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Canada offers a wealth of opportunities for women looking to build rewarding and financially secure careers. As the country continues to promote gender equality in the workplace, women have increasingly been able to break barriers and thrive in high-paying professions across various industries. From healthcare to finance and technology, here are 10 high-paying jobs for women in Canada, complete with salary estimates, key skills, and reasons why these careers are so lucrative.

Physician/Surgeon

  • Salary: $150,000 – $350,000+ per year
  • Key Skills: Medical expertise, decision-making, attention to detail, patient care, communication, problem-solving, leadership.
  • Why It’s Lucrative: Physicians and surgeons are compensated highly due to the extensive education and training required, as well as the critical nature of their work. Specializing in high-demand areas such as cardiology or neurosurgery can significantly increase earning potential. The need for skilled healthcare professionals remains high, driving up salaries.

2. Dentist

  • Salary: $120,000 – $250,000+ per year
  • Key Skills: Dental knowledge, manual dexterity, patient care, communication, problem-solving, business management (for private practices).
  • Why It’s Lucrative: Dentists are highly paid because of the technical expertise needed and the high demand for dental care. Specializations such as orthodontics or oral surgery come with even higher salaries, and those who own their practices can significantly boost their income.

3. Pharmacist

  • Salary: $90,000 – $130,000+ per year
  • Key Skills: Pharmaceutical knowledge, attention to detail, communication, patient counseling, inventory management, problem-solving.
  • Why It’s Lucrative: Pharmacists are well-compensated due to their critical role in healthcare. They ensure patients receive the right medications and advise on their use, which requires specialized knowledge and ongoing education. Positions in hospitals, or owning a pharmacy, can increase their earning potential.

4. Lawyer

  • Salary: $100,000 – $300,000+ per year
  • Key Skills: Legal knowledge, negotiation, communication, critical thinking, research, attention to detail, time management.
  • Why It’s Lucrative: Lawyers earn high salaries due to the specialized knowledge required to navigate complex legal matters, including contracts, litigation, and corporate law. Senior roles in corporate law, intellectual property, or family law tend to be the most lucrative, with additional bonuses or profit-sharing opportunities in private firms.

5. Engineer

  • Salary: $80,000 – $150,000+ per year
  • Key Skills: Technical expertise, problem-solving, analytical thinking, project management, teamwork, creativity.
  • Why It’s Lucrative: Engineers work in high-demand sectors such as software development, petroleum, and civil engineering. The technical skills required, along with the ability to solve complex problems, make engineers highly valuable. Specialized fields, such as petroleum engineering, often offer the highest salaries due to the expertise needed.

6. IT Manager/Software Developer

  • Salary: $85,000 – $140,000+ per year
  • Key Skills: Programming, software development, problem-solving, leadership, project management, systems analysis, cybersecurity.
  • Why It’s Lucrative: The tech industry is booming, and highly skilled IT professionals and software developers are in high demand. Their ability to create, manage, and protect complex systems has made them indispensable to businesses. The demand for cybersecurity and software development is particularly strong, leading to competitive salaries.

7. Financial Manager/Analyst

  • Salary: $90,000 – $160,000+ per year
  • Key Skills: Financial analysis, forecasting, strategic thinking, budgeting, communication, data interpretation, problem-solving.
  • Why It’s Lucrative: Financial managers and analysts oversee critical aspects of business operations, such as budgeting, investments, and financial planning. Their expertise is essential for the financial health of organizations, driving up salaries. Women who rise to senior roles, such as CFO or financial director, can see higher earnings.

8. Airline Pilot

  • Salary: $80,000 – $200,000+ per year
  • Key Skills: Technical knowledge of aviation, communication, problem-solving, decision-making, leadership, attention to detail, stress management.
  • Why It’s Lucrative: Airline pilots are highly trained professionals responsible for the safety and efficiency of air travel. The job requires not only technical flying skills but also the ability to make quick decisions and handle stressful situations. Senior pilots, especially those working for major international airlines, earn lucrative salaries.

9. University Professor (Tenured)

  • Salary: $100,000 – $200,000+ per year
  • Key Skills: Expertise in a specific academic field, research, communication, presentation, mentorship, critical thinking, time management.
  • Why It’s Lucrative: Tenured professors enjoy job security and the opportunity to earn a high salary, particularly in specialized fields such as law, engineering, or medicine. The combination of teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities can make this a rewarding and financially stable career. Those with strong research funding or leadership roles in their departments may see higher salaries.

