Amber Leslie, B Foreman, Capital Electrical Systems
VICTORIA – As the construction landscape of Greater Victoria continues on its growth trajectory, Capital Electrical Systems continues to maintain its reputation for delivering high-quality commercial and residential electrical work that shapes communities.
Based in Victoria, B.C., Capital Electrical Systems prides itself on its extensive expertise in the design and construction side of electrical systems with a plethora of service offerings. Founded in 2005, Capital Electrical Systems is known for its breadth of work, from custom-built homes to wiring complex commercial facilities.
As a key player in Langford’s booming development, where new neighborhoods, commercial plazas, and multi-use buildings are rapidly emerging, the company continues to make its mark with standout projects. At the heart of this dynamic company is Amber Leslie, a B Foreman whose leadership and resilience reflect both personal determination and a broader shift in the trades industry.
But Amber’s path to becoming a B Foreman wasn’t without challenges. Like many women who enter the trades, she faced a steep learning curve—one made more daunting by her lack of early exposure to tools and hands-on work.
“I would say for myself, one of the most challenging things was I didn’t have much on-tools experience,” she recalls. “I didn’t work with tools when I was a kid or have that early leadership so stepping into the trade was pretty nerve-racking.”
Capital Electric Systems employees (from left to right) Left to right: Christina Gosselin, Amber Leslie, Samira Drezaemami, Cezanne Insley, Kyara Caldwell.
Despite these early obstacles, Amber persisted. She committed herself to learning the craft, pushing past the doubts and overcoming the setbacks that often accompany a steep technical learning process. The company prides itself on fostering a team-oriented environment where foremen like Amber are given the responsibility and autonomy to lead projects from concept to completion, which she has done through hard work.
“Throughout the years I was pretty hard on myself if I didn’t get something right away or learn something quick,” she admits. “Over the years, I have found that it is a lifetime skill and it takes time, it takes years and you will never know everything.”
Amber’s patient and grounded outlook has served her well, not just technically but also in her role as a leader. As a B Foreman, she oversees crews, coordinates with contractors and clients, and ensures that work meets both safety and quality standards. Her leadership is rooted in empathy and precision—qualities that often go unrecognized in the trades but are crucial to success.
Amber’s experience as a woman in the electrical trade mirrors that of many others who have entered traditionally male-dominated industries.
“When I did first start out, I was anxious as a female on a job site,” she says. “But as time went on I started to fit in more.”
The initial feeling of being an outsider is common, but so is the resilience that follows. Over time, her skills, dedication, and attitude helped her earn respect on the job site, and now, as a foreman, she’s helping to change perceptions for the next generation.
“Women are really good at what they do,” she emphasizes. “They are more meticulous, they are very good tradespeople because of some innate qualities and I wish that there were more.”
Amber’s journey is emblematic of broader changes happening in the trades. As demand for skilled workers continues to grow across the country, companies like Capital Electrical Systems are increasingly recognizing the value of diverse perspectives and leadership styles. Amber’s story underscores how technical ability, perseverance, and inclusivity can combine to create lasting impact—not just on job sites, but across the entire industry.
With Langford continuing to expand and Capital Electrical Systems growing along with it, Amber’s role is more important than ever. Her leadership not only helps deliver successful projects but also sets a powerful example for women considering careers in the trades.
www.capitalelectricalsystems.com
