Mohawk College Alumni In Touch Magazine - Fall 2019

FALL 2019

Around

world in 75 years

the

Meet successful businessman Nick Clark ‘68 and six entrepreneurial graduates excelling in their careers.

Give the gift of education

Look inside and see how you can make a difference in the life of a Mohawk student

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INTOUCH Publisher Mohawk College Alumni Association Editor Wendy Makey – Director, Alumni Relations Content Coordinator Meaghan Drury – Alumni and Student Communications Coordinator Design Maggie Makar – Graphic Designer, Marketing and Creative Services Photography Jennifer Co, Josh McGurk, Carmine DeLuca, Alexandra Del Bello, Lauren Valvasori Contributors Kat Clark, Mary Teresa Bitti, Meaghan Drury, Jenna Yeomans, Wendy Makey, Jay Hayward, Ron McKerlie Editorial Advisory Board Martha Li – Copywriter; Lori Morgan – Acting Associate Vice President, Public Affairs, Marketing and Strategic Initiatives; Katherine McCurdy-Lapierre – Acting Chief Marketing Officer InTouch is published semi-annually by the Alumni Relations Department at Mohawk College. This magazine is circulated to alumni and friends of Mohawk College. Ideas and opinions published or expressed in InTouch do not necessarily reflect those of Mohawk College, The Alumni Association, or the Editor.

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CONTENTS FALL 2019

6

IN EVERY ISSUE FEATURES & SPOTLIGHTS Welcoming words

2-4 24 26 32

Awards & honours Alumni events Keeping in touch

AROUND CAMPUS

23 28 30

EON VR Lab College Student Success Innovation Centre Spring Convocation ‘Mountaineers Mom‘ Bernetta Scime retires from Mohawk after 35-year career

6 8 11 12 14 16 20

Melanie Wong ‘12 Born entrepreneur Joal Roshko ‘10 Building a business Lauren Valvasori ‘14 Capturing memories Monica Staats ‘97 Making an impression Jad Saliba ‘01 Re-imagining digital investigations Nick Clark ‘68 Around the world in 75 years Brian Knott ‘71 The Golf Doctor returns to Mohawk

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Welcoming Words

Entrepreneurial Mohawk grads share their successes At a time when the entrepreneurial spirit seems stronger than ever at Mohawk College, we have nurtured enterprising tendencies in students from our earliest days.

This year, more than 2,000 students are currently enrolled in entrepreneurship courses and our SURGE Entrepreneurial Hub had 3,000 students, from 45 different programs, take part in workshops last year. Students seem to be looking for ways to be creative and innovative and to take control of their own careers.

In the features and profiles you will read in this issue of In Touch, several successful Mohawk College alumni have charted their own paths toward business success, putting their Mohawk education to work with impressive results. They are role models of entrepreneurial success for the students on our campuses today.

Nick Clark ‘68, pictured on our cover, has taken his Industrial Engineering Technology - Management training across the country and around the world.

As well as holding a number of senior positions in other organizations, he was the founding president of Mission Hill Vineyards in Kelowna, BC. Most recently, he started Utility Network & Partners Inc. (UTILITYnet), Alberta‘s first privately owned electricity, natural gas and green renewable energy management, data processing and retail company.

Ron J. McKerlie President, Mohawk College

“Entrepreneurship can take many different forms and the inspiring people you will meet in these pages can testify to that fact. We are proud of the small role Mohawk College has played in the success of these entrepreneurs and their companies and we can‘t wait to see what the future looks like for our current graduates.“

Jad Saliba ‘01, built on his Computer Systems Technician Networks Systems training to establish Magnet Forensics, a global leader in the recovery of digital evidence. His software is now used by more than 4,000 organizations around the world in the investigation of crimes. His business achievements earned him recognition as a Colleges Ontario Premier‘s Award winner last year.

You will also read about Melanie Wong ‘12, who turned her Public Relations diploma and a creative bent for fashion into an ethically sourced clothing company in Burlington, called Olive + Splash. Joal Roshko ‘10, a graduate of the Construction Engineering Technician – Building Renovation program and a 2019 Alumnus of Distinction, is the co-owner and CEO of the award-winning Heartwood Renovations company. Brian Knott ‘71 returned to Mohawk recently, partnering in an applied research project. Lauren Valvasori ‘14 created an award-winning wedding photography studio with her Creative Photography – Still & Motion diploma. And Monica Staats ‘97 has grown from a Chemical Engineer Technician student to the owner and operator of the printing and design company, MTS Native Services – as well as being a community leader who volunteers on the Cayuga Language Board.

Entrepreneurship can take many different forms and the inspiring people you will meet in these pages can testify to that fact. We are proud of the small role Mohawk College has played in the success of these entrepreneurs and their companies and we can‘t wait to see what the future looks like for our current graduates.

And for those of you who don‘t know, if you are an alumnus who has just recently found your entrepreneurial spirit, we are still here to help you.

Whatever your business idea, SURGE offers free one-on-one mentoring to Mohawk students and alumni who are entrepreneurs or want to become entrepreneurs.

Inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit, we remain…future ready.

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Welcoming Words

Message from the Chair Lately I‘ve been thinking, are there commonalities to producing sustainable success?

What makes for a truly successful entrepreneur?

What makes exceptional students excel?

Jay Hayward ‘99 Business Administration

Is there a key common element of success in all of the past Mohawk Alumni of Distinction award winners?

There are many things that contribute to success; however, I believe the things that are common amongst everyone are first, a clear vision of what their effort will result in, and second, opportunity and third, support.

Most students and graduates have a vision of what they are trying to accomplish. However, many struggle to acquire the support they require to make that dream a reality. That is why I am so very proud of being involved with the Mohawk College Alumni Council and the Mohawk Foundation.

These teams work tirelessly to develop support channels, so that every student has the opportunity to succeed. But what has really impressed me is the understanding that the requirements of today‘s donors have changed. People with the ability to provide support, whether in time, knowledge or financially, need to know clearly that their contribution is going to good use. Mohawk College leadership knows this and is clearly putting this knowledge to work, ensuring that donors know how their donations are having an impact.

If you have time, talent or treasure that can help a student reach their dreams, I invite you to consider supporting Mohawk College. It will have an impact that not only could change one life, but the community at large.

2019-2020 Mohawk College Alumni Advisory Council The Alumni Association thanks these individuals for their valued contributions to alumni activities, committees and meetings on behalf of the Alumni of Mohawk College.