10. Marketing Director/Manager

  • Salary: $80,000 – $150,000+ per year
  • Key Skills: Strategic thinking, creativity, market research, digital marketing, communication, project management, leadership.
  • Why It’s Lucrative: Marketing professionals, particularly those in leadership positions, are responsible for driving brand awareness, market penetration, and customer engagement. Their role is crucial for the success of an organization, and their ability to create and execute effective marketing strategies is highly valued. Companies are willing to pay a premium for experienced marketing directors and managers, particularly in high-demand industries like tech, healthcare, and consumer goods.

Conclusion

The Canadian workforce offers numerous high-paying career options for women, spanning diverse industries such as healthcare, law, engineering, finance, and technology. These roles not only provide financial security but also empower women to make a significant impact in their fields. The combination of specialized skills, high demand, and the critical nature of these professions makes them particularly lucrative. Whether you’re looking to enter one of these professions or already working in a high-paying field, the opportunities for women in Canada are abundant and diverse. With the right skills and experience, women can continue to break barriers and succeed in these rewarding careers.

 

In July 2024, Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan officially assumed her role as Chief of the Defence Staff, becoming the first woman to lead the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Her appointment marks a historic milestone for Canada’s military and a powerful testament to her 35-year career of exceptional service and leadership.

Trailblazing Career Spanning Over 35 Years

Lieutenant-General Carignan’s career is a testament to resilience and dedication. Over her 35 years of service, she has achieved numerous firsts, including becoming the first woman in CAF history to command a combat arms unit in 2008. Her extensive experience includes leading over 10,000 soldiers as commander of the 2nd Canadian Division and spearheading crisis operations, such as flood relief efforts in Quebec.

Her international deployments to Afghanistan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Syria, as well as her leadership of NATO Mission Iraq from 2019 to 2020, underscore her capability to navigate complex global challenges.

Since 2021, she has served as Chief, Professional Conduct and Culture at National Defence, working to transform the culture within the CAF. Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the Meritorious Service Medal and the Meritorious Service Cross.

Looking Ahead: Leadership in Challenging Times

Lieutenant-General Carignan assumes leadership at a critical time. With evolving security threats, the CAF’s role in defending Canada, supporting NATO allies, and providing humanitarian assistance during natural disasters has never been more vital.

In her new role, she will oversee these ongoing operations while advancing efforts to foster a respectful and inclusive environment for all members of the Armed Forces.

Her leadership promises to shape the future of the CAF, ensuring it remains a strong, secure, and adaptable institution capable of addressing modern challenges.

Acknowledging General Wayne Eyre’s Legacy

Lieutenant-General Carignan’s appointment follows the retirement of General Wayne Eyre, who has led the CAF since 2021. With over 40 years of service, General Eyre has been recognized for his dedication and contributions. His leadership has been pivotal during critical moments, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of military leaders.

A Message of Confidence and Optimism

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his confidence in Lieutenant-General Carignan’s ability to lead the CAF into the future, stating:
“Her exceptional leadership qualities, commitment to excellence, and dedication to service have been a tremendous asset to our Armed Forces. I am confident that, as Canada’s new Chief of the Defence Staff, she will help Canada be stronger, more secure, and ready to tackle global security challenges.”

Similarly, Defence Minister Bill Blair highlighted her track record of excellence in difficult operations and her readiness to navigate emerging challenges.

A Historic Moment for Canada

Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan’s appointment is not just a personal milestone but a moment of progress for Canada. Her leadership marks a turning point in the representation of women in senior military roles and sets an inspiring example for future generations.

As the nation looks ahead to her formal appointment in July 2024, her story continues to resonate as one of perseverance, excellence, and transformative leadership.

In October 2022, Colleen James was elected to the Regional Council, representing the residents of the City of Kitchener. With over 15 years of experience in municipal government, both at the city and regional levels, Colleen has built a reputation as a trusted leader and advocate for equity and inclusion. Her work has left an indelible mark on her community and beyond.

A Career Dedicated to Equity and Inclusion

Colleen’s professional journey is not just defined by her role in government. As the founder of Divonify Incorporated, she has established herself as a leading consultant on equity and inclusion. Her work spans locally, nationally, and internationally, partnering with public, private, and not-for-profit organizations dedicated to driving meaningful change. Her expertise and guidance have helped many businesses and institutions build more inclusive environments.

