Top 40 under 40 2013

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Prince George

Prince George

chamber of commerce

iNSIDE

Meet the young leaders of Prince George: Read their stories of initiative, perseverance and achievement.

Top 40 under40

Prince George chamber of commerce

2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 1

2 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

Prince George chamber of commerce

Welcome from the Prince George Chamber of Commerce CEO

Welcome to the first ‘Top 40 Under Forty’ publication produced by the Prince George Chamber of Commerce. This magazine is our way of celebrating the young professionals whose career paths have led them here. We thank the forty individuals on the pages here within for contributing their careers, their hours of volunteerism, and their futures to building a progressive community together.

If you’ve never visited Prince George, the stories you’ll witness on the pages ahead may challenge assumptions regarding North Central British Columbia. But, if you are familiar with Prince George, the youthful spirit of this city and its endless opportunities will be no surprise to you. This is not a story of doing more with less; Prince George offers its residents the ability to do more WITH more: more financial compensation, more time for family and recreation, more af-

fordability, and more balance.

As Prince George matures from a rough frontier of logging and trade to a more refined city of health and educational opportunities, industry services and supplies, hospitality and business, our core success continues to be built on a foundation of abundant natural resources. ‘Dreams and opportunities’ attracted the first settlers to Prince George: dreams of lucrative resource extraction, the opportunity to stake claim to land, the ability to benefit from trade and commerce. Well, some things haven’t changed and ‘dreams and opportunities’ continue to attract young professionals to Prince George but the difference now, more than ever, is that the city’s affordability has become a major attraction too. Many twenty and thirtysomethings, often beginning their families, are not willing to forgo balance in life. They want more than a mortgage, more

time with the people they love doing the things they can afford to do, and they want the security of knowing that professional opportunities exist for them during these career determining years.

As a Chamber of Commerce, we look forward to providing more to our business community. Part of these efforts includes supporting our young entrepreneurs and up-andcoming professionals because we recognize that our success as a city depends on the ability of our youth to carry us into the future. We will continue to recognize and provide the opportunities in business. It is up to you to dream big. Here’s to the top 40 and the places we’ll go together!

Jennifer Brandle-McCall

CEO, Prince George Chamber of Commerce

President’s Message: Celebrating What We Value To quote MaryAnne Arcand, the 2012 Prince George Business Person of the Year “Prince George is a Get it Done place”. Our top 40 under 40 represent the highest standard of getting it done. We celebrate what we value in order to foster it and preserve it. This publication is our celebration of all those who have enriched and energized our city and region, as exemplified by the notable group highlighted here.

As everywhere Prince George and region face challenges balanced by special resources, most notably our people. These outstanding colleagues have risen above challenges and turned them into missions for themselves and opportunities for others. From challenges of isolation, small population base and a boomand-bust economy our top 40 under 40 have opened doors to economic diversification, improved communications and met an amazing variety of needs. We enjoy a solid sense of community. Our Top 40 under 40 have added to the glue holding it together.

The future is always unknown and remarkably surprising. We can see some opportunities and pressing needs, however. For example, an upcoming wave of development in natural Prince George chamber of commerce

President, Prince George Chamber of Commerce

presented by

250-562-2454 890 Vancouver Street Prince George BC V2L 2P5 www.pgchamber.bc.ca The Prince George Top 40 Under 40 publication not only promotes young professionals in our community, but also highlights Prince George’s strong business climate.

We recognize PG’s outstanding entrepreneurs, managers, professionals and students.

resource sectors will create needs for more skilled people in all occupations. Such a wave will either lift us up or overwhelm us. To rise with it will require wisdom, collegiality and many new families. To retain new families we must provide attractive opportunities and the amenities they need and reasonably expect.

We must attract business, foster entrepreneurship and encourage creativity. We have the tools to meet these challenges as shown by our Top 40 under 40 and described in the following pages. Our top 40 under 40 are young leaders in their businesses and solid citizens otherwise.

They have shown initiative, perseverance and achievement; they have made a difference in their spheres of influence and they engender confidence in our future. Their achievements are notable; more than that, however, their example and inspiration help us all become a little bit more tomorrow than we were yesterday.

Read on and see what “get-it-done” people can do in a “get-it-done” place.

Bill McGill

2013 Top 40 Under 40

Candidates were nominated from the general public and winners were chosen based on professional achievements, experience, leadership, and community involvement.

We hope to continue this project as an annual publication featuring this great City and our residents.

Thank you to participants who nominated a candidate, the nominees themselves, our judges and advertisers who made this financially possible.

This publication is the property of the Prince George Chamber of Commerce. No content may be reproduced except with permission from the Prince George Chamber of Commerce. All efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication; however the publisher or it’s contractors accept no responsibility for errors or omissions.

Cover Photo: by Dave Mah Photos: by Dave Mah Layout & Design: McCall Communications & Marketing

2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 3

Faydra aldridge

Faydra Aldridge

Title: Director of Communications and Partnerships Company: YMCA of Prince George Age: 37

She is responsible for managing five departments, supervising more than 20 staff and developing new community partnerships.

Faydra Aldridge has made a career out of talking to people and telling their stories.

Although these days she’s the Director of Communications and Partnerships with Prince George’s Family YMCA, Aldridge began her career in broadcast news after she graduated from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor’s in Communications and twoyear diploma in broadcast news from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology.

Her specialty in broadcast journalism first took her to Williams Lake and eventually Prince George, where she co-hosted a morning radio show and created promotional campaigns for the two radio stations and one television station within the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group.

In 2006, she took a position with the CBC as a producer of Daybreak North, the national broadcaster’s northern B.C. morning show where she was responsible for all program content, and managing staff and operations at bureaus in Prince George and Prince Rupert.

In 2009, Aldridge made the jump to the YMCA

where she worked her way up the ladder to her current role as director of communications where she is responsible for managing five departments, supervising more than 20 staff and developing new community partnerships.

Some of her more recent projects include managing Shapedown North, the youth weight management program, to successful outcomes that exceeded Lower Mainland locations, and the creation of a new human resources manual for hourly and management staff.

Aldridge has also directed an expanded fundraising strategy and launched a new national YMCA branding policy.

And even though she’s left her broadcasting career behind, Aldridge is often called on to resurrect her story telling skills and emcee local events.

Jodie Baker

Jodie Baker

Title: Secondary School Teacher Company: School District 57 Age: 38 You could almost say that Jodie Baker, a 38-year-old school teacher at Prince George Secondary School (PGSS), has always known what she wanted to do with her career.

“I got into teaching because I was influenced and inspired by a few of my teachers growing up, particularly a few teachers I had in elementary school,” recounts Baker. “My mother was also a teacher, which resonated with me when I came to think about my career choices. Also, as a teenager I coached a number of sports teams and always felt that this played a role in my decision to become a teacher.”

Baker moved to Prince George in 1981, and since her arrival, has attended a number of schools within

4 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

the community, both as a and relies less on curriculum, but more on utilizing student and as a teacher.

In the spring of 2011, Bak- emerging technologies to er completed her Master’s provide expanded learning Degree in multi-disciplinary opportunities.”

In addition to leadership - a her work as an field of study she strongly Baker Do not get dis- educator, is also an avid advocates.

couraged by the equestrian rider.

Through her “My husband and I, both small incidents role as Presiteachers, have that happen on dent of the local equestrian club, been leading 21st Cen- a daily basis. Baker has orgatury Learning Keep your mind nized a number and Projectof equestrian Based Learn- focused on the s y m p o s i u m s ing initiatives bigger picture – and educational clinics throughthroughout the school dis- your future. out the region. trict,” explains She is also the owner of Fancy Baker. “21st Pants Breeches Century Learning is designed to teach stu- – a company specializing dents how to explore their in equestrian clothing in strengths and interests, northern B.C.

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Prince George chamber of commerce

Title: Director/Senior Bookkeeper Company: MB Business Services Ltd. Age: 31

In 2006, Melissa Barna, a became a member of the 31-year-old entrepreneur, Prince George Chamber of started her self-employed Commerce. Barna felt that her education, bookkeeping business, volunteer and leadership MB Business Take training, along Services Ltd. advantage with two years At that time, of work exBarna was only of the 25-years-old, perience in but had comeducational retail service pleted levels provided her 1-4 bookkeep- resources at with all of the ing at the Col- your disposal practical skills she needed to lege of New while you own and operCaledonia. She ate a successalso had three still have ful business. years of expethe time. “[MB Busirience in volness Services] unteer work, was a fluke. and had leadAt the time, ership training courses with Youth with a my husband and I were Mission B.C. Society. Dur- reevaluating our career ing this time Barna also goals. We wanted careers

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that fostered a healthy balance between work and family,” Barna explained. “We thought MB Business Services would be a great business to run while continuing to grow and raise our family.”

Today, MB Business Services employs a core group of four bookkeepers, and serves over thirty local companies to satisfy their bookkeeping and payroll needs.

