Meet Heidi Beltrame- Mail Sorter

Position: Mail Sorter

How long have you worked at McMaster? 35 years in the same department

Tell us a little bit about yourself: I have been with McMaster for 35 years, who would have thought, not me.  I lucked in for sure!

I thought I would share a very sensitive subject.

I lost my Husband 8 years ago.  He was sick for a very long time.  I was fortunate enough to have the benefits McMaster provides.  You don’t get that in too many workplaces.  I have suffered terribly. 8 years later, I am working out again, hooking up with old & supportive friends.  Travelling and moving forward.  Caregivers are the only thing a loved one wants. I did it, and I would do it again.

In 3 sentences or less, describe your job and the best part of your job? I lead the team on their duties daily, and everyone comes to me, including my manager, with direction or questions.

Tell us about a mentor that you’ve had and how they supported your career development? Or how you’ve mentored someone and supported their development? I can honestly say that I have mentored all of the team. Lately I have taken Shirley under my wing to guide & mentor her as I will be retiring soon.

What is your favourite quote and why? I march to the beat of a different drummer. My Late Mom told me that. She also would call me Lady Godiva.

The Division of Operations and Finance has identified the core values that run through all of our work: curiosity, accountability, quality, empathy, teamwork, inclusiveness, and integrity. Please tell us which value means the most to you and why, and any work you are doing that embodies or speaks to the value. Curiosity for sure. I need to know why and how everything works. When I train I make sure to show “how to” but why and how it plays out in the big picture.

What is a piece of advice you would give to someone embarking on their career at McMaster University? I would tell them to embrace McMaster as I have. I am an ambassador for McMaster. McMaster is my second family.