THE JOURNEY TO MEGAN HEIMANN’S MANAGERIAL ROLE AT ELAN CONSTRUCTION
Megan Heimann’s professional journey is a story of relentless ambition and growth. Over 12 years, she’s maneuvered through role advancement, evolving from a Coordinator to a Project Manager—and most recently, accepting the role of Operations Manager. Her career progression is a testament to her unwavering commitment to embracing the waves of change and evolving alongside the company.
With each stride in her career, Megan shouldered more responsibility, orchestrating projects and steering people toward success. Her hands-on experience became the cornerstone that prepared her for a managerial position where leading teams became a fundamental part of her responsibilities.
BUT HERE’S THE TWIST…
Megan found herself navigating uncharted waters due to her predecessor’s vastly different management style. Rather than replicate what had been, Megan embraced this divergence, dedicated to carving her own distinct leadership approach.
Her goal? To embody authentic leadership. Megan prioritized creating an environment where roles weren’t rigidly defined but instead thrived in openness and fluid communication. For her, leadership meant guiding rather than commanding, cultivating unwavering confidence within her team, and fostering a shared culture of growth and collaboration.
JOINING TEC CANADA’S EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAM
Megan was introduced to TEC Canada’s Emerging Leaders program by Elan’s president, who already experienced the value of being a TEC Canada member himself. Since joining, Megan has found the program invaluable for improving her people management, communication, and leadership skills as she transitioned into management.
“Now, I can better understand how our employees receive direction or feedback. If things aren’t progressing, I can assess whether my delivery needs adjustment for better comprehension. It’s about reading people, and understanding diverse work styles and communication preferences within my team to ensure alignment. Instead of focusing on why others might not understand, I start with how I can improve my approach for better cohesion, and ultimately achieve better results for our company”.
JOINING TEC CANADA’S EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAM
Megan was introduced to TEC Canada’s Emerging Leaders program by Elan’s president, who already experienced the value of being a TEC Canada member himself. Since joining, Megan has found the program invaluable for improving her people management, communication, and leadership skills as she transitioned into management.
“Now, I can better understand how our employees receive direction or feedback. If things aren’t progressing, I can assess whether my delivery needs adjustment for better comprehension. It’s about reading people, and understanding diverse work styles and communication preferences within my team to ensure alignment. Instead of focusing on why others might not understand, I start with how I can improve my approach for better cohesion, and ultimately achieve better results for our company”.
LOOKING AHEAD
Megan is excited to see her team grow and assist them in taking on more responsibility and leadership roles. She maintains her commitment to being an authentic leader who enables her team to find their own footing rather than dictating to them.
Here’s her advice for new managers entering their role:
“You don’t have to follow the same management style as your previous bosses. You can have your own authentic style, but your success depends on discovering it, embracing it, and learning how to use it to effectively lead your team.”
Megan Heimann
Operations Manager at Elan Construction and Member of TEC Canada’s Emerging Leaders Program in Calgary, AB
ABOUT ELAN CONSTRUCTIONÂ
Elan Construction is your building partner and then some.
Nimble, Committed Proven construction since 1978.
With over 40 years of experience, we are a trusted and reliable construction company that drives results. We build the places where Canadians work and live. People want to be part of our work environment time and time again.