MB Business Services is very much a communityfocused organization, and encourages all stakeholders to volunteer their time and services throughout Prince George. Similarly, MB Business Services works with two local “notfor-profit” organizations, Two Rivers Gallery and the Prince George Chamber of Commerce, to effectively manage the organizations’ bookkeeping and financial needs.

Since its inception, MB

Discover

Melissa Barna

Melissa Barna

Business Services, under the leadership of Barna, has effectively increased its per-client sales by upwards of 20 percent.

Barna recognizes that the demand for bookkeeping and financial services will likely grow within the next 10-15 years, as baby

boomers begin to retire.

She has stated that she is looking forward not only to the growth in her business, but the growth of her family as well. This past November, Barna and her family welcomed their fourth child to the world.

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Top 40 Under 40 – 5

11/04/12 1:31 PM

2013 Prince George

Tim bennett

Tim Bennett

Title: Manager of Events and Child Care Services, School District 57 Trustee Company: Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Prince George / School District 57 Age: 26

the passion for the cause, tor was away on materworking in the non-profit nity leave.

Bennett is also a trustee field you’re there because you want to make a differ- with School District 57, ence, you believe in it and and is continuing his education part-time at the want to put University of your time Northern British and energy Columbia where into enhancBe he’s working toing the comyourself ward a Bachelor munity.” of Commerce.

Bennett and His advice for joined Big dream young business Brothers Big leaders?

Sisters six big.

“Always be years ago yourself, that’s as an entrythe biggest part level event planner. Since then, he of it, be yourself and worked his way up to In- dream big,” he said. “You terim Executive Director, a will truly have the opporposition he held for a year tunity to build your career while the organization’s and do what you love to full-time executive direc- do.”

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Kelly Bergman

Tim Bennett has a passion to give back to the city he calls home – and his career thus far proves it.

As Manager of Events and Child Care Services at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Prince George, it’s Bennett’s job to look after everything from fundraising,

recruitment and public relations events, to the nonprofit’s fee-for-service child care programs, which help it raise the necessary funding it needs to continue giving back to Prince George.

“I love every minute of it, I don’t think I would ever leave the field of

non-profits,” said Bennett.

“Every day is different.

There are some days I’m sitting there preparing for an event and the next day I could be writing a very detailed marketing plan, you really get to dip your feet into every aspect of the agency.”

“The other part of it is

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Kelly Bergman

Title: Owner/President Company: BergMedia Age: 35

Kelly Bergman, the 35-year-old President and owner of BergMedia and father of two, has dabbled in professions that, while he was very successful in doing, were not the best fit for him.

Before attending the University of Northern British Columbia in pursuit of a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce, Bergman spent a number of years living in Taiwan. It was there that he became a prominent English teacher and developed a passion for helping youth in his community.

In 2008, while Bergman was attending UNBC, he was nominated as the UNBC JDC West Co-Captain; a role he carried out while achieving academic excellence in his curriculum. Following the comple-

tion of his degree at UNBC, Bergman began working for one of Canada’s leading professional services firms, Deloitte. It was not long after accepting the position, that Bergman came to the realization that he was not satisfied with his career choice.

It was his academic successes, past employment experiences and a profound passion for the general arts that translated in to Bergman’s current appetite for photography and web design.

“I enjoy the challenge of catching a moment in time, and having that moment resonate with people forever. Essentially, telling a profound story through a photograph,” said Bergman in regards to his career choice.

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Through his passion, Bergman has been involved with community partners addressing homelessness, and many committees in the local community.

Currently, Bergman is growing his business and expertise as a photographer and business-focused individual. Bergman’s accounting degree, in conjunction with his creative talents and leadership skills, have equipped him with the financial, analytical and artistic skills to efficiently serve small business clients throughout the community.

Bergman has chosen to grow his family and business in Prince George, and will be an asset to the community for many years to come.

Prince George chamber of commerce

Title: Recruitment Coordinator Company: Canadian Forest Products Ltd. Age: 27

Kara Biles, a 27-year-old tive, and in 2009, e-learnrecruitment coordinator ing specialist position. It for Canadian Forest Prod- was at this time that Biles’ ucts Ltd., began her career job scope grew to include in human resources at the the training and development of 30,000 young age of employees 22, and continues to thrive Don’t take across 280 communities, by building on her human re- yourself too using computer technology source credenseriously, tials. as a primary and take mechanism.

In 2007, Biles accepted a poIn 2003, Biles time to began her pursition as a hucelebrate suit of higher man resources business-unit your small education by enrolling at assistant with victories. the College of the B.C. Public New Caledonia Service Agen(CNC). She was cy. She quickly an exemplary progressed through the organization, student, and built on the landing such roles as proj- knowledge she gained at ect coordinator, marketing CNC by enrolling at the and training representa- University of Northern

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British Columbia (UNBC).

In 2008, Biles graduated from UNBC with a major in marketing from the Commerce program, and in 2010 that she completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management. That same year she completed her Canadian Human Resources Professional designation.

In 2011 Biles was awarded the British Columbia Human Resources Management Association’s 2011 “Rising Star” – a prestigious award that recognizes outstanding achievements. Currently, Biles is working towards attaining her Conflict Resolution Certificate through CNC, and plans to attain her Master’s in Leadership within the next five years.

When asked about her decision to begin working for Canadian Forest Products, Biles explained: “I decided it was time that I utilize my skills and ex-

Congratulations to all Prince George’s Top 40 under 40 nominees and their families!

Our young professionals know Prince George has a lot to offer.

“Quality of life is important to us. Prince George is a great place to raise a family.”

Kara BILES

Kara Biles

pand my knowledge to the private sector, and was fortunate to land a human resources generalist with Canfor. I’ve recently ac-

cepted a position in Prince George’s head office as the new Recruitment Coordinator.”

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2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 7

Matt brown

Matt Brown

Title: Partner Company: Dean Mason and Company Inc. Chartered Accountants Age: 38 The world of financial that come to our office it services can be intimidat- should feel like home.”

Home for ing for people Brown, meanwho don’t know it well, For any of our time, has always been and that’s why clients that Prince George.

Matt Brown’s company has come to our A graduate of the University made an effort to ensure their office it should of Northern firm is as com- feel like home. British Columfortable as posbia, Brown decided to stay in sible for clients B.C.’s northern – an initiative that continues to help the capital after he left school because of the city’s high company grow.

“We’re able to offer quite quality of life and career a range of services to our opportunities.

Fifteen years ago, he clients and just a really welcoming environment,” joined Dean Mason and said Matt Brown, Partner, Co. as a co-op student, a Dean Mason and Co. Inc. journey that took him from Chartered Accountants. an entry-level position to “So for any of our clients supervisory, management

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and senior management roles until he became a partner in the firm.

These days, Brown is the managing partner of the firm and is hard at work helping it expand from its current 20 employees to 30, attracting new clients and pursuing new lines of business. Although he’s

dedicated to the business, Brown is a big advocate of work-life balance.

When he’s not at work, Brown spends his time participating in organizations that his four children are involved in, road-cycling, running and cross-country skiing.

Prince George’s relatively

small size allows Brown to continue to work hard and maintain a strong family life, he said.

“Because of shorter commuting times I can still put in a pretty hard day here and be home with the kids.”

Gord brownridge

Gord Brownridge

Title: Vice President Company: Brownridge and Company Insurance Services Inc. Age: 33 It hasn’t taken long for Gord Brownridge to rise to the top of one of northern B.C.’s premier insurance brokerages.

has helped it grow into one of the most successful commercially focused insurance brokerages in northern B.C.

Established in 1990, Brownridge and Company Insurance Services Inc. provides commercial, personal and auto insurance, as well as financial services, to clients throughout British Columbia and Alberta.

Brownridge has helped his career along with a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing from the University of Northern British Columbia. He is also a Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker with an honours designation, and possesses his charted insurance professional designation.

The firm, which is based in downtown Prince George, has a full slate of licensed agents.

Although Gord Brownridge is only 33 years old, he has been involved with the firm for 16 years, and

8 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

At the company, he has managed both personal and commercial insurance teams.

Outside of his career, Brownridge has been a

long-time board member and past president of the Alumni Association of the University of Northern British Columbia, and has been the organizing committee chair for the University’s Charity Golf Tournament for the last decade.

In 2011, he founded The Nextwork, a social and business networking group for young professionals in the Prince George area. He has also organized and hosted a number of social and volunteering events for the group throughout the past year.

Prince George chamber of commerce

William cadeLl

William Cadell

Title: Principal Company: Sparkgeo Age: 34

William Cadell came to er hand, offered all that he Prince George from Scot- could’ve wanted.

“The fact that we have 30 land for the skiing, but he degree Celsius stayed for the summers and business opporminus -20 detunities.

We have 30 gree winters is The 34-yearold proprietor degree Celsius perfect, I get to enjoy the of Sparkgeo, which builds summers and summer and the winnext-generation minus -20 enjoy ter. It’s just an web mapping applications, ar- degree winters excellent place live,” said rived in Prince is perfect … to Cadell.