Jay Hayward, Chair Business Administration, 1999 Marcine Blake, Past Chair Recreation Leadership, 1987 Kat Clark, Vice Chair Broadcasting, Television and Communications Media, 2010 Kyle Datzkiw, Member Business Administration, 2016 Lisa DiCesare, Member Law and Security Administration, 1981 Joseph Futino, Member Computer Systems Technology, 1994 Julia Jarusauskas, Member Event Management, 2015 Linda Rourke, Member Broadcasting – Television and Communications Media, 1990 Yash Shastri, Member Motive Power Technician, 2017 Lorenzo Somma, Member Small Business and Entrepreneurship, 2013 Jonathan Vize, Member Journalism and Communications Media, 2005

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Welcoming Words

Career skills for life

Wendy Makey ‘93 Director, Alumni Relations One of Mohawk‘s recent marketing campaigns focused on gaining insight from students regarding their Mohawk experience. Students shared stories and feedback about the skills and character traits they developed at Mohawk that will make them career ready. Overall, we heard that our graduates leave Mohawk feeling excited, optimistic and confident—Future Ready.

Terms used to describe Mohawk students who are transitioning into the workforce are: creative, talented, entrepreneurial, clever, determined, thoughtful, curious and passionate. What I find to be intriguing is, after reading the profiles of the entrepreneurs in this issue, celebrating our 2019 Alumni of Distinction Award recipients and meeting our Golden Grads from the Class of 1969, it is clear that our Mohawk alumni can be described with the exact same words.

Mohawk graduates are idea generators, continually thinking outside the box to tackle daunting issues at work and in the community. They are creative, curious and entrepreneurial, looking at innovative ways to develop businesses and deliver services.

Our alumni are sincere, passionate and thoughtful about the causes they support and the communities they serve.

From students transitioning into the workforce, to alumni 50+ years after graduation, skills learned at Mohawk are still

“Mohawk graduates are idea generators, continually thinking outside the box to tackle daunting issues at work and in the community.“

supporting our graduates‘ success. Mohawk alumni continue to make an impact in their communities and across the country. We would love to hear from you.

Write to us at alumni@mohawkcollege.ca to share your story and let us know how Mohawk helped you throughout your career.

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5

SPOTLIGHT

BORN ENTREPRENEUR Founder of Olive + Splash, Melanie Wong ‘12 was inspired to start her sustainable made-in-Canada clothing company when shopping for her nephews.

By Mary Teresa Bitti

W

hen In Touch caught up with Melanie Wong ‘12 Public Relations graduate, she was strolling the streets of Mykonos, Greece. The founder and owner of Olive + Splash, a sustainable athleisure wear brand based in Burlington, Ontario, loves to travel. “Travelling has taught me great lessons that I use in my life and in my business: problem solving, planning, and learning to trust yourself,“ says Melanie. “And it‘s a great inspiration for my company.“ Melanie designs each piece in her line of made-in-Canada bamboo clothing for children and adults. “Bamboo is not only great for the planet, but the more you wash it, the softer it feels,“ she says.

Melanie launched her business in 2015, just as sustainable fashion was beginning to gain traction. (In 2018, the number of shoppers looking for ethically, environmentally responsible

6 INTOUCH | Fall 2019

clothing jumped 47%, according to fashion search engine Lyst).

She hit on the idea when she was shopping for her two young nephews and couldn‘t find the cool, sustainable, long-lasting clothes she wanted for them. So Melanie did what entrepreneurs do when they see a problem: she created the solution.

The designs and colours are gender neutral making each piece easy to pass down. “We make adult style clothes for kids,“ says Melanie. It wasn‘t long before parents started asking her to make the designs in adult sizes. Olive + Splash apparel is now available online and in boutiques across Ontario, in Montreal and Vancouver. Melanie also promotes the brand with pop-up shops across Southern Ontario and through collaborations with other designers and brands, including Angela Price, wife of Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price, whose young daughter wears Olive + Splash. She also worked with Toronto designer Paul Ho on a custom cashmere wool coat.

Spotlight

“Mohawk had more graduates who were working and achieving in their fields than other programs I looked into.“ – Melanie Wong ‘12

For Melanie, being a business owner came naturally. When her father emigrated from Hong Kong, he and his family opened the first Chinese restaurant in St. Catharines, Ontario. This year, Cosy Restaurant & Tavern is celebrating its 55th anniversary.

Melanie and her four siblings—all entrepreneurs—worked at the restaurant. “We all inherited that hustle and drive you need to be successful.“

As the business approaches its five-year anniversary—a big milestone as about 30% of all small businesses in Canada fail by this point—Melanie is planning for growth. She wants to place the brand in more retailers across Canada and the U.S., build her in-house team, expand the product line, and seek out more collaborations.

After graduating from Brock University with a degree in political science and international law, Melanie had intended on enrolling in law school. Instead, she re-evaluated, travelled the world and chose Mohawk College to pursue her graduate education. “Mohawk had more graduates who were working and achieving in their fields than other programs I looked into,“ Melanie says of her decision. “After graduating, there have been multiple times when I‘ve reached out to former professors for support. It‘s been fantastic.“

She‘s doing this while also building her other business. Melanie is a partner of Burlington-based Peninsula Automotive Sales & Leasing. “I work seven days a week but it doesn‘t feel like work. “I wake up Sunday mornings and am so excited to go to my office and work on both companies.“

Her advice to up-and-coming entrepreneurs: “Don‘t give up.

Being an entrepreneur is an emotional roller coaster. There will be times when you question why you‘re doing this. Then something amazing happens. If you‘re passionate about it and it makes sense, keep at it.“

.

Learning for Life.

Continue achieving your goals, in-class or online.

• Take a course part-time while you work

CONTINUING

EDUCATION IN-CLASS OR ONLINE

• Enhance your education with a specialization • Train for a certification • Learn something new

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7

SPOTLIGHT

BUILDING A BUSINESS Enjoying building and creating, Joal Roshko ‘10 knew he found his perfect fit with Mohawk‘s Construction Engineering Technician – Building Renovation program.

By Meaghan Drury ‘12

J

oal Roshko ‘10 grew up helping his dad on projects around the house.

Knowing that he enjoyed building and creating, finding a career where he could apply these skills was important to Joal. As he was looking to enroll in postsecondary, it seemed meant to be that was the year Mohawk introduced a new program, Construction Engineering Technician – Building Renovation.

