Our Stories
International Women’s Day is on March 8 and is a day dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in every aspect, everywhere, while also striving for gender equality. This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is Accelerate Action which highlights the importance for everyone to take action to achieve gender equality.
At Irving Shipbuilding, we proudly support accelerating action as we work towards modernizing and diversifying the face of shipbuilding. Through partnerships with Women Unlimited, Techsploration, and YWCA’s Shift Change – we hope to encourage more women to explore careers in the shipbuilding industry.
We interviewed women across our business to talk about their career journeys and what advice they would give other women looking to enter the shipbuilding industry.
Angelica Dunn, Production Supervisor – Completions at Irving Shipbuilding
Angelica started her career with Irving Shipbuilding in 2018. She earned her Red Seal certification for metal fabrication in 2021. While not initially interested in the trades, it was a career exploration initiative through Women Unlimited that ignited her passion for metal fabrication. Angelica has held different roles within the company and is now part of the Production staff at Halifax Shipyard.
What has your career journey looked like?
After graduating high school in 2013, I initially pursued office administration at NSCC, following my mother’s career path. While I completed the diploma and a work term, I realized the field wasn’t the right fit for me. This led me to explore other opportunities through the Women Unlimited program, a 14-week career exploration initiative that introduced me to various trades. To my surprise, I discovered a passion for metal fabrication – a field I hadn’t initially considered – and went on to complete a two-year diploma. I secured a work term at ISI, which led to an apprenticeship and, eventually, my Red Seal certification in 2021. I’ve since grown within the company, starting as a metal fabricator and recently being promoted to Completions Supervisor at the end of 2023. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the support I’ve received along the way.
What advice would you give to women entering the shipbuilding industry?
If you’re a woman considering a career in the shipbuilding industry, don’t let the current gender imbalance discourage you. The trades are a rewarding and exciting field, and there are opportunities here for everyone, regardless of gender. When I first started, there were no female supervisors to look up to, but now there are so many talented women in leadership roles who are making a real impact. It’s been incredible to see this progress, and it means a lot to me to be a part of a company that values and supports women in the trades. If you’re curious about this industry, I’d encourage you to give it a try – it’s been such a fulfilling path for me, and I think you might love it too!
Chevone Logan, Design Director, Engineering at Irving Shipbuilding
Chevone has been with Irving Shipbuilding for 15 years. Throughout her tenure with ISI, she has held various roles across Ship Repair, Mid Shore Patrol Vessel, AOPS and RCD working in departments including Programs, Planning and, currently in Engineering as Design Director.
What has your career journey looked like?
I started my career at Irving Shipbuilding in 2010 as a Production Coordinator, working in Ship Repair. At the time, Shipbuilding wasn’t a path I initially envisioned for myself but that all changed in October 2011 when we were awarded the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS). From then on, I embraced opportunities that challenged me, in most cases pushing me well outside my comfort zone. I believe that real growth happens when you push beyond what feels safe or familiar and Irving Shipbuilding being awarded the NSS contract presented unlimited opportunities. Several role changes throughout my career were lateral movements which help round my breadth of experience in the shipbuilding industry. Advancement isn’t just about the next promotion – it’s about expanding your knowledge, influence and leadership. Having embraced these lateral movements, I created my own path, proving that growth is not confined to a single direction. Throughout these experiences I have gained a deep understanding of our Pre-Production value chain that has set me up for success in my current role as Design Director.
What advice would you give to young women looking to enter the shipbuilding industry?
Women have a place in shipbuilding. When I started my career at ISI at the age of 23, women were traditionally underrepresented in leadership roles which led me to question what long term career paths would be available for me. Now in 2025, to be able to look across the floorplate and see so many remarkable women represented across all levels of leadership, makes me feel incredibly proud of the progress that has been made since my time here.
My advice to young women entering the shipbuilding industry would be:
- Invest in building strong relationships with mentors, both male and female, who can help support growth and provide guidance in navigating challenges.
- Stay resilient. Shipbuilding is hard, so don’t be discouraged when things don’t go to plan – keep pushing forward.
- Be your biggest advocate. You may find yourself as the only women in the room, so remember to own your space and speak with confidence. Your contributions matter so don’t shy away from asserting your knowledge and leadership.
Kate Horne – Director, Accounting and Reporting at Irving Shipbuilding
Kate began her career with J.D. Irving in 2016 where she started as Leader, Financial Accounting and Reporting - Shipbuilding. She transitioned to Irving Shipbuilding in 2022. As the Director, Accounting and Reporting, she oversees the production of financial results, ensuring their accuracy and compliance with financial regulations. In addition, oversight over internal controls and external audit.
What has your career journey looked like?
I started my career working in public practice, an environment that I had the opportunity to work with a variety of industries and organizations of all sizes. Looking for a change I moved to the Province of Nova Scotia and spent two years working in the Department of Energy. In 2016, the opportunity to work with J.D. Irving and Irving Shipbuilding was brought to my attention. The AOPS program had just started and there was a buzz around the organization that I could not resist. The Shipyard environment was different than anywhere I had worked before; I could see that this was an opportunity that was going to be filled with exciting challenges, incredible learning and growth, and it was amazing to be part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy. What I did not realize was just how true this statement would prove to be. I love the technical part of my role, the ability to learn from others in this organization, the fact there is never a dull moment, and the privilege to work with people that can only be defined as first in class.
What advice would give to women entering the shipbuilding industry?
Shipbuilding is exciting, it is challenging, rewarding, and extremely fulfilling. My advice to women is more of a question; why would you not want to be part of this industry? Women are taking on more leadership positions every day; our experience and abilities are being recognized. Our superpower is our desire to support and empower each other, do not be afraid to speak up, do not be afraid to reach out to women in leadership and listen to their stories. Find a mentor to learn from, we are here to encourage the next generation of women in this industry! Be passionate about what you do – if I have learned anything at all it is that loving what you do is key to your success.