George eight At Sparkgeo, years ago after It’s just an Cadell takes obtaining an excellent place data from orEngineering Deganizations gree and Master to live. and businesses of Science from and meshes the University it together to of Aberdeen in help companies modernize Scotland.

The problem with Scot- their work flows and be a land, he said, was the lack “bit smarter” about information management. of ski hills.

The company’s mission is Prince George, on the oth-

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simple – to help companies tell their stories using maps and the Internet. Cadell recently built a virtual platform for the Tsay Keh Dene First Nation to not only archive their cultural stories, videos and images but also provide the geo-locations of where these stories actually took place.

Cadell said the technology helps First Nations make more informed decisions about major resource projects in their traditional territory.

“It supports first nations in traditional-use data capture and that helps their decision making around environmental projects so they have a better idea of the landscape and they can make better decisions in regards to mining or pipeline projects,” said Cadell.

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2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 9

Dennis Callaghan

Dennis Callaghan

Title: Chief Financial Officer Company: Northern Development Initiative Trust Age: 36

For Dennis Callaghan, ic development throughout hard work and determina- central and northern B.C., tion are the keys to success was about to start divvying in northern B.C.’s rapidly out $30 million in funding changing business world. to communities via the fedCallaghan joined Northern eral government’s Community Adjustment Development Fund.

Initiative Trust Although crunchin 2009 after several years ing numbers If you keep and managing experience as a Controlmight working hard accounts sound like borler working then ing accounting with northern work, Callaghan companies opportunities said the Trust’s involved in the manuwill come. programs allowed him to work with facturing and fellow staff to find construction creative ways for sector. At that time, the Trust, which was communities to maximize created in 2005 with an ini- funding and drive job cretial capital injection of $185 ation in their regions.

Callaghan was also one of million to invest in econom-

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the key staff members at the Trust that helped develop its proprietary Catalyst software system, which helps the Trust efficiently manage funding applications, programs and project reporting models.

“I’ve had the opportunity to think outside the box and help shape and mould the future of programs here, right from the way the basic normal accounts are handled to the approval process and the final reporting process,” said Callaghan.

Never one to shy away from hard work outside the office, Callaghan pursued an MBA at the University of Northern British Columbia in his spare time, which forced him to learn how to balance his professional goals with raising a family.

“My wife has been great, and frankly, she’s gotten a bit used to it,” he said. “Doing an MBA while working full time with infants, and then doing a CMA while

working full time with young children is no picnic.

Sometimes it’s hard to recognize opportunities when

they’re in front of you, but if you keep working hard then opportunities will come.”

Carrie Comack

Carrie Comack

Title: Job Cost Accountant Company: Columbia Bitulithic Age: 34 Carrie Comack, a 34-yearold mother of two children, has lived in Prince George since 2010, when she and her family moved from the lower mainland.

Since arriving in Prince George, Comack has been an integral member of the Columbia Bitulithic administrative team - which is a key player in the construction and stone industry – serving as their job cost accountant. Upon filling this role, Comack took it upon herself to change and reshape the future of the company so that it could operate at more efficient levels.

“I was thrilled to move up north and start a new position with Columbia Bitulithic,” states Comack. “I was even more excited to

10 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

make a meaningful contribution to the organization through a measured costbenefit analysis and the subsequent methodical lowering of its cost structure.”

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wide business analysis. In addition to the courses required for her CMA designation, Comack has also participated in a number of courses pertaining to her work with Columbia Bitulithic, including the Construction Training Sysyour Safety tem course.

Comack has been in the a c co u nt i n g Follow field for over fifteen years, dreams and Currently, Comack and contindon’t let is a coach for the ues to work Prince George anything Youth Soccer Assotowards her Certified stand in ciation and a volunManagement teer for numerous your way. initiatives throughAccountant (CMA) desout the community. ignation.

Comack continues She is also to be a dedicated a member of the Interna- employee, a determined tional Institute of Business business-woman, and a Analysis, which develops friendly, supportive resiand maintains standards dent of the Prince George for the practice of world- community.

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Prince George chamber of commerce

Clint Dahl

Clint Dahl

Title: Real Estate Developer/Agent Company: Royal LePage Age: 37

The northern boom and its positive impact on Prince George’s economy is what drove Clint Dahl to get into the real estate business.

While he was chair of Initiatives Prince George, Dahl said he came to realize that the region’s abundance of natural resources, its transportation infrastructure and growth in Asia could mean only one thing – development opportunities in B.C.’s northern capital.

“I wanted to be part of making things happen and I had seen an opportunity in commercial, industrial, business and investment real estate,” explained Dahl, a Real Estate Consultant with Royal LePage.

Pulling the right people together to make a deal happen is a real adrenaline

with family and friends. Although hard work and business growth are important in Dahl’s life, he said it’s imrush, said Dahl, and he’s portant to balance his work very excited about a 12-sto- life with his personal life.

“Family is a priority and rey hotel and condominium project planned for down- you just have to set work aside and enjoy town Prince time with family George. and friends. Work Although Your own will be there toshovels have morrow.” limiting yet to hit Dahl has two the ground, beliefs are pieces of advice Dahl said the $45 million the only thing for young business leaders: give more project will that stands to others than you be a “game changer” for between where expect back and always remember downtown, you are and that the only thing and signal that the city where you holding you back is yourself. is open for want to be! Said Dahl: “Your business. own limiting beWhen he’s liefs are the only not working, thing that stands Dahl can be found at his second house located on between where you are a lake 40 minutes outside and where you want to be!” of town, or spending time

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Prince George chamber of commerce

2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 11

Mike davis

Mike Davis

Title: Director, Marketing & Communications Company: Prince George 2015 Canada Winter Games Age: 34

Mike Davis knows how to tell a story.

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) basketball alumni didn’t always want to come up north, but a fatefull call to his home in Richmond a decade ago brought him to the city that he now gets paid to tell the world about.

As Director, Marketing & Communications for the 2015 Canada Winter Games, it’s Davis’ job to get the word out about one of the largest athletic events in the country – hosted in Prince George two years from now.

Fortunately, he has some talent telling stories.

Although he started out as a basketball player at UNBC, he took a job with the Western Hockey

League’s Prince George Cougars as the Director of Public Relations and corporate sales shortly after graduation. He said the job meshed well with his previous experience in the sports world as an athlete, and provided new opportunities for him to explore other areas of the business.

“The cougars world was neat because I was dabbling in community relations, sales, business development and advertising, it was a really diverse portfolio,” explained Davis.

After five seasons with the local hockey club, Davis took a job with the Prince George Airport Authority as Manager of Communications and Business Development – just as the airport was expand-

ing its runway and advertising its ability to handle cargo planes to customers around the world.

Not one to sit still, Davis jumped to city hall in 2009 as manager of Communications and Engagement, helping the city more effectively engage with the public. While there, he was part of the committee that assembled a bid for the 2015 Canada Games – a project he soon fell in love with.

Although Davis is not a native of northern B.C., he’s passionate about Prince George and sees the 2015 Winter Games as an opportunity to showcase the province’s northern capital.

“This is a really neat platform with the Games coming, the City’s 100th an-

niversary, the university’s 25th anniversary, it’s our time,” said Davis. “It’s the

northern decade and we’re really proud to showcase our community.”

Garrett dobson

Garrett Dobson

Title: Student Company: University of Northern British Columbia Age: 23 Although Garret Dobson has yet to build a business that he can call his own, the University of Northern British Columbia student has already given the world a big glimpse of his entrepreneurial drive.

The fourth year Bachelor of Commerce student cocaptained the 2012 JDC West Business Competition team for the university. JDC West is the largest business case competition in Western Canada, pitting teams of university students against one another to solve complex business problems and present them to a panel of judges.

Dobson played a central role for the University team, raising more than $25,000 for charity, assist-

12 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

ing 48 students to prepare wanted to do after high for the competition, re- school so I took a job cruiting mentors for the with Geotech Drilling, got teams and fundraising to my hands dirty, found cover costs for the initia- out what real work was and decided to go back tive.

Born and to school for business,” exraised in Prince plained DobGeorge, Dobson. son didn’t alThe ways know he Although he wanted to be opportunities has considered leaving Prince in business. His in the George for othfirst paid gig er cities after was as a bus north are boy at the Keg he graduates S t e a k h o u s e unparalleled. from University, Dobson said and Bar, he folthe job opporlowed that up with a couple tunities in the more part time jobs be- north are too promising to fore he joined Geotech overlook.

“The opportunities in the Drilling as a driller’s assisnorth are unparalleled.” tant after high school.

“I didn’t know what I

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Prince George chamber of commerce

Title: Strategic Planning and Marketing Company: Northern BC Tourism Association Age: 35 Clint Fraser, the 35-year-old Marketing Strategist for the Northern BC Tourism Association (NBCTA), is acknowledged industry-wide as a leader in traditional marketing initiatives and innovator in emerging marketing technologies.

The NBCTA is responsible for developing, coordinating and delivering tourism marketing programs on behalf of its stakeholders.

