Women Making Waves - Cristina Miller
Cristina was raised in the service industry in Saint John. She started her career as a hostess at the age of 14 with her dad working as a server/bartender before he became co-owner of a restaurant. From there she had several customer service-oriented jobs such as serving in restaurants and as a Sales Lead in retail, before getting a position at Irving Oil’s call center at the age of 20. She worked her way up the ladder and over to Fuel Analytics before leaving Irving Oil and joining the DP World team in the fall of 2020. She started her career at DP World in Traffic Control but recently got promoted to a Superintendent position in operations.
In Cristina’s spare time she enjoys going for hikes and playing soccer, which she has done competitively for most of her life. She also loves to spend time with her family and pug named Frank. You can also find her at local music concerts and festivals as she is a big music fan.
1. How did you end up working in or alongside the maritime industry? Please tell us the story of how you got to your current role. July 2020 was a pivotal moment in my life. I lost my job of almost 6 years with Irving Oil due to COVID layoffs. Considering the timing and circumstances, I feared not being able to find another job. Luckily, I came across a posting online for “Traffic Coordinator” at DP World, and though I was underqualified, I applied and successfully landed the position. I was in that role for a year and half before realizing I wanted to be out in the front field and work in Operations. Here I am now two months in as Superintendent, and I couldn’t be more grateful! 2. What education have you taken a) pre-working in or alongside the maritime industry and b) since joining the maritime industry? While I don’t have a post-secondary education, I found that Irving Oil often provided opportunities to gain meaningful work experience despite a lack of degree. I started with Irving shortly after high school and with a strong work ethic and positive attitude I was recognized for my hard work, resulting in my ascent up the corporate ladder. I believe that experience, a good attitude, and work ethic can be just as valuable as a degree. 3. What is the most rewarding thing about working in or alongside this industry? The most rewarding part about working in this industry is the importance my role plays in the success and operations of our company. Knowing that my efforts and day-to-day decisions are vital for the growth of not only the port, but the city has a huge impact on me. I love watching our city evolve and be recognized on a larger scale. 4. Do you have any role models in the industry? If so, please tell us about that experience. My stepdad had a similar start in the industry as I have had. He started out at 19 years old and with hard work and dedication,he worked his way up to an engineering position on the vessels. I wasn’t always aware that this was the career path for me, but when I grew an interest, his support and guidance encouraged me to pursue this career path. 5. What is your advice for someone looking to get into this industry in our region? If I could give any advice to someone looking to get into this industry in our region, it would be to take the chance and apply anyway. The qualifications listed on job postings can be intimidating but they aren’t always required when you have work experience and other qualities that could benefit the company. Have confidence in yourself and your abilities!
