In Touch Magazine Spring 2005

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MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | SPRING 2005 3

B U I L D I N G S U C C E S SStarting with only a $600

pickup truck, some borrowed tools and his Mohawk Diploma, Peter Vicano has built Vicano Construction into one of the most high-profile and successful companies in the region.

L I F E I M I T AT E S S A I L I N G Eugene Tekatch has always

been a man to face challenges head on. This former Mohawk College student and teacher shares his wisdom about life, education and sailing.

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M A K E O V E R M A D N E S SWith renovations now complete,

the Mohawk Students’ Association is ready to meet the challenges of serving the ever-growing and diverse student population.

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N E R V E S O F S T E E LSuburban Stoney Creek to downtown Manhattan — that’s the path one Mohawk graduate’s products have taken, thanks to his ingenuity and a hands-on education.

BY ANGUS GILLESPIE

BY SONYA FELIX

BY KYM MCCREARY-STEWART

BY KATE SCHOOLEY

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IN TOUCHIN TOUCH

C O N T E N T S

S P R I N G 2 0 0 5

A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI & FRIENDS OF MOHAWK COLLEGE

F i n d o u t m o r e a b o u t t h e M o h a w k Co l l e g e A l u m n i A s s o c i a t i o n !

Vi s i t u s o n t h e w e b a tw w w. m o h a w k c o l l e g e . c a / a l u m n i

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | SPRING 20054

growth and prosperity. If you agree that these are important

issues and that increased funding for postsecondary education is critical to your future I invite you to take a few moments to contact your MPP directly. All MPPs' phone numbers and email addresses are available from Elections Ontario at 1-800-677-8683 or on its website at www.electionsontario.ca. You may also wish to demonstrate your support by signing the online petition available at www.fundcollegesnow.ca.

In conclusion, Mohawk’s reputation is being built daily on the strength of your success, and your contribution as a team member or leader to the social, cultural and economic future of Ontario. Again, I invite you to send us your stories, so that we may share them with the world. Our Mohawk story is your story, and also part of Ontario’s story. We celebrate your achievements, and want the world to know that Mohawk graduates are making a difference.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Wendy Makey, Manager Alumni Relations

Greetings Alumni and friends of Mohawk College! My name is Wendy Makey, and I am thrilled to be the new

Manager of Alumni Relations. As a graduate of Mohawk I am proud to represent the needs of Mohawk College Alumni.

As a former employee of the Student Life Department at Mohawk, it brings

me great pleasure to bring previous experience cultivating relationships with current students to serving them as Alumni.

The Alumni Association is excited to move forward and accommodate the diverse needs of you, our graduates. As our membership grows, we would like to improve and evolve our services. Our association would love

to know what you think! If you have any comments or questions about Alumni Relations, please contact us at [email protected]. Also, be sure to check out our website http://alumni.mohawkcollege.ca for more frequent updates.

The Mohawk College Alumni Association is your Association; I encourage you to make the most of it.

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MOHAWK’S REPUTATION IS BUILT ON THE SUCCESSES OF OUR ALUMNI MaryLynn West-Moynes, President of Mohawk College

In just a couple of years, Mohawk College of Applied Arts & Technology will celebrate our 40th anniversary. In 2004, we recognized that we have

graduated over 65,000 alumni, from our 101 full time programs as well as sixteen apprenticeship programs. In this issue of In Touch, I ask our alumni to be in touch with us. Each one of you has a story to tell, and this magazine is dedicated to telling those stories.

As revealed in the last issue of the magazine, Mohawk is implementing Vision Like A Hawk: Strategic Plan 2004-2007, our multi-year plan to be the champion of students and college of choice, dedicated to academic excellence and innovation, two of six cornerstones. Another cornerstone underscores our contribution to economic growth and prosperity. While we are linked to economic impact daily simply by serving over 10,000 full time students, 2,645 apprenticeship students, and 47,000 continuing education registrations, our longstanding and in-depth contribution

to provincial and national prosperity comes through your success as employed graduates.

It is because of this that I am encouraging all Mohawk Alumni to step up to the plate and assist Ontario’s postsecondary education to achieve the objective of increased funding from the Government of Ontario. Our provincial government is currently reviewing recommendations put forward by The Honourable Bob Rae in his report, Ontario: A Leader in Learning. Rae states that the provinces future economic and social well-being is at risk, and the only solution is an immediate infusion of significant new resources from the provincial government.

I am sure that you agree with me that it is now up to our provincial government to adopt the recommendations and make them work for Ontario. Without strong postsecondary institutions, Ontario will not be able to educate those individuals that will ensure our province’s future


BE PROUD, I AM Morgan Seele, Alumni Association President

PUBLISHERMohawk College Alumni Association

EDITORGreg Chew

DESIGN AND PRODUCTIONCopperlen IMA

PHOTOGRAPHYSheryl Thornton, David Dishke, Interiorimages.ca, Jackie Jones, Jostens Photography, Bernetta Scime, Tom Sutton, Stephen Veerman, Gaye Yachetti

CONTRIBUTORS Sonya Felix, Angus Gillespie, Kate Schooley, Holly Angus, Linda Basso, Heather Crawford, Barbara Lynn Evans, Nancy Fleming, Moira Gibson, Mary Guise, Ronald Holgerson, Lynn James, Cheryl Jensen, Jackie Jones, Pat Kolodziejski, Debbie Logel Butler, Donna Luker, Reid MacWilliam, Denise MacEachern, Wendy Makey, Morgan Seele, Kym McCreary-Stewart, Bob Miller, Joanne Orr, Julie Ryan, Bernetta Scime

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARDRonald Holgerson, Executive Director Marketing and Communications; Wendy Makey, Manager Alumni Relations; Linda Marshall, Director Media and Public Relations; Lidia Siino, Vice-President Marketing & Communications, Alumni Board of Directors; Debbie Logel Butler, Executive Director, Community Relations, Advancement, Alumni & Awards

CONTENT CO-ORDINATORBarbara Lynn Evans

In Touch Magazine is published semi-annually by the Alumni Relations Office at Mohawk College. This magazine is circulated to alumni and friends of Mohawk College. Ideas and opinions published or expressed in In Touch do not necessarily reflect those of Mohawk College, the Alumni Association, or the Editor.

To update your alumni record contact: Mohawk CollegeAlumni Relations OfficeP. O. Box 2034 Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2Phone: 905-575-2258Fax: 905-575-2443Email: [email protected]

Canada Post Publication Agreement Number 40065780

It’s been almost nine months since I took on the role of president of our Alumni Association and in that time I’ve repeatedly been surprised

to find Mohawk alumni prospering in so many different circles.

One of the privileges of the role of president is that you become the spokesperson for the Association, effectively becoming one of its faces to the public. The article you’re reading right now is just one such example. Finding my name among these pages has prompted people in both my professional and personal lives to share with me that they too have benefited from their experiences at Mohawk and are proud to be counted among its alumni. Were it not for my involvement with the Alumni Association we might never have identified that common bond between us.

Speaking at our annual 25-Year Reunion event, meeting the great people we invite back to speak at convocations, and, of course, meeting the outstanding recipients of our annual Alumni of Distinction Awards have all been great opportunities for me to see first hand the many contributions and many successes

of Mohawk graduates. Our Alumni have found success in a very broad range of occupations and lifestyles. Some of them are in the media and creative arts, others in engineering and technical fields, some are in commerce and still others are active in health and social services. The binding element between them all is that they can attribute at least part of their success to their experiences at Mohawk College.

I realize that my exposure to so many positive alumni experiences is above average thanks to my role. Many of you will only learn about the successes of a handful of your classmates and friends from Mohawk. We try to share more of these successes with you through the alumni profiles within this magazine. Regardless, I can now assure you that In Touch includes only a small sample of the many stories that are out there all around. Recognizing the volume and range of personal successes resulting from the Mohawk experience should reinforce your sense of pride in being among the fortunate who can call themselves Mohawk College alumni. Be proud, I am.

Sandra Richardson, Vice President,

Programs and Services

Lynn James, DirectorKim McCartney, Director

Anthony Cascella, MSA PresidentGene Stodolak, DirectorMichael Wall, DirectorRon Worrall, Director

ALUMNI BOARD OF DIRECTORS: 2004 - 2005 SLATE OF OFFICERS

Morgan Seele, President

Krysia Iwanek, Past President

Susan McDonald, Vice President ,

Finance and DevelopmentLidia Siino,

Vice President, Marketing and Communications

The Alumni Associat ion thanks these indiv iduals for their valued contr ibut ions to Alumni act iv i t ies, commit tees and meet ings on behal f of the Alumni of Mohawk Col lege. We appreciate your dedicat ion.

IN TOUCHIN TOUCH


A special awards dinner was held on Friday, January 28, 2005, at Fennell Campus to celebrate seven outstanding alumni who received the 2003-2004

Alumni of Distinction Awards. The Alumni Association Board of Directors, Mohawk College Board of Governors, President MaryLynn West-Moynes and distinguished guests recognized and celebrated the contributions Mohawk College graduates make in their community.

“The success of these alumni, both in their personal and professional lives, is a true testimonial to the value of a Mohawk College education. We are proud to honour these seven individuals as they join the 29 past recipients of our Alumni of Distinction Awards. Recognizing their accomplishments and contributions to the community as prime examples of the many made by more than 65,000 alumni of Mohawk College,” affirmed President West-Moynes.

Alumni Honoured at Awards Dinner

2004 ALUMNI OF DISTINCTION AWARD RECIPIENTS:

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SANDRA IRELANDNURSING 1990Sandra Ireland is President of the College of Nurses of Ontario, the regulatory body that protects the public’s right to quality nursing services by providing leadership in self-regulation to 140,000 nurses in Ontario. A Clinical Nurse Specialist in the Trauma and Neurosciences Programs at Hamilton Health Sciences Corp., Sandra is actively involved in developing ambulatory neurosurgical clinics and secondary stroke prevention programs, locally and regionally.

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DOMINIC AGOSTINO(POSTHUMOUSLY)SOCIAL SERVICE WORKER 1981 Dominic Agostino served as the Chief Whip for the Liberals, was MPP for Hamilton East for nearly 10 years and was the Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of the Environment. Dominic will be remembered by the Hamilton community as a man of simple loyalty, whose relentless drive for social justice reflected the best interest of all he served. In an age of political cynicism, his life was an example of the noble value of public service and the strength of political commitment.

