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Q: What is your education and background?

A: In 2016 I completed my Foundations ticket here at OC after first trying welding while living overseas in New Zealand. With the help of WITT and MNBC I completed all my levels here at the college.
I bounced around all over BC including the Kootenays and Revelstoke where I built inland ferries and worked for CP Rail.

Q: What is your area of interest?

A: I enjoy working creatively with my hands, whether that’s welding and trying new technology, building metal sculptures, creating art or exploring trails on my bike.

Q: When did you know that you had found your discipline?

A: While living in New Zealand I tried welding for the first time and fell in love with it. To be able to create something from nothing was amazing. The possibilities are endless with this trade and that really inspired me to pursue it.

Q: Why did you choose to work at Okanagan College?

A: I’m local to the Similkameen so being close to family is nice. OC has always been a welcoming place. Completing all my schooling and testing here, I still had connections with some of my old instructors. I never thought I would get into instructing, but it was right time, right place for me and I am so happy to be here.

Q:  What do you like most about the work that you do?

A: The fact that I get to combine creativity, problem solving and hands on skills while helping others learn and grow.

Q: Favourite teaching experience (so far)?

A: I love how rewarding, challenging and fulfilling teaching can be. I enjoy helping students build confidence in their skills and do something they never thought they could. Everyday brings new challenges and seeing that moment something clicks for them is really special. It’s amazing to be part of the student’s success as they develop both personally and professionally.

Q: Who gave you the best advice you ever received?

A: Something that I have carried with me throughout my career is to not let fear stop me from challenging myself. Fear doesn’t mean you can’t do something, it usually means you’re stepping into something new and unfamiliar. Some of the biggest opportunities for growth come from pushing past the discomfort, taking the chance, and trusting yourself.

Q:  What advice do you have for new students?

A: Stay curious, work hard, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Learning something new takes patience and persistence. Continue to challenge yourself and learn new things, the effort you put in now will open doors to many opportunities in the future.

Q:  Why do you think people should study trades?

A: Studying any trade is rewarding and offers endless opportunities. You build practical skills, solve problems, and at the end of the day you have built something that you can be proud of. There are so many different career paths within trades and the skills we learn are always in demand. I think it’s really smart to get a ticket in something you’re interested in even if it’s just something to fall back on.

Q: If you could go back in time, is there anything you would do differently?

A: I wouldn’t change anything. Everything I’ve done brought me to the place where I am now and I am proud of everything I have accomplished.

Q:  Where are you the happiest?

A: I am happiest when I am creating. Whether it’s building something, making metal art, or painting. Creativity has always been a big part of my life.