Algoma Steel has appointed former Saultite Erin Oliver to the newly created role of vice president – health and safety. Reporting to CEO Michael Garcia, Oliver will join the steelmaker’s senior leadership team.
Her role will be both high-profile and challenging. Algoma Steel has faced increased scrutiny over its safety and environmental record. In January, a massive utility piping collapse at the coke-making facilities resulted in repair costs estimated at $30 million. February saw five employees hospitalized following an explosion at the north casthouse of the blast furnace complex. In April, a worker was injured when heavy rains contacted molten slag, causing a boom heard miles away. Last month, Algoma faced charges related to the death of 21-year-old contract worker Damien Bryant. Local activist Selva Rasaiah has also been uncovering chemical spill issues at Algoma operations.
Erin Oliver, a seasoned health and safety professional with over 25 years of experience, is well-prepared for this role. She is a past chairperson of the Prevention Council of Ontario and taught forensic kinesiology at the University of Guelph-Humber from 2016 to 2018. Oliver aims to enhance safety practices at Algoma Steel, saying, “Safe and healthy living starts at home. I’m back in the Soo to be a health and safety team member at Algoma Steel.”
Returning to Sault Ste. Marie Marks a New Chapter for Algoma Steel
Returning to Sault Ste. Marie marks a new chapter for Algoma Steel. The company highlighted her accomplishments in a news release, noting her success in improving safety standards at Modern Niagara Group, a Canada-wide mechanical and electrical contracting firm. Her leadership in safety excellence has earned her multiple awards.
“I am excited to return to Sault Ste. Marie and join a company that cares deeply about its people and recognizes the need to continuously invest, learn, and enhance safety practices,” Oliver said. “I look forward to working with the existing health and safety team to advance the great work already underway.”
CEO Michael Garcia welcomed Oliver, emphasizing the importance of safety in Algoma’s transformation into a North American leader in green steel. “Erin brings a depth of experience and expertise in building robust safety-first cultures. Her appointment to our leadership team in this new role speaks to our ongoing commitment and investment in safety,” Garcia said.
In 2021, Algoma Steel faced criticism for lacking female representation among its director nominees and executive officers. Following this, the company now has three women as directors and two female vice-presidents. Garcia, known for supporting gender and racial diversity, often celebrates such appointments on social media.
Erin Oliver’s appointment represents a significant step for Algoma Steel in strengthening its safety culture and leadership diversity.