woman, a magazine celebrating female leadership in the Okanagan. Read more stories of exceptional local women.