60 Seconds with Commodore Rebecca Patterson, Defence Champion for Women
Transcript
Commodore Rebecca Patterson, Defence Champion for Women
What is your favourite thing to do when you’re not at work? Treasure hunt antiques. And I’m not talking about myself.
I’m Cmdre Rebecca Patterson, and I’m the Defence Champion for Women.
And I’m here to take the 60 seconds challenge. OK. Here we go.
- What would you say is the best way to break down barriers facing women in defence and security?
How about encouragement and mentorship?
- What historical event impacted you most as a woman?
In 1917, World War I nursing officers in France were the first women in Canada to be able to vote federally. Set the trend for the rest of us.
- What advice would you give to women considering a career in defence and security today?
Trust yourself, live the adventure, and be the change.
- How had women influence defence and security in Canada?
They brought a complete perspective to defence and security because if you forget 50% of the population, you only have 50% of the answer.
- What’s been the greatest challenge you faced in your career?
Again, work-life balance. Married service couple. Lots of sacrifices and a lot of mommy guilt that comes with that.
- Why is it important to recognize and explore women’s history?
Because women have had huge contributions to defence, security, technology and medicine. And if you don’t start recognizing what they’ve done, you don’t actually realize where your country is today.
