The head of one of Northern Ontario’s leading construction firms is a finalist for the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards.
Julie Zulich, the president and CEO of TESC Contracting, is one of three women nominated in the Excellence category.
Now in its 33rd year, the awards recognize entrepreneurial excellence across a range of expertise and industries. It’s an initiative of the organization Women of Influence+.
“This year’s women entrepreneurs are leading profitable businesses that drive innovation and create measurable social value,” Linda Kuga Pikulin, president of Women of Influence+ and ROOM Women’s Network, said in a news release.
“They understand that long-term value comes from combining strategy, people, and purpose. We’re proud to provide a platform that recognizes and amplifies that leadership.”
Co-founded in 1976 by Zulich’s father, Tom Lachance, Sudbury’s TESC serves the ICI (industrial, commercial, institutional) sector, providing services in the areas of engineering, electrical, scaffolding, piping, and fabrication, and employing more than 300 people.
Zulich came on board in 2000, moving into the role of president and CEO in 2020.
She has served as the first female board member of both the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada and the Electrical Contractors Association of Northern Ontario.
She’s additionally become a vocal advocate for bringing more women into the trades.
Zulich played a role in founding LeadHER Trades, a mentorship initiative that helps guide women new to the trades, in addition to working with Skills Ontario, Jill of All Trades, and other diversity initiatives.
The RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards are presented seven categories, along with five women who are named Ones to Watch.
Award winners will be announced on Nov. 14 during an evening gala in Toronto.
