In our penultimate profile of an exceptional woman in the powersports industry, we get to know Iris Brown, Team Leader at BRP’s Valcourt plant. Like the other women we’ve celebrated in this series, Iris is strong, determined, and dedicated to making a contribution to the industry.

After her son’s second birthday, Iris wanted to return to work. Recruited via Emploi Compétences in 1996, when sales of the Sea-Doo had just taken off, Iris joined BRP as an assembler. Since then, she has held several positions, including group leader and production supervisor.

What’s it like to be a woman at BRP and in the powersports industry?

At BRP, women and men are regarded as equals. To become a team leader, you just need to have the necessary skills and experience. I am proud to be part of BRP and to be able to work in an environment that gives us the opportunity to improve and feel supported in our work. For example, because our work is physical, it is often adapted to our abilities. Because of this, and the fact that BRP provides easy access to preventive medicine, we can do our work without getting hurt.
 

What remains to be done?

BRP stands out in the industry as being an innovator and a leader in terms of continually adapting its assembly lines with the latest technology. The company must continue to focus on continuous improvement and to evolve. It’s the kind of thing that motivates manufacturing employees.
 

  “ In the future, I see exciting challenges for me as a group leader and look forward to new opportunities at BRP.”