Through its advertising initiatives and regional publications, the NBCTA markets the region globally.

Fraser was raised in Prince George, and since a young age he has always felt passionate about the community. In fact, he chose to pursue his post-secondary education through the University of Northern British

Columbia’s (UNBC) Commerce Program. He is currently raising his family here and his job, on a daily-basis, consists of actively promoting Northern B.C. and the Prince George community.

When asked about his favourite projects to date, Fraser explained, “I have had the opportunity to work on a lot of great projects over the years so it is hard to choose just one.

The 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver were a game changer for the tourism industry in British Columbia - it was awesome to be involved in many of the initiatives associated with them, including the opportunity to work at the Whistler Media House during the games.”

More recent initiatives include Fraser’s role in developing Prince George’s successful bid package for the 2015 Canada Winter Games and leading a team in developing a mobile web application, Travel Northern BC, that allows users to effortlessly connect with Northern B.C. businesses and access travel planning information.

What is Fraser’s advice to young innovators looking to get into the tourism sector?

“Technology plays a major role in tourism marketing and we are always looking for new and innovative ways to use it, not only to reach prospective travelers but also to influence purchasing behaviour. There is a lot of opportunity for those young marketers that have a fluent understanding of technology and digital marketing practices to excel within the industry.”

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Opportunity, affordability and work-life balance are qualities that make Prince George the ideal location for young professionals to advance their careers while building the future of their dreams.

Whether your career aspirations lead you to be an entrepreneur, a skilled tradesperson, a business professional, or anything in between – Prince George is a smart move!

For more information contact: Initiatives Prince George Economic Development Corporation Tel: 250-564-0282 www.initiativespg.com

Prince George chamber of commerce

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DIRECT RESERVATIONS 1-800-663-8239 2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 13

Kristal grenkie

Kristal Grenkie

Title: Financial Services Officer Company: Integris Credit Union Age: 34

Kristal Grenkie, a 34-year- loan portfolio for both comold single mother, moved mercial and retail lending. from Smithers, B.C. to Grenkie has led monthly Prince George, B.C. in 2010. production for the organizaKristal began her career at tion and is, in part, responthe young age of 20, work- sible for annual loan growth ing for the Bulkley Valley of 50 percent.

“I started working for a Credit Union. From there, Grenkie made a number Credit Union at a relatively young age. I of transitions was impressed throughout the o rga n i zat ion, Never stop with what the Credit Union beginning as a front-line teller, being open to was willing to moving to ad- learning new offer me as an employee and ministrative supthings. as a member,” port, and rising Grenkie said. to Senior Lend“The Credit ing Manager.

Union was Grenkie’s current role as senior lending willing to make an investmanager with Integris Cred- ment in my education and it Union entails managing help me attain my career and growing an extensive goals. They are very sup-

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portive.”

Recently, Grenkie became an “Associate of the Credit Union Institute” and completed her Accredited Mortgage Professional designation. As if that weren’t enough, Grenkie is currently a student at the University of Northern British Columbia in pursuit of a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce. Her goal is to complete her degree by the time she turns 40.

In addition to Grenkie’s career achievements, she is also a member of the Junior Chamber International Prince George, and actively participates in events hosted by the Prince George Chamber of Commerce.

In 2012, Grenkie led the Credit Union’s fundraising efforts to support those affected by the Lakeland Mills accident.

Grenkie goes on to express that “The community of Prince George is fairly new

tum, meet new people, and advocate for our amazing city!”

to me, but I try to be as involved as much as possible in Chamber and community events to provide momen-

MaryJane Hannah

Mary Jane Hannah

she reached upper management, eventually reachTitle: General Manager ing the position of Assistant Company: Ramada Hotel Downtown General Manager at the hotel. She was also named Prince George Chair of the Board for the Age: 35 Cooperative Sales and Marketing group for all Holiday Mary Jane Hannah is living was ingrained in me and in Inn and Holiday Inn Express proof that hard work is the my blood to serve and help Hotels in B.C. real key to success in busi- make people happy,” said Rising through the ranks of ness.

Hannah. the hospitality and tourism These days Hannah runs Her first business was a industry has givone of Prince George’s fin- dance studio she en her a unique est hotels, overseeing a owned in Ontarunderstanding staff of 100 as she guides io, a sole propriof the business, It was Downtown Prince George’s etorship that she which Hannah Ramada Hotel through a described as a ingrained in said helps her as renovation while ensuring real education in a General Manme and in that guests continue to get “Business 101.” ager at the Ratop-notch service.

Hannah even- my blood to mada.

But the 35-year-old didn’t tually sold the “The first hand serve and help come through a conven- studio and experience of tional hospitality and tour- moved west make people having positions ism program to get into the where she found throughout the happy. business, rather she was a job as a hostess hotel are gigantic born and bred into it. in a restaurant in the building Hannah’s parents owned at the Holiday blocks toward two restaurants, which Inn Vancouver being successful as a manbecame her doorway into Centre. The hotel attached ager,” Hannah explained. entry-level service jobs and to the restaurant eventu“It really helps you relate to eventually a very rewarding ally drew her in, and she both the employee side as career. worked her way through well as the guest side of the “I was brought up through various departments until business.” the business, and I believe it

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14 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

Prince George chamber of commerce

Title: Owner Company: LiveWorkPG Age: 38

Shauna Harper, a 38-year- branding old entrepreneur, finds gratification in Start helping others develop, grow networking and achieve sooner rather their business goals. than later.

Harper ’s prized busi- You can learn ness, Livemore about WorkPG, is an yourself, online marketing, social meothers and dia and internal c o m m u n i c a - your business tions strategy through company in the Prince George efficient c o m m u n i t y.

Through her networking. business, Harper is able to help others achieve their businesses’ ries, and

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and marketing goals.

“I love working with people. Meeting new people and hearing their different stories keeps my job interesting,” explained Harper. “With the work I do as an online Marketing and Internal Communications Strategist and as a Marketing Coach, I have the amazing opportunity to meet new people daily, hear their stoteach them how

to better tell those stories.”

Harper went on to explain that she noticed an opening in the Prince George market for online marketing coaching, which is why she took it upon herself to fill that role.

Currently, Harper is working with Community Future Fraser-Fort George as a volunteer for their Youth Mean Business Program, which is designed to provide business mentorship and coaching, training workshops and networking opportunities to youth.

In her role, Harper works with local youth to provide them with the training and mentorship needed to successfully market their businesses.

Harper has put Prince George on the social media map. Businesses in the community are lucky to have a strategist on-hand who is capable of sculpting a social media presence for them that is both authen-

Liam Iliffe Owner, The Wild Life

Michelle Mohr Mortgage Broker, Invis

Gord Brownridge VP, Brownridge & Company Insurance Services Inc

Kelly Bergman Owner/President, Bergmedia

Clint Fraser Strategic Planning and Marketing, Northern BC Tourism Association Jodi Baker Secondary School Teacher, School District 57

Aidan Kelly CEO, Tourism PG Adele Yakemchuk Account Manager, BDC Michael Stanyer Photographer, Alchemist Studios

Shauna HARPER

Shauna Harper

tic and effective. Working with clients from across the region and throughout a number of varying business sectors, Harper is pushing

Kelli Moorhead General Sales Manager, Jim Pattison Broadcasting Melissa Mills Marketing & Business Expansion Officer, IPG Cathy Mackay Managing Partner/Branch Manager, EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc Mike Davis Director Marketing & Communications, Prince George 2015 Canada Winter Games

our community to become part of the knowledgebased economy, independent of our resource background.

Matt Brown Partner, Dean Mason & Company Inc Dennis Callaghan Chief Financial Officer, NDIT Daniel Milburn Director of Planning & Business Development, R. Radloff & Associates Kara Biles Human Resources Coordinator, Sinclar Group Forest Products

Congrats to the past and present UNBC students

who make up nearly half of Prince George’s Top 40 Under 40.

Prince George chamber of commerce

2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 15

Kristen harrot

Kristen Harrot

Title: General Manager Company: Pacific Sport Northern BC Age: 31

Kristen Harrot, a 31-year- youth.

When asked about her old entrepreneur, highly values sport and sport career choice, Harrot exculture, both of which she plained “I’ve always loved hopes to grow in the north- sports; amateur sports, professional sports and the ern B.C. region.

Harrot is currently the dedication and perseverance of athletes General Manin all levels of ager for Pasporting.” HarcificSport rot digressed, Northern BC, a Never stop “I like being not-for-profit organization creat- being open to involved in the development ed specifically to serve athletes, learning new of coaches and athletes across coaches, offithings. the region cials and volunand in varying teers in northsports.” ern B.C. Through From a young the provision of various innovative services age it was clear that Harrot’s and programs, the Centre passion in life was sports. In helps athletes progress, 2004, she became a Graduwhile introducing sport op- ate of Brock University portunities to the region’s with a Bachelor’s degree

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in Sport Management. To further her expertise, Harrot completed her strength and conditioning specialist certification through the National Strength Conditioning Association in 2009/2010.

