As a Licensed Practical Nurse, McFadgen has worked in long-term care for 20 years. She was elected CUPE Nova Scotia President in 2016, representing 19,000 members, and as Regional Vice-President for Nova Scotia on CUPE’s National Executive Board in May 2016. Nan is a member of CUPE Local 2330 representing long-term care and community service workers in Pictou County and has been a CUPE member since 1999.