Values That Drive Leadership

Colleen’s leadership is shaped by a set of core values that influence her decisions and interactions as a Councillor. These values include:

  • Building trusted relationships: Colleen believes that trust is the foundation of effective leadership.
  • Equity-informed community discussions: She ensures that all voices are heard and that discussions are approached through the lens of equity.
  • Listening and collaborating: Colleen understands the power of collaboration and actively listens to community members.
  • Empowering and amplifying: She strives to empower others and amplify underrepresented voices.
  • Taking meaningful action: Colleen is committed to creating tangible outcomes that benefit her community.
  • Being accountable: She holds herself accountable to the community she serves, ensuring transparency in her decisions and actions.

Academic Excellence and Community Recognition

Colleen is a proud graduate of the University of Toronto, where she earned an Honours B.A. in history, political science, and Caribbean studies. She furthered her education with a master’s degree in leadership, higher, and adult education from U of T’s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE).

Her dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. In 2020, Colleen was named one of the Top 100 Black Women to Watch by the Canada International Black Women Event. A year later, she was recognized as one of the Top 25 Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Persons of the Year by the Canadian Multicultural Group. In 2024, she was honored with the Public Service Excellence Award by Women of Dignity International.

Commitment to the Waterloo Region

Colleen’s involvement in the community extends far beyond her political role. She is a graduate of Leadership Waterloo Region and has contributed her expertise to several local boards and committees, including the Kitchener Public Library and KW Oktoberfest. Additionally, she plays an active role in the Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region, where she established the James STEM scholarship to support students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

A Proud Kitchener Resident

Born and raised in Kitchener, Colleen’s family immigrated to the Waterloo Region over 50 years ago. Today, she continues to live in Kitchener with her partner, Daren, and their daughter, Maleigha, deeply connected to the community that has shaped her life and career.

Colleen James is not just a Regional Councillor; she is a leader dedicated to equity, community collaboration, and creating a brighter future for Kitchener and beyond.

When you hear the name HRH Adejisola Atiba, you immediately think of a woman who embodies leadership, purpose, and a relentless drive for community impact. Recently crowned Obaantapaa Nana Akosua Mpontuemaa 1 (Queen Mother) by Nana Atta Kakra IX of the Gomoa Ojobi Traditional Area in the Central Region of Ghana, and nominated by HRH King Nana Yaw Osam I, Adejisola is not just a leader in her community; she is a symbol of transformation and resilience.

A Leader With a Vision

With over 30 years in the financial services industry, including 17 years with RBC, Adejisola currently serves as a Community Manager, supporting four branches. Her role is more than just a title—it’s about fostering growth, connecting internal and external centers of influence, and serving as an integrator within her organization. Prior to this position, Adejisola was the Manager, Financial Planning Associate, GTR, where she led a team of 53 associates and supported nearly 300 financial planners. Her strategic insights, training initiatives, and leadership qualities were instrumental in shaping onboarding programs that were eventually adopted at the national level.

Her career journey at RBC has been dynamic. From financial planner to branch manager, she has worn many hats, all with the same goal: to build future leaders. Adejisola’s passion for leadership development is evident in every role she takes on, and her drive to mentor and uplift others is a testament to her purpose-driven approach.

An Advocate for Diversity and Inclusion

Adejisola’s impact extends far beyond her corporate achievements. As a community advocate and changemaker, she has been a steering committee member of the Federation of Black Canadians and a dedicated volunteer with organizations such as JA Central Ontario, Access Employment, and TRIEC. Her leadership in these spaces demonstrates her commitment to promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

She is also the founder of the Council of Nigerian Professionals and the African Caribbean Council of Halton, both of which aim to create platforms for professionals from underrepresented communities to thrive and connect. Her community service is not just a responsibility—it’s a calling. Adejisola has also served as a board member of the Rotary Club of Milton and the United Way Halton and Hamilton, driving initiatives that uplift and empower the communities she serves.

A Lifelong Learner and Educator

Education is at the core of Adejisola’s values. She recently completed an EMBA in Digital Transformation from the prestigious DeGroote Business School, further expanding her expertise to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business and technology. Adejisola holds multiple educational and professional certificates, continuously upskilling to stay ahead of industry trends and inspire others to embrace lifelong learning.

A Powerful Voice in Print and on Stage

In April 2022, Adejisola published her first book, “Authenticity: How My Why Me Moments Shaped My Life.” The non-fiction work delves into her personal journey, offering readers insight into how life’s challenging moments can be transformative and empowering. Through her storytelling, she inspires individuals at various stages of their lives to find strength and purpose in their unique paths. Currently, she is working on her second book, “Be Limitless,” which promises to be a beacon of motivation for anyone striving to achieve greatness.