What is Harrot’s proudest accomplishment in regards to sport in northern B.C.?

“This past year, I was involved in the development of a new program to help young athletes in Prince George balance schoolwork while training to become elite athletes. In March, the School District 57 Board Members voted to approve the Canadian Sport School of Northern B.C. The program is designed to give structure to athletes who are in grades 10-12 while competing in their respective sport.”

Harrot is most certainly a valuable asset to the community and northern B.C. as a whole. She continues to act selflessly on behalf of

young athletes in communities across the region. Her passion to deliver health through fitness, while allowing athletes to develop

the skills to succeed in their sport, will continue to encourage young athletes’ sporting and academic potential for years to come.

surance business and has helped launch two technology companies.

Title: Certified Financial Planner One of the technology Company: Global Securities companies, Business2MoAge: 37 bile, is a partnership between him and Bart WagJohn Kason is a self-made the office, it’s fun to be ner that aims to change man. there.” the landscape for how Twelve years ago, he He moved to Prince businesses use mobile founded Global Securi- George from Vancouver devices in day-to-day busities Corp., a full-service 22 years ago ness. stock, option and com- and pursued a In addition to modity futures brokerage. career in the his professional You have life, Kason doDuring that time, Kason financial serhas steadily grown his vices business nates a signifito stay business into one of the because of its cant amount city’s premiere brokerages fast-paced, ever passionate of his time to while deftly manoeuvring changing naand and engaged events through the tech bubble ture. o rga n i zat i o n s bust in 2001 and the Great Today, Global with your throughout the Recession of 2008.

Securities mancity. He is an His advice for business ages more than business and active member success? Stay connected $60 million in customers. of the Prince to your customers. assets for what George Rotary “You have to stay pas- Kason calls Club, he teaches sionate and engaged with “working profinancial trainyour business and custom- fessionals” in the Prince ing to School District 57 ers,” said Kason, a Certi- George region, but it isn’t students and has develfied Financial Planner. “If his only business. Kason oped an Economic and you’re not passionate or has also successfully de- Entrepreneurial Training engaged it really doesn’t veloped a commercial program for the College of matter if you’re spending real estate property in the New Caledonia. more time or less time in city, is a partner in an in-

John Kason

John Kason

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16 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

Prince George chamber of commerce

Samantha pearl kealing

Samantha Pearl Kealing Title: Owner Company: Cloth for a Cause Age: 22

Samantha Pearl Kealing, bishing used diapers and a 22-year-old mother, is working with diapering possibly Prince George’s companies sets of diapers are then distribyoungest enuted to needy trepreneur familes. and philanKeep When asked thropist. about the drivIn October doing what ing force behind 2011, Kealing, you’re her decision to along with a her innogroup of local doing. You bring vative concept mothers, crecan be the to fruition, Kealated a local ing responded, not-for-profit change “I came from organization, Cloth for a you’d like a background where I needed Cause, which to see similar services. helps famiI recognized a lies in need in other niche in the marby providing people. ket and a need them with refor cloth diapers usable cloth for low income diapers. Cloth families.” for a Cause

Kealing has alis able to put together complete diapers by refur- ways been a philanthro-

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phist, and for several years prior to the launch of Cloth for a Cause she could be found volunteering at St. Vincent de Paul, the 3rd Avenue Collective, and other locations in the Prince George community.

Currently, the Prince George organization has expanded to seven Cloth for a Cause chapters across Canada - an eighth chapter

is in development for the Province of Nova Scotia. In spite of the limited national scale of the organization at this time, the organization is able to ship elsewhere, provided the funds are available within the group or if a recipient is willing to cover shipping costs.

What’s Kealing’s take on the opportunity for others to innovate and make

positive change on a similar scale?

“There’s always room to innovate,” describes Kealing. “There are countless numbers of societal issues that need to be addressed, not only at the local level but on a global scale. It’s about identifying these problems and coming up with a solution to remedy our past practices.”

www.flagshippg.ca Prince George chamber of commerce

2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 17

Aidan kelly

Aidan Kelly

Title: Chief Executive Officer Company: Tourism Prince George Age: 31

Liam Iliffe

Aidan Kelly, the 31-yearold CEO of Tourism PG, continually strives to advocate for the community of Prince George.

It was just over ten years ago, in 2002, that Kelly relocated to Prince George to attend the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC). While there, Kelly was able to complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce with a Major in Marketing. In addition to his academic success at UNBC, Kelly was also heavily involved in the school’s extracurricular activities including serving as the VicePresident of the Northern Undergraduate Student Society (NUGSS).

As the first ever CEO for Prince George’s destination

marketing organization, Kelly has been responsible for developing and building an effective action plan to grow economic activity in the community with a strong focus on the tourism sector.

When asked about his decision to fill the CEO role at Tourism PG, Kelly responded: “I think the tourism sector is extremely interesting.

There are so many opportunities to work with diverse groups of people and have resounding, positive impacts on the community.”

Kelly digressed, “I moved to Prince George ten years ago and ended up falling in love with the community. My work with Tourism PG is a way for me to give back to

the community.”

In addition to his work with Tourism PG, Kelly is a dedicated resident of the Prince George community, which is demonstrated through his heavy involvement with varying community groups.

Kelly served a three year term on the UNBC Alumni Association Board of Directors, and is currently a Board Member for the Northern BC Tourism Association and the Two Rivers Crime Prevention Society.

Additionally, Kelly is a member of the President Task Force on Athletics and Recreation at UNBC, a member of the UNBC Capital Plan Committee, Chair of the Northern Transportation Improvement Committee,

and a volunteer at large

throughout Prince George.

instrumental in the development of a grassroots, nation-wide charity, Five Days for the Homeless, in which university students live “homeless” on their campus to raise money and awareness for a local charity.

As if these contributions to the Prince George community were not enough, Iliffe also played an integral role in the creation and management of We Day 2009 and 2010.

“We Day is an initiative of Free The Children, an international charity and educational partner that works with schools to implement the We Act program. We Day is now in eight cities across Canada, and still growing,” explains Iliffe.

There’s no doubt that Iliffe is an asset to Prince George, and particularly to the northern region of

B.C. He is an innovator, entrepreneur and an avid promoter of the region.

Liam Iliffe

Title: Co-Owner/President Company: The Wild Life Age: 28

Liam Iliffe, a co-owner and President of The Wild Life, is living out his passion, and, at the age of 28, has achieved a number of his childhood aspirations.

Iliffe’s recent business venture, The Wild Life, is a specialty outdoor equipment and clothing shop in the Prince George community.

“I decided to get into the retail sector, specifically selling outdoor equipment and apparel because outdoor recreation is a passion of mine, and I really enjoy self-employment,” recounts Iliffe. “I studied marketing and anthropology at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), so the business venture just seemed to fit.”

While Iliffe has already proven successful in Prince George’s retail sector, this humble resident of Prince George also boasts a number of past accomplishments as well.

Throughout his years at UNBC, and beginning in 2002, Iliffe was actively involved in campus life. He led the school as the President of the Northern Undergraduate Student Society – an elected position at UNBC which provides representation to the entire student body. Iliffe went on to further develop his leadership skills when he co-captained the 2008 UNBC JDC West team with fellow nominee, Kelly Bergman.

In addition to these leadership roles, Iliffe was also

18 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

Prince George chamber of commerce

Cathy mackay

Cathy Mackay

Title: Managing Partner Company: EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc. Age: 39 Examples of her work include helping to form a partnership between the

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We’re on the front lines of creating awareness for our clients, and giving them practical ways of incorporating environmental concerns.

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University of Northern British Columbia, the Prophet River First Nation, Encana and EDI to develop a Traditional Ecological Knowledge Project that benefits all parties involved. The project was started in 2007 and was awarded a collaborative research award this year.

Mackay also recently made a successful business case to an oil and gas industry company to implement a caribou habitat modelling in their operating area.

She originally attended Simon Fraser University for electrical engineering, but switched to biology when she realized it would ultimately lead to a career that was largely outdoors and would have a positive impact on the environment.

In 1997, she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Simon Fraser University, and then went to work for five years as a Habitat Protection Officer, fisheries technician and wildlife/habitat inventory specialist.

Since Mackay joined EDI in 2006, the firm has tripled in size and now has a staff in excess of 60 people.

EDI is known as one of the leading environmental and biological consultancies in Western Canada.

Photo Credit: UNBC

A passion for the outdoors and the natural world is what drove Cathy Mackay into the field of Biology.

But to label her just a biologist would be a disservice.

As the Managing Partner and Branch Manager at EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc. in Prince George, Mackay engages with natural resource companies to provide them with advice and baseline information that can help guide them through complex environmental permitting processes for major mining and oil and gas projects.

“Very often we’re on the front lines of creating awareness for our clients, and giving them practical ways of incorporating environmental concerns,” said Mackay.

Achievement in education, business and leisure are paramount to Prince George.

An affordable, successful and friendly atmosphere awaits you in the north.

