Suncor is incredibly proud to congratulate Shelley Powell, Senior Vice President - Operational Improvement & Support Services, on receiving a Calgary Influential Women in Business (CIWB) Award by Axis Connects.
Shelley is the 2025 recipient in the Large Enterprise category, a recognition honouring senior female leaders driving business success, shaping company culture and championing change in their industries.
With more than 30 years in the energy sector, Shelley has built a career rooted in resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to empowering others. Her journey at Suncor has taken her far and wide, spanning upstream and downstream operations across the United States and Canada. From her early days as a process operator in Sarnia — flashlight and pipe wrench in hand — to leading global teams today, her path reflects the power of perseverance and supporting others along the way.
“I am extremely honoured to receive this award,” says Shelley. “More than anything, I hope young women see what I have achieved and feel inspired to believe they can do the same — or go even further.”
Shelley’s leadership philosophy centres on empowering others to be successful and nurturing excellence.
"I believe everyone comes to work each day wanting to do their best,” says Shelley. “As a leader, my role is to support and encourage them to reach their full potential — even if their approach differs from mine. I’ve learned leadership isn’t about molding people into my image, rather it’s about helping them grow into the best version of themselves.”
She also acknowledges that some of the most significant growth comes through adversity. That’s why she advises others to embrace difficult situations as opportunities for learning and transformation.
“The defining moments in my career — the ones that truly mattered — have often been the most challenging,” says Shelley. “At the time, I wished they would pass quickly. But looking back, I’m grateful for those experiences. They taught me so much about myself, about leadership, and about navigating complex situations.”
For Shelley, every challenge is a chance to develop new strengths and build resilience. Her advice? “Pursue the things that scare you, challenge you and help you grow. But always stay true to who you are and prioritize taking care of yourself.”
Beyond her work at Suncor, Shelley’s leadership extends into the community. She sits on the board of trustees for the Alberta Cancer Foundation and the board of directors of Canada Powered by Women. Shelley also previously chaired the board of governors of Keyano College and served on the board of directors at the Wood Buffalo Community Foundation. Her passion for education, mentorship, and creating opportunities for future generations underscores her belief that leadership is about making a lasting impact where it matters most.
“Awards like this are important because they help normalize women’s achievements,” Shelley says. “I hope they encourage all of us to celebrate each other, cheer each other on, and create a supportive environment where we can all succeed together.”
This recognition from the CIWB Awards is a testament to both Shelley’s remarkable career and her unwavering dedication to championing others. As she continues to lead, mentor and inspire, her legacy will extend far beyond her accomplishments to include how she lifts others and shapes a future where success is defined not just by individual achievements, but through collective impact.
