Nadine Fullarton

About me

I was born/grew up in:  Moncton, New Brunswick

I now live in:  Riverview, New Brunswick

I completed my training/education at: Bachelor of Arts, Double Major International Development Studies and French, Dalhousie University, Algonquin College, Canadian Society of Association Executives

What I do at work

I am the President of the Mechanical Contractors Association of New Brunswick and the Construction Association of New Brunswick – Moncton Northeast.  As president, I am the spokesperson for these industries. I promote these industries to youth so they will be aware of the great careers available. In my role, I work with business leaders who are shaping the communities in which we live. The people that I represent provide us with the quality of life that is envied by so many around the world.

I love raising awareness about our industry because it is often taken for granted. I want people to understand that, it is not just simply erecting a building or paving roads and building bridges. There are many things involved such as the high levels of expertise, problem solving, and innovation that goes into designing and building our communities. There is also a huge commitment to excellence and safety on the part of everyone involved. There are people behind everything we build – trades people, architects, engineers, and project managers. All these people have training and expertise that has made that happen.

When needed, I will help our members by finding answers to questions they may have about projects that are coming up. When projects are in different jurisdictions, I may also help them by identifying issues of which they should be aware.

My career path is

I started out with a BA in International Developmental Studies and French. With this background, I expected to get a job in the public service; maybe working with the federal government or an NGO. So I moved to Ottawa to look for work in this area. I ended up getting a job with a national, non-profit organization that represented engineers. I had not planned to do this but once I started working in this area but I fell in love with the non-profit association world. While it wasn’t International development, I was using a lot of my skills but in a narrower area.

I continued working in the non-profit sector with a number of different organizations. All these were related to the architecture, engineering, and construction industries. During this time, I took courses to improve my knowledge of the non-profit sector and help me become a better leader within this sector. I love the people that I get to work with and don’t see myself leaving this sector anytime soon!

I am motivated by

Being able to meet and work with different people and leaders every day to come up with solutions to workforce challenges, recruiting, business development and advocacy. No day is the same, so I never get bored and I can be as creative as I want. I also like that there is always something new to learn in the association world.

How I affect peoples’ lives

By sharing the opportunities that are available in the construction industry, I feel we are making a difference as many who enter the industry, never leave. It is a great sector to work in with lots of opportunities, good pay and lifelong learning.

Outside of work I

Spending time with my husband and son. I also like being outdoors, hiking and going for walks, as well as doing yoga and reading in my spare time. I also enjoy volunteering with the Boys and Girls Club of Moncton.

My advice to others

Get a post-secondary diploma or degree from a community college or university. You don't need to have it all figured out but as long as you start somewhere, the opportunities will come, as long as you have the education. Go for it!