Get here to be immersed in our thriving environment.

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Prince George chamber of commerce

2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 19

Luke McDonald

Luke McDonald

Title: Partner Company: L&M Engineering Ltd. Age: 37

More recently, Luke has Luke McDonald, a 37-yearold Partner with L&M Engi- moved into a partnership neering Ltd., began his ca- role with L&M Engineering. In this new role, reer at a young McDonald directly age, working as manages groups a forestry surDon’t of surveyors, techveyor.

In 2000, crastinate. nologists and engineers to provide McDonald attained a Do things full project services throughout NorthDiploma in Geotoday ern BC. In a Project matics Technology from the rather than Management role, coordinates British Columwaiting he teams for qualbia Institute ity control, quantity of Technology. for and inspecIn addition to tomorrow. tracking tion work. his academic “An initiative knowledge, that I’m particuMcDonald also larly proud to have boasts 17 years of experience in the fields played a role in is the of surveying, civil engineer- Prince George Runway ing and construction and 15-33 Expansion Project at the Prince George Airproject management.

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port,” said McDonald. “The project took four years to complete, which was a large part of my life. I feel a sense of gratification upon completing a project, and can’t help but revel in the positive impacts a particular project has on the community.”

In addition to the Prince George Runway Expansion Project, McDonald played an integral role in the development of the Prince George Boundary Road Connector project and the Prince George Global Logistics Park project.

Today, McDonald is an vital member of the Prince George community and serves as a member for the Prince George Home Builders’ Association and the Prince George Chamber of Commerce; a Director for the Prince George Old Timers Hockey Association; and a judge for the annual Central Interior Science Exhibi-

tion. It is without a doubt that McDonald will continue to serve as a committed,

bright and trusted member of the Prince George community.

“It’s also really rewarding because you get to see a project from its initial Title: Director of Planning and concepts to an end projBusiness Development ect that’s developed and Company: R. Radloff and Associates Inc. helps the community.”

Age: 39 Since he made the jump into the private sector, Dan Milburn has, liter- city earn a LiveSmart BC Milburn has had the opally, helped build Prince Green City Award and an portunity to work on excitEnergy and Climate Action ing projects such as: resiGeorge.

As the previous City of Award for Leadership in dential development plans Prince George Director Action, among other note- in Mackenzie and Fort St. of Planning and Develop- worthy achievements.

James related to ment, Milburn was able Since April, the $1.4 billion to lead an award-winning Milburn has Mt. Milligan copteam of engineers, plan- been leading What I love per-gold mine Deners and technicians to Business development. promote community and velopment and about it is the His past experibusiness activities. planning at R. ence with the variety.

During his 11-year stint Radloff and Ascity also prowith the City, Milburn sociates, one of vides his firm helped update many of the city’s prewith a unique City’s land use and devel- mier full-service engineer- understanding of the city’s opment bylaws, stream- ing firms. make-up and planning iniWhat does he like best tiatives, which means R. lined business processes at the City, led a number about his job? Seeing Radloff is better able to of downtown redevelop- ideas become brick and meet the region’s planning ment initiatives, promoted mortar realities. needs.

“What I love about it is safe and affordable housMilburn is also a parting and protected heritage the variety and the chance time instructor at the Unito be a part of all the excit- versity of Northern British and archaeological values.

His efforts, in tandem ing projects coming up [in Columbia. with his team, helped the the area],” said Milburn.

Dan MILBURN

Dan Milburn

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20 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

Prince George chamber of commerce

Melissa mills

Melissa Mills

Title: Economic Development Officer Company: Initiatives Prince George Age: 26

Nanaimo-native Melissa a Bachelor of Commerce Mills first came to the north with a double major in Inin an effort to “experience ternational Business and something new.” It didn’t Marketing.

“I’m really intake long for her terested in the to fall in love with sustainable Prince George.

As the Economic You have development of resourceDevelopment Ofto get out based comficer at Initiatives Prince George, there and munities,” explained Mills. the city’s economic develop- network and “Being in Britment and market- get involved ish Columbia my entire life, ing arm, it’s Mills’ to set natural rejob to promote the city as a great yourself apart. sources is very much a part of place to live, work my community and invest. and why we She first learned have what we about economic development through a have today. Prince George professor while she at- is a prime example of how tended the University of to do that properly.”

In addition to her work at Northern British Columbia, where she went on to earn Initiatives Prince George,

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Mills has also been a marketing coach and mentor for the University’s JDC west teams for the last three years, helping future northern business leaders hone their ideas into potentially revenue-generating enterprises.

Next year, Mills will graduate from the University with an MBA – but she’s keenly aware that education isn’t everything in business. In fact, her advice to young business leaders is to get out in the community and network.

“I think a lot of people my age or younger than me have a sense of entitlement,” she said. “You have to get out there and network and get involved to set yourself apart.”

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Royal Lepage Prince George 1625 4th Ave Prince George, BC V2L 3k2 Prince George chamber of commerce

2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 21

Michelle mohr

Michelle Mohr

Title: Mortgage Broker Company: Invis Age: 28

In 2010, a colleague of Michelle Mohr, a 28-yearold mortgage broker with Mohr’s started-up a local Invis and a single-mother, branch for the National Mortgage Brodeveloped a kerage, Invis. strong work It was at this ethic at an Don’t ever time that Mohr early age. made the deciWhile atgive up, sion to leave tending the even if her position University of with the Bank of Northern Brittimes Montreal in purish Columbia suit of advancare hard.

(UNBC) in ing her career. pursuit of a Things That same year, B a c h e l o r ’s Mohr attained Degree in will get her mortgage Commerce, easier. broker’s license Mohr worked from the Finanfull-time at cial Institutions the Bank of Commission (FIMontreal to establish herself in the COM). Mohr is also a memPrince George business ber of both the Canadian community, and to begin Association of Accredited Mortgage Professionals, her career.

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and the Mortgage Brokers Institute of British Columbia. In both 2010 and 2011, Mohr was awarded the top producer award for Invis British Columbia. This comes as no surprise as she is an educated, strong woman that is building her business through integrity, leadership and dedication.

Mohr has been an advocate for the Prince George community and stated that “her pride for Prince George and need to help promote the community have been driving forces in her journey toward success.” She has been an advocate for the community and has participated in a number of local charitable functions including Bring Awareness to Autism and Run for the Cure. As well, she played a key role in the fundraising of $20,000 to support a local resident, and a dear friend, battling with Leukemia.

to look toward the future, and has stated that she would like to attain her Canadian Securities License and volunteer with the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

This past year, Mohr was able to complete her Commerce Degree at UNBC with a major in Marketing, which she intends on applying to her ever-growing business. Mohr continues

Tasha moodley

Tasha Moodley

Title: Certified Business and Leadership Coach Company: Tasha Moodley – Inspiring Personal and Business Excellence Age: 31

22 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

Passion and commitment are two words that define Tasha Moodley and the career path she’s chosen.

Originally from South Africa, Moodley came to Canada several years ago with a background in human resources management and desire to pursue a career in professional coaching.

“My desire is to develop people and help them realize their full potential,” said Moodley. “Often we go through life and don’t really understand what our talents or strengths are and we end up in the wrong job or unhappy, so through development and understanding of one’s self we can improve personal success.”

Moodley said she takes

Her passion and coma holistic approach to professional coaching, mitment for professional helping business people coaching has allowed her go from “good to great” to work with organizations such as the by identifyCentral Interior ing their speNative Health cific talents, and helping My desire is Society, the Prince George them capitalto develop division of Famize on those talents while people and ily Practice, the also maintainRoyal Canaing a healthy help them re- dian Mounted and balanced alize their full Police and AllWood Fibre Ltd., lifestyle. potential. among others.

In addition to her business, “I think it’s about commitMoodley is an ting,” MoodAssociate Certified Coach through the ley said of balancing her International Coaching professional life with Federation, specializing in her personal life. “It personal and life coaching, takes a commitment to relationship management, want to have balance.”

team development and leadership development.

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Prince George chamber of commerce

Title: General Sales Manager Company: Jim Pattison Broadcast Group Age: 37

Kelli Moorhead broke Alberta Radio Group in the through the glass ceil- Hinton/Jasper Area.

She said she found her ing when she became the day-to-day exyoungest and periences as a one of the only senior account female General Sales Managers in It was also m a n a g e r representing the Jim Pattison wonderful CKPG TV, CTV Broadcast Group.

Global As manager, how much I and (in north cenMoorhead leads learned tral B.C. and a team of nine Jasper) “resales professionabout warding and als who represent myself. instructional.” two radio and In 2008, three television Moorhead stations. She also made the bold oversees seven members of the group’s decision to juggle her catelevision and radio cre- reer and life as a single parent and pursue an MBA at ative departments.

Before moving to Prince the University of Northern George, Moorhead had British Columbia.

“Throughout my years worked in Edmonton, central Alberta and with the at CKPG TV, I have helped

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many business and government agencies, non-profit organizations and charities achieve their marketing goals through the use of electronic media advertising,” explained Moorhead.

