ENERGY.ARCHIVE.CA
VOICES FROM CANADA'S ENERGY SECTOR
Listen to interviews with engineers, technicians, researchers, community leaders, and workers who shaped Canada's energy systems over decades of innovation and change.
"When we started the James Bay Project in 1971, nobody believed we could build a hydroelectric complex of that scale in such remote conditions. The logistics alone were staggering - we had to construct roads through pristine wilderness, establish worker camps for thousands, and transport massive turbines and equipment hundreds of kilometers. But the engineering challenges taught us so much about cold climate construction, remote operations, and large-scale project management. What we learned at James Bay influenced hydroelectric development worldwide..."
"Working on CANDU safety systems for 30 years taught me that nuclear safety isn't just about technology - it's about culture, training, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Every procedure, every check, every simulation serves a purpose. The multiple independent safety systems, the continuous monitoring, the rigorous testing protocols - these layers of protection give me confidence in nuclear technology's role in clean energy future. When young engineers ask about nuclear safety, I tell them: respect the technology, follow procedures religiously, never stop learning, and always question assumptions..."
"For decades, energy projects happened to us, not with us. Our lands were used, our waters dammed, our environment altered, but we rarely benefited or had meaningful say. That's changing now. Our community's solar project generates clean electricity, creates jobs for band members, and produces revenue supporting programs and services. More importantly, it demonstrates our capacity to lead energy development respecting traditional values while embracing modern technology. Energy sovereignty means making our own choices about how we power our future..."
"I started in wind energy when turbines were small - 1 MW capacity, maybe 50-meter towers. Now I work on giants - 3-5 MW machines with 150-meter rotors reaching 100+ meters high. The technology evolution is incredible. Modern turbines generate electricity in light winds, shut down safely in storms, and operate reliably in Canadian winters at -30°C. Climbing towers in January requires mental and physical toughness, but knowing we're generating clean electricity for thousands of homes makes every climb worthwhile. This industry has a bright future, and I'm proud to be part of it..."
Have you worked in Canada's energy sector? We'd love to record your experiences and insights for our oral history archive.