In our latest Leadership Connect feature, we spotlight Tricia Christie, Deputy Examiner of Surveys at Teranet Manitoba, whose career reflects resilience, technical excellence, and a commitment to breaking barriers in land surveying. As we recognize the leaders and changemakers who inspire us leading up to International Women’s Day, Tricia’s story reflects the spirit of We Connect through meaningful impact across our business and the communities we serve. From safeguarding the integrity of Manitoba’s land titles system to becoming the first woman to serve as President of the Association of Manitoba Land Surveyors, Tricia’s journey is one of purposeful leadership, progress, and representation.
1. Tell us about your role at Teranet Manitoba
I’m a Deputy Examiner of Surveys, a statutory role established by The Real Property Act of Manitoba. My primary responsibility is to examine and approve survey plans—like subdivisions, easements, and condominiums—that are registered at the Land Titles Office, ensuring they meet the legal and technical requirements for land registration in Manitoba.
The role involves a combination of technical expertise, legislative interpretation, and decision making. Beyond plan examination, I act as a subject matter expert for interpreting land descriptions and providing guidance on survey matters. Overall, the impact is far reaching. Accurate plans are essential for property rights, land development, and public confidence in the land titles system.
2. You recently became President of the Association of Manitoba Land Surveyors (AMLS). What did this mean to you and what do you plan to focus on?
Becoming President of the AMLS was deeply meaningful to me. In the 145 year history of the Association, I am the first woman to serve as President. Holding that space is not something I take lightly. Representation matters, especially for future generations who may not yet see themselves reflected in this profession.
My focus is on supporting a strong and modern self-regulating profession. A key priority is enhancing our professional development program, so surveyors have meaningful and accessible opportunities to continue learning throughout their careers. I’m also committed to strengthening governance, engaging with surveyors, and fostering an environment where more women feel welcome to enter, contribute, and lead within our profession.
3. What’s one leadership lesson or career moment that shaped how you lead today?
During university, I faced significant health challenges. That period of uncertainty forced me to pause and reflect on what truly mattered. It clarified something for me. I wanted to pursue work that was meaningful and technical. I chose to focus on geomatics engineering and made a conscious decision to return to Manitoba to serve the province where I grew up.
That experience informed how I lead today. It taught me resilience and, more importantly, intentionality and purpose. This is what drives me to lead initiatives and take responsibility. I’m energized by solving problems and asking the questions that uncover opportunities for improvement.
4. What advice would you give to women (or anyone) building a career in surveying or in a technical field?
I won’t pretend the path always felt equal or straightforward. At times, it felt like my progression took longer than some of the men around me. But what I’ve come to understand is that timelines are not measures of capability, they’re just different paths unfolding. What made a difference for me was mentorship and role models. Support from leaders within Teranet, as well as people who modeled integrity, confidence, and professionalism, helped me see what was possible.
My advice is to seek mentors and pay attention to the people you quietly learn from. You don’t have to follow someone else’s timeline to build a successful career. And when you’re in a position to do so, become the mentor you once needed.
Tricia Christie’s journey is a powerful example of what it means to lead with intention, open doors for others, and help move a profession forward. Through her resilience, mentorship, and commitment to representation, Tricia is not only helping shape the future of land surveying in Manitoba, but she is also helping inspire the next generation to see themselves in technical and leadership roles.