Her MBA also allowed her to present a third year business course at the university in September 2011.

She said she worked hard to make the content inspiring and enjoyed the lectures and getting to know her students.

“It was also wonderful how much I learned about myself during the experience.”

In addition to her role with the Jim Pattison Group, Moorhead is on the Board of Directors at the Spruce Credit Union and a member of the Canadian Women in Communications Association.

Although Moorhead has found immense success with her career, she said her daughter is the most influ-

Kelli moorhead

Kelli Moorhead

ential person in her life, and that becoming a mom at a young age grounded and

motivated her and drove her to pursue an education and rewarding career.

DL#23034

Prince George chamber of commerce

2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 23

Title: President Company: O’Brien Management; Bidright Contracting; O’Brien Training; Mack Brothers Logging; and Taylor Professional Driving Age: 37 Dan O’Brien, a 37-year-old entrepreneur in the forestry sector, is the Owner and President of O’Brien Management, BidRight Contracting, O’Brien Training, Mack Brothers Logging in Quesnel and Taylor Professional Driving.

At a young age, through his family’s heavy involvement in the northern BC logging industry, O’Brien developed a strong commitment to the resource industry and to quality training in all aspects of machining and trucking operations.

Currently, through his businesses BidRight Con-

tracting and Mack Brothers Logging, O’Brien operates log harvesting operations in various communities across B.C. and Alberta, employing a number of local residents in northern B.C. and generating a significant amount of economic activity within the forestry sector. O’Brien states that it is the “rapidly evolving characteristics of the forestry industry that motivate him to expand his operations and continue to innovate.”

O’Brien’s businesses O’Brien Training and Taylor Professional Driving, which he started in 2007 and 2009 respectively, are integral

parts of the Prince George community, as they address northern B.C.’s current need for skilled machinists and operators throughout the region.

O’Brien is a bright, young entrepreneur in an aging industry. His hands-on approach to work has empowered him to continue striving for success. His energy, innovative ideas and business-focused mindset are exactly what the forestry sector - and the communities it supports - need as the industry undergoes a dynamic shift into the 21st century.

What is O’Brien’s advice to future entrepreneurs looking to get involved in the forestry sector?

“Come up with a great idea and stay focused on turning that idea into a reality. Do not be fearful of trying new things. Particularly in the forestry sector,

Logging and Sawmill Journal, Dave Milne

Dan o’brien

Dan O’Brien

industry norms are always changing. So there are a number of opportunities for innovative new practic-

es, which could ultimately reshape the way business is carried out.”

Gaurav parmar

Gaurav Parmar

Title: Partner Company: Heather Sadler Jenkins LLP Age: 37 Born and raised in Prince George, Parmar became a partner with Heather Sadler Jenkins LLP, the largest law firm in northern B.C., after only five years of practicing law.

His success was the result of building a business law practice from scratch for the firm, which employs some 60 people including 20 lawyers.

Although Parmar graduated from high school in Prince George and then attended the College of New Caledonia, he moved south to Simon Fraser University where he went on to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1999.

24 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

He followed that up with a Juris Doctor from the University of Saskatchewan in 2003, and then articled for a year with Hope Heinrich LLP before joining Heather Sadler Jenkins LLP. Since then, he has gone on to earn an MBA from Simon Fraser University, and has built a business law practice that includes corporate and commercial law, residential conveyancing and mortgages, commercials loans, commercial leasing, wills and estates, employment law and creditor’s remedies.

When Parmar hasn’t been busy with the law, he’s devoted his spare

time to giving back to the community he calls home.

He was a part time instructor at the University of Northern British Columbia from 2006 to 2009, and also taught business law at the College of New Caledonia in 2008.

Parmar is also active in the Prince George men’s basketball league, and has helped coach the D.P. Todd Secondary High School junior boys basketball team.

Parmar is also the past president of the Prince George Chamber of Commerce.

Prince George chamber of commerce

Title: Wealth Consultant Company: Spruce Credit Union Age: 37

It may have been during Shane Sienaert, a 37-yearold Wealth Management his high school years that Consultant with Spruce Sienaert developed an understanding and Credit Union, appreciation for has always the stock marbeen interestThe ket, however, ed in finance.

“I can still re- opportunity it was not until he pursued member waking up early to grow your his Bachelor’s Degree in Soin high school skill set cial Sciences at to check the should not the University stock marof the ket,” Sienaert be taken for College Cariboo (UCC) re m i n i s c e s . and the Univer“I remember granted. sity College of a particular the Fraser Valproject in ley (UCFV) from high school where students would ‘buy 1993-1998 that he began and sell’ stocks. This went trading stocks himself.

Since then, Sienaert has on for a while, and I was the winner of our in-class worked diligently towards challenge. Since then, I’ve completing a number of acalways been passionate creditation courses within the financial management about the subject.”

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sector, including the Canadian Securities Course and the Canadian Insurance Course. Sienaert is also a designated professional in the fields of financial planning, wealth consulting, and estate planning and trust strategies.

Over the past four years with Spruce Credit Union, Sienaert has successfully grown the Spruce wealth management services by 500 percent. Sienaert has also consistently ranked in the top 50 out of 1,600 Credit Union sales representatives across Canada – an impressive achievement given the recent economic conditions.

What’s Sienaert’s advice to those looking to get into the financial management sector?

“There are many opportunities to get into the financial sector and do well.

Across the country, we’re seeing the consolidation of financial institutions,”

Shane sienaert

Shane Sienaert

describes Sienaert. “The customer service aspect of banking and wealth management is slowly dwindling. Someone with the right personality, educa-

tion and an eagerness to help others has the potential to do very well within the industry.”

Congratulations to one of our own!

R. Radloff & Associates is proud to congratulate Dan Milburn for being selected as a recipient of the Prince George Chamber of Commerce “Top 40 Under 40” Award.

R. Radloff & Associates is a Civil Engineering firm that provides engineering, planning and consulting services across Northern B.C. Specializing in infrastructure design, construction projects, asset management and capital project planning, R. Radloff & Associates has worked closely with First Nations and local governments throughout B.C. since 1992

!

Matt Calvert, Senior Partner

1596 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC Ph: 250.563.6777 Fax: 250.563.7630 Prince George chamber of commerce

Planning • Engineering • Consulting R. Radloff & Associates • www.radloffeng.com Phone 250-562-6861 • Fax 250-562-6826 2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 25

Trevor sprague

Trevor Sprague

Title: General Manager Company: Sands Bulk Transport Age: 35

Trevor Sprague’s advice to young entrepreneurs is to leave no rock unturned.

“Be on top of everything you specialize in,” said Sprague, General Manager, Sands Bulk Transport.

“Don’t walk by a rock without overturning it because sometimes those become your best customers and some of the best people you meet in business.”

Prince George-based Sands specializes in the bulk transport of petroleum products and chemicals for customers in the forestry, mining, construction, aviation, pulp and paper, agriculture, marine and retail sectors.

Sprague started working at the age of 14 for the then-Beaver Lumber, which he said helped him

build his confidence and people skills from a young age. After that, he went on to work for Curtis Elite Security for six years before joining Sands in a sales role.

Sands has seen its total annual fuel transports more than double to 40 million litres since he first joined the company in 2006. Sales have also increased to more than $10 million annually from $4.1 million during the same period of time.

Outside of work, Sprague has developed a lifelong passion for hockey that continues to serve Prince George hockey community to this day.

In addition to the fact that he’s been a Regional Scout for the Western

Hockey League’s Portland Winterhawks for the past three years, Sprague is also Head Coach for the Major Midget League’s Cariboo Cougars.

This year, Sprague was selected to be an Assistant Coach with the Western Branch Challenge, representing the best under 16 hockey players in Western Canada.

“All of that time that I and my staff spend working with these elite hockey players is unpaid volunteer time, but it is something we all feel strongly about,” he said.

Sprague also recently celebrated his 14th wedding anniversary with his high school sweetheart Jessie Sprague. They have two daughters.

The company was intended to be a part-time interest Title: Owner but has since transformed into a full-time occupation.

Company: Alchemist StudioS Alchemist Studios brings Age: 31 two notable innovations to Michael Stanyer, a I saved money from part- the City of Prince George.

31-year-old entrepreneur, time employment to invest The first, PG Listings, is an is the part-owner of a thriv- in digital editing tools.” online database of MLS listing photography and vid- Stanyer went on to say, ings with a focus on high quality photos eography studio in Prince “Professionand videos. The George – Alchemist Stu- ally, I have second, The worked in dios.

Focus on Counterfet, is Stanyer’s expertise covers digital media a blend of artistic work and for ten years. developing your a graphic novel adaptation of marketing. Stanyer com- I started deskill set instead Edmund Spenspleted his Undergraduate signing graphDegree in English Litera- ics for a local of designations er’s 1590 fantasy epic, The Faerie ture, as well as his Gradu- technical writand degrees. Queene. Both ate Degree in Marketing at ing company, innovations have the University of Northern PF Publishing, received interBritish Columbia. In addi- and carried national praise, tion to his time as a stu- on doing graphic work as dent at UNBC, Stanyer was an added benefit to the po- however, the latter has been selected to appear also able to teach a num- sition I held at UNBC.” In 2009, Stanyer’s work in a critically praised anber of marketing courses on graphic design shifted thology called The Graphic for two years.

