Melonie Doucette

Melonie Doucette moved to Fort McMurray shortly after graduating from University in 2005, and has lived here for longer than she’s lived anywhere else. She is the Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation for Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development and Tourism, and describes herself as enthusiastic, driven and grateful. YMM: What is the biggest challenge you’ve taken on this year? MD: This past year, I left a 16-year career with the Government of Alberta, to take on a new role as Director with Economic Development and Tourism. It has been one of the most rewarding career changes I’ve ever made. Getting to work with inspiring people who are passionate about what they do and the excitement that comes with leading a team and a portfolio with so much potential is incredible. I learn and grow every day. YMM: What is the most rewarding part of your career? MD: The most rewarding part of my career is knowing that I get to go to work every day and have the privilege of contributing to enhancing the quality of life and growing opportunities for the region I call home. YMM: What motivates you? MD: Every day I wake up knowing what I need to do, not necessarily how I am going to do it. What motivates me is trying to be the best version of myself that I can be for what I need to do that day. Some days it’s being super mom running around town with my girls and some other days it’s working late at the office, it’s a balance and I try every day to get it right! YMM: What do you consider to be the best things about our community? MD: There are many wonderful things about Fort McMurray that make me proud to call it my home. As a professional, I have had the opportunity to be a part of many exciting projects and meet so many amazing people who have influenced me and my growth. As a family, I can’t think of a better place to raise my children. From the amazing schools, athletic opportunities, and the multitude of events and activities, my kids and I never stop! There is always something to do! YMM: Tell us about your volunteer experience in the community. MD: Over the past 18 years I have volunteered in many capacities. I am fortunate to have had a career where being a part of committees and contributing to my community has always been a part of what I do. In the past 10 years or more, most of my volunteerism has focused on my children and giving back to their school, sports, and other interests, I have sat on the parent-teacher council and I led Girl Guides. I have also served on the Mayor’s Advisory Council for Inclusion, Diversity and Equity, and I have been a part of the Adopt-A-Trail program for almost 15 years. YMM: Who is your hero, and why? MD: I have been fortunate to have made impactful friendships and to have been mentored by amazing, trailblazing women in my life. Women who, through their confidence in me, enabled me to take on new challenges, be it motherhood, my career or personal development. Three women in my life stand out: Sana Elache through my Leadership Wood Buffalo journey, Vilia Tosio, through my motherhood journey, and Susan Shave through the development of my career. Women like them empower and grow aspiring leaders and the women of the future. I can only hope to be an influence like that someday. YMM: What accomplishment are you most proud of? MD: Hands down, my biggest accomplishment in life has been raising two of the most beautiful people I have ever met. I am infinitely proud of the kind-hearted, caring, outgoing little girls that are my daughters.