expresso: mentorship

“When I became a project manager, I had a lot of new information to quickly integrate and master. This included learning how to prepare proposals, solve problems, and deal with technical, administrative and interpersonal issues on a daily basis. At one point, Claude shared a quote that made me think and reassured me: C e qui se conçoit bien s’énonce clairement, et les mots pour le dire arrivent aisément (whatever is clearly thought out is clearly said). It was like he

was telling me that it’s okay to take time to get a thorough understanding of a subject and to put my thoughts in order, even in a fast-moving environment,” says Manuelle. Following his path For Pietro, Claude has had a major impact on his career path and trajectory. “That’s what Pietro says. I was surprised to hear it at first, but after thinking about it, I suppose that’s the case,” Claude admits, his eyes filled with pride and emotion. According to Pietro, he only recently realized the full impact that Claude has had on his career and the person he has become. “When I was offered the position of vice president, strategic development, I wanted to talk about it with someone who knew me well enough to give me advice on the benefits and challenges that would come with this role. I think at that moment, he also realized how much he could influence the way I think and my trajectory,” he says. Manuelle sees Claude’s influence like a gust of wind blowing in her sail, sometimes making her slightly change the course she’s sailing, but always pointing her towards the destination she set out for. “Claude has made an impact on me, but I continue on my own path in light of his advice and the ideas he sparks in me,” she concludes.

Pietro Guerra (left), Claude Hudon (center), and Manuelle Croft (right)

CLAUDE HAS OFTEN TOLD ME IT’S IMPORTANT TO SURROUND MYSELF WITH GOOD PEOPLE, WHICH IS WHAT I DID BY ASKING HIM TO COME WORK ON MY TEAM.” Pietro Guerra, P.Eng.

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