Cynthia Renaud — the journey of a determined lighting specialist

Cynthia Renaud

Laurence Rocher-Brasssard

On the other end of the phone one recent Monday morning, Cynthia Renaud —formerly a student of policing techniques but now a lighting specialist — tells me with pleasure about her unusual journey. It begins at age 25, when with the help of a friend she gets a job with a lighting distributor. During her years there, she takes lighting courses. Her performance comes to the attention of a headhunter, who offers her a position as a travelling sales rep for another distributor. A few years later, she moves into a similar position at Standard, the lighting manufacturer. She has now held this position for eight years.

What attracted her to the lighting industry?

Mother of two children, Cynthia Renaud was drawn to the industry by its infinite possibilities. She could just as easily work on a design project as an energy conservation project. She also appreciates the opportunity to work with the same customers from one project to the next.

She tells me that along the way she has had to adapt to this predominantly male world by doing more. She felt that she wasn’t entitled to make mistakes. Being the best in her field was for her key to proving she was as capable as a man. Cynthia turned this intoa challenge, gradually earning the respect of her clients along the way.

Early in her career, she suffered through rebuffs and stale jokes. Today, she is well known in the industry, so it’s become easier, even though she still sometimes senses hesitation on the part of new customers. She has managed to create a place for herself. We can say that she has met the challenge successfully.

She would have felt a greater gap between women and men during police services training. Not having the same physical strength as men and not being partnered with a woman on patrols, she did not feel at ease. She had more of an impression of being there to fill a quota of women in the police force. She did not have this impression in the lighting industry. “There is absolutely nothing in my job that I can’t do as well or better than a man,” she says. This is how to succeed in the face of life’s challenges.

Advice for women wishing to enter the field?

She would say, “Have confidence in yourself. Hold your head high and go forward.” She also advises newcomers to be well prepared. Plan in advance your meetings with clients so that you’re prepared for all contingencies, and don’t be taken in by tricky or difficult questions. In the same vein, knowing not to take what doesn’t belong to you is very important. If you don’t know the answer to a question, don’t be afraid to say so. Then find the answer and get back to the client, instead of attempting an uncertain answer. “By doing so, by standing up for yourself, by being right…that’s how we earn respect,” she says.

Today, looking back at the road she has travelled, Cynthia Renaud says she has no regrets and would make the same choices. She loves her work, particularly her customers. She loves having the opportunity to see the results of her efforts. If she designs a clothing boutique, she has the privilege of seeing it lit. She loves this industry and this work, and wouldn’t change it for anything in the world.

Finally, in Cynthia Renaud’s own words, “It is not unusual for me to hear today that women are more organized than men and it’s nice to work with us.” Women make a valuable contribution to the electrical industry and are an asset to develop.


Laurence Rocher-BrossardLaurence Rocher-Brassard is the Editor of EIN’s sister publication: Le monde de l’électricité en ligne

More in EIN by Laurence Rocher-Brassard:

EH2 Solar — A Small Business with Global Reach

EFC Officially Launches the Young Professionals Network

Swati Patel: the Art of Success Outside Your Comfort Zone

Stephanie Santini: Never Underestimate Her Capabilities

 

Related Articles


Latest Articles


Changing Scene

  • BC Hydro Making it Easier and More Affordable to Connect New Homes

    BC Hydro Making it Easier and More Affordable to Connect New Homes

    July 24, 2025 BC Hydro is supporting the construction of new housing developments in growing communities by advancing changes to streamline upgrades and reducing the cost of new customer connections to BC Hydro’s electricity grid. “As communities across B.C. grow, so does the need for essential housing. We are committed to ensuring we’re ready to… Read More…

  • Mitrex Sets Record with Largest BIPV Solar Panel Mural at SunRise Residential in Edmonton

    Mitrex Sets Record with Largest BIPV Solar Panel Mural at SunRise Residential in Edmonton

    July 22, 2025 Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) manufacturer, Mitrex proudly announces that its transformative SunRise Residential project in Edmonton, Alberta, has earned the Guinness World Record for the largest solar panel mural globally. This landmark project showcases Mitrex’s innovative BIPV solar panels, blending cutting-edge solar technology with vibrant cultural artistry to redefine sustainable architecture. Sustainable Architecture with BIPV Spanning over 30,000 square feet, the Mitrex eFacade PRO plus… Read More…

  • Nexans Unveils a Cable Made with 100% Recycled Materials

    Nexans Unveils a Cable Made with 100% Recycled Materials

    July 24, 2025 Nexans has reached a major milestone in its sustainability journey by developing a prototype cable made entirely from recycled materials — a first in the company’s history. This innovation combines technical performance, industrial feasibility, and a drastically reduced environmental footprint, marking a decisive step forward in circular economy. A cross-continental success story… Read More…

  • EFC Welcomes New Manufacturer Member: MGM Transformers

    EFC Welcomes New Manufacturer Member: MGM Transformers

    July 24, 2025 Since 1974, MGM Transformers has produced tough and trusted transformers designed to get the job done right. As a leading manufacturer, the company employs a highly experienced and dedicated engineering team that excels in custom designs. MGM Transformers is committed to excellent quality and service, offering industry-leading lead times and exceptional customer service. MGM Transformers specializes… Read More…