“As a child, I was fasci- from an added benefit Canon by Seven Stories nated by digital media. I to become his livelihood, Press, with an image from played with early versions when he started Alchemist the graphic novel appearof Auto CAD and loved Studios with a childhood ing in a Wall Street Journal film editing. In high school friend, Daniel Abraham. review.

Michael stanyer

Michael Stanyer

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26 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

Prince George chamber of commerce

Greg stewart

Greg Stewart

Title: President Company: Sinclar Group Forest Products Ltd. Age: 37

Being president of a multi- brings the equipment and million dollar forestry com- processes to life. It is the pany at a young age might people that find and maintain our customgo to some er relationships. people’s It is our people heads, but not The key that use their Greg Stewart. For him, element that creativity and passion to find it’s people determines solutions to our that make his position per- a company’s challenges.”

Stewart ’s sonally and professionally success is the g r a n d f a t h e r, Bob Stewrewarding. people. art, founded “The key elthe business ement that with his partdetermines a company’s success is ner Ivan Andersen half a the people,” Stewart, century ago. Since then, president of Sinclar Group Sinclar Group has grown Forest Products Ltd., ex- to include eight sawmills, plained. “Without the peo- planer mills and valueple, our business would be added forest product mills trees, some buildings and a throughout central British Columbia. lot of metal.

That said, Stewart didn’t “It is the people that

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just waltz into the family business. After pursuing an education in Chemical Engineering after high school, he worked in Trail, B.C. for Teck Resources – Canada’s largest mining company.

He then went on to earn an MBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario. As his career progressed toward management roles, a desire to pursue the family business drove Stewart toward Sinclar.

Although the B.C. interior forest sector has faced innumerable challenges in recent years, Stewart is a firm believer that the industry has room to expand and adapt to an ever-changing market, generating jobs for British

Columbians for decades to come.

“Whether it was in response to the sustainability concerns in the early 1990’s or our response to

Celebrating young business leaders.

At TELUS, we believe that empowering young leaders to reach their full potential leads to stronger business performace and a culture that better understands the customers we serve.

We are proud to sponsor Prince George’s Top 40 Under 40. telus.com/community

the mountain pine beetle epidemic, this sector has demonstrated that it is prepared to take steps to remain globally competitive.”

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Prince George chamber of commerce

2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 27

Terry thiara

Terry Thiara

Title: Owner Company: Lithium One Import Age: 25

Terry Thiara - one of this investment paid off. He year’s youngest nominees used the profits from this - is a twenty-five year old investment, and wages entrepreneur, and was earned from part-time and only nineteen when his vi- seasonal work to purchase four additional sion started to rental homes. take shape.

It wasn’t until In 2006, Terry In business, 2010 that Terry was in the midst of his if you’re not recognized a gap in the local second year striving, pursuing a economy for Bachelor’s De- you’re dying. the import and fabrication of gree in Comgranite, quartz merce from and marble the University countertops. It of Northern British Columbia, when was then that he decided he used a student line of to start his esteemed busicredit to purchase his first ness, Lithium One Imports. rental home and “flip it.” At the beginning of this investment, Terry recognized that the greenfield local real estate market Terry, along with a partwas on an upswing and felt ner, began to import stone it was an ideal time to in- from India and fabricate vest. Sure enough, Terry’s those materials in to coun-

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tertops. More recently, the company has diversified into exterior stone cladding which they import from China.

Terry also operates Lithium One Developments, which is currently leading work on the development of a spec home in College Heights and a nine-home subdivision in the Hart, and TriMark Solutions - a trades-based business which works for other construction contractors.

Terry is driven to succeed by the constant need to innovate. He recognizes that, in business, if you’re not striving, you’re dying.

He is currently elated by the increase in demand for his products and services across northern B.C.

Hanna Van De vose

Hanna Van de Vosse

Title: Managing Partner Company: EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc. Age: 36 Hanna Van de Vosse might best be described as the eternal optimist, at least when it comes to business.

The 36-year-old managing partner and senior biologist with EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc. in Prince George believes one of the keys to success in business is to continually look for opportunities – even in situations where optimism is at a premium.

“It’s about finding opportunity and opportunity doesn’t always look like opportunity,” explained Van de Vosse. “You might be in a crisis, you might have something happen that seems negative, but if you really think about it maybe there’s an opportunity for you there.”

Van de Vosse started down the road into the field of

28 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

Biology with dreams of be- ing and working in Prince coming a marine biologist, George because of the lifebut her career took her style it offers – first-rate hikdown a very different path. ing and fishing within minAfter she graduated from utes of the city, and virtually the University of Victoria no traffic congestion. with a Bachelor of Science She said EDI strives to in Biology in strike a balance 1997, she worked between envias an environ- Opportunity ronmental remental techniquirements for doesn’t cian for a large future generam u l t i n at i o n a l always look tions as well as engineering and industry’s needs. like environmental “That’s where consulting firm. we fit in, that’s opportunity.

In 2007, she our niche,” she joined EDI as an said.

“We’ve aquatic biologist. developed pracShe soon protical solutions gressed in her career at EDI that help industry do what to become a Project Man- they need to do but at the ager for Major Projects such same time make sure the as pipeline environmental environment is protected assessments. In 2010, she for future generations.” became an owner of EDI. Van de Vosse loves liv-

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Prince George chamber of commerce

Prince George chamber of commerce

2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 29

Shannon Wright

Shannon Wright

Title: Stylist, Owner/Operator Company: The Pepper Tree Hair Studio Inc. Age: 32

Owning and operating a transformation that takes hair salon is no easy task, place in someone who but for Shannon Wright it loves their new hair style.

“I love seeing the transcomes naturally.

Originally from Houston, formations [in people] and I love seeB.C., Wright ing my clients grew up in and my team the indusI love on a daily try, and first basis,” said went to seeing the Wright, owner work for her mom, also transformations of The Pepper Hair Stua stylist, at [in people]. Tree dio in Prince the age of George’s Coast 14.

Inn of the At first North.

Wright was Although Wright grew up just answering the phone, but it progressed from in the hairdressing industhere and pretty soon try, she pursued formal even her friends were call- training at the Interior Academy for Hairdressing ing on her to fix their hair.

Although she runs a busi- in Kamloops and Ms. Loness, at the end of the day reas College of Esthetics Wright loves to watch the in Prince George. She is a

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Adele yakemchuk

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hairdresser, esthetician, barber and licenced colour educator.

Wright bought The Pepper Tree Studio in 2007, and became the first First Nations person to have a business in the Coast Inn. In addition to being a Gitxsan Hereditary Chief, Wright has been very active in Prince George’s community, donating her time at the local Big Brothers and Big Sisters.

What’s the key to her success in an ever-changing and competitive industry?

A top-notch team.

“I think it’s having a good team that you can trust, that can help run the business.”

Adele Yakemchuk

Title: Manager, Consulting Company: Business Development Bank of Canada Age: 34

30 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

Adele Yakemchuk’s passion is helping small and medium-sized businesses “fill in the gaps.”

As Manager of Consulting at the Business Development Bank of Canada in Prince George, Yakemchuk helps businesses throughout northern B.C. track down top-notch consultants that help enterprises improve everything from workplace health and safety plans to IT systems.

As rewarding as it is to see the businesses she works with grow, Yakemchuk said that, at the end of the day, it’s the people that she gets to work with that get her out of bed every morning.

“The people, that’s what makes it for me,” Yakemchuk said. “99% of my clients are amazing people.”

Yakemchuk grew up in level position to a Manager Cache Creek and moved of Consulting; along the to Prince George 10 years way providing her with opago to attend the Univer- portunities to dabble in sity of Northern British underwriting and business Columbia. After graduating development, among other in 2001 with a Bachelor of roles.

Yakemchuk said the BusiCommerce in Finance and Marketing, she pursued job ness Development Bank opportunities with banks, has provided her with many which she saw as a “finish- opportunities to grow her ing school” for business career right here in Northern B.C., and although students. she’s found sucThe Business Development cess at an early age, she’s also Bank of CanaMy clients learned an imda, a Federal Crown Cor- are amazing portant lesson poration with or two about people. business. more than 100 “Don’t take life offices across so seriously,” the country, then hired her for a custom- she said. “I caused myself a er service role. In the last 10 lot of stress early on trying years, the bank has allowed to be perfect and perfection her to grow from an entry- isn’t achievable.”

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Prince George chamber of commerce

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Congratulations nominees, on your leadership accomplishments

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Prince George chamber of commerce

2013 Prince George

Top 40 Under 40 – 31

32 – 2013 Prince George Top 40 Under 40

Prince George chamber of commerce