“It was tailor-made to what I wanted to do for a living,“ says Joal. “It was perfect for someone like me who was looking to get into the home renovation industry.“ While working part-time at Home Depot throughout college, Joal met his eventual business partner, Nick Mancini. It was through working odd jobs together that they found they had similar goals and ambitions. Right after Joal‘s graduation in 2010, the two launched their own business, Heartwood Renovations.

Over the years, Joal has stayed connected to Mohawk by attending Meet the Grad nights on campus and hiring recent graduates. Joal attributes a lot of where Heartwood Renovations is today to his instructors at Mohawk, especially Brad MacDonald, Program Coordinator, who was a great support for bouncing ideas off of in the early days of starting the

8 INTOUCH | Fall 2019

Spotlight business, and who has become a great friend to both Joal and Nick.

Now nine years later, they‘ve found their strengths, splitting responsibilities within the company. Nick primarily handles project management while Joal takes care of client relations and billing. Joal says this allows each of them to do their best work permitting their business to continue to grow.

As a younger company, they have focused on staying knowledgeable with the latest trends in building supplies and techniques while also seeking innovative ways for their clients to stay up-to-date about their projects. One important tool they‘ve incorporated into every job is cloudbased software which allows clients to see timelines and receive updates throughout the project. “If our clients are at work and their countertop goes in, they can get a glimpse of what it looks like,“ says Joal.

the Renovator of the Year Award in both 2015 and 2018, Heartwood Renovations is recognized as an award-winning construction company in the Greater Hamilton Area. Today, the company has 14 employees—about half are Mohawk grads from the same program Joal graduated from—working on home renovation projects in Hamilton and the Halton Region.

“(Mohawk‘s Construction Engineering Technician – Building Renovation program) was tailormade to what I wanted to do for a living.“ – Joal Roshko ‘10 “Not only is this technology great for our client communications and relationships, it helps me stay informed about all of our projects day in and day out.“ Having received numerous accolades from the Hamilton-Halton Home Builders‘ Association Awards of Distinction, including

Next steps for the company include a luxury home renovation and kitchen showroom, set to open at their new Ancaster-based office in January 2020.

This will give their clients a place to see the newest products and trends to help them make decisions for their home renovations. With this new level of service, Joal, Nick and their team are excited to be able to help their clients in more areas of custom renovations while continuing to build on the success they‘ve already achieved.

Recognizing Mohawk‘s outstanding alumni

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS Do you know an outstanding Mohawk graduate who deserves to be recognized?

Nominations are open until February 14, 2020.

mohawkcollege.ca/aod-nomination

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On October 10, 2019 we celebrated and honoured the 2019 Alumni of Distinction Award recipients at LIUNA Station in Hamilton. Congratulations again to Luke Johns ‘14, Gary Nelson ‘85, Kathy Lerette ‘97, Martha Rorabeck-Bradford ‘02, Ted Rakoczy ‘79, Joal Roshko ‘10, Nora Melara-Lopez ‘09, Dr. Bonnie Freeman ‘92, Kathryn Crooks ‘13 and Steven Connor ‘94

Thank you to our sponsors Dinner Sponsor

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10 INTOUCH | Fall 2019

Print Sponsor

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Spotlight

CAPTURING MEMORIES One Continuing Education course in photography led to Lauren Valvasori ‘14 changing her career and pursuing her passion.

By Jenna Yeomans ‘19

P

hotography had always been something that Lauren Valvasori ‘14 was interested in, but it wasn‘t always on her radar for a career path until after university. Her love for people, storytelling and capturing relationships is what inspired her to pick up a camera in the first place, and why she does what she does now. Today, she can be found shooting weddings, families and milestones, all of the moments that tell someone‘s life story.

“I love seeing how much what I document means to people, how much they appreciate and treasure those memories. That feeling never gets old, making people happy“.

In the mid-2010s, after Lauren had obtained a degree in criminal justice and began working in the insurance industry, photography remained a hobby. That is, until she decided to take a Continuing Education course in photography at Mohawk. Lauren learned enough in the course to realize she wanted to pursue a career as a photographer. Not wanting to spend years taking courses part-time, she enrolled in the full-time Creative Photography – Still & Motion program. Not only did Lauren learn the technical skills of being

behind the camera, she also gained important knowledge from the business course in her final semester.

Working hard to start building her network and clientele around the same time that she started the program, Lauren was able to set herself up for success later down the road. By the time she graduated from the program, she had enough work booked that she didn‘t need to find another job to support her income, achieving a goal she had set for herself when she began.

Reflecting on her career today, approximately five years later, Lauren shares that she has experienced “a whirlwind of emotions,“ the two most prominent being fear and excitement. She adds that the fear is healthy and “keeps her motivated.“ Lauren is proud to be an entrepreneur and loves that her achievements are a direct result of her own efforts. Her passion and success is evident in her work being recognized by the Canada Photo Convention, honouring her as one of the Top 30 under 30 Wedding Photographers in Canada in 2016.

Her biggest advice for budding entrepreneurs? “If you wait until when you think you‘re going to be ready to do something, you might be waiting around for a long time, so just start.“ Lauren adds that getting out there and sharing her work has been very important, “social media has been huge for my business.“ It has given her a platform to not only share her clients‘ stories through their photos, but to put a voice to her business and brand. Her clients often feel like they know her by the time they meet in person, which is exactly what she strives for.

Lauren‘s studio, Moments - by Lauren, is located in Hamilton, Ont.

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Spotlight

SPOTLIGHT

12 INTOUCH | Fall 2019

Spotlight

MAKING AN IMPRESSION For more than 15 years, Monica Staats ‘97 has run a successful printing company in Ohsweken, Ontario.

By Kat Clark ‘10

T

hough she never expected to become an entrepreneur when she graduated from Mohawk‘s Chemical Technician Program, Monica Staats ‘97 has been running a successful printing company for the past 15 years. After working in Toronto for nearly eight years, she grew tired of the commute and so Monica began working in her community.