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ANTHONY MICHELLIAPPLIED MUSIC 1990Anthony Michelli excels as an award-winning drummer, faculty member at York University and Mohawk College, and world-renowned musician who continues to be involved in music workshops, ensembles, and festivals throughout the world. Anthony is a very active supporting artist with a global reach and contributes much of his success today to the excellent educational foundation he received from Mohawk’s dedicated and exceptionally talented faculty.

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2003 ALUMNI OF DISTINCTION AWARD RECIPIENT:

LYLA MIKLOS, RADIO BROADCASTING 1997, BROADCAST JOURNALISM 1998 Lyla Miklos works for CHUM Television as the Program Coordinator for Bravo! Space: The Imagination Station and Drive-In Classics. Lyla is an active regional theatre performer, writer and accomplished vocalist. She volunteers her time with strengthening Hamilton’s Community Initiative, C101.5 FM, Hamilton Theatre Inc., Hamilton Pride and Southern Ontario’s Science Fiction fandom community.

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DAMION STEENCOMPUTER SOFTWARE ENGINEERING 2003Damion Steen, student leader, systems architect and varsity basketball player, made an exceptional contribution to the quality of student life and pursued academic challenges during his three years at Mohawk College. In 2004, he received the Mohawk College Gold Medal for his academic excellence and the Judge J.K. Warrender Award for distinguished contribution in student affairs. As he leaves Mohawk and begins his career in systems architecture, Damion Steen’s legacy will endure to the benefit of future Mohawk students.

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DIANA ZANINBUSINESS ADMINISTRATION1980Diana Zanin currently holds the position of Vice President and General Manager of St. Peter’s Home Services. She is a market leader in Home Services with responsibility for all service and growth including business development, budget and financial control, operations oversight, and liaison with local health authorities and the community. She is an active volunteer with St. Peter’s and chairs the Bi-Annual Women’s Network and Charity Donation Evening for Martha House. Diana is also a Rotarian with the Burlington Lakeshore Rotary.

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SPETER RAKOCZYELECTRICAL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY 1978Peter Rakoczy is General Manager of Worldwide Microsoft Consulting Services Strategy and oversees the delivery, deployment and acceptance of Microsoft services and products. "Mohawk provided me with a good foundation of computing fundamentals and a pragmatic approach,” he said. “ The co-op program was instrumental in demonstrating the application of education to a work environment. It also provides unique views into a variety of companies and career paths, which gives you a running start into the working world. I appreciate what it gave me.”

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The Alumni of Distinction Awards honour the outstanding contributions that Mohawk College alumni make to their communities and professions. Award recipients may go on to become candidates for the Premier’s Awards. Alumnus may be nominated in one of the six categories: New Graduate, Business, Community Service, Technology, Health Sciences and Creative Arts and Design.If you know an alumnus who possesses unique career achievements, is committed to helping others, and has made an extraordinary contribution to society, please contact us.

NOMINATE AN ALUMNUS TODAY Visit the Alumni website to view past recipients and download a nomination form at www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni/awards or telephone the Alumni Relations Office 905-575-2258 for more information.

Deadline for submission: June 1, 2005.

ALUMNI OF DISTINCTION AWARDS 2005 CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

The Premier’s Awards honour the important social and economic contributions that college graduates make to Ontario and throughout the world. All Mohawk College graduates are eligible to be nominated for this prestigious award. One alumnus is nominated in each category: Business, Community Services, Creative Arts & Design, Health Sciences, Technology and Recent Graduate. There is no limit to the number of times a graduate can be nominated. If you know alumni who are exceptional in their field and have made significant contributions to their communities, contact the Alumni office. Learn more about these awards at www.thecouncil.on.ca (Click on Premier’s Awards). To view past Mohawk recipients, visit our website www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni or telephone the Alumni Relations Office at 905-575-2258.

Deadline for submission: June 1, 2005.

PREMIER’S AWARDS 2005 CALL FOR NOMINATIONS


DOMINIC AGOSTINO RECEIVES PREMIER’S AWARD

POSTHUMOUSLY “A zest for life and a passion for social justice” is how Prime Minister Paul Martin described the former Liberal MPP for Hamilton-East. Dominic Agostino, a Mohawk Social Service Worker Program alumnus, was awarded the 2004 Premier’s Award posthumously in the Community Service category. This is the first time that the award has been given posthumously, and with good reason. Dominic was a remarkable individual who represented his constituents with a profound determination and commitment to his beliefs. Dominic was well known for being a champion of his causes and of his constituents. His enthusiasm continues to inspire students to use their skills and education in the service of their community.

MOHAWK RADIO STATION RECEIVES RADIO SHOW MUSIC INDUSTRY AWARD

Mohawk College Radio Station C101.5 was nominated in the Radio Station of the Year category along with commercial stations Y108 and 820 CHAM. Awards were given out in 26 categories. Lou Molinaro, volunteer host of Lou’s Control at C101.5 Mohawk College Radio, received an award in the Radio Show of the Year category at the Hamilton Music Industry Awards on November 20, 2004. Also nominated in the Radio Show of the Year category was C101.5’s Jamie Smith for Sounds of the Hammer.

David Dishke, a 1996 graduate of the Small Business Management Program, received the Canada-U.S. National Hardware Retail Association’s 2004 Young Retailer of the Year Award. For the past nine years David has been responsible for the day-to-day management of the family business, Grand River Home Hardware. He serves on the Paint Advisory Committee for Home Hardware and runs Home Hardware’s advertising for Haldimand County. He is a member of the Caledonia Chamber of Commerce and Past President and executive member of the Caledonia Kinsmen Club. David received the 2003 Mohawk College Winner’s Circle Award for Entrepreneurial Achievement. His company is well known for its charitable contributions and community involvement, supporting such causes as Tsunami Relief efforts, the Alzheimer Society, and the local library.

ANNETTE HAMM NEW CO-HOST CH MORNING LIVE

Annette Hamm, longtime reporter and anchorperson at CHTV in Hamilton, has been named the new co-host of CH Morning Live. She co-hosts the popular morning program with Bob Cowan. Annette is a Broadcast Journalism graduate and has been with CH television since 1986. In May 1997 Annette married fellow Mohawk grad Daniel Smith (‘88 Computer Systems Technology) who is the Director of Information Technology at L-3 Wescam in Burlington.

ABOVE: David Dishke (right) is presented with the 2004 Young Retailer of the Year Award by The Canada-US National Hardware Retail Association

SMALL BUSINESS ALUMNUS RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS YOUNG RETAILER AWARD

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ABOVE: Lou Molinaro, host of Lou’s Control at C101.5, Mohawk College Radio.

If a degree is in your future plans, consider these choices:Mohawk College Applied DegreesMohawk-McMaster Collaborative DegreesTurning Your Mohawk Studies into a University Degree

Whether starting out or starting over, check out these opportunities by contacting Counselling Services at (905)575-2211 or check out our website at www.mohawkcollege.ca/DegreeComp.

EXPAND YOUR LEARNING AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES…

The Recognition of Learning (RoL) Office maintains and publishes the latest information on opportunities to complete a degree following Mohawk studies.University brochures, credit transfer policies, university contacts and referral assistance through Counselling Services are available to help you develop your individual educational plan.For more information on how to turn your Mohawk studies into a University degree, please contact us by phone at (905)575-1212, x3939 (Hamilton) or (519)759-7200 x3939 (Brantford), email us at [email protected], or visit our web site: www.mohawkcollege.ca/dept/stdev.

DEGREE OPPORTUNITIES: College-University Transfer


CLASS OF 1980 SILVER CELEBRATION –

25 YEAR REUNION

The Mohawk College Alumni Association 25-Year Club cordially invites all graduates of 1980 to the

“Class of 1980 Silver Celebration” Dinner and Dance,

Saturday, October 29, 2005 Join us for great food, great fun and to share great memories with your classmates! For more information, visit us on the web at www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni or contact the Alumni Relations Office at 905-575-2258 or email [email protected].

BRANTFORD CAMPUS NURSING GRADS

25 YEAR GET-TOGETHER

Calling all Nursing Program grads from Brantford Campus in 1980. We are trying to arrange a reunion on August 5 or 6, 2005. Interested grads and faculty please contact Kim (Jeffries) McDonald at [email protected] or Denise (Groen) MacEachen at [email protected] We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at our first reunion!

INSURANCE PROGRAM MOCK INTERVIEW AND

INDUSTRY NIGHT

The Insurance Program presents the annual Mock Interview and Industry Night on Thursday, March 24, 2005, from 6:30 – 10:00 p.m. at Fennell Campus. This event has been designed to introduce the industry to our future graduates. The event is open to all areas of the industry. Employers will be attending this event to arrange interviews with eligible graduates. Interested alumni and employers please contact Julie Ryan, Co-ordinator, Insurance Program at 905-575-2242, (Fax): 905-575-2332, or email [email protected].

MOHAWK COLLEGE MARKETING

CHALLENGE ALUMNI JUDGES NEEDED

The Mohawk College Marketing Challenge competition will be held on Thursday May 18, 2005, from 8 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. This competition will target high school students between grades 10-12, who show interest and aptitude towards business. Events will include Personal Selling, Job Interview Skills, Advertising, Product Development and Merchandising, to name a few. Members of the business community will judge the events and provide students with the opportunity to network in both a professional and fun atmosphere.The Mohawk College Marketing Challenge is designed to inspire students to consider marketing as a career choice, expose them to Mohawk College and develop relationships with the business community.The Mohawk College Marketing Challenge will help students to recognize career opportunities that are available, assist in making informed decisions for post-secondary education, and provide a fun, competitive environment for students to showcase their marketing problem-solving and presentation skills.We hope that our alumni are interested in supporting the Challenge through participation as a judge for an event, or through a financial contribution.For more information on the event and how you can participate, please contact Janice Shearer at [email protected] or 905-575-2005

NURSING GRADS CLASS OF 1992

REUNION

Are you a graduate from the Nursing Diploma Program (RN) Class of 1992? An informal reunion is planned for the summer of 2005 in the Hamilton/Burlington area. If you are interested in attending or would like to help organize this event, please contact alumnus Joanne Orr at [email protected].

