Diane Campbell: Assistant Deputy Minister, Meteorological Service of Canada

Meet Diane Campbell. Diane has spent almost 40 years in the federal public service, between her time with Natural Resources Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada. As Assistant Deputy Minister for the Meteorological Service of Canada, Diane Campbell is passionate about the implementation of science-based programs that will have an impact on the everyday lives of Canadians.

Diane has worked in a number of capacities, beginning her career as a summer student working with the eco-toxicology laboratories at the Canada Centre of Inland Waters. She describes this opportunity as a ‘dream come true’, sparking her desire to spend a career working to make Canada a better place for future generations.

Diane’s work has given her the chance to travel to many parts of Canada and see a wide range of industrial operations, scientific study areas and conservation areas and parks. One of Diane’s most memorable trips was when she visited the Eureka weather station in Nunavut. She says that travelling to such an incredible part of the planet was a life changing experience.

Diane has observed many exciting advancements throughout her career with ECCC. “I think we are at one of those pivot points where the amount of data and information about the world around us, and the new tools we have to exploit this information, are changing the way science will evolve on a global basis,” she says. “Working in the MSC has given me a view into this world, and the potential is astounding. As society embraces this new ability, we will also need to work through the social and environmental justice considerations that come with it.”

Throughout her various roles, Diane has consistently been inspired by the people and mission of ECCC. “I have worked in several program areas over my career and in each place, the people are passionate about their work, whether it is science, regulation, conservation or weather services.”

To learn more about Diane Campbell’s work and the Meteorological Service of Canada, visit: Meteorological Service of Canada marks 150 years - Canada.ca

Here are a few random facts about Diane:

• What was your first job? Working in a restaurant serving food. My first summer student job was with ECCC and I loved it.
• If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be? Greece, particularly the Islands.
• Would you rather ride a bike, ride a horse, or drive a car? Drive a car – preferably my Mazda Miata with the top down.
• If you were a super-hero, what powers would you have? I would want to be able to fly, and to breathe underwater.
• If you could share a meal with anyone, living or dead, who would it be? My father, he passed away many years ago and I still miss him.
• Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Still living in the Gatineau Hills and spending time pursuing my artistic interests.