WHATI/LAC LA MARTRE
Lisa Nitsiza is learning everything she can about running a municipality. As Whati's newly-hired senior administrative officer trainee, Nitsiza said she spends part of each day reviewing municipal bylaws to make sure she knows them inside and out.
Lisa Nitsiza: training to become Whati's senior administrative officer. |
"I have to do a lot of reading," she said. "You need to know your municipal bylaws."
The 37-year-old said she wants to be as well versed as she can when it comes to knowing how Whati operates. She said that way, she can ensure that if a community member comes to her with a question, she will know how to respond.
"It's a job where I need to know the answers," she said. "I need to deal with
people one-on-one."
Nitsiza is originally from Behchoko. She graduated from Chief Jimmy Bruneau Regional High School in Behchoko before putting in two years at Red Deer College's Bachelor of Education program in Alberta. She also completed a one-year management studies program at Aurora College in Yellowknife.
She moved to Whati two years ago after being hired as an economic development officer with the Tlicho Government. Nitsiza recently married a Whati resident on March 23. She said the majority of her husband's family lives in the community.
She said is looking forward to her new role.
"I hope it will be a challenge, something different," she said.
Nitsiza said while she was thrilled she got the job, she had a few small anxieties. Once her training is complete and she steps into the SAO position, she would be responsible for a full staff.
"I was excited, and yet nervous," she said.
Nevertheless, Nitsiza said there are a number of projects she is looking forward to helping manage, such as the expansion of the administrative building, which is scheduled to begin this fall.
"We're going to expand the building, so I'll be dealing with a lot of contractors as well," she said. "It's very hands on."
Nitsiza said she believes there are many qualities that go into ensuring an SAO is right for the job, including patience and good organizational skills.
"You are going to be dealing with the community, you need patience to answer questions," she said.
She said she believes the key to success is to take the time to master skills before moving on to new challenges.
"Start somewhere you're comfortable," she said. "Once you're comfortable, challenge yourself to a higher position."