SMALL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT REUNIONALL CLASSES, 1990-2005

The Small Business Management Program will be holding a 15-year reunion for all alumni of the program. Dinner, entertainment, and some unique networking opportunities are among the activities planned for this event on Saturday, April 30, 2005, at the Fennell Campus. Meet your former classmates, professors, guest speakers, student mentors, advisory committee members and other business leaders whose efforts have made the program so memorable. The organizing committee is in the process of updating information on the program graduates. To help them in their efforts please notify the Alumni Relations Office if you have moved or send your latest address and contact information to us at [email protected]. For more details visit the Alumni Association website at http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni. Reunion information will be updated on the website as plans are finalized in greater detail.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

CALL FOR BOARD NOMINATIONS

Nominations are open for positions on the Mohawk College Alumni Association Board of Directors. Elections, proposed constitutional amendments and special awards will be presented during the Annual General Meeting on Thursday, September 22, 2005. The meeting will take place in the Staff Dining Room, C05 at Fennell Campus from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Graduates are encouraged to submit nominations. To pick up a nomination form or for more information, visit the Alumni Relations Office, Room J013, Fennell Campus or call 905-575-2258.

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ALUMNI SPEAK AT FALL 2004 CONVOCATIONS

Mohawk College held three convocations in October for more than 1,150 graduates. The traditional Fall Continuing Education Convocation on Friday, October 15, 2004 hosted students from Business and Human Services, Creative and Applied Arts, Engineering Technology and Health Sciences Continuing Education programs. Jady Klyve, President of the Mohawk College Association of Continuing Education Students (MCACES), introduced the alumni continuing education guest speaker Edmund Lee, from the Working With The Aged – Multidiscipline program.

Full-time diploma program convocations were held on Saturday, October 16, 2004, for students from Engineering Technology, Business, Health Sciences and Human Services, Brantford and Applied Arts programs. Alumni Stephanie Wood and Carrie Mines delivered inspirational messages to the graduating students at convocations.

JAZZ FUNDRAISING CONCERT HONOURS ED BICKERT

This past October The Steeltown Friends Of Mohawk Jazz presented their fifth annual gala fundraising concert in support of Mohawk’s music programs. Jazz lovers filled the McIntyre Theatre at Fennell Campus to enjoy the fantastic sounds of Lorne Lofsky, Reg Schwager, Geoff Young, Pat Collins, Kevin Dempsey, Carol McCartney, Dave McMurdo, Mike Malone, Terry Basom and Nick Deutsch.

The concert was a tribute to retired jazz guitar great Ed Bickert. A full tuition annual jazz guitar scholarship was created in the name of Madeline and Ed Bickert. Mr. Bickert presented the new scholarship to initial recipient Jason DeRoche.

Please keep an eye on the alumni website for details about the October 2005 concert!

FENNELL CAMPUS

Stephanie Wood, Director of Marketing at Throat Threads Apparel in Burlington, shared her work philosophy with the graduates. “Take your experiences and knowledge gained from Mohawk and be confident, be passionate, be enthusiastic, and act with integrity and you will find the path that fits,” she said.

“…Openness and flexibility to entertain possibilities…” was cited to the graduates by alumnus speaker, Professor and BScN L1 Program Coordinator Carrie Mines, as she addressed students from the Health Sciences, Human Services, and Applied Arts Programs. Carrie encouraged graduates to continue their education throughout their life stating, “Excellence in your field will only continue with the challenge that ongoing learning and research will provide. This will increase your value as an employee and your marketability.”

Carrie Mines, Nursing 1979

Stephanie Wood, Business Administration 1996

FUTURE ALUMNI PERFORM ATMOHAWK PRESENTS

ABOVE: Applied Music Program students from L to R Joe Kennedy, bass; Dan Rodrigues, guitar; Kevin Mathews, alto saxophone; Josh Harris, drums (not shown).


Exciting things are happening at the Brantford Campus of Mohawk College! The Children’s Safety Village of Brant is in the final stages of construction and will be opening for some classes in early April of this year.

“A significant new donation from a local family has allowed us to move ahead more quickly with completing construction of the Village,” said Bob Peeling, Fundraising Chair. “We plan to operate for the final three months of this school year on a limited basis to allow us to work out any “bugs” in our scheduling and programming prior to our full opening, scheduled for September of this year.”

The Children’s Safety Village of Brant will compliment the classroom curriculum for

children in grades 1-6 to learn about fire prevention and traffic/community safety. Classes will be scheduled for half-day visits. Students will have the opportunity to participate in fire safety escape route planning and to practice what they have learned in Sparky’s Apartment at the George DeSmet Education Centre. Police instruction will include time in the Village where children will explore their newly learned skills with battery operated cars and on bicycles. The Village will have an operational railway

crossing and a fully functioning major traffic intersection.

The Village has sold sponsorship for 22 of 27 building pad sites, where scale models will be built to replicate area businesses. There is a cross-section of business and community partners represented including: Tim Hortons, STM Construction, Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, Police and Fire Services from the City of Brantford, the County of Brant and Six Nations.

The historic Mohawk Chapel will be reproduced to scale, as will the Bell Homestead. The Rotary Club of Brantford – Sunrise is honouring 100 years of service and the Kiwanis Club of Brantford honours 90 years

of international service by building at the Village. Thank you to Mohawk College for your help in bringing this dream of a Village to reality! Please feel free to contact Moira Gibson, our project manager at the College (519) 720-6950.

BRANTFORD CAMPUS

Housed in a new information technology centre at Mohawk College, the Co-operative Education, Graduate and Student Employment Centre offers a variety of free services to employers who are looking to attract new graduates to their organizations. Using the latest technology, jobs are posted on PlacePro, an online job posting system that is accessible to all Mohawk graduates.

Mohawk graduates are in high demand among employers. Mohawk College graduates report a job placement rate of 91 per cent, and 22 of the post-secondary programs report a job placement rate of 100 per cent! Thirty-three Technology and Business Programs at Mohawk College participate in a co-operative

SEARCHING FOR NEW EMPLOYEES? CONTACT MOHAWK COLLEGE!

FENNELL CAMPUS continued

education component. Work terms may range from four months to 12 months. More that 300 employers host 1,500 co-op students during work terms each year.

The Graduate and Student Employment Centre continually strives to connect our highly skilled graduates with employers in the community. Mohawk College has many options available to help employers recruit graduates from our 100 full-time and 1,000 part-time programs. Employers may quickly expand their applicant pool through employment opportunities posted at Mohawk College.

The Co-operative Education, Graduate and Student Employment Centre provides a free job posting service to employers and job placement assistance

to Mohawk College graduates. Jobs may be posted at any time and may be submitted by email or fax. For more information, visit our web sites at http://grad-employment.mohawkcollege.ca or/http://coop.mohawkcollege.ca, or telephone 905-575-2617.

To make the interview process easier for employers, Mohawk College facilities hold new interview rooms and an employer lounge area. Each interview room features a telephone and internet connection. Best of all, services and access to these facilities are available to employers at no cost. Cooperative Education looks forward to helping employers and alumni meet their recruitment needs.

CHILDREN’S SAFETY VILLAGE SET TO OPEN APRIL 2005

Construction on the Children’s Safety Village of Brant at Mohawk’s Brantford Campus is almost complete


CAMPUSaround

For the second time in four years, the Faculty of Engineering Technology at Mohawk College has been named a recipient of the Yves Landry Foundation Award of Excellence, 2004. Under the leadership of Executive Dean Cheryl Jensen and in partnership with industry and the provincial government, the Integrated Technician Apprenticeship Programs were established in response to the evolving career needs of youth, as well as to the demands of employers for new hires with higher entry-level skills. These innovative programs allow students to simultaneously complete their post-secondary education while gaining up to 16 months of on-the-job cooperative education training and apprenticeship competencies. Linamar Corporation generously sponsored this Yves Landry Award.

"These programs have proven to be an excellent way to help address the skills shortage we are currently facing, while at the same time providing an opportunity for the economic advancement for young people in our community,” said Don Pether, President and CEO, Dofasco Inc. “Our longstanding relationship with Mohawk College supports our efforts to educate, recruit and retain a skilled and motivated workforce."

“The success of this program reflects greatly upon the work that Mohawk College completed with all community partners,” said Ron McClure, Chief Human Resources Officer for Stelco Inc. “Stelco is proud to be associated with the apprenticeship program and offers its congratulations to the college. For

business in Ontario—in Hamilton—to be successful, we need the education community to flourish and develop our future workforce. This model presented by Mohawk College is an exceptional one.”

Founded in 1998, the Yves Landry Foundation was established to advance technological education and skills training in order to resolve the skilled labour shortages facing Canadian industries. The Foundation is based on the vision of the late Yves Landry, Chairman, President and CEO of Chrysler Canada from 1990-1998.

Mohawk College’s innovative achievements were recognized with this same distinction for outstanding industry-education partnerships in 2001 for the creation of the Modern Foundry Technologies Institute.

STONEY CREEK CAMPUS

MOHAWK COLLEGE A ‘STAR’ IN TECHNOLOGICAL EDUCATION Integrated Technician Apprenticeship Programs Receive Yves Landry Foundation Award of Excellence 2004.

ABOVE: Rod Eastman (Coach, Human Resource Development, Dofasco), MaryLynn West-Moynes (President, Mohawk College) and Michael Annable (Vice President, Human Resources, Linamar Corp.)

Mohawk College President MaryLynn West-Moynes said, “This award speaks to the high quality of programming and the innovation occurring at Mohawk College, including our Stoney Creek Campus, the cornerstone campus for skilled trades and apprenticeships. These technician apprenticeship programs are the result of a true partnership between the college, industry and the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, and assist in raising the profile of apprentices and journey persons throughout industry.”

This year’s Yves Landry Foundation Awards of Excellence recipients were honoured at the 5th Annual STARS Technological Education Awards Gala Celebration on November 18, 2004, at the Sheridan Centre in Toronto.

INSTITUTE OF APPLIED HEALTH SCIENCES

An exciting new program has been launched at the IAHS Campus for nurses who have been trained outside of Canada. The Bridging for Inter-nationally Educated Nurses (BIEN) program is a “bridging” opportunity for the internationally educated nurse to

complete their education at the bacca-laureate level. Applicants are nurses who have been registered in their country of origin, have been assessed by the College of Nurses of Ontario, and do not possess the educational equivalent of a BScN in Ontario. Upon successful completion

of the BIEN program, the applicant is eligible to write the PN (Practical Nurse) registration exam. For further informa-tion please contact Heather Crawford at [email protected] or by telephone at 905-540-4247 extension 26705.

