‘Mrs. Mac’ set fine workplace example

Re: Canada 150: Wendy McDonald, a feminine force of nature in B.C. business world, March 17

Thanks for Stephen Hume’s column on Wendy McDonald. As a young woman in the 1980s and ’90s, I worked in the bearing industry and was fortunate to work at B.C. Bearing — as one of a few women working on the inside sales desk. I worked side-by side with men, and sold bearing and power transmission parts and equipment in a male-dominated industry.

“Mrs. Mac” (as we called her) was very approachable, visited her many branch offices often (along with at least one poodle) and supported other women working in the bearing industry. B.C. Bearing also provided equal opportunities for women to take courses and improve their workplace knowledge — ensuring all her employees were versed in the bearing and power transmission industry.

She was also a huge supporter of Expo 86. As employees, we had access to Expo 86 family season passes — at a discount — through payroll deductions.

Oh, and her Christmas parties were anticipated every year.

I value my time working for Mrs. Mac. Laura Reid, Chilliwack