In Yukon’s health care system, your career can grow in unexpected and rewarding ways. Just ask Brigitte.
Brigitte began her career as a speech-language pathologist. Today, she’s a senior manager with the Government of Yukon’s Department of Health and Social Services, working within the Continuing Care division. Her path reflects what’s possible when curiosity, commitment, and opportunity come together.
We recently caught up with Brigitte at Thomson Centre, 1 of Yukon’s 4 long-term care homes, to talk about her work, what makes Yukon unique and why she chose a leadership path.
We’re meeting today at Thomson Centre. What do you like about this place?
Thomson Centre is a smaller long-term care home — with about 40 residents — which creates a really warm and welcoming atmosphere. Staff know each other well, and there’s a strong culture of teamwork.
People go out of their way to make the workplace enjoyable. Staff organize lunchtime activities like potlucks, Zumba and yoga. Because of the size, most staff work across all the units, which helps everyone get to know each resident, supporting a truly person- and family-centred care approach.
What makes for a good day at work?
For me, it’s a day when I can help transform a conflict or challenge into a shared opportunity. I love when we can come together as a team, define a common goal and collaborate to achieve it. That kind of alignment — especially in health care — is really meaningful.
What’s unique about working in health care in the Yukon?
The ability to work across silos and collaborate easily. When you need advice or support, you can simply reach out — even across departments or branches — and you’ll usually find someone happy to help. You don’t need to have an existing relationship or go through layers of bureaucracy. It’s a very supportive and responsive environment, which I think is quite unique.
What advice would you give to someone considering a health care career in the Yukon?
If you’re interested in leadership or career development, Continuing Care in the Yukon is a great place to grow. I started as a speech-language pathologist, and shortly after moving here, I was given the chance to take on acting roles and leadership development opportunities. That helped me build meaningful relationships and grow my skill set.
Now, I have the chance to positively influence how we work and support others on their own leadership journeys. If you’re committed and engaged, opportunities will come your way.
