Michelle (Elliott) Nastiuk
Leading with Purpose in Fort McMurray
CLASS OF 2025
, 16 YEAR RESIDENT
For Michelle (Elliott) Nastiuk, community, family, and career are not separate pursuits; they are interconnected passions that fuel her purpose every day. Originally from Paradise, Newfoundland, Michelle has called Fort McMurray home for the past 16 years. With a Bachelor of Applied Science in Civil Engineering and a career spanning 18 years at Suncor Energy, she currently serves as Operations Director at the MacKay River In Situ facility, where she combines technical experience with a people-centred approach to leadership.
“What I enjoy most is continual learning, problem-solving, and working with people,” Michelle explains. “I genuinely appreciate time with others and the opportunity to learn from them. I don’t claim to know it all.” She thrives on tackling complex projects, connecting big-picture strategies to daily operations, and celebrating team successes.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Michelle is a dedicated volunteer whose commitment to Fort McMurray runs deep. From co-chairing Suncor Energy’s United Way campaign to leading the CIBC Run for the Cure, instructing Nordic skiing, serving on her children’s Parent Council, and supporting organizations like Support 4 Moms Society, the food bank, and the Alberta Summer Games, Michelle has rarely said “no” to an opportunity to give back. The words: Leading with purpose, and championing change fueled by coffee and community spirit reflect her dynamic approach to life.
Michelle’s drive to volunteer is deeply personal. After her oldest daughter showed signs of developmental delays, Michelle discovered the power of connection through Support 4 Moms Society, a local non-profit group supporting families of children with different abilities. “I realized the importance of having people to share experiences with, and I met like-minded individuals who are passionate about building connections within the disability community,” she recalls. She joined the board of directors in 2018, combining her passion for volunteering with her family’s needs. “It’s rewarding to be part of a team focused on creating safe spaces where support networks can naturally evolve in our community.”
Balancing a busy career, volunteer work, and a growing family is no small feat, but Michelle credits her support network at home for enabling her involvement. “My husband and I make a great team,” she says. “Managing multiple responsibilities isn’t easy, but we balance it together.” Friends, schools, daycares, and long-distance grandparents also help create the structure that allows Michelle to pursue her passions.
Michelle’s motivation to give back extends to her children, whom she brings along to volunteer events. “Exposing them to community involvement helps them see the importance of giving back,” she says. “As their interests grow, our family’s volunteer focus will evolve with them.”
Looking ahead, Michelle’s vision for her community work is shaped by her experience as both a caregiver and an advocate. She hopes to contribute to programs that support family caregivers and create long-term, inclusive opportunities for people of all abilities. “I imagine a community where everyone feels welcomed and included, with opportunities to grow into their best selves,” she explains.
Her personal journey has also inspired her professional advocacy. Caring for her daughter, who is diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome, has deepened Michelle’s understanding of complex medical, educational, and social support systems. “Isla shows grit, determination, and positivity every day,” she says. “She inspires me to continually learn, reflect, and grow, and to approach every challenge with patience and humour.”
Michelle hopes to encourage other women in science and engineering to see that it’s possible to have a fulfilling career, be a devoted family member, and contribute meaningfully to the community. “It’s not easy,” she admits. “But by understanding your passions, setting boundaries, and having a strong support system, you can make a difference in multiple areas of life.”
Michelle (Elliott) Nastiuk exemplifies how purpose, passion, and perseverance can intersect to shape not only a career but an entire community. Through her leadership, volunteerism, and advocacy, she continues to make Fort McMurray a place where families, caregivers, and children of all abilities can thrive.
