Committee for the Professional Development of Women

The mission of the Committee for the Professional Development of Women (CPDW) is to draw upon the unique perspectives and talents of women to further the goals of the Association and to encourage women's participation and involvement in the environmental profession. The committee is open to any member of the Association who is willing to participate in its activities.

Annual Conference Workshop
Each year, the CPDW plans the Women's Professional Development Luncheon & Workshop at the Annual Conference & Exhibition (ACE). The 2025 panel, Breaking Boundaries, will bring together a group of diverse women to discuss their unique perspectives and experiences in the workplace.

Find more event details and make your plans to attend this year's program in Raleigh!


Commitee Chair: Sonia Melançon, Ph.D., Chemist, City of Montreal Air Quality Network

Sonia Melançon is a chemist for Montreal’s air quality network called Réseau de surveillance de la qualité de l’air at Ville de Montréal. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry (2003, Université de Montréal) and a doctoral degree in environmental science (2008, University of Windsor). She has a solid background in analytical and environmental chemistry with over 10 years of professional experience at Ville de Montréal in the environmental division. She is responsible for air quality data validation and the development of quality assurance and quality control procedures. She has participated in more than 30 conferences in both English and French and co-wrote a book chapter entitled Airshed Management in Air Quality Management: Canadian Perspectives on a Global Issue (2004, Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht). Sonia is the Chair for The Committee for the Professional Development of Women of the Education Council.