As a TEDx Speaker, motivational speaker, and lifestyle coach, Adejisola’s words have reached audiences far and wide, challenging conventional boundaries and advocating for a mindset of limitless possibilities.

Recognition and Accolades

Adejisola’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous awards and recognitions for her tireless work in the community and her professional excellence. Her accolades reflect her ability to balance her various roles—as a business leader, community advocate, and cultural icon—while making a lasting impact on those around her.

Family and Personal Life

Amidst all her professional achievements and community engagements, Adejisola remains grounded in her values. She is a dedicated wife and mother, drawing strength from her family and channeling it into every aspect of her life and work. Her authenticity, empathy, and unwavering commitment make her not just a role model, but a pillar of strength and inspiration for many.

Looking Ahead

With a mission to uplift, educate, and inspire, HRH Adejisola Atiba is not just living her purpose—she’s redefining what it means to be a changemaker in today’s world. From corporate boardrooms to community halls, and book pages to public stages, Adejisola’s influence is felt across borders and industries. As she prepares to launch her upcoming book and continues to lead with grace and vision, her story serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership is about being authentic, purposeful, and limitless.

In the evolving landscape of leadership, women are increasingly taking on influential roles, breaking the glass ceiling, and inspiring others along the way. While progress has been made, there’s still work to be done to ensure that women have equal opportunities to lead. A crucial part of this journey involves honing leadership skills. This article explores the essential leadership skills for women and how they can pave the way to success.

What is Leadership Skills

Leadership skills refer to the abilities and qualities that individuals possess to effectively guide, motivate, and influence others to achieve common goals and objectives. These skills encompass a broad range of attributes, including communication, problem-solving, decision-making, empathy, adaptability, and the capacity to inspire and empower team members.

Leadership skills are not limited to those in formal leadership positions; they can be developed and utilized by anyone interested in making a positive impact on a group, organization, or community. Effective leadership skills for women are essential for driving progress, fostering teamwork, and achieving success in various aspects of life, including business, education, politics, and social causes.

Leadership Skills For Women

Leadership skills for women encompass a set of qualities, abilities, and behaviors that enable women to excel in leadership roles. These skills include effective communication, emotional intelligence, resilience, adaptability, and the ability to inspire and motivate others. Leadership skills for women also involve navigating gender biases and stereotypes while asserting authority and influence in various professional settings. These skills are essential for women to thrive and positively impact as leaders in diverse fields and industries.

  • Communication Skills

Effective communication is at the core of successful leadership. It involves conveying ideas, building relationships, and inspiring action. Women can enhance their communication skills by honing public speaking abilities and assertiveness.

Public speaking, often regarded as a daunting task, is a skill that can be developed. Joining public speaking clubs, seeking mentorship, and practicing regularly can boost confidence and eloquence. Assertiveness is also vital, as it ensures that one’s voice is heard in meetings and discussions.

Women leaders like Oprah Winfrey and Malala Yousafzai have mastered the art of communication, using their words to inspire millions and drive positive change.

  • Empowering Others

Empowering others is another leadership skill for Women that deals with equipping and enabling individuals to take ownership of their actions, decisions, and personal growth. It involves providing them with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities needed to make meaningful contributions and take on increased responsibilities.

Empowering others also entails fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where people feel confident, motivated, and encouraged to reach their full potential. This not only benefits individuals but also enhances team dynamics and overall organizational success.

  • Self-Confidence

Confidence is one of the key leadership for women. Becoming a female leader necessitates having the confidence to surmount obstacles and setbacks. 

Rather than succumbing to circumstances or relying on others to identify and eliminate barriers, self-assured women proactively take the lead, motivating and empowering those around them to do likewise.

Therefore, female leaders should believe in their abilities, knowledge, and expertise. This self-confidence not only helps in decision-making but also inspires others to follow. Practice self-affirmation, and remember that your voice and perspective are valuable.

  • Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence, or EQ, plays a pivotal role in leadership. It encompasses self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to manage emotions. Understanding the emotions and motivations of yourself and others allows for better collaboration, conflict resolution, and team building. 

Women possessing emotional intelligence exhibit a sense of inner tranquility that allows them to lead without succumbing to ego-driven impulses. They adeptly navigate their emotions, ensuring they don’t interfere with their capacity to make sound decisions and maintaining assertiveness rather than reactivity.