Soon after, she decided to start her own business. “It‘s common among people in my community to pursue entrepreneurship opportunities,“ says Monica. “I just decided to take it on.“ Based in Ohsweken, MTS Native Services provides design, printing and finishing services to organizations across the province. “We‘ve grown a lot over the years, I‘ve invested as we did well and the business is thriving on great service without the need to advertise.“ Monica says her education at Mohawk taught her the quality control that has raised the standards of the services her business provides and helped her get to where she is today. “It‘s really about being able to dedicate yourself and a willingness to learn.“ For Monica, it‘s important that her team works diligently to bring a client‘s vision to life and represent their brand in the most professional way possible. “Grand River Employment and Training has been excellent in helping us find talented and skilled people.“ Andrea J. Williams, owner of PathDMS and Williams Consulting, says, “MTS Native Services is impressive on multiple levels. They listen effectively to what the project is about and the services I am seeking and bring forth beautiful Indigenous design ideas for our consideration that symbolizes the vision and conveys the image we require for the product.“

Monica ensures that MTS Native Services leaves a positive impact on the community. Over the years, the company has proudly supported various fundraising events hosted by clients such as Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation (OFNTSC), Grand River Employment and Training, The Cayuga Language Program called Dwadewayęhstaˀ Gayogo̲ho:nǫˀ, and Six Nations Community Living. MTS Native Services also helps raise scholarship funds for students who have chosen to pursue

a career in the science and technology fields through the OFNTSC Annual Student Classic golf fundraiser.

MTS Native Services was pleased to work on a project for the Native Women‘s Association of Canada that was featured on APTN and used nationally in schools for anti-bullying campaigns. It‘s projects like these that make Monica particularly proud of the business she has built and the dedicated team she has the pleasure of working with each day.

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SPOTLIGHT

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Spotlight

RE-IMAGINING DIGITAL INVESTIGATIONS Digital forensics expert, Jad Saliba ‘01 developed data recovery software used by over 5,000 organizations world wide.

By Meaghan Drury ‘12

D

riven by a desire to combat terrorism and child exploitation as a police officer investigating high-tech crimes, Jad Saliba ‘01 used his education in computer sciences to build Magnet Forensics, a global leader in the recovery of digital evidence for law enforcement.

The first product developed by Jad, Founder and Chief Technology Officer, was Magnet Internet Evidence Finder, data recovery software used by thousands of law enforcement, government, military and corporate organizations worldwide.

“Today, law enforcement agencies are dealing with an overwhelming amount of data in their investigations, which is only increasing in volume and complexity,“ says Jad. “Magnet Forensics is re-imagining digital investigations to allow for police agencies to improve public safety by better leveraging technology and their officers. When they have a legal right to do so, organizations use the software to recover important evidence such as browser history and chat messages.

“Depending on what is recovered, the digital evidence can be used to either prove a person‘s guilt or innocence,“ says Jad. A graduate of Mohawk‘s Computer Systems Technician – Network Systems program, Jad began a career as a police officer with the Waterloo Regional Police Services. After developing the software in his spare time for a few years, he made the leap in 2011 to leave the force to work full-time on developing his business. Magnet Forensics‘ software is now used by over 5,000 organizations in over 90 countries in investigations of crimes such as child exploitation, human trafficking, terrorism and fraud. It has been

used in high profile prosecutions such as the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013. Jad is considered an expert in the digital forensics field and says, “the most rewarding part of starting Magnet Forensics is hearing back from agencies that use our products that they were able to make an impact, like helping an abused child, or preventing people from being harmed.“ In November 2018, Jad was recognized as the 2018 Premier‘s Award recipient in the technology category.

The annual Premier‘s Awards, hosted by Colleges Ontario, recognizes college graduates across seven categories who have made outstanding social and economic contributions to society. “Receiving this award has been an immense honour,“ says Jad. “I‘m proud to represent Mohawk on the provincial stage.“

Jad Saliba with Mohawk College President Ron McKerlie.

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Spotlight Cover Story

Around

world in 75 years

the

From telecommunications and politics to musical theatre and energy management, serial entrepreneur, Nick Clark ‘68 has explored many fields and industries throughout his illustrious career.

By Kat Clark ‘10

N

ick Clark‘s diploma from Mohawk College‘s Industrial Engineering Technology Management (IMT) program has taken him across the globe—through Canada, Europe, China, Russia, Hong Kong, Singapore, India, the USA—and through many different careers. He credits it all back to the foundation he gained at the Hamilton Institute of Technology (HIT), Mohawk‘s predecessor. “Friendships, memories and the education I gained during the three years at HIT/Mohawk are irreplaceable,“ says Nick.

“The success in my life‘s career traces back to the practical teachings I received while at the institute and the opportunities I was afforded.“ Before graduating from the program in 1968, Nick ventured into the working world with a summer internship in Montreal during Expo ‘67 which he describes as the ‘perfect storm‘ that would change his life forever.

“Magical things can happen if you apply knowledge, effort, imagination and dedication to the quest for a better life.“ To say that Nick dabbled in many industries throughout his career would be an understatement. In the 50-plus years since his graduation, Nick has used his diploma to explore the fields of energy management, telecommunications, software development, beverage purchasing, politics and even musical theatre. Titles Nick has held throughout the years include a summer intern at Northern Electric, a consultant for Canada Post in Vancouver, Director of Purchasing for BC Liquor, Senior Policy Advisor within the Ministry of Consumer and Corporate Affairs in Victoria, Founding President of Mission Hill Vineyards, Acting Chair of Central Okanagan Regional Economic Development, and Director of CILK-FM broadcasting, just to name a few. Nick went on to his current post, launching Utility Network & Partners Inc. (UTILITYnet), Alberta‘s first privately owned electricity, natural gas, and green renewable energy management, data processing and retail company.

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SPOTLIGHT COVER STORY

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Spotlight Cover Story

“Magical things can happen if you apply knowledge, effort, imagination and dedication to the quest for a better life.“ – Nick Clark ‘68

While these careers may seem somewhat unrelated, it was the art of the business deal that has kept Nick intrigued for so many years. He says the thread that wove the various careers together was IMT‘s core curriculum of logistics, planning, forecasting, productivity and innovative thinking. Nick credits strong mentors and business partners who shared a common vision for helping him leverage practical thinking with an eye on the most important aspect of every business: cost control and cash flow management fundamentals. For Nick, managing an energy company is no different than his venture in the wine business or his early days at Northern Electric. “What was learned at HIT/Mohawk served me well,“ he says. “I developed the ability to identify opportunity, the willingness to take risks and the ability to think differently.“ Some of Nick‘s favourite memories are from his time working in Singapore, as well as in Russia where he had the freedom to be creative and imaginative in a way he never thought possible.

One of those interesting memories was being part of a group that financed a theatrical production called Panama the Musical.

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Although the musical was a financial bust, Nick considers failure to be as important as success in life. “Success is not guaranteed, you have to be willing to take risks and put in the energy,“ he says.

