As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognize the invaluable contributions of women who are breaking barriers and driving innovation in industries traditionally dominated by men. Today, we shine a spotlight on Patricia Giunta, Sales Director at Canada Masq, whose expertise in compliance and regulatory processes plays a critical role in upholding the integrity of Canada Masq’s manufacturing operations. 

With a steadfast commitment to quality and safety, Patricia ensures that Canada Masq’s manufacturing processes align with the highest industry and regulatory standards. By overseeing compliance with CSA, ASTM, ISO, and MDEL certifications, she helps ensure that every step of production—from process development to final product release—meets stringent safety and performance requirements. Her leadership in compliance drives operational excellence and continuous improvement, reinforcing Canada Masq’s position as a trusted leader in PPE manufacturing. 

Interview 

Q: Patricia, thank you for joining us. Can you tell us about your journey with Canada Masq and what inspired you to enter the manufacturing industry? 

Patricia Giunta: Thank you for having me. My journey with Canada Masq began almost at the company’s inception, during a time when the demand for high-quality PPE was at its peak. I was drawn to the industry because it provided a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on public health. Manufacturing PPE goes beyond production—it’s about delivering protection, reliability, and peace of mind. Seeing our products in use and knowing they play a vital role in safeguarding people’s lives is incredibly fulfilling. 

Q: Compliance is critical in PPE manufacturing. How do these regulatory standards shape your role and Canada Masq’s commitment to quality? 

Patricia Giunta: Compliance isn’t just a requirement—it’s the foundation of our work. At Canada Masq, we adhere to rigorous standards, including CSA, ASTM, ISO, and MDEL, ensuring that every product meets the highest level of safety and performance. These certifications are more than checkboxes; they validate the reliability of our products in critical environments. My role is to oversee and maintain this commitment, ensuring that we consistently exceed industry standards while reinforcing trust with our customers and end-users. 

Q: You’ve played a key role in securing multiple certifications for Canada Masq. How have these processes influenced the company’s growth and operations? 

Patricia Giunta: Certifications are a testament to our commitment to excellence. CSA and ASTM set the benchmark for performance and safety, ensuring that our masks and respirators meet the stringent requirements needed in healthcare and industrial settings. Our MDEL license ensures we comply with Health Canada’s strict medical device regulations, while our ongoing ISO 13485 certification process underscores our dedication to quality management at every stage of production. FDA clearance, in turn, positions us for international expansion, opening doors to new markets. 

One of the achievements I am most proud of is leading Canada Masq through the CSA certification process for our respirators. Before the pandemic, Canada did not have its own national standard for respirators—this was an entirely new certification framework. Canada Masq is the only company to achieve the highest level of certification on four sizes of respirators, ensuring that all Canadians—regardless of their face size or shape—have access to a high-quality, Canadian-made respirator. This not only sets us apart in the industry but also reinforces our mission of providing superior protection for all. Each certification strengthens our brand, reinforces product integrity, and allows us to stay ahead in a competitive industry. 

Q: As a leader in manufacturing, what advice would you give to young women looking to build a career in this field? 

Patricia Giunta: Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Manufacturing is a fast-paced, dynamic industry where innovation thrives, and women bring invaluable perspectives to the table. My advice? Be confident in your abilities, stay curious, and continuously seek knowledge. Compliance, quality, and operational excellence are the backbone of this industry—mastering these areas will set you apart. 

Above all, don’t be afraid to push boundaries and step into roles traditionally filled by men. Women bring a fresh vision, innovative thinking, and a different approach to leadership and problem-solving—qualities that are needed now more than ever. By challenging the status quo, we help shape a more inclusive, forward-thinking industry that benefits from diverse perspectives. Your contributions matter, and the industry needs your voice to drive meaningful change. 

Conclusion 

Patricia Giunta’s leadership and unwavering dedication to compliance and quality propel Canada Masq forward, setting a benchmark for safety in PPE manufacturing. But beyond that, her journey is a testament to the power of breaking barriers and redefining what leadership in manufacturing looks like. 

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we honor trailblazers like Patricia, who prove that women not only belong in manufacturing but also thrive in roles that were once considered off-limits. By bringing fresh ideas, reshaping industry standards, and leading with innovation, women are transforming the future of manufacturing. 

Patricia’s story serves as an inspiration for the next generation of women ready to challenge expectations, push boundaries, and leave their mark in manufacturing and beyond.