Throughout her extensive career, Yvette has worked in various fields, including Orthopedics, Medical-Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU), Coronary Care Unit (CCU), Outpatient Department (OPD), and the Cancer Center at the Health Sciences Centre (HSC). In 2018, she broadened her experience by working in Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories. Since 2021, Yvette has been serving as the President of RNUNL.
Yvette’s career is marked by a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. She has participated in numerous educational programs, earning certifications such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Prisma Critical Care, Chemotherapy Administration, and Occupational Health & Safety. She has also completed the Harvard Business School Leadership Principles Certificate Program and attended the prestigious Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference.
Her union involvement spans over three decades, beginning shortly after graduation as a shop steward. Yvette has held various roles, including Occupational Health & Safety Officer and Branch President of Branch 3 for 14 years. She played pivotal roles in negotiations, including the Strike of 1999 and subsequent health forums addressing critical workplace challenges. As Provincial Vice-President from 2014 to 2020 and now as President, Yvette has been a steadfast advocate for RNUNL members, focusing on labor relations, strategic planning, and improving working conditions.
Yvette has led several initiatives, serving on committees such as the Occupational Health & Safety Advisory Council (now as Chair), the NL Federation of Labour Executive Council, and various task forces. Her leadership includes advocacy for publicly funded healthcare, better compensation and benefits for nurses, and systemic improvements to working conditions. She is also involved in lobbying for broader labor rights, such as wage increases for Early Childhood Educators and improved workplace safety measures.
Yvette’s philosophy, “Treat others as you would like to be treated,” has guided her interactions and leadership. She remains passionate about nursing and union work, drawing inspiration from her colleagues and RNUNL members. Although she misses front-line nursing and patient care, she finds immense fulfillment in representing and advocating for nurses and nurse practitioners across the province.
Her key achievements include receiving the CFNU Bread & Roses Award and her appointments to significant task forces and advisory roles, demonstrating her impact on healthcare policy and advocacy.