BRIDGING FOR INTERNATIONALLY EDUCATED NURSES


VARSITYalumni

From L to R: Elaine Barker, Jackie Tugnett, Derek Abbots, Laura Vervaeke, John Locke, Guy Miceli

In conjunction with the Alumni of Distinction Awards, the weekend of January 29, 2005, saw many former Mohawk College athletes participating in Alumni Events.

FORMER MOHAWK ATHLETES REUNITE TO PLAY IN ALUMNI SPORTING EVENTS

The annual Hap Holman Curling Bonspiel provided the opportunity for the current Mohawk Men’s, Women’s and Mixed Curling teams to pit their skills against numerous Alumni and friends at the Glendale Curling Rink.

The first draw began at 9:30 a.m. and was followed by a lunch and the opportunity to mingle and reminisce before beginning the second draw.

Kathy & John Locke and Michael

The second Annual Alumni Basketball Games took place in the Fennell Campus Gym on Saturday, January 29, 2005. Former Coach Dave Bartolotta took part in the ceremonial tip-off between Claudia (DeIulio) Bugiardini and Tracey (Hudson) Falasca. Both women were members of the 1st All-Star game hosted by Mohawk College.

In the women’s game, three decades of alumni were represented, from Kathy (Brice) Doede who played for Mohawk from 1972-75 to representatives from almost every year after including Iuliana Raducanu who graduated in 2004.

The highlight of the day was the reunion of members of the ’74 and ’75

HAP HOLMAN CURLING BONSPIEL

ANNUAL ALUMNI BASKETBALL GAMES

Campbell all provided some great skipping and Geoff Brooker, former Registrar, and his wife Lynda had a really good time. Judy Campbell chipped in with some excellent play. The bonspiel was won by Derek, Elaine and Jackie.

Special thanks goes to Evelyn Holman for taking the time to come and join us for the day. Hap would have been proud to see the calibre of curling and the turnout at the annual Alumni event.

teams. Kathy (Brice) Doede, Karen (Kimmins) Withers, Liz (Gale) LaForme, Dale Norkus, Sheila (May) Gamble, Thelma (Themeles) Herbert and Sandi (Racacot) Gaudet along with coach Dave Bartolotta participated or cheered the players on. Chris (Gale) Walker was not able to attend the game but joined with the others in cheering on our current women’s team against Fanshawe later in the evening.

The men’s game saw 14 past basketball members participate and although the competition was more intense everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. It was great to see the Gaunt twins back in action.

A reminder that the Alumni Basketball

game takes place on the last Saturday in January every year with next year’s game being held on Saturday, January 28, 2006.

TOP ROW L to R:Elaine Norkus, Thelma Herbert (Themeles), Cathy Doede (Brice), & Liz LaForme (Gale); BOTTOM ROW L to R: Sheila Gamble (May), Sandy Gaudet (Racicot), Dave Bartolotta, & Karen Withers (Kimmins).


Debbie Logel ButlerExecutive Director, Community

Relations, Advancement, Alumni & Awards

“ALUMNI PLAY AN APPRECIATED AND INTEGRAL ROLE IN HELPING MOHAWK COLLEGE ACHIEVE EXCELLENCE”

Mohawk College’s President Mary Lynn West-Moynes and Board of Governors’ Chair Rick Sterne, present a Certificate of Appreciation to past president of the Mohawk College Alumni Association Krysia Iwanek at the Shaping the Future Donor Celebration event.

Alumni Association Vice President Susan MacDonald and Mohawk College President MaryLynn West-Moynes present OSOTF scholarships.

The year 2004 was an exciting one at Mohawk College with the launch of a comprehensive advancement strategy for fundraising and friendraising, including an annual giving program, a planned giving program and Mohawk College’s first-ever capital campaign. All three programs will provide our Alumni with meaningful giving opportunities designed to assist students today and in the future.

The College achieved a major milestone during the year, reaching a fundraising goal of $6.8 million through the first phase of Shaping the Future, Mohawk’s capital fundraising campaign. Community leaders, staff, volunteers and representatives from your Alumni Association joined together, securing 258 gifts for the completion of the new Information Technology or “iT Centre.” Spectacular donor recognition banners have been permanently installed in the building’s central rotunda, demonstrating our gratitude for these gifts. The 190-seat Presentation Centre now proudly displays the Alumni Association name representing the Association’s valued

and generous gift of $250,000.The second phase of the Shaping

the Future campaign, with a focus on additional campus capital renovations and expansion, as well as equipment renewal and revitalization in Stoney Creek, Hamilton and Brantford is underway, with two community donor contributions already committed.

In October 2004, 300 students received an entrance scholarship of $1,000 from the Ontario Student Opportunity Trust Fund (OSOTF), representing an investment in student futures of $300,000. The Alumni Association Past President, Krysia Iwanek and Vice President Susan Richardson attended the event and participated in the presentation of the awards. The Alumni Association sponsors 10 OSOTF scholarships.

This year, the Alumni Association has generously donated $4,000 to the Cal Haddad Music Scholarship. With the other donors, this brings the total to $10,000, which will be matched by the Provincial government. The interest earned on the $20,000 will be awarded every year to a 2nd or 3rd year student

enrolled in the Applied Music Program or a Continuing Education Music student.

In an effort to provide increased financial bursary and scholarship assistance to students, new In Memoriam and Special Occasion programs have been launched to support Mohawk’s Future Leaders Fund. Contributions received for these annual programs will be designated for even more student bursaries, scholarships, equipment renewal and the funding of priority programs and projects. Mohawk’s Planned Giving program will also provide individuals with an opportunity to impact the lives of our students, today and in the future.

The year 2005 promises to be another exciting year for your Alumni Association. The next edition of In Touch magazine will bring you further details on how you or your graduating class can support your College.

On behalf of Mohawk students now and in the future, a sincere and heartfelt thanks to the Mohawk College Alumni Association for their support in 2004.

UPDATEfundraising


�� Are you looking for a unique gift to celebrate a special occasion? Do you need a gift for someone who has everything, or as a special ‘thank you’? We have the perfect solution! Make a gift to Mohawk College’s Life’s Special Moments program in celebration of a birthday, graduation, retirement, birth, or any occasion, and at the same time make a difference in a student’s life.

��Consider Mohawk College in your plans. A Planned Gift will make it possible for you to support the College to an extent that you may not have thought possible. You can leave a gift to the College in your will or by naming the College as the beneficiary of an insurance policy – these are just two ways to leave a lasting legacy. Gifts such as these will help us to provide vital support for the extraordinary initiatives of our students and staff both today and in the future.

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��The passing of a loved one or friend is always difficult. Honouring their memory through a gift that will help others, can be of comfort. A memorial gift to Mohawk College is a special way to pay tribute while helping ensure our students continue to learn in an academic environment that fosters success, innovation and excellence.

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Personal Information Name: ____________________________________________Program: __________________________________________Year of Graduation: _________________________________Student # (if known): ________________________________Street Address: _____________________________________ _____________________________________City: _____________________________________________Province/State: ________ Postal Code: __________________Home Phone #: _____________________________________E-Mail: ___________________________________________Name of Employer: _________________________________Employer’s Address: ________________________________Work Phone #: _____________________________________

Many employers “match” charitable gifts made by employees to their educational institutions.

Do you work for a gift matching company? Yes No Unsure

My affiliations with Mohawk College include:(please check as many as applicable) Alumni Business/Corporate Staff Member Board of Governors Student Retired Staff Advisory Committee Member Friend Other: ________________________________________

Is this a joint gift with your spouse? Yes NoIf Yes, please complete your spouse’s information.

Spouse’s Name: ____________________________________

Did your spouse graduate from Mohawk College? Yes Year: _______ Program: _____________________ No

You can make your gift to Mohawk College today by filling in this form and dropping it off or mailing it to:

Community Relations and Advancement, Alumni & Awards Mohawk CollegePO Box 2034

Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2

For more information, please call us at 905-575-2482

Charitable Tax Receipts will be issued by the College and sent to you at the address you have listed above.

I would like to contribute to Mohawk College in the amount of $50 $100 $250 $500 $1,000 $2,500

Other: $__________________

I have attached my cheque, payable to Mohawk College OR I would like to pay by:

My Mohawk College BMO MasterCard

Visa Master Card American ExpressName on Card: _____________________________________Card #: _______________________Expiry: ______________Signature: _________________________________________

I would like to direct my gift toward: Highest Priority Needs Shaping the Future Capital Campaign Campus Expansions Equipment Renewal

Awards & Scholarships

Ontario Scholarship Opportunity Trust Fund (OSOTF) in

support of student bursaries, which will be matched dollar

for dollar by the provincial government

Other _________________________________________Recognition of Your Gift

I would like to be recognized for my contribution in Mohawk Annual Report, and would like my name listed as: ___________________________________________ I prefer to remain anonymous.Signature: ____________________Date: ________________

Other information I have made a provision for Mohawk College in my Will. I would like to be contacted regarding planned giving options (gifts through a bequest or insurance).

Thank you for your support!Occasionally, our alumni list is made available to reputable companies, partners and organizations whose products or services may be of interest to you. If you prefer not to have your name made available, please contact the Alumni Office at 905-575-2258, or by mail at P. O. Box 2034, Hamilton, Ontario L8N 3T2


by Kym McCreary-Stewart

at the Mohawk Students’ Association

The big reveal took place on January 18, 2005, with a well-attended ribbon cutting ceremony and plenty of Mohawk dignitaries there

to celebrate. Mohawk College President MaryLynn West-Moynes; Vice-President, Community Services and Economic Development, Carolyn Gray; MSA General Manager, Kim Van Louwe; MSA President, Kyle Smith; MSA Media Manager, Les Palango; Architect, Bill Curran of R. F. Lintack Architects and Kemp Construction owner Tom Kemp, were all in attendance and agreed that the makeover was a huge success. Like the transformation of a caterpillar to a butterfly, the true potential of the Mohawk Students’ Association was unveiled.

