Lindsay Kreeft 
Warning: This story contains depictions and discussions of war, which may be distressing for some readers. For free, 24/7 confidential support, call the BC Mental Health Support Line at 310-6789 (no area code needed). At six years old, aspiring journalist and future alumna Layla Khdir was performing nightly news