Candidate for Vice-President (Part-Time) – David Sutherland

​ The views expressed in this biography are those of the candidate and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of PIPSC.

Fellow PIPSC members,

My name is Dave Sutherland, and I’m seeking your support to represent you as a Part-Time Vice President on the PIPSC Board of Directors.

I’ve been a Steward for 19 of my 24-year career working as an IT at National Defence.

I’m currently a Director for the National Capital Region (2019 - present), where I’ve actively sought out new roles and responsibilities to continue learning and developing experience within the Institute. 

During my last term I continued to work with our Young Professional Committees, encouraging their increased involvement at all levels, listening to and promoting them, and sharing my knowledge and experience. I am proud of the increased level of engagement they have shown; together we formed 2 additional regional YPCs now covering all of Canada and encouraged the creation of the first Group YPC with more to follow!

They are one of the largest demographics within PIPSC, they are our future, and we need their voices and presence to succeed and thrive as a union.

Through my consultation work at DND I’ve had the amazing opportunity to build a relationship with our Health Services members and work to improve safety and working conditions for health care providers at DND. I have listened to some very difficult personal and professional stories and have been deeply inspired by their strength. I'm energized by their determination, and I will continue to stand beside them in this fight.

I know many members are frustrated with the Government’s return to the office mandate. The last four-plus years have demonstrated beyond a doubt that a one-size-fits-all approach does not meet the needs of employees, management, nor the Departments. This decision wasn’t based on data or facts. I believe flexibility should be the cornerstone and will advocate and fight for individual autonomy to determine work schedules and work-life balance.

I’ve served with many different Board members; I value their input and have always treated them with respect. Sometimes we must deal with unwelcome situations and make difficult decisions. I can be counted on to help ground these discussions as I always rely on facts, evidence, and expert advice when faced with a tough decision. I am proud of the increased collaboration by the Board with other leaders within PIPSC, and I welcome the opportunity to continue strengthening relationships with the Advisory Council and staff at PIPSC.

We are all in this together!

​Original provided by the candidate