Interview with Pascal Julien, Superintendent - DAWCO Energy Division
Yasmine: Hi Pascal! I'm really glad we can take a moment to chat about your journey at DAWCO. Thank you for agreeing to this interview. Can you tell us a bit about your background and what brought you to DAWCO?
Pascal: Of course! I started working as an electrician in 2003. At first, I was mostly involved in commercial construction projects, but over time, I transitioned towards electrical substations and power plants. I’ve worked on several projects for Hydro-Québec across the province — in Gaspésie, Montérégie, and the North Shore. I joined DAWCO through the FIPOE electricians’ union and was put in touch with Human Resources. What really influenced my decision was the company’s reputation and its people-first, family-like culture. I’ve been part of the Energy division since April 2022.
Yasmine: Wow — over 20 years of experience in electrical construction! That’s impressive. And it’s clear your career has led you to a wide range of large-scale projects. As a superintendent, what are your top priorities on-site?
Pascal: My number one priority is making sure the work is done safely and meets quality standards. After that, I focus on ensuring everything runs efficiently.
Yasmine: Kindness and rigour — you really do embody DAWCO’s values. I’m sure you’ve been part of some memorable projects. Can you name a few?
Pascal: The Châteauguay substation project in 2008–2009 often comes to mind. It was a strategic site for exporting electricity to the U.S. We worked long stretches — 48 days in the spring and over 35 more in the fall. I also worked at the Carillon generating station, at Bois-Noir, and on substation modernization projects in Gaspésie. Another standout project was the ABB data centre in Vaudreuil. It was a massive building with some really interesting technical challenges.
Yasmine: Since the very start of your career, it’s clear you’ve had a strong interest in high-voltage work. That’s a valuable area of expertise — well done! What motivates you the most day-to-day?
Pascal: What motivates me is the trust I’m given. DAWCO gives me real autonomy to learn and grow. I know I have my supervisor’s support, and that pushes me to give my best every day.
Yasmine: It’s clear that autonomy and support are key motivators for you. If you had to choose just one of DAWCO’s values that represents you best, which would it be?
Pascal: Without hesitation: kindness. That’s just who I am. I’ve always been someone who looks out for others, who makes sure no one’s left behind — even since I was a kid. I try to pass that on to my children as well. For me, it’s natural to listen and take care of those around me.
Yasmine: That’s a wonderful value — and it’s great to see how you carry it with you at work and at home. If you had to describe DAWCO’s culture in three words, what would they be?
Pascal: Respect, family, honesty. Around here, we speak openly. There’s no rigid hierarchy — everyone has a place, and we’ve got each other’s backs.
Yasmine: And when it comes to work-life balance, how do you manage it?
Pascal: Our 4-day, 10-hour schedule is perfect for that. I get to enjoy Fridays with my family or take care of things around the house. When my kids were younger, I chose projects closer to home so I could be present. Now that they’re older and more independent (15 and 18), I can take on more flexibility.
Yasmine: It’s so valuable to be able to adapt your pace to different life stages. Do you have any hobbies?
Pascal: Yes, I play golf from spring until the end of fall. I also love to travel. In fact, this year we’re heading out on a family cruise to the Bahamas.
Yasmine: What a great way to make the most of your time off! Tell me, have you taken the “Know Your Colours” training?
Pascal: Yes — I’m 60% red and 40% yellow. That fits me well: I’m action-oriented, I like to lead by example, be a positive leader, motivate the team and take care of my crew. I also try to adapt to other personality types. Over time, I’ve learned to step back and manage my reactions more calmly.
Yasmine: You clearly combine leadership and kindness with a strong ability to adapt. What are your goals for the next few years at DAWCO?
Pascal: I want to keep growing in my role as superintendent, take on more responsibilities — but always stay connected to the field. I love being hands-on. I also want to support project managers more, and use my experience to make their job easier.
Yasmine: That’s a great ambition and a perfect reflection of who you are. Last question: if you had to sum up your experience at DAWCO in one word, what would it be?
Pascal: I’d say “More” — because DAWCO is more than just an employer, more than just a team. It’s a family.
Yasmine: What a beautiful way to close this interview. Thank you, Pascal, for your time, openness, and generosity. Your journey is truly inspiring and a great reflection of the values we share at DAWCO. It’s been a real pleasure speaking with you!
Pascal: Thank you — the pleasure was all mine.