My name is Megan Kootenay West, and I’ve been working as the Indigenous Talent Engagement Specialist at Gibson Energy for the past 19 months. My journey to this role is deeply rooted in my personal story, cultural heritage and the challenges I’ve overcome. These experiences have shaped both my career and the passion I bring to my work every day.
The Beginning of My Journey
I was born and raised in the heart of the oilsands region in Fort McMurray, and I am a proud registered member of Alexander First Nation. My Kokum (grandmother) and Mosom (grandfather) raised me, but our home was affected by intergenerational trauma and addiction, disconnecting us from our cultural traditions and language. My Kokum attended a residential school in Maskwacis, about 156 kilometers from her home community, and my Mosom was from Kikino Metis Settlement, located roughly 190 kilometers from Edmonton. Both of my grandparents worked in the oil industry in Fort McMurray, and their experiences, coupled with our family’s history, shaped my understanding of Indigenous challenges and resilience.
When I was a teenager, we moved to Alexander First Nation as my grandparents both fell ill with cancer. I lost them at a young age, and this loss left a significant impact on me. After becoming a young mother, I pursued a university prep program at an Indigenous college in Edmonton, eventually attending the University of Alberta to study Psychology, Sociology and Native Studies as an honor student. I also spent three years volunteering in restorative justice in my community, a passion sparked by my studies in criminology and sociology.
Though I wrote my LSAT in 2021 with the intention of pursuing a law degree, my priorities shifted, and I found myself returning to the oil industry—a space where I’ve always felt a sense of purpose and validation. Throughout my studies, I worked in the energy sector, and in the early 2000s, I began a career in human resources. In 2007, I stepped into Indigenous Relations, becoming an Indigenous Liaison and hiring the first crew of Indigenous workers for a major company. At that time, Indigenous inclusion wasn’t a prominent focus in business, but I knew the importance of creating a safe, inclusive working environment for Indigenous employees.
My Path to Indigenous Relations
Now, as the Indigenous Talent Engagement Specialist at Gibson Energy, I manage the PAIR initiative—a three-year commitment focused on increasing Indigenous representation and creating a supportive environment for Indigenous employees. My day-to-day work involves strategizing ways to diversify our talent pool, in partnership with the Talent Acquisition team, through programs like the Indigenous Peoples Development Program. I’m also spearheading the development of an Indigenous Employee Resource Group, set to launch in 2025, which will create a space for Indigenous employees to feel supported and heard.
Journey of Healing
Outside of Gibson, I’m a mother of four beautiful boys, aged 19, 15, 11 and 7. Being a hockey mom keeps me busy, especially with two of my boys playing elite hockey, which leaves little time for hobbies. However, I’ve been on a 13-year self-care journey, learning about the impacts of residential schools on families like mine. This exploration has been difficult, but it has allowed me to educate my children and share my experiences with the people I work with at Gibson. Through this process, I’ve been able to integrate my personal well-being with my professional life, embracing my cultural identity and using it to help others.
Building Connections with Indigenous Businesses
One of the most meaningful aspects of my role at Gibson is working with Indigenous businesses, building relationships with those we already work with and fostering new partnerships to increase supplier diversity. I’ve been fortunate to build trust with many Indigenous and non-Indigenous business owners, helping guide them on their journey toward economic reconciliation. A highlight of my time at Gibson has been collaborating with strong allies to develop our Legacy Space, which recognizes Indigenous culture and artistry and brings it into the fabric of our work environment.
Gibson has provided me with a platform to share the histories, cultures and the ongoing challenges Indigenous communities face. I’m passionate about educating non-Indigenous employees about land rights, sovereignty and the impacts of colonization, while fostering stronger relationships between Indigenous communities and Gibson. This work has been healing for me, allowing me to use my personal experiences to create an inclusive environment where others can learn and grow.
While I’m uncertain of what the future holds, I trust that the Creator has guided me to this place, both professionally and personally. I will continue to nurture the relationships between Indigenous communities and Gibson, sharing the knowledge I’ve gained and paving the way for future leaders in this space, just as my mentor Colin Anton (Manager of Indigenous Relations at Gibson), has done for me.