It was clear after several satisfaction surveys, one conducted in 1997 and one distributed in 2002, that the student population wanted the MSA to focus its efforts on improving the facilities and services offered. The Student Centre was

originally built in 1985 and desperately needed updating. With this in mind, in 2000, renovations started on the bottom level of the Student Centre. Attention was given to those services that directly impacted the student population such as, The Arnie, The Cellar and Heath Hall.

Those objectives met, it was time to address the functional elements of the Mohawk Students’ Association. The staff and student leaders unanimously agreed to renovate their administrative space for the intent of raising the MSA’s visibility to

the students they served. What past-President Nathan Fehrman initiated, outgoing President Kyle Smith brought to fruition along with the rest of the Mohawk Students’ Association staff and student leaders. The renovations allowed the MSA to

re-evaluate their mandate to see if it was being met. The mission of the Mohawk Students' Association is to provide quality activities, facilities, and opportunities to all members at all campuses. These offerings complement, through a formal and co-operative relationship, those provided by

The new main reception area outside the MSA’s Administrative Offices.

INSET TOP to BOTTOM:The Arnie; The Cellar;

The Media Lounge

“The enhanced profile has allowed us to better utilize and promote services.”

-Kim Van Louwe, General Manager, M.S.A

feature story


The General Manager, Finance Officer, Entertainment Coordinator, Student Services Coordinator, Food and Beverage Managers, President of the MSA, Vice-Presidents and Directors now enjoy designated office space.

The revamped boardroom is an impressive addition, complete with new tables, carpet and lighting. This facility will suit any number of corporate functions as it has the capacity to hold 30 people and is available to rent at $100 per day. Mr. Van Louwe adds that benches will be purchased for the hallway opposite the study room. The idea is to encourage student presence in that wing where students can plug their laptops

into the outlets that have been installed along that hallway.

For those who have never entered the offices of C101.5 FM, gone are those mystery doors that only those privileged few students lucky enough to be employed by, or volunteer with the radio station were privy to. Mr. Palango exclaims, “…the ambient environment is so much better!” It’s a much more inviting atmosphere that gives student volunteers and employees in this area the opportunity to work in a more commercial environment. When asked what it has done for the profile of his area he replies, “Since the speakers were installed outside, 100 per cent of the people passing by turn their heads and look into the studio and then down the MSA hallway.” Student employees and volunteers have taken a

the college. In layman’s terms, they service students in a non-academic way. They determined that it was hard to provide the services if they weren’t visible to the clients they served. How could those clients access their services if they held an intimidating or uninviting presence? With that in mind, the plans were laid for a more user-friendly, visible Students’ Association.

With the long-awaited renovations to the administration offices finally complete, has their mandate been met? Les Palango, Media Manager for C101.5 FM and the Satellite Newspaper states that it was a “win/win” situation for everyone. It has dramatically increased exposure of the MSA and Media areas. And, Kim Van Louwe adds, “The enhanced profile has allowed us to better utilize and promote services.” Although it is too early for actual statistics, Kim notes a dramatic increase in student traffic utilizing services such as the food bank, the mouse and calculator lending service, and emergency loans. He also proudly adds that there has been no incurred debt as a result of the renovations.

Upon entry, one notices the flooring patterns leading toward the large welcoming doors of the administrative offices, and the front reception desk. If by some miracle someone actually bypassed the office, signage outside each doorway along the hall would surely assist. Now the MSA can provide the services for which it is intended. It offers the student body everything from legal services, where students can discuss difficulties relating to landlords, creditor problems or even personal disputes; emergency loans of up to $100 per term with a one-day turn-around time; health plan coverage for up to 80 per cent reimbursement on prescriptions; lending services for computer mice and calculators, and access to the food bank without the bureaucracy sometimes associated with other non-profit agencies.

In addition to the new carpeting and furniture, the offices have been renovated to incorporate a larger designated food bank and storage space as well as new offices and furniture for all of the paid full time staff positions.

more serious approach to their work, too. He believes the students have “raised the bar,” themselves.

Kyle Smith, MSA President, proudly notes that a more accessible layout was included in the renovation plans for both the Media area and the main offices. In the past the layout in both areas was not wheelchair friendly and may have deterred those who might have otherwise been involved in their Association. Gone are the stairs that once led to a lower level mixing room and the tight spaces of the Media offices. Everything now has a place and there is a more polished appearance to the area, which includes a mixing room, a broadcast studio with

exposure to the main hallway of the Student Centre wing, separate news broadcast booth, a production area, and Program Director’s office. A bright reception area is visible from the corridor of G Wing with an inviting welcome area that links the Media Manager’s Office and the offices of The Satellite Newspaper. An added bonus came in the form of equipment upgrades. Equalizers, compressors, speakers and amplifiers were purchased to help service the roughly estimated 4,000-5,000 weekly listeners of C101.5 throughout the Hamilton, Waterdown, Burlington, and Oakville areas. Although it is too early to determine

whether the increased exposure has made an impact directly on listenership, Mr. Palango will closely monitor the statistics distributed via the Bureau of Broadcast Measurement survey (B.B.M.) which should help him determine this.

Have the MSA’s wish lists been fulfilled? Les Palango responds with an emphatic, “Yes!” adding with tongue in cheek, “Except for the six figure salary.” For now, Van Louwe is satisfied too. “The MSA is in a period of rebuilding its capital,” he says. What is the next challenge for the Mohawk Students’ Association? “A five-year plan to renovate Alumni Hall, Mitchell Terrace and to upgrade the equipment in The Grill.” For now, students and alumni can be proud of the contributions made. Congratulations on a job well done!

The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Official Opening of the renovated Mohawk Students’ Association. From L to R: Kim Van Louwe, General Manager , M.S.A.;

MaryLynn West-Moynes, President, Mohawk College; Kyle Smith, President, M.S.A.; Bill Curran, R.F. Lintack

Architects; Tom Kemp, Kemp Construction

feature story: makeover madness

cover story


oe Kubes, President of Kubes Steel Ltd., didn’t plan on being a manufacturing maverick; at least not at first. Born in Bosnia, he immigrated to Stoney Creek at the tender age of eight. Despite the barriers of language and culture, he completed public school at the top of his class. His proud parents – a Dofasco millwright and a homemaker – nurtured their

son’s obvious academic talents, sending him to Saltfleet High School, where a curriculum of sciences and humanities would groom him for a career in Law or Medicine.

But bored and uninspired, Kubes took little interest in his newfound trajectory. He preferred mechanical pursuits and longed to dabble in the business world. It was not long before he dropped out of high school, taking a job at Burlington Steel while helping his father to operate a small-scale ornamental iron business from the family garage. Dad was a talented artisan who created fireplace screens and fences as a hobby. But his son saw the glint of opportunity, and set his sights on taking the business much further.

Kubes made plans to grow the home-based venture – known in the early days as K&K Ornamental Iron -- into a full-scale

by Kate Schooley

How does an immigrant, high-school dropout become an international manufacturing success?

Joe Kubes credits Mohawk College…and his

NERVES of STEEL

company large enough to support both himself and his father on a full-time basis. Kubes envisioned his father retiring from Dofasco some five years down the road and coming to work with him as a business partner. Those plans never materialized – his Dad stayed on at the plant until he retired at age 58. As Kubes would soon learn, it wasn’t the only time things would not unfold according to plan.

He bought a small shop and set to work, but it didn’t take long for Kubes to realize that his options were limited without a high school diploma. He started attending evening classes at Mohawk College, where he completed his high

school equivalency. It was the beginning of a lifelong learning process – one that would see his education at the College continue over the next 20 years as Kubes pushed to get the type of manufacturing contracts he really wanted. And

as his business took off – it was incorporated as Kubes Steel Limited in 1974 – he looked to Mohawk to furnish him with the necessary skill sets.

“I realized there was a large engineering component to the business, but I didn’t even know how to read a blueprint,” Kubes recalls. “I enrolled in a draftsman program, so I could

It didn’t take long for Kubes to realize that his options were limited without a high school diploma.

This was the beginning of a lifelong learning process -- one that would see his education at the

College continue over the next 20 years

J

cover story: nerves of steel


learn how to make blueprints for my customers. Mohawk offered all of the courses I needed, and it still does.”

Kubes took a full load of accounting courses, along with a variety of business-related subjects through night classes offered at the school. His manufacturing operation meanwhile, continued to be a success -- and was moved to a second location with even more room to grow.

Next, Kubes turned his attention to honing his welding skills. He liked the hands-on training that Mohawk offered, and enrolled in machining courses that taught it all, from the basics right up to the most advanced skills. He graduated with a two-year Welding Technology designation in the early 1980s.

“I received phenomenal instruction, especially from Harry Thomasson (P.Eng.),” says Kubes fondly. “He was probably in his 80s at the time, but he wrote his own books and brought a tremendous amount of talent to the table.” And though the Welding Technology designation is widely taught today, Mohawk was the only college offering it at the time.

When it comes to applying his education to the business world, Kubes voices only one regret: “There’s nothing like getting an education during the day and going (to classes) full time, because of the relationships you can build with alumni. Getting to know your classmates is important for the bonds you’ll develop later in business, and I didn’t have that advantage to the same degree.”

Although he would have welcomed the chance to know his classmates better, Kubes did not allow this perceived shortcoming to slow him down. As a dedicated

businessman with a strong work ethic, he built Kubes Steel Ltd. into a top producer of quality custom fabricated-steel products with an unwavering reputation for quality.

Kubes Steel serves a variety of industries, including Steel, Mining, Cement, Chemical, Petro-Chemical, Power Generation, Manufacturing and Construction. The company’s 20,000-square-foot machine shop offers the latest in Computer Numeric Control (CNC) technology, while the 40,000-foot fabrication plant boasts a 40-tonne capacity, with provisions for custom rolling, forming and plasma cutting.

Through much of its 30-year history, Kubes Steel has performed structural section and plate rolling and forming for architectural, structural, manufacturing, mining and mechanical applications. The array of machines at the Stoney Creek plant is capable of performing both the largest and smallest jobs, from the manufacture of machined-quality seal rings and tiny formed pipes, to the rolling out of 36-foot beams on the massive Roundo R13s.

With these facilities at the ready, Kubes produces a wide variety of familiar products such as storage tanks, ducting and dust collectors. Some of his more specialized wares include hoods and stacks, machine components, pipe bridges and turbines.