Resilient women in leadership positions possess a deep sense of empathy towards those under their guidance, placing others’ needs on par with their own. Their focus extends beyond personal advancement, demonstrating an ability to gracefully disregard unsound advice without causing offense to the advisers.

Cultivate your emotional intelligence by actively practicing empathy and active listening.

  • Decision-Making and Problem-Solving

Leaders are faced with countless decisions and challenges. Effective decision-making and problem-solving are crucial skills for navigating the complex terrain of leadership.

Women may encounter unique challenges in decision-making roles, such as being second-guessed or facing biases. To excel in this area, it’s essential to have a systematic approach to decision-making, considering facts, risks, and long-term consequences.

  • Resilience and Adaptability

Leadership is not without its trials. Resilience—the ability to bounce back from setbacks—and adaptability—the capacity to thrive in changing environments—are vital attributes.

Resilience is cultivated through facing adversity with a positive mindset, seeking solutions, and learning from failures. Adaptability involves staying open to change, embracing innovation, and adjusting to new circumstances.

  • Leading by Example

Leading by example is a fundamental aspect of leadership where leaders inspire and guide their teams through their own actions and behaviors. It means living out the values, ethics, and principles you expect from your team. When leaders walk the talk, they not only gain trust and respect but also motivate others to follow suit.

This approach fosters a culture of integrity, responsibility, and excellence within the team or organization. Leading by example is a powerful leadership tool, as it shows that actions carry weight in leadership, often speaking louder than words.

As more women ascend to leadership positions, the landscape of leadership is diversifying, enriching organizations and societies. Leadership skills are not confined to gender; they are about capabilities, determination, and the drive to make a positive impact. Women who possess these leadership skills for women are paving the way to success, inspiring generations to come and proving that leadership knows no gender boundaries.

When I talk about women and leadership, I refer to the Ellen Johnsons of yesterday, today and
tomorrow. I refer to Sahle –Work Zewde, I refer to Ilhan Omar, I refer to Michelle Obama and
last but not least! So close to home! Kenyan first female major General Fatuma Ahmed
Gaiti.This women have broken glass ceilings that most thought were impossible goals for
women to achieve.

They didn’t do it overnight that’s for sure but the courage, the perseverance, the name calling
and shaming they must have endured during their rise to success must have been alot.Some of
them are still in the game and some are out of it but not completely out of it.This brings me to
my main reason of putting it down in writing. My main question is, have women been fully
accepted as worthy opponents for their male counterparts in different professional fields? I
don’t want to come out sounding like us women are crying over our seat at the table. At this
point and time, we are not crying or being nice to get what we deserve and have earned but we
are asking for our seat at the table, that which we have worked for.

I know that last sentence in that last paragraph might follow up with sneers from some people
but hey, it’s time people, not only women but also men stood up for what they believe they
have rightfully achieved. Recently when I was having a bit of a discussion with my colleagues on
women in power and their journey to where they are right now, made me realize that men are
still not ready for women in power. Saying it as it is. I can’t blame one of my colleagues for his
ignorance because the society that we are brought up in and that which we are living in right
now, has portrayed the girl child mostly as someone who seeks favors from men because of
their gender.

The perception that people have when a woman is in power is different from that which they
have when a man is in the same position. Quoting Rita Kavashe, Isuzu East Africa MD,who says
she was being mistaken at first for being the MD’s secretary and not the MD during her first
days as Isuzu MD, goes a long way to clearly bring out the fact that people still don’t consider
women as ‘worthy’ of some positions as they do men. The only thing that some people can
think of when they see women making it professionally is that they got there through shrewd
means .This not only disrespects those women who have earned their place at the table
through their own sweat, but it also demoralizes our women!

Its’s time we start bringing up the young generation with better values and ideologies. It’s time
we strengthened both sexes for them to know that claiming what they have worked so hard for
is not a crime neither is it a favor. Women should not cower in fear of people’s perception of
their limits. Be limitless; strive to concur what you set your heart in. As Oprah puts it, ‘Be the
one thing you think you cannot do. Fail at it. Try again. Do better the second time. The only
people who never tumble are those who never mount the high wire. This is your moment, own
it.

About Dorothy

She is currently a front desk agent/cashier at Acacia Premier Hotel Kisumu .Passionate about writing articles that has direct impact on women. She is 24 years old,determined to empower fellow women and just shed light on different relevant issues.You can contact her via her  email address ; odhiamboodorothy1@gmail.com.