From Wildfires to Workforce: A DiscoverEE Tribute to Strength and Skill

In celebration of Indigenous History Month, join us for an inspiring conversation with Nikki Muswaggon and Brandi Ferenc—two women reshaping Canada’s skilled trades and clean energy landscape.

Nikki Muswaggon, an Electrical Apprentice at Cross Lake Housing and member of Cross Lake First Nation, began her career in science before shifting to the trades. With certifications in fiber optics and IT (CompTIA+), she has played a pivotal role in advancing clean energy projects throughout Manitoba while actively championing youth development and strengthening Indigenous community infrastructure.

This story is especially close to us right now. In 2024, we travelled to Cross Lake First Nation to film Nikki’s Day in the Life video. We were met with overwhelming warmth and hospitality. Today, the 2025 wildfires have devastated parts of Northern Manitoba — including Cross Lake, where 8,000 residents have been affected and 500 essential workers are still keeping vital systems running amid a nearby 1,200-hectare blaze.

Facilitating this conversation is Brandi Ferenc, a powerhouse in Canada’s skilled trades sector. As the founder and CEO of Fair-Trades Toolbox, Brandi is a licensed 313A Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic with a Gas Fitter 1 certification and more than two decades of hands-on experience. An award-winning tradesperson, she’s also a dedicated HVAC instructor and mentor, committed to supporting apprentices and creating pathways for women and underrepresented groups in the trades.

Together, Nikki and Brandi will explore how careers in energy efficiency and skilled trades are changing lives, building resilient communities, and shaping Canada’s clean energy future—led by women who are creating space for others to thrive.