“As we grew, we kept moving higher up the food chain. The goal was to work not just through contractors, but to be able to supply Dofasco directly. But you can’t be a vendor for them without the appropriate technology or infrastructure; so the business was acquired gradually, one step at a time.”

“Around here, when you’re hiring local people with a college education, it’s usually from Mohawk. Unlike university grads, they’re not theoretical. They come here and they’re ready to work.”

ABOVE: Kubes’ employees work on tasks ranging from bending. rolling, welding, and fabricating all types of steel products.

BELOW: Joe continues to be a hands on leader at his Stoney Creek facilty and constantly focuses on updating equipment to stay ahead of his competition.

cover story


The Hamilton Waterfront sculpture known as “Rafaga - Unleashed” is a testament to the Kubes team and their ability to blend grace,

strength, and design perfection.

And as the scope of his projects grew, so did the length of Kubes’ course transcript, as he continued to equip himself for the changing needs of the manufacturing market. In later years, he looked to Mohawk for technical competency and computer courses. The practicality and hands-on approach of his education is something Kubes now looks for when hiring new recruits.

“Around here, when you’re hiring local people with a college education, it’s usually from Mohawk,” he reflects. Most of his employees have shared his Alma Mater, which he appreciates. “They’ve all been very professional young people – very practical kids. Unlike university grads, they’re not theoretical. They come here and they’re ready to work.”

And that work has paid off. Over the past five years, Kubes has been growing what he calls the “rolling and bending” side of his business, which harks back to the early days, when artistic vision played a larger role in the company’s designs.

One stunning example in his company portfolio is the Hamilton Waterfront sculpture known as “Ráfaga – Unleashed”, an installation erected by Veronica and Edwin Dam de Nogales this past year, located at Pier 8 alongside the Canada Marine Discovery Centre. Kubes describes the sculpture as “a 60-foot sail made of stainless steel,” but it is also a testament to the talent of his team and their ability to blend grace, strength and design perfection. Because no welding was allowed at the pier, the huge steel abstract was created in three parts at the plant, and machined to fit together perfectly once on-site. The resulting sculpture looks as if it’s about to take flight -- and Kubes remains tight-lipped about the process, saying only, “a little bending can make a lot of difference.”

Kubes’ manufacturing finesse has been commissioned

for artistic and architectural projects across North America: trellises and Equinox models were recently completed for display in Central Park, New York City; and a stunning circular

staircase for Avon World Headquarters in downtown Manhattan offered another welcome chance to turn heads south of the border.

And though these projects are among his favourites, it’s likely we’ve all seen examples of Kubes’ work in our day-to-day travels. His company is bending the metal tubes that add eye candy to the entranceways of the newly renovated Leon’s furniture stores, as well as architectural accents for Audi and Volkswagen dealerships across the continent.

“I’ve bought and developed equipment that allows me to do all sorts of fabricating,” notes Kubes in his typically understated style. “But half of our business these days is rolling and bending metal for architects and engineers.”

Kubes imports much of his inspiration for such projects from his frequent visits to Europe, where he describes building trends as “10 to 15 years ahead of us, architecturally speaking. The look of curved steel and glass is popular there, so we bring the European technology home and promote it to architects and engineers (in North America). We let them know that we have the technology, and they can come to someone like us to get it made.”

The education never ends – and in all the lessons he’s learned in college and in life, Kubes offers up the works of two business legends as a sendoff to fellow Mohawk graduates as they begin their own careers:

“Before you go out into the working world, read two

books: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill and How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.”

Adds Kubes, “You’ll never have to look back.”

ABOVE: The 60’ sail for “Rafaga-Unleashed” mid-

construction in Kubes Steel Stoney Creek facility.

BELOW: The completed sculpture located at Pier 8

along Hamilton’s Waterfront.

cover story: nerves of steel


B U I L D I N G S U C C E S SM

uch has changed for Peter Vicano since he first went into business for himself more than 30 years ago,

modestly equipped with a $600 pickup truck, borrowed tools and the strong will to succeed.

A graduate of Mohawk College’s Architectural Engineering Technology program, he now heads up Vicano Construction Ltd. in Brantford, which does about $30 million in sales on an annual basis. Due to economic constraints, Vicano knew living away from home to attend university was not possible. Possessing a passion for architecture, Mohawk College best suited his needs as a higher learning institution. Looking back, he’s of the firm belief attending a community college was one of the instrumental factors which has led

to his enormous success in the business world.

Vicano enrolled at Mohawk College in the fall of 1969, commuting each day to the Fennell Campus from Brantford, where he lives to this day. He graduated in the spring of 1972 after successfully completing the comprehensive three-year program.

The Early Years: Tough, But Rewarding“I worked in the summer at all sorts

of jobs, to put myself through college,” Vicano reveals. “I worked in road and sewer construction since I was 15. On top of that, I delivered newspapers, worked at bowling alleys setting up pins, and did all kinds of farm work. You name it, I did it.”

Upon graduation in April, 1972, Vicano was hired by a company called Walter,

Eull, and Elliott Consulting Engineering on Locke Street in Hamilton, which had about 30 employees. Over the years, it evolved into what is now known as Group Eight Engineering Ltd, on Main Street in Hamilton.

“My job was a junior project designer/draftsman,” Vicano remembers. “It was a matter of starting at the bottom, running off blueprints and then designing mechanical and electrical systems. I was there for two years, and worked closely with one of the owners, Gary Elliott, who was one of my mentors. He instilled in me the good business work ethics early in my life.”

While those first two years exposed him to invaluable work experience, it also provided Vicano with definitive proof that, because he was not a professional, his opportunity for advancement in that firm or any other in the design and engineering field would be limited.

Packed with determination and ambition to succeed, Vicano spent his time away from work – doing more work. “I was also designing small businesses and houses after hours, so I got my feet wet on my own doing small business design projects,” he says. “Then people asked me to do the physical work, fix a door here, put some panelling there.” That

feature story

by Angus Gillespie


was the kick-start he needed to instill the confidence to test the waters and branch out on his own.

By now Vicano was married to his wife Bonny and the couple had the first of their four children, Michael. “In 1975, I incorporated Vicano Construction Ltd. with about $1,100 in the bank,” he says. “From that, I spent $600 on a pickup truck and off I went.” Sons Michael and Paul now work with their father as project managers. Daughter Nicole is

a recent graduate of the University of Western Ontario and has taken a position with a development company in Toronto. Youngest son Marc is in his first year of Construction Engineering Technology in college and plans on joining the family business upon graduation.

Times were lean at first, but Vicano persevered with the help of family and friends, not to mention inherent, instinctive savvy to spend money wisely. “Back then, I’d borrow a hammer before

I’d buy one,” Vicano says, underlining both a resourcefulness and attention to financial detail, two traits which have at least partially helped him achieve the far more lofty status he enjoys today.

“In my early days, I’d plan my schedule so tightly, I’d never have time to gas up the truck,” Vicano jokes. “I’d do it late at night on the way home, so I wouldn’t have to take time during working hours.”

Through the years Vicano Construction has embarked on a number of high-

profile design-build projects, including the Adidas Canadian Distribution Centre in Brantford and head office in Toronto. The company has also done its share of banks, car dealerships and the likes of Tim Hortons restaurants. In 1990, the company constructed the new main library in Brantford, contracted for $5.2 million.Laurier-Mohawk Project

A few years ago Sir Wilfrid Laurier University and Mohawk College

combined forces to create a new facility of higher learning in Brantford, something about which Vicano has always been a politically outspoken advocate. He believes such an educational institution “will help put Brantford on the map” for something other than the home of Wayne Gretzky.

“We were able to bid on their work and have completed a number of jobs including classrooms, lecture halls and offices and residences for

students,” Vicano proudly states. The Old Downtown Theatre is reborn as the Laurier-Mohawk lecture halls. Originally built in 1957 it had sat vacant since 1998. When students arrived at the new Odeon it was reborn as a place of higher learning. That is in a large part thanks to Vicano, whose company purchased the building last November and converted it into a 20,000 square-foot facility housing four lecture halls with a capacity of about 700 students.

feature story: engineering success

Some of the many projects that Vicano Construction has had a hand in are (clockwise from top left) the new Laurier - Mohawk Lecture Halls, the Brantford Public Library Main Branch, and the Keg Restaurant.

“In my early days, I’d plan my schedule so tightly, I’d never have time to gas up the truck. I’d do it late at night on the way home, so I wouldn’t have to take time during working hours.”


“As of September 2004 it opened,” Vicano notes. “It was a joint venture between Laurier and Mohawk. We took the old original post office constructed in 1867 and renovated this old building and converted into a student residence. It’s now called the Laurier Post House Residence and comes with a 62-bed student residence.”

The project is something Mohawk College looks upon with great pride. “We’re always looking to build relationships with our alumni as we continue to grow, whether it’s to raise funds, mentoring or participating on committees,” says Debbie Logel Butler, Executive Director, Community Relations, Advancement, Alumni & Awards. A highly successful entrepreneur such as Peter Vicano is yet another reason for Mohawk to be extremely proud in being able to showcase the type of people who got their start at the school.

“One of our strong beliefs is that students come first,” Logel Butler asserts. “Students are at the heart of all we do.”

“No doubt about it,” Vicano agrees, in giving his former program the thumbs-up for students considering a similar career path. “Any young man or woman who has an interest in the design field of buildings and construction, the Architectural Technology program is one

they should look at.”The diversity of the program is

something Vicano recalls as being a big part of his success in the business world. “It’s a good blend of theory and design

in the field and very hands-on,” he says. “We learned surveying, estimating, model building, drafting, engineering aspects and much more. We even learned how to mix concrete, were shown how masonry is put together and how bricks are laid and what concrete blocks can and cannot do.”

$50 Million Project Just Completed

In August, 2004, Vicano Construction Ltd. was awarded a $50 million contract to construct the new head offices and distribution centre for Marco Sales and Incentives Ltd. in Brantford’s Northwest Business Park. The building is composed of a two-storey, 60,000 square-foot office and 110,000 square feet of warehouse and distribution space with expansion

capabilities up to an additional 100,000 square feet. Construction was to have been completed by the end of February for a spring move-in date.

Overall, Vicano’s company has constructed more than 500 projects that range from 500 to over 220,000 square feet and a total value of over $100 million. Despite the tremendous growth of the company over the years, Vicano likes to keep right in the middle of things on each project.

“I still get involved in pretty well everything,” Vicano confirms. “I am

still very much hands on, from the design on through to completion.” Vicano Construction Ltd. now employs 45 people. “About 90 per cent of our projects are design-build, where we hire the architects, engineers and planners. We have project managers and autocad personnel and property managers.”

Vicano estimates about 60 to 70 per cent of the company projects are based out of Brant County, but he’s always looking for business projects in other areas, including Hamilton. “We construct between 15 and 20 projects at any one time,” he adds.

At that rate, Peter Vicano is probably still filling up his vehicle’s gas tank late at night, just before heading home.

feature story

“Any young man or woman who has an interest in the

design field of buildings and construction, the Architectural

Technology program is one they should look at.”

feature story: engineering success


Eugene Tekatch is not a man to balk at a challenge. Not even when the weather turns foul and the sailing gets rough. “Perseverance is the biggest thing that determines success,”

says the former Mohawk College student and teacher. “I think life is a lot like going sailing. You can’t choose whether there’s good or bad weather. You have to set your eye on the goal and just keep going.”

Not bad advice from someone who not only holds a world record for sailing across the Atlantic in a 35-foot trimaran, but also worked 100 hour weeks to put himself through school and built a successful company. Tekatch—known as Teke—is also a qualified electrician, a gifted college teacher, an accomplished musician, a property developer who built his own house, a competitive record-breaking sailor, an innovative multi-hulled boat builder, a husband, the father of two grown children and grandfather to two youngsters who share his love of sailing.

Now 64 years old and semi-retired, Tekatch can trace his lifelong achievements back to his youth in Hamilton, Ont., where he developed a passion for technology and fast sailboats—two interests that drove his career path over nearly 50 years.

By the time he finished high school in 1959, Tekatch’s goal was to enroll in post secondary studies in the electronics

field. But, with money too tight to pay school fees, he decided to enter a four-year electrical apprenticeship and

go back to school later. While an apprentice making $48.50 a week, he married his wife Jean, had a son, Anthony, and then

a daughter, Cathy. Despite having a young family, Tekatch didn’t give up on

going back to school but he knew that it would take a huge effort. “I needed to get a good paying job, work a lot of overtime and save

to pay for three years of college,” he says. “So, I worked three years for Dofasco and General Motors, averaging 100 hours a week until I

had enough set aside so I could focus on my education.”

by Sonya Felix

feature story

Lifeimitates

Sailing


In 1966, Tekatch enrolled in Mohawk College’s control system technology course, a specialized area of electronics with industrial applications. After working so hard to get there, he devoted himself to his studies, earned 4.0 grade point average and received Mohawk’s Gold Medal on graduation. “The long hours were hard on the family,” he admits, pointing out that he and Jean made sacrifices so he could start his own business. But, he hadn’t finished with school just yet. Although it took some convincing, Tekatch agreed to stay at Mohawk to create and teach an electrician a p p r e n t i c e s h i p program—a course that still exists today. A year later, he joined the electronics department to teach feedback control systems, circuits, devices and computer logic. In total, he taught for seven years, the last two part-time as he finally got his long awaited business off the ground.

From a new home he’d built near Smithville, Tekatch designed a computer logic lab teaching system and, in 1973, started Tektron Equipment Corp. to manufacture and market the product. Tekatch was president and Jean was vice-president. Within a year they had six employees and moved into a Stoney Creek industrial park where the

business grew into three divisions: electronic design, printed circuit boards (PCBs) and electronic assemblies. A plastic fabrication department was added later when Tekatch designed a line of printed circuit board manufacturing equipment for education, small business and the military.

Inspired by his teaching experience, in 1979, Tekatch began to manufacture

complete microprocessor systems, using 1802 RCA Cmos processors, which were sold as kits. A course to teach people how to use them was held at Mohawk College, McMaster University, University of Toronto and Northern Telecom. Altogether, about 1,000 students went through the course and Tekatch says people sometimes approach him to say they still have what they made from the

kit. Getting into microprocessors

early set the pattern for Tektron Equipment Corp. and during the 1980s, the company developed industrial microprocessors. All those years spent working for the steel industry had given Tekatch contacts which helped grow his business. Among many projects, Tektron designed and built an automated control system for 14 top hat annealing furnaces operating simultaneously at Stanley Steel. For Dofasco, Tektron built a control system

for the temperature timing cycle in the soaking pits. A high speed

ultrasonic flaw detector for recording and mapping

imperfections in sheets of steel was built for Stelco and a computerized

announcement system was created for Procter

& Gamble’s Hamilton warehouse.

While all this was going on, Tekatch renewed his old love of sailing and bought a 33 foot trimaran which he raced on Lake Ontario. In 1984, he entered the boat in the TransAt Tag Race from Quebec City to Saint Malo, France, extending the length to 35 feet and sailing 1,000 miles along the Atlantic coast to qualify. With a crew of two, Tekatch’s boat made good time in the race, pounding through the 3,200 miles of rough water and set an unbeaten world record for a

Although it took some convincing, Tekatch agreed to

stay at Mohawk to create and teach an electrician apprenticeship program

— a course that still exists today.

feature story: life imitates sailing


Tekatch’s timing for getting into composites had been perfect. “Not many others were doing it then,” he says. “Without any advertising, we got a lot of calls asking if we could make tooling for parts.” Of the many projects completed during the 1990s, the industrial composites division made fairing moulds for Boeing airplanes, routing and tooling parts for the Cormorant helicopter, the entire mould for the Diamond two-seater training aircraft and huge 12 foot by 80 foot moulds for Enron windmill blades.

By 1997, Tekatch and Jean, who had managed the circuits department, decided it was time to slow down. The company was still growing at a healthy 25 per cent but Tekatch sold off all but the composite division which he

kept strictly for mold making and boat building. Tekatch’s

boats became known worldwide for his

innovative ideas in deck layout, engine installations, high performance and

stability. The company built 15 multi-hulls

for total sales of about $7 million.

But, there comes a time when even a man like Eugene Tekatch calls it quits. In 2004, he closed down his composites company and sold the boat moulds to a builder in England. The last boat Tekatch built was the Tek-35, a 35-foot cruising multi-hulled sailboat which he kept for himself. His son Anthony now works as a computer system designer and project manager for a Burlington-based company and daughter Cathy has started her own business.

These days Tekatch has gone back to where he started, tinkering with technology in a little workshop at his home where he’s doing research and development and studying physics. As has been his pattern, he plans to keep learning and applying what he learns. “There have been a lot of challenges throughout my life,” he says. “But I’ve never been afraid to jump into anything and I’ve always had a passion for what I was doing.”

35-foot boat crossing the Atlantic in 16 days, four hours. Although he didn’t win the race, Tekatch was hooked on the high performance of multi-hulls and went to meet John Shuttleworth, a British designer of multi-hulled vessels. On a tour of the boatyards on the Isle of Wight, Tekatch was impressed at seeing boxcars and military vehicles made from composite materials. He wondered if he could find someone to build him a multi-hulled boat out of composites based on Shuttleworth’s design.

No one in Canada at that time was doing much with composites, so, in typical fashion for Tekatch, he decided to start a new Tektron division specializing in advanced composite fabrication. A composite engineer and a boat builder came over from England to teach Tekatch and his staff how to build a multi-hulled boat using composite materials. By 1988, Tekatch had the TekTron-50, a 50-foot racing catamaran outfitted with a new range of computerized yachting instruments. The plan was to race the 50-footer in the 1988 TransAT Tag Race. As before, he had to qualify the boat by running it down the coast to Bermuda and back. “That’s when we really found out about high performance,” Tekatch says. “This boat could accelerate from two to 15 knots very quickly—you had to hang on or fall off.”

After finding out first hand how well the boat could weather the outer winds of a hurricane, Tekatch and his crew were on their way back to Quebec City when the boat hit a huge standing wave over a rip tide 30 miles off Prince Edward Island. Although the broad-based design of a catamaran won’t let it sink, the boat pitch poled. With some of the crew hurt in the water and the boat floating upside down, Tekatch managed to get everyone inside the hatches. After long hours firing off flares, a boat arrived and a rescue began. It was disappointing to miss out on the race, but Tekatch

learned something critical about the relationship between composites and metal. “Anything that was metal on the boat, all the connections around the mast and the crossbeam, failed,” he says. “So we learned that composites are best used by themselves.”

Over the next years, with his son (also a Mohawk College electronics grad), his daughter and his wife all helping to manage the company, business continued to grow. By 1990, Tektron Equipment Corp. had five divisions (design, PCB, assembly, equipment and composites), 106 employees and customers including universities, colleges, military bases and private industry in Canada, the U.S., Japan and Venezuela. Tektron was producing 4.5 million printed circuit boards and 800,000 electronic assemblies per year.

Tekatch’s boats became known worldwide

for his innovative ideas in deck layout, engine installations, high

performance and stability.

feature story feature story: life imitates sailing


Mohawk CollegeMohawk College2 4 t h A n n u a l

Garage SaleSaturday, September 10, 20059:00am - 2:00pm - Fennell Campus

VENDORS WANTEDRain Date: Sunday, September 11th

For More Information Call 905 575 2081

In Support of the United Way

http://uwgaragesale.mohawkcollege.ca

MOHAWK COLLEGE’S NEW

50/50 LOTTERY IS COMING SOON!

All proceeds raised will support student scholarships.

Watch for more details atwww.mohawkcollege.ca/donorsand-

fundraising


Architectural TechnologyJennifer Kennedy (nee Shrubsole)Architectural Technology, 1998Jennifer married her husband, Jay, in 1999. The couple have a lovely one-year old daughter named Alyssa.

Richard Palmer(Architectural Technology, 1973)

Although Richard is still involved in the construction field, he was presented with an opportunity to

enter the tourism industry. Using Harley Davidson motorcycles, Richard guides clients through the Rocky Mountains and Vancouver Island for custom bike runs. Richard invites other Alumni to join him and “Glide the Wind.”

Business AdministrationTom Csiszar(Business Administration, 1992)Upon graduating, Tom found employment with Bull Moose Tube Ltd., producers of ERW steel tubing. He has held various positions within the company, currently working as Production/Operations Manager. Tom and his wife, Taffy, reside in Burlington. He would enjoy hearing from his classmates who can contact him at [email protected].

