Crafting a career: Clare Simon’s journey in the Cenovus New Grad program

Starting a career isn’t just about landing a job – it’s about finding a place where your values, ambitions and curiosity align. For Clare Simon, that alignment came to life through hands-on mechanical work at Cenovus as well as the company’s commitment to continuous learning. From tackling technical challenges at our Sunrise operations to participating in the Skills Canada National Competition, Clare is making the most of her time as a Millwright Apprentice in our New Grad Program. With a strong focus on safety and growth, she is building a solid foundation for the future of her career in the skilled trades. We caught up with Clare to hear about her journey so far,  and what she plans to do next.

Q: How did you first hear about Cenovus’s New Grad Program, and what made you think "this is the place for me?”
A: I first learned about the Cenovus New Grad Program from a former colleague at a previous organization, who had spent time working at Sunrise and shared positive feedback about their experience. My desire for a technically challenging role motivated me to apply for the Millwright Apprentice position in the program. In the beginning the change felt uneasy; however, I knew stepping outside of my comfort zone was the best way to grow and get meaningful experience. I knew Cenovus was the right place for me once I learned about the company’s core values and commitment to safety. These principles align closely with my own, and I was drawn to an organization that prioritizes integrity, responsibility and the well-being of its people and the environment.

Q: Can you share some of the coolest projects you've worked on or places you’ve gone to during your New Grad rotations? Which teams were you with, and what made those projects stand out?
A: My journey with Cenovus started at our Sunrise oil sands operations. During my time there, one of the most significant and interesting jobs I’ve been involved in was taking part in replacing the mechanical seal on one of our high-pressure boiler feedwater pumps. It’s not something we do often, but when it comes up, it takes real precision and attention to detail to get it right. I also took part in the Skills Canada National Competition in Regina, where I partnered with the Cenovus Campus team to speak with students and skilled trades professionals about career opportunities. It was also an opportunity to share my experience in the trades and build new relationships inside and outside Cenovus while networking with like-minded people.

Q: How do you think being part of the New Grad Program will shape your career in the long run? Any big dreams or goals?
A: The New Grad Program provides a valuable opportunity that combines structured learning with real-world experience. It allowed me to discover where my strengths lie, and where I should seek improvement. Through technical training, I gained a deep appreciation for the importance of safety in every aspect of the job. The teams I worked with showed me that Cenovus’s core values are truly embraced, and that safety is more than a set of rules; it’s a shared commitment.

My goal now is to complete trade school and achieve my journeyman ticket as a millwright. I look forward to gaining more hands-on experience, learning from skilled tradespeople and understanding the work and standards expected in the field. In the long run, I hope to eventually mentor an apprentice of my own. I know how important it is to have strong guidance early on, and I’d love to pay that support forward when the time comes.

Q: What makes you the most excited when you think about your future with Cenovus?
A: When I think about my future with Cenovus, it excites me to think about all of the learning opportunities that I will continue to experience. I’m also excited to join other teams and assets across the business. My next rotation will be at Christina Lake, so I am excited to learn at an expanded facilitywith different equipment that I haven’t seen or worked on before, such as gas turbines. Every new opportunity provides unique challenges, and I’m eager to take advantage of them as I grow in my career at Cenovus.

Q: When you're not working, what's your go-to activity for fun and relaxation? Any hobbies or interests that might surprise us?
A: Outside of work I enjoy spending time outdoors. I love to spend time in the mountains, so one of my long-term goals is to hike the Dolomites in Italy. I also hope to snowboard in the Swiss Alps and Japan in the future. When I’m home in Fort McMurray I stay active by golfing, kayaking, playing hockey on the outdoor rink and spending time with my two dogs. I also enjoy weekends at my lake lot and make the most of any time off by exploring new places. During Alberta’s long winters, you’ll often find me escaping to someplace warm, ideally relaxing on a beach. Travel is a big passion of mine, and I’m always planning my next road trip or getaway.

Q: Do you have any advice for soon-to-be graduates that are about to start their careers?
A: This is the start of your journey. This is the best time to discover where you excel, what you love doing and perhaps what isn’t for you. The journey may be challenging,but this is the first step, and everyone has once been where you are right now. Every day will bring various learning opportunities so take advantage of them. Focus on the things that go right and pay attention when things go wrong, because that is when you will grow the most.

Opportunities to join our New Grad Program are typically posted between May and August each year but keep an eye on our postings regularly as openings may arise. To make sure you don't miss out, set a job alert on our careers page so you're notified when new opportunities become available.

LAST UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 2025