Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta and Bouchier Proudly Present Nicole Deitz As The Third Woman of Inspiration For 2024/2025
Fort McMurray, Alberta – October 9 2024 – Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta and Bouchier proudly present Nicole Deitz as the third Woman of Inspiration for 2024/2025.
Nicole, the Branch Leader at Acera Insurance, has been recognized for her exceptional leadership, humbleness, and dedication. Her colleagues nominated Nicole for her outstanding ability to empower and support those around her. They acknowledge Nicole as someone who not only recognizes the unique strengths and talents of each team member but also provides them with opportunities for growth and development. Nicole’s ability to motivate her team is truly inspirational.
When Nicole first learned about her nomination, she was deeply moved. Her colleagues had read their nomination letter to her prior to submitting it, and she described the experience as “overwhelming”. Never expecting to be chosen, she was shocked and immensely grateful to receive the award when she received the call last week. This raw and honest reaction is a testament to Nicole’s humility and the impact of the recognition on her.
Nicole’s journey to Fort McMurray at the age of twenty-one marked the beginning of an extraordinary career at Acera Insurance, formally Rogers Insurance. Recognized for her potential as a leader by her senior leadership team, Nicole has been the Branch Leader since 2016. She has successfully steered her team through significant challenges, including the Horse River Fire, the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 flood, and the everyday emergencies and incidents that insurance brokers navigate. Nicole has cultivated a collaborative environment that promotes innovation and encourages the sharing of ideas. Notably, Nicole mentions that she hates the manager title, stating, “I don’t want to manage people; I want to lead them to succeed.”
Nicole’s leadership style is characterized by her ability to lead by example, inspire, and advocate for her staff. She has fostered a community of empowerment and inclusivity, identifying people’s potential and guiding them toward success by encouraging them in the right direction and providing support along the way. “When you give them that little nudge, it is important they understand it’s not a jump, it’s a walk.”, said Nicole. Her encouragement has led to staff members taking on new roles, including four receptionists in the last three years, all of whom have transitioned into new positions within the company.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Nicole is an active volunteer in the community, particularly supporting her children’s after-school sports and activities. Her involvement with the Ringette Association earned her the title of the ‘heart of the Fusion team.’ Whether at work, at home with her family, or in her volunteer work, Nicole is known for her wholehearted dedication. This commitment to her community further demonstrates Nicole’s leadership and caring nature.
Nicole’s humble and empathetic approach to leadership has resulted in a team of loyal employees. In her eight years as the Branch Lead, she has only had six employees leave, all due to extenuating circumstances. Nicole acknowledges that her biggest challenge as a leader is confronting conflict, which can be relatable to many. Her humility makes her a leader that her team can relate to and feel comfortable around.
When asked what advice she would give to young girls about being a leader, Nicole said: “Anyone can be a leader. You just have to be willing to help people along the way and be open to whatever comes your way. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a men’s league; you can still shine.”
Nicole will join Lorraine Albert, Chantal Beaver, and two more Women of Inspiration (to be announced in the coming months) at LEADERS OF TODAY: Women of Inspiration Celebration 2025, presented by Bouchier, in support of Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta, on March 8, 2025, at Shell Place, MacDonald Island. For ticket and event details, visit here.
Become part of ‘Waves of Change’ by immersing yourself in how the five Women of Inspiration 2024/25, including Nicole Deitz, are charting the path to inspiration.
If you know extraordinary women who are leading the way to inspiration, particularly through their decision-making, we urge you to nominate them. The next deadline is October 30, 2024. Nomination details are available here.