“You have to plan, diligently work the plan, put in sweat equity and, if you fail, be careful not to make the same silly mistake twice.“ Nick encourages future students and graduates of Mohawk College to “think differently, use your imagination, don‘t get pigeon-holed, and to give back.“ In his current role as one of the owners of UTILITYnet, Nick has had a chance to do just that, incubating 24 different companies over the past decade and relying on social engineering to help these organizations grow and give back to their communities. “Most of my time today is spent on community social programs. We created a company called Sandstone Energy where 100% of the profits go to the Calgary Public Library and we have a number of other similar programs that actively fundraise for different charities.“ At age 50, Nick sold his Mission Hill Vineyard shares to his business partner in an attempt to retire but after a short hiatus and some travelling, Nick grew bored and realized he needed to go back to work. “Fifty is way too young to retire. Today, at 75, I‘m busier than I ever was. It‘s all about the opportunity to be creative, the joy of travelling and incubating new ideas.“ He continues, “The business life in Alberta has been amazingly rewarding. I live a charmed and lucky life and am fortunate to spend time in the mountains of Whistler, BC, on the ocean off the Sunshine Coast, and just walking the beach at our condo in Panama.“ Those are the things that fuel Nick and keep him motivated. “When it ceases to be fun, it‘s time to find another challenge.“ And right now, he‘s still having fun.

THANK YOU! Thank you to all our graduates and friends that took part in the third annual Alumni Nine & Dine golf tournament, and to our many sponsors for helping to make this event a success.

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Print Media Sponsor PBI Hole-in-one Sponsor Mohawk College Foundation Hole-in-one Sponsor The Golf Doctor Putting Contest Sponsor The Keg Steakhouse + Bar Men‘s Longest Drive Sponsor Stokoe Communications Women‘s Longest Drive Sponsor Banko Media Women‘s Longest Drive Sponsor

Join us next spring on the fairways.

Save the date for the fourth annual Alumni Nine & Dine in June 2020!

Interested in sponsorship opportunities?

Please contact Wendy Makey, Director, Alumni Relations E: wendy.makey@mohawkcollege.ca | T: 905-575-2080

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SPOTLIGHT

THE GOLF DOCTOR RETURNS TO MOHAWK Fueled by a desire to create his own golf club, Brian Knott ‘71 was led back to Mohawk to work with the Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre.

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Spotlight

By Meaghan Drury ‘12

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hen Brian Knott ‘71 looks back at the almost 50 years since graduating from Mohawk‘s Insurance Administration program, he reflects on a career that has taken him from working in the insurance field to operating his own golf club repair shop and, now in retirement, to designing and manufacturing a new putter.

Upon graduation, Brian had his pick of jobs in the insurance industry. He worked his way up through multiple firms in Toronto over a decade in the 1970s and 1980s before starting his own brokerage.

He then grew his firm to two locations before selling it in 1986.

Throughout his life, Brian always had a fond interest in and passion for the game of golf.

He decided to take a huge leap to follow his passion by using some of the capital from the sale of his insurance business to start his own golf shop. In the same year Brian sold his business, he started a new one—The Golf Doctor Workshop—officially

opened in 1986. The name of the business came from a friend who had always admired Brian‘s ability to repair practically any broken club he came across.

The early days of the business were in a double garage Brian built in his backyard. Turning his hobby into a career was questioned by his family and friends, but that would not deter Brian. After being open for a few years, The Golf Doctor Workshop started to get some notice when Canadian golfing legend Moe Norman stopped by the shop.

By Brian‘s telling, the first time Moe stopped in, he could have passed for a mirage. Moe walked in, looked around and left without a word. He would later return many more times, seeking to hire Brian for repair work and to talk golf. The two would form a friendship that lasted decades up until Moe‘s death in 2004.

Brian eventually moved the business to a driving range between Brantford and Paris, Ontario. The shop enjoyed many years of success until the increasing popularity

of big box stores began cutting into his business, prompting him to sell in 2000.

Brian was ready to move on to a new challenge that was once again fueled by his passion for golf—designing his own club. Moe had always told Brian, if he was going to design a club, to create a putter instead of a driver. He took Moe‘s advice and did just that. After coming up with a rough design at his kitchen table, Brian was led back to Mohawk. Working with Mohawk‘s IDEAWORKS team, he was able to create prototypes of a new putter using the 3D printing machines housed in the Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre at Fennell Campus.

Brian really enjoyed connecting with and learning from Mohawk students. “I‘m still in awe of the whole process with Mohawk IDEAWORKS team,“ says Brian. “They accepted my idea and used their tools to help me make the best product I could.“ Next up for Brian is learning to market his product and he‘s looking forward to the challenge.

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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On the On the Mohawk College blog Mohawk College blog Meet more entrepreneurial grads as we celebrate National Entrepreneurship Month this November.

Meet more entrepreneurial grads - Amber Richardson ‘12Entrepreneurship Month as we celebrate National - Jeff Ronhaar ‘94 - Brian Hogben ‘01 this November.

Read about these and more Mohawk Alumni making their own career paths as entrepreneurs.

Brian Hogben ‘01 Amber Richardson ‘12 Jeff Ronhaar ‘94 Richardson & Associates

Jeff‘s Outdoor

Mission35 Mortgages

mohawkcollege.ca/EntrepreneurGrads

Read about how these Mohawk Alumni are making their own career paths as entrepreneurs.

mohawkcollege.ca/EntrepreneurGrads

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Around Campus

Mohawk and EON Reality open new virtual reality lab at Fennell Campus

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artnering with EON Reality Inc., a California-based pioneer in the field of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), the new EON AVR Development Lab, will support and build on the virtual reality community in Ontario.

It will also position Mohawk College as a leading location for AVR development and education in North America.

This new facility is the first of its kind in Canada, offering students the opportunity to specialize in virtual reality and augmented reality development, coding, modeling and animation with a focus on industrial, medical and educational uses. Students have access to these new state-of-the-art test facilities as they are trained in the various elements of AVR production.

New centre for student success earns national recognition

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ohawk College‘s research on student success has been recognized with a national award.

The College Student Success Innovation Centre (CSSIC) at Mohawk was honoured in June with the CACUSS Innovation Award at the annual conference of the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services in Calgary.

The award recognizes a new or innovative program or service that exemplifies innovation and excellence, and could serve as a model or example of a promising practice for other institutions.

The CSSIC is the first of its kind in Canada.

It‘s a unique research centre, located on Mohawk‘s main campus, focused on community college student success. The centre is producing new interventions and services, and backing it up with evidence rigorously produced through tested standard research methods, such as randomized control trials.

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Awards & Honours

AWARDS & HONOURS

John McDonald

James Bradley

In 1986, John led the Mountaineers men‘s soccer team to their first OCAA medal in five seasons losing the gold medal match to reigning national champion Seneca 2-0.

James Bradley was the Mohawk men‘s volleyball head coach for seven seasons, from 2003 to 2010. He guided the Mountaineers to OCAA championship appearances in all seven years, bringing home two OCAA gold medals, one silver and one bronze.

Men‘s Soccer Coach

Mohawk returned to the podium in 1988, going undefeated in the regular season with a 9-0-1 mark to win the West Division championship, and John was named OCAA Coach of the Year. Mohawk edged Conestoga 1-0 to win OCAA bronze.

The 1989 season still remains Mohawk‘s greatest in men‘s soccer. John led his Mountaineers to an identical 9-0-1 record during the regular season before winning their first OCAA championship in eight seasons. Mohawk traveled to Calgary for nationals and won its first and only CCAA championship.

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Men‘s Volleyball Coach

Under his leadership, the Mountaineers made three trips to the CCAA championships, culminating with a bronze medal win in 2008.

Awards & Honours

Congratulations to Mohawk‘s Ontario Colleges Athletics Association 2019 Hall of Fame inductees.

Congratulations, Kyle Rooke!

2018-2019 OCAA Male Athlete of the year Cross Country The Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) proudly recognized Mohawk College men‘s cross country, student athlete Kyle Rooke, of Burlington, as its 2018-19 OCAA Male Athlete of the Year.

The third-year runner dominated the OCAA cross country circuit in the fall of 2018, winning four consecutive races, including provincials. He was also named Mohawk‘s Most Valuable Player for cross country and Outstanding Male Athlete of the Year.

Steve Case

Dave Reinhart

In 1985, Steve won his first individual provincial gold medal at the OCAA Cross Country Championships with a time of 26:58, twenty-four seconds ahead of the silver medalist. Steve and the Mohawk men‘s team finished third at that competition.

Dave Reinhart was a gifted student athlete who excelled in Badminton.

He captured successive OCAA men‘s doubles gold medals in 1982 and 1983 with partner Ron Baribeau, and received a CCAA silver medal in 1983.

Cross Country Athlete

Steve became the second male to repeat as OCAA cross country champion in 1986 in a time of 30:44, forty-nine seconds ahead of the second place finisher. Steve and his Mountaineer teammates celebrated the OCAA men‘s team championship following a one-year absence. He was named Cross Country Team Most Valuable Runner at the Mohawk Athletics Banquet following the season.

Badminton/Cross Country Athlete (posthumously)

The duo placed first in men‘s doubles at OCAA West Regionals both years. They were the first pair in OCAA history to successfully defend their badminton championships.

Dave was selected team MVP in both of these seasons and Mohawk‘s Co-Outstanding Male Athlete in 1983.

In their final college match together, they narrowly lost the national title to their Quebec competition.

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Around Campus

ALUMNI EVENTS Alumni Nine & Dine

St. Joseph‘s Annual Reunion

26 INTOUCH | Fall 2019

Around Campus

Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner

Hickory Dickory Decks

Interested in hosting our next Alumni @Work event at your work?

Take a break for an hour of networking with fellow grads and co-workers.

Snacks and refreshments are on us!

Connect with us today mohawkcollege.ca/alumni-at-work

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Around Campus

SPRING CONVOCATION 2019 CONGRATULATIONS, CLASS OF 2019!

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Around Campus

Spring Convocation Speakers Steve Buist Distinguished Fellow – Adjunct Professor Investigative Reporter Terry Cooke Distinguished Fellow – Adjunct Professor President and CEO, Hamilton Community Foundation Rob Ellis Distinguished Fellow Founder, Our Youth at Work Association Miranda Ferrier ‘06 Distinguished Fellow – Honorary Diploma Personal Support Worker, 2006 President and Founder, Ontario Personal Support Workers Association Dr. Bonnie Freeman, Ph.D. ‘92 Distinguished Fellow Native Community Care: Counselling and Development – Mental Health, 1992 Assistant Professor, McMaster University

Heather Gerrie-Kwant Distinguished Fellow – Adjunct Professor Co-President and CEO, Gerrie Electric Wholesale Ltd. Elaine Gerrie-Valentini Distinguished Fellow – Adjunct Professor Co-President and CEO, Gerrie Electric Wholesale Ltd. Amanda Hendry ‘06 Alumni Speaker Autism and Behavioural Science, 2006 Clinical Coordinator, McMaster Children‘s Hospital Samiya Jahan ‘10 Alumni Speaker Chemical Engineering Technology, 2010 Senior Investigator Research, ArcelorMittal Dofasco

Kathy Lerette ‘94 Distinguished Fellow Electrical Engineering Technician – Power, 1994, Electrical Engineering Technologist – Control, 1997 Sr. Vice President, Business Transformation, Alectra Utilities Judy Marsales Distinguished Fellow – Honorary Diploma Realtor, Judy Marsales Realty Ltd. Glen Steeves Distinguished Fellow McDonald‘s executive/ Hamilton area restaurant owner Paul Takala Distinguished Fellow Chief Librarian, Hamilton Public Library

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Around Campus

“Bernetta was there for me through the most difficult time in my life and she never gave up on me. Through her encouragement I graduated from Mohawk.

Since leaving Mohawk, she has remained in my life and my family‘s life and has been present through many of my life‘s milestones. “ – Kristin VanHartingsveldt ‘15, student athlete

‘MOUNTAINEERS MOM‘

BERNETTA SCIME

RETIRES FROM MOHAWK AFTER 35-YEAR CAREER

By Meaghan Drury ‘12

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hen it came time to choose a school for her postsecondary education, Bernetta Scime ‘84 did not want to look far. A natural homebody, she knew Mohawk would provide her the education she was looking for with the Recreation Leadership program, the ability to play the sport she loved with a position on the varsity volleyball team, and was only

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a short distance from home, allowing her to return whenever she needed to.

This one decision would have a significant impact on the rest of her life.

From the day she enrolled at Mohawk and then moving into her career, Bernetta would stay with the school for more than 35 years.

In her early working days at the school, her positions included program

coordinator for the Chedoke Campus, receptionist for the registrar‘s office and campus recreation coordinator. But it wasn‘t until she landed the job of varsity sports coordinator that Bernetta truly found her calling.

While it has become increasingly less common for a person to work their entire career for one organization, Bernetta couldn‘t have imagined it any other way for herself. She loved every

Around Campus

“In Athletics, the highest accolade one can receive is Hall of Fame recognition. Bernetta Scime‘s career at Mohawk and in the OCAA demand every consideration for such honours. But even more admirable, Bernetta is a Hall of Fame person. Her passion for serving and helping thousands of Mohawk students in and out of Athletics and her tireless work ethic are legendary and admired right across Ontario. I am so lucky to have worked alongside such a dedicated and caring person, who continually sacrificed her personal time to give our students the best experience possible and opportunity to succeed.“ – Laurie Cahill ‘75, former Director of Athletics, Mohawk College day working with, and for, students. A few have even remained in her life long after their graduation.

Two students who have impacted Bernetta‘s life the most are Headley Harriott ‘02 and Kristin VanHartingsveldt ‘15. Soft-spoken Headley, a talented basketball player, struggled with his social skills, studies and finances. Bernetta recalls making an agreement with Headley that when he came to see her, he would put away his headphones and talk to her. Bernetta saw potential in Headley and was determined to help him complete a program. Over the five years he studied at Mohawk, with Bernetta‘s encouragement, he was able to obtain on-campus employment, remain on the basketball team, and graduate with a General Arts & Sciences diploma and Small Business Management certificate. After leaving Mohawk, Bernetta has stayed in touch with Headley and his family, attending his wedding and seeing him return to the college for her retirement party last June.

Kristin VanHartingsveldt is another student athlete Bernetta has remained in contact with long after graduation. Kristin came to Mohawk after her sister Rachel, who was also a Mohawk student and varsity volleyball player, had tragically passed away in a car accident a few months prior.

Kristin struggled with her mental health in living up to her sister‘s legacy. Bernetta, having been close to Rachel, became a person Kristin could rely on. She attended counselling sessions with Kristin when she was scared to go alone, and helped her discover the right program for her, that aligned with her interests and allowed her to find her own path. “Bernetta was

there for me through the most difficult time in my life and she never gave up on me.

Through her encouragement I graduated from Mohawk,“ says Kristin. “Since leaving Mohawk, she has remained in my life and my family‘s life and has been present through many of my life‘s milestones.“ Bernetta says one colleague nicknamed her the ‘Mountaineers Mom‘ and the name is a great fit. In retirement, she says

what she will miss most is her connection to the student athletes. “Coaches supported them in their skills and sports, and I was there to help them with figuring out their timetables, managing their schedules and dealing with homesickness or feelings of being overwhelmed.“ Bernetta helped the athletes feel as at home at Mohawk as she has felt for most of her life. Her presence on campus will definitely be missed.

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Keeping in touch

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John A. Schmidt (Business Administration, 1969) I retired from IBM in 1994 and retired from working in 2005.

Gladys Reynolds (Law & Security Administration, 1974) Sold our farm and moved to Port Dover, Ontario.

(1) Michael Csele (Mechanical Engineering Technician, 1985) Wow, it‘s been a long time since I graduated, so everything is new. After graduating, I worked in the Niagara area in various positions for companies such as Monenco, TRW, INCO and John Deere.

‘60s

In the mid-90s, I moved to South Carolina. I worked several years as senior engineer with Edmac Compressor Company designing custom air and vacuum systems. I then began my own consulting firm, designing and manufacturing electrical control panels for several companies. My biggest client was Westinghouse Nuclear. For seven years, I was on site daily providing engineering services for their plant systems department. In 2007, I became a full-time employee of Westinghouse as a machinist while operating my consulting business on the side.

In 2009, I relocated to rural Vermont where I continue to run my business and build electrical control panels. I am in the process of building a 3,500 square-foot shop to expand my business, as well as provide machine shop and repair services.

Frank Mesicek (Energy Systems Engineering Technology, 1986) I joined Mohawk College in May 2019 as the Director of Facility Operations.

‘80s

(2) Peter N. Barby (Business Administration, 1988)

Margaret F. Burden (Textile Management Technology, 1989) My textile plant in Nova Scotia is closing after 55 years.

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Mohamed Khatau (Business – Accounting, 1990) I would like to get in touch with my classmates who were studying in the Business – Accounting program from year 1988 to 1990. Maybe we should organize a get together?

‘90s

(3) Mary Monaco (Library & Information Technician, 1991) I retired from my job of 36 years with the Hamilton Public Library on October 31, 2017. Enjoying retirement!

6 Tammy Tassone (née Thomas) (Medical Laboratory Technology, 1991) I recently published a book and started teaching Christian workshops.

Scott Mastromatteo (Business Administration, 1994) Visited the college for a recent open house. Wow, big changes from the days that I attended.

(4) Brandy L. Doan (née Cerminara) (Child & Youth Worker, 1995)

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Lisa A. Shaw (Law & Security – Private Security, 1996) After graduating from the Brantford campus, I spent over 10 years working at Toyota. I then went back to college and university, and have been enjoying a career in human resources for the last seven years.

Chris Walters (Law & Security – Private Security, 2006) Currently employed with Paragon Security as a shift supervisor in the security services department at Mohawk College‘s Fennell Campus. In the early stages of the RCMP hiring process with aspirations of becoming a police officer.

‘00s

Olivia M. Howell-Abel (Tourism & Travel, 2010) I had been working as a tour operator for over a year until the company moved operations overseas. Looking to get back into the industry.

(5) Randall Massia (Police Foundations, 2012) After graduating in 2012 from the Police Foundations program, I went on to Wilfrid Laurier University and finished my Honours BA in Criminology in 2014. Since then, I have worked for St. Leonard‘s Community Services, Salvation Army and Correctional Service of Canada.

Since April 2017, I have been working for Veterans Affairs Canada, helping veterans, active members, families and RCMP officers transition from military/policing to civilian life. As a veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve, I am absolutely thrilled to be helping out veterans and their families.

‘10s

Rafael O. Menezes (Small Business and Entrepreneurship, 2017) I am the Director of Atlantic Employment Recruiter.

I am focused on helping new immigrants successfully settle in Canada and find job

11 opportunities as well as helping Canadian companies meet the needs of the labour market. I work with skilled and semi-skilled workers who want to meet an employer that can‘t find candidates locally and need to hire overseas, especially in areas where there is a shortage of professionals in the Canadian market. I represent foreign businesses interested in investing in Canada and advise them on the best strategies to establish their business in Atlantic Canada.

Geoffrey L. Moro (Gas & Oil Burner Technician, 2017) I am a 2nd year apprentice steamfitter.

12 student. It took nearly six months to find the right job. But, in the meantime, I utilized my time to work on my driving skills, my networking and studying for my field. I learned the value of good friends, too.

(9) Riddhikumari Patel (Business Accounting, 2018)

(6) Saad S. Khan (Computer Systems Technician – Software Support [Co-op], 2017; Computer Systems Technology – Software Development, 2018) After graduating, I was surprised to see the interest from various employers within my industry. I believe my high GPA and my coop experience played a big factor in that.

After numerous interviews, one company quickly jumped at the opportunity to extend a job offer. I have officially accepted that job offer with Tata Consultancy Services. I am excited and motivated to transfer the skills and experience I have gained at Mohawk College into my new workplace!

(10) Ethan Ready (Journalism, 2018) After spending my three years at Mohawk focused on sports coverage, I elected to take a step back after graduating and pursue a career in news journalism as a whole in order to kick start my career. After wrapping up my first season with the CFL as a freelance writer, I took a position in Prince George, BC as a news reporter, all while still being able to freelance on the side. More than 3,000 kilometres from home, but such a rewarding experience so far.

(7) Jeanette L. Grimshaw (Creative Photography – Still & Motion, 2018) I am currently trying to find work in my field and trying to continue to build my portfolio. My photography social media accounts are Photos By Jeanette G on Facebook and @photosbyjeanetteg on Instagram.

Ronak Antala (Electrical Engineering Technician – Power, 2019) Attending Mohawk College has been a great opportunity in my life. I learned many things and explored many adventures by volunteering as a peer tutor and welcome week ambassador. Apart from this, in an academic setting, I learned many practical and programming skills. So, thank you so much for everything Mohawk.

(11) Kennedy Altenburg (Early Childhood Education, 2019)

(8) Jaspreet Kaur (Canadian Health Care, 2018) I am on a work permit and currently working as an office administrator. After completing my studies, finding a job was a (12) Pooja Boodhooa (Social Service big struggle, particularly as an international Worker, 2019)

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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(13) Ekaterina Fraiman (Business, 2019) Malik Hamdan (Autism and Behavioural Science, 2019) I came from my country to study Autism and Behavioural Science and I chose Mohawk College because of its reputation. My life changed from the first day I started at Mohawk. The most difficult thing was career shifting, however, the team at Mohawk supported me and provided me with the knowledge I need in my new career. Thanks to Mohawk now I have a full time job and I am happy in my new career.

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Shelley Ivey-Sherwood (Practical Nursing, 2019) Got the job of my dreams! Working in a doctor‘s office with amazing staff!

(14) Harpreet Kaur (Early Childhood Education, 2019) (15) Sunint Kaur (Canadian Health Care, 2019) (16) Sanah Kazmi (Early Childhood Education, 2019) (17) Jasleen Kour (Business Accounting, 2019) (18) Lara Macmillan (Career Pathways, 2019) (19) Maurie Mayer (Paralegal, 2019) Nashier McSween (Tourism, 2019) I recently got a job at the Hamilton airport.

(20) Curtis Onaczyszyn (Environmental Technician, 2019) I started a project with my business partner this past summer called Project Snorkel, an initiative that builds a connection between the water and people as a grassroots operation.

The project focuses on stewardship and

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20 outdoor recreation while ensuring an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for those in the community to learn and connect.

Many that use the rivers as recreational grounds for kayaking, canoeing and swimming may be unaware of the amount of waste that may be floating beneath the surface. Bottles, cans, sunglasses and cell phones are often the victims of a tipping boat, and we will shed a light on underwater pollution through our active YouTube series.

(21) Qasmi Oumaima (Global Business Management, 2019) (22) Kaitlin O‘Shea (Broadcasting – Radio, 2019) (23) Hiren K. Patel (Electrical Engineering Technician – Power, 2019) (24) Jaykumar Patel (Environmental Technician, 2019) Raj Manishkumar Patel (Global Business Management, 2019) Since graduating, everything seems to have changed. New

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opportunities, new city, new life. It has been an amazing time at Mohawk where I have invested all the time to grow.

(25) Jadranka Petrovic (Née Stankovic) (Early Childhood Education, 2019) (26) Rishav Rishav (Insurance, 2019) My life is going well. I am looking for a stable job with a good salary. The feeling of being a graduate is new to me. Life is changing because I will now have a workload and responsibilities to complete and fulfill. I will try not to get too involved in my work life and enjoy life a bit.

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(27) Neha Sharma (Health, Wellness, & Fitness, 2019) (28) Renu Sharma (Computer System Technician – Network Systems, 2019)

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(29) Banita Sheenhmar (Canadian Health Care, 2019) (30) Amitoj Singh (Electrical Engineering Technician – Power, 2019) (31) Rocky Stone (Social Service Worker, 2019) In September 2019, I started the PreJustice program at Mohawk.

Sanket Thanki (Global Business Management, 2019) Developing my new business in Canada.

(32) Vrudantkumar Vyas (Quality Engineering Technician – Non Destructive Evaluation, 2019) I came to Canada from a middle class family in India. We had only seen this culture in films. After studying at Mohawk, I have learned many things which has made me a big thinker. I invited my parents from India to Canada and they are proud of me. Choosing to study in Canada changed my life and is helping me to fulfill my dreams.

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Protection of Personal Information From time to time, you may be contacted either by mail, e-mail or phone by one of our services and benefits partners regarding one of our programmes. Mohawk College is proud of its relationship with a number of trusted partners and service providers who have an established record of treating personal information with care and provide valuable services and benefits to our alumni. We appreciate you taking the time to learn about the programmes and the latest offers available. We want to let you know that at no time will your name or contact information be shared with anyone not specifically authorized by Alumni Relations. Mohawk College respects the privacy of its alumni and the sensitivity of personal information. All of our partners sign strict confidentiality agreements with us prior to receiving any contact information.

Should you wish to not be contacted about services and benefit programs, just call 905575-2258 or e-mail alumni@mohawkcollege.ca and tell us you wish to OPT OUT of affinity marketing plans. Thank you for your interest and your participation in the services and benefits provided by the Alumni Association and the Alumni Relations Department.

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Career Ready

by M ohawk Alumni

Workshops

Webinars

November 21 Interview Intelligence

November 27 Build Your Professional Online Brand

January 23 Employer Panel February 13 Professionalism in the Workplace

February 19 Conflict and Leadership March 11 Money Matters

Learn more and register at mohawkcollege.ca/CareerReadyAlumni

36 INTOUCH | Fall 2019

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