A passion for talent management and culture at DAWCO
Yasmine : Laurence, thank you for agreeing to this interview to share your journey and your thoughts with us. What drew you to a career in human resources management?
Laurence : It was by chance. I started my bachelor's degree in business administration without really knowing what I wanted to do. During my first course in human resources, I fell in love. This field brings together everything I'm passionate about: interpersonal relations, management, psychology, communication and even law.
Yasmine : It's fascinating to see how a discovery along the way can lead to an exciting career! How did you join DAWCO and how long have you been working here?
Laurence : I joined DAWCO in September 2022, just after finishing my studies. DAWCO offered me my first chance, and I'm very grateful.
Yasmine : So, you've been with DAWCO for just over two and a half years, but your integration has been so natural that you'd think it had been much longer. In fact, your recent success in passing the entrance exam to the Ordre des conseillers en ressources humaines agréés (CRHA) is proof of your commitment. What does this recognition mean to you?
Laurence : Thank you! This is the culmination of a lot of hard work and a real validation of my skills. For DAWCO, it's an asset that enables me to bring even more value to my role, supporting our employees and teams with practices aligned with the highest standards in the profession. This certification also provides me with essential tools and resources to support the company in its strategic challenges, while ensuring that our approaches remain in line with industry best practice. I'm really motivated to continue making a difference for DAWCO and for our big family!
Yasmine : Your commitment and determination are inspiring. How would you define your role as a Human Resources Advisor at DAWCO?
Laurence : As a human resources consultant at DAWCO, my role is to act as a true strategic and human partner. I support our managers and employees in all HR aspects, while fostering a harmonious, inclusive and motivating environment. Ultimately, my role is to help make DAWCO not only a high-performance company, but also a place where everyone feels valued and supported in their professional development.
Yasmine : Your human approach is felt and makes a big difference every day. Can you tell me about a recent corporate culture project that makes you particularly proud?
Laurence : Yes, the Christmas drawing project for our employees' children. This year, 40 children took part and each received a Toys R Us gift card. This is a perfect illustration of the family spirit and benevolence that characterizes DAWCO.
Yasmine : What a great initiative! It shows how much DAWCO values family and how family is part of our corporate culture. What do you think sets DAWCO apart in terms of talent management and organizational culture?
Laurence : DAWCO stands out for its ability to embody its values of respect, benevolence, rigor and self-improvement in all aspects of its talent management. By valuing each employee's potential while offering an inclusive, structured and stimulating environment, DAWCO creates a culture where everyone can flourish and excel.
Yasmine : I agree with you Laurence. Our values are reflected in our daily actions, and that's what makes DAWCO so strong. What do you see as the main challenges in talent management in the construction industry, and how do you address them in the Human Resources department?
Laurence : Right now, the biggest challenge facing the construction industry is the shortage of labor, especially for tradespeople on job sites. At DAWCO, we strive to meet this challenge by creating the best possible conditions for our employees.
We are actively working on two fronts: attracting and retaining talent. On the one hand, we implement initiatives to attract new talent, but we firmly believe that the key lies in retention. To this end, we take care of our employees by offering them a safe, respectful and motivating working environment, while ensuring their well-being. Occupational health and safety is a top priority, because it's essential that our employees feel safe and valued in their work.
In short, at DAWCO, we emphasize practices that not only foster commitment, but also the development and well-being of our teams. This is how we respond to the current challenges facing our industry.
Yasmine : A sustainable and humane environment - who wouldn't want to work at DAWCO! If so, what are your colors and how does this help you in your current role?
Laurence : Yes, I've taken this training, and my most pronounced colors are definitely green and yellow. These two colors represent me well, and I see a lot of myself in their characteristics. I apply the principles of the training, particularly in my interactions with my colleagues, because it helps me enormously to improve communication.
In fact, this training has enabled me to adapt my communication style according to the people I'm talking to, especially during more delicate conversations. For example, before a discussion, I try to think about the “color” of my interlocutor to adjust my approach. Take Jean-François Lemay, for example: he's very “blue”, which means he's organized and methodical. With him, I know I can't arrive haphazard or improvised. This adaptation makes for more effective and harmonious relationships.
This approach gives me a framework for better understanding others and adjusting my exchanges according to their personalities and needs. It's an invaluable tool in my role!
Yasmine : Building harmonious relationships with your colleagues must really make a difference in your role as a human resources consultant. What qualities do you look for in future talent joining DAWCO?
Laurence : We're always looking for the best talent available in the industry. But beyond technical skills, what's really important to us is that people embody the same values as DAWCO: respect, benevolence, rigor and surpassing oneself. Every new hire is a challenge, because it's all about finding people who share our goals and align with our culture.
Yasmine : I agree with you Laurence, that's what enables DAWCO to build a strong and aligned team. If you could describe DAWCO's culture in one word, what would it be?
Laurence : Family. Despite our growth, the family spirit is still very much present.
Yasmine : How do you manage to balance your professional and personal life?
Laurence : Finding a balance between my professional and personal life is a real challenge! My family remains my priority, but I'm constantly striving to reconcile the two. In 2025, it's one of my main personal goals.
Yasmine : With your determination, I'm sure you'll succeed, Laurence. Do you have any advice to share with your colleagues or with future talent wishing to join DAWCO?
Laurence : Always make your decisions in line with DAWCO's core values. This ensures not only that your choices are aligned with our mission, but also that they have a positive impact within the team and on our projects. It's invaluable advice that I received from Jean-François Lemay, our President, and which guides me throughout my career. For future talent, it's also a way of building a solid and meaningful career at DAWCO.
Yasmine : Valuable advice for all those who want to evolve in an environment aligned on solid foundations. Thank you Laurence for this wonderful exchange. Your authenticity and passion are inspiring. Thank you for sharing your journey and your thoughts with us.