Walter Kurz(Business Administration, 1983)

Walter and his wife, Elke, have been married for 21 years and have three children, ages 20, 18, and 14. Walter has been residing in Germany for the past

18 years, working for employers such as Imperial Oil, Kimberly Clark, and a small Christian Publisher, Missionsverlag. He is currently employed as Director of Finance and Administration for World Vision Germany.

Civil Engineer TechnicianRandy Hendriks(Civil Engineer Technician, 1995)After graduating from the Civil Engineer Technician Program, Randy took a sudden turn in his career path to become

IN TOUCHkeeping

an ordained Catholic Priest in May 2002. He enjoys his life working in the parish, although his mind sometimes wanders when he drives by a manhole and thinks ‘what might have been.’

Computer Electronics Engineer TechnologyRob Wudrick(Computer Electronics Engineer Technology, 1991)Since graduating, Tom has worked in various positions at Corman Technologies Inc. He recently started at Kaleidoscope Canada Inc., as a Hardware Program Manager. Tom has been married to Tamara (nee Gingrich) since 1998 and the couple have two children, Timothy, aged four, and Samantha, aged two.

Ron Novakovich(Computer Electronics Engineering Technician, 1991)Ron is completing his third year as a Control Technician at Bruce Power in Tiverton, Ont. Ron and his wife, Joanne, have two children, Milena, and Alexander. Ron is currently in his 25th season with the CFL as a Crew Chief for the Hamilton Stats Crew.

Computer Systems TechnologyDenise Barrett(Computer Systems Technology, 1980)Denise is currently a Project Director for Research in Motion (RIM). Her career has included senior positions with Descartes Systems Group, University of Waterloo and Michelin Tire. She is the founding President of Project Management Institute, Canada’s Technology Chapter (PMI CTT). In her spare time, Denise volunteers for Kitchener Waterloo minor sports and is currently volunteering at Grand River Hospital in Kitchener.

Early Childhood EducationTammy Adams (nee Kipp) (Early Childhood Education, 1979)

Over the past 20 years, Tammy has successfully made the transition through a number of career changes, including Early Childhood

Education, Resource Consultant, College Professor, Workshop Facilitator, Personality Specialist, and Professional Speaker. She is a member of the International Coaching Federation, Canadian Authors Association, and is an affiliate member of Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrists, and Psychotherapists. Tammy now operates her own business, Turning Point, which assists others in making career and life transitions. Her website is www.yourturningpoint.com

Graphic DesignPeter Earl(Graphic Design, 1996)Peter and Jennifer (nee Marr) were married on December 6, 1997, with the birth of their son, Jacob Peter James, on June 3, 2004. Peter and Jennifer would love to hear from their classmates at [email protected].

Industrial Engineering TechnicianDoug Shelton(Industrial Engineering Technician, 1985)

After 12 years of employment with Ball Packaging, Doug returned to his hometown of Niagara Falls and currently works as a Quality Systems Manager with

Kraft Canada. He also teaches night school courses at Niagara College. Doug married his high school sweetheart, Darlene Robinson, in 1990. Classmates can reach Doug at [email protected]

Medical Laboratory TechnologyJim Gauthier(Medical Laboratory Technology, 1980)Jim is on the move again! In October 2003, he left Kingston General Hospital and moved to Providence Continuing Care Centre, continuing in the Infection Control Department. His focus now is long-term care, rehabilitative medicine, and mental health. Jim looks forward to seeing his classmates at the Class of 1980 Alumni Association Reunion, in October 2005.


Please keep “In Touch” with all our Mohawk Grads by filling out the following information form. Reach us at our website www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni or by email at [email protected].

Name: ____________________________________________Maiden Name:________________________________Program: __________________________________________Year Graduated:_______________________________Address:_____________________________________Apt._______City:__________________Province:___________Postal Code:______________Phone:_______________________Email:____________________________________Employer:__________________________________Bus. Address:_________________________________________City:________________________________Province:_____________________________Postal Code:____________ Bus. Phone:__________________Bus. Email:_________________________

Yes! I am interested in being: Gradvisor* Convocation Speaker Featured in “Keeping in Touch” *Gradvisor – An Alumnus who is interested in lending a hand to fellow Alumni, and/or students at Mohawk College.

Share with us. Are you getting married? Starting a family? Have a new job or promotion? Looking for an old classmate? Let us know what is going on in your life and, if possible, throw in a photo!____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

In accordance with section 39(2) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 1987 the personal information recorded in this form is collected and Universities Act R.S.O. 1980, c272 and R.R.O 1980, Reg 640. The information is used for administrative and statistical purposes of the Alumni Relations Department, The College and/or the ministries and agencies of the governments of Ontario and Canada. I have read the above and I hereby authorize the release of information contained herein or collected from a third party (such as a family member) to be the aforementioned.

Signature:____________________________________________________Date:___________________________________

KEEPING IN TOUCH www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni [email protected]

Alan Brown(Medical Laboratory Technology 1982)Alan has worked at the Greater Niagara General Hospital since graduating. He still plays competitive badminton and has attained his Rescue Diver (Scuba diving) certificate. Alan has been married for 19 years to his wife, Glenda, and together they have three daughters, Heather, Hailey, and Teighler.

Police FoundationsAllan Laevens (Police Foundations, 2000)

Allan is currently in the Canadian Forces Military, posted at the Kingston Base. Allan is married to Dana,

also a Mohawk graduate. Allan and Dana have a daughter aged two and another baby on the way, due in April 2005.

RadiographyJudi McNairn(Radiography, 1981)Judy has embarked on a new career in accounting after earning a Business-Accounting diploma in 1996 from Georgian College in Owen Sound. Judi is now a proud grandmother to three darling grandchildren. She would like to hear from classmates at her website at [email protected].

Stationary EngineerFrank Ciesielski(Stationary Engineer, 1979)After graduating from Mohawk College, Frank worked as a Stationary Engineer at the Hamilton Psychiatric Hospital until his retirement in 1993. Frank is now enjoying his retirement along with his family at his lakefront property on Orr Lake.

In Memoriam David William Richardson(Business Administration, ’91) David suddenly passed away at home on August 14, 2003. He was also a graduate of the Missouri Auction School, and owned and operated Wrightway Weed & Pest Control in Brantford. David had taught many courses on Bonsai plants, his passion. He’s missed everyday by his family and friends.

Monika Hummel(Office Administration 1989)Tragically passed away February 26, 2005, in her 37th year. She will be remembered by many friends and family in Germany and Canada. Monika was a long-time employee of David Howell as his assistant and will be dearly missed by her colleagues at Martin and Martin. Monika was a volunteer at the YWCA and the Osteoporosis Society Hamilton Chapter.

Keeping In Touch Contest“Thanks” to all alumnus who responded to our contest which was advertised in the Fall 2004 issue. The following alumnus names were randomly selected in the draw and received alumni gear: Peter D. Earl, Tom Csiszar and Richard Palmer.


I’ve just spent half an hour, at high speed, trying to find this guy. Rick Knowles, one of his fellow math teachers, is taking me through the obstacle course making sure I track him down. The Math office says I’ve missed him. He’s here, but he’s dropping off curriculum sheets. In

the Chemistry office, I’ve missed him by 10 minutes or so - he’s on his way to the print shop. The print shop says I’ve missed him by five minutes. I’m on his trail! Quick! Rick and I return to the Math Department, and head him off. And that’s where I finally catch up with him, and we sit, rather uncomfortably, on the bench in the hallway. A student goes by and remarks, “You must like it here, I see you every day.” He knows this particular teacher doesn’t need to be around right now.

We’re talking about Tom Sutton, faculty, who teaches in two disciplines, Math and Chemistry. Tom is a bit of an icon to chemistry students, and more especially, their alumni.

A modest man, he claims himself a kind of Canadian foreigner, born in Newfoundland “before it was part of Canada,” and attended Memorial University and McMaster to complete his degree in Chemical Engineering. After four years in the private sector, and teaching part time at Algonquin College (your loss – our gain, Algonquin!), he came to Mohawk in 1971. Shortly afterward, he helped establish, and serves as advisor to, the Chemistry Club, the oldest surviving club at Mohawk.

“I saw these people a lot, teaching them in perhaps three or four courses, and got to know them well,” comments Tom. The

natural evolution for a successful club is a successful alumni chapter and Sutton has been the hand of consistency to the Chemistry Alumni for at least 25 years, keeping in touch with his students, including regulars from the first graduating class in 1971. An annual event, former graduates often come by (at least four or five for the evening) and give talks to both graduates and students with everyone sharing their experiences. Many come year after year.

“The Alumni Association has never turned us down for support, but, it did get expensive some years, just doing the mailing,” he sighs. “ But we keep coming back,” he smiles now, “by popular request.” Without any major pre-planning, it usually starts by someone just calling him and saying, “let’s do that again.” More and more he says, he relies on email technology, as well as extensive contact lists, to help keep everyone together.

“Do you consider yourself a student advocate?” I ask. “Yes,” answers Tom, without embellishment, but I know he spent five or six years on the Students’ Union Corporation (SUC) board as their faculty representative. Before the MSA, the SUC was the responsible body for the student activity fee. He was also among several faculty representatives on the ad hoc committee that devised the initial working structure of the current Mohawk College Alumni Association.

Tom Sutton is about to retire, but not for at least one more semester. “There’s a nice class coming along I want to teach. A lively, social group that’s been very active with the club.” Sounds like Tom wouldn’t object to retiring, as long as he could still teach. “I’m not sure I’m ready to leave the classroom.”

When Tom does make it to retirement, there’s another group waiting to take advantage of his generous spirit. He has been asked to become president of the Canadian Society for Chemical Technology, a group he has been devoted to for 30 years. Apart from pursuing some part-time consulting, private instruction, and as a part-time instructor, the unassuming East Coaster has no immediate plans. “We’ll see.”

I had a nice time on that uncomfortable bench. Tom, I think, has places to go and people to see. I thank him for his time, and I make arrangements to take his picture on Monday night while he’s at the Math Learning Centre, offering more of his time to his students. I also want to say thanks too, for his devotion, for taking the time and effort to keep in touch, and keeping our Mohawk family together.

by Lynn E. James

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In Touch Magazine Spring 2005

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