International Women’s Day (IWD) is Sunday, March 8. This year’s theme is Give to Gain, emphasizing the power of reciprocity and support in contributing to women’s advancement in today’s interconnected world. 

As part of an early IWD celebration here at ATB Economics, we thought we’d introduce you to three team members who help bring the Twenty-Four (and more) to life every day. 

Meet the team

What led you to your current role with ATB Economics?

CK: Fascinated by the study of decision-making, I pursued an Economics degree at UBC to understand the choices made by individuals and governments. I joined ATB seeking a daily challenge and have been excited by the diversity of topics we cover. Since joining the team, I’ve had the opportunity to author pieces on everything from AI and nuclear energy to gold and silver prices. It goes to show how broad and impactful this field really is.

MH: After 25 years in executive administration, joining ATB Economics felt like starting a whole new chapter. What has surprised me most is that not being an economist is actually one of my greatest strengths; while I handle the logistics on the team, I also provide a "gut check" on the Twenty-Four and other content to ensure it’s not too technical for our readers. It’s exciting to know I help make economics accessible to everyone.

KC: I’ve spent my career working in communications and content across a number of different industries. When I started at ATB, I was quickly encouraged to subscribe to the Twenty-Four, and was amazed that a small team of economists was delivering such timely insights every day. After getting to know them better, I decided to make a case to have my role support their work, and the broader distribution of relevant economic insights, more directly. The rest is history! 

What does a typical work day look like?

CK: On our team, there is rarely a 'typical' day. Because we are tied to the news cycle, a major headline or data release can shift my priorities instantly. My day usually involves collaborating with the team on the week's events and poring over data to find the narrative for my next Twenty-Four topic.

MH: If there’s one thing I love about this role, it’s that 'typical' doesn't really exist. My mornings start with a final review of The Twenty-Four for clarity before I pivot into "air traffic controller" mode, coordinating speaking engagements across Canada to ensure our economists arrive prepared and ready to shine. It’s a fast-paced mix of high-level coordination and tactical support, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

KC: My days are a mix of ideating and/or writing about timely topics for The Twenty-Four, facilitating interviews with industry leaders or entrepreneurs to highlight their expertise in upcoming features, guiding presentation narratives, and finding new ways to get our economic insights into the hands of those who need them. My personal favourite days are those spent on the holiday content every year.

What does this year’s IWD theme,“Give to Gain,” mean to you? 

CK: “Give to Gain” feels especially meaningful to me at this stage of my career, as I’ve experienced firsthand the power of people investing their time in my growth. At ATB, I see this come to life through the generosity of my colleagues’ insights, and I aim to give back by showing up with curiosity and preparation. As I progress, I look forward to paying that investment forward to others.

MH: To me, "Give to Gain" is the belief that empowered women empower the world. With two decades of experience, I find immense value in mentoring those just entering the administrative field; it’s about opening doors and providing the guidance I wish I had starting out. When we invest in each other's growth, we ensure the next generation of women doesn't just ‘get ahead’—they lead the way.

KC: This year’s theme reminded me of a quote that was shared with me early in my career: “surround yourself with people who would mention your name in a room full of opportunity.” I’ve been lucky to have inspiring leaders and peers provide me with growth opportunities, and I strive to show up the same way for others. While formal mentorship and training programs are wonderful, there is also immense value in how we choose to support and advocate for one another on a daily basis.

What do you find most rewarding in your role? 

CK: Economics is often called the "dismal science," but I find it rewarding to prove it doesn't have to be complex or inaccessible. Data explains why we feel a certain way about grocery prices or mortgage rates, and everyone deserves to understand the climate they are navigating. The most fulfilling part of my job is using The Twenty-Four to provide that essential clarity.

MH: There is something incredibly satisfying in enabling the economists to cut through the noise and turn overwhelming global trends into bite-sized insights people can actually use. I take immense pride in seeing our speakers perform flawlessly and hearing positive feedback from our readers and audiences.

KC: I appreciate having the chance to help deliver calm, clear explanations for complex events and trends that everyone can leverage. It’s rewarding to know that I’ll learn something new every day, and am challenged to help our audience do the same.

Answer to the previous trivia question: Louise McKinney was the first woman elected to the Alberta Legislature, and by extension, the first woman elected to any legislature in the British Empire. Elected on June 7, 1917, as a Non-Partisan League candidate for the Claresholm riding, she served until 1921.

Today’s trivia question: Who was the first woman elected to the Canadian House of Commons?