BCIT appoints Karen Collins as Senior Director, Safety, Security, and Emergency Management

BCIT is pleased to welcome Karen Collins as Senior Director, Safety, Security, and Emergency Management starting October 1, 2024.

With extensive experience in emergency & risk management, safety, business continuity, security, and leadership, Karen joins BCIT most recently from the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) where she led their Emergency Planning, Major Events, Integrated Safety & Security teams. Prior to the VPD, Karen held a leadership position at Douglas College as Manager, Health & Safety/Emergency Management, Safety, Security and Risk Management as well as previous positions with the BC Coroners Service and New Westminster Police Department.

An alumna of BCIT, Karen’s credentials are extensive, ranging from a Bachelor of Technology from BCIT to a Master of Arts in Disaster & Emergency Management and, most recently, completed her Doctorate of Educational Leadership. Karen also holds several certificates in Critical Incident Stress Management and Risk Management & Canadian Risk Management. She is already familiar with our BCIT community as she’s currently a Flexible Learning Instructor in the Forensic Science Program and is an avid volunteer at various BCIT safety events.

Above all else, Karen is an exceptional communicator, is approachable, and eager to work extensively with our community.

Congratulations and welcome to BCIT, Karen!