Board of Governors ChangeMaker Ceremony December 6th, 2021

These scholars are Canada’s future leaders, innovators, mentors, and masters in their field. Their efforts have enabled our community to evolve and change in a variety of ways: they build new traditions for a better future; they accelerate the rate of change for critical social issues; and they find solutions for concerns in our environment, economy, and community.

Two of the Weston Family Scholars who presented at this event were Melissa Pfeil, Carpentry and Renovations Techniques program Pembroke Campus and John Zahab, Welding and Fabrication Techniques.

‘My passion for the trades came to me after taking the lead on a renovation project for a friend. My guilty pleasure has always been to watch renovation shows, so taking the initiative to lead this reno was not out of character for me. What was out of character for me was taking the steps to change my 20 year long career in Social Work – but, here I am embracing this transition and looking forward with hope and determination.

My vision and commitment to the trades is simple. I envision the trades to be inclusive, diverse and equitable for all individuals. I am committed to increasing the number of women, Indigenous and racialized people in the trades. Being present and visible is key to encouraging and inspiring others to get passionate and involved in the trades. That is why I am here today.

My journey to creating a more diverse workforce in the trades has already begun. I am creating a calendar showcasing a diverse representation of the Weston Family Alumni and Scholars. The calendar highlights people from all different backgrounds and identities and proceeds raised will go towards a bursary for a person of minority in a male dominant program at Algonquin College.

My vision and commitment to the trade’s movement is simple and will always be inclusive, diverse and equitable for all.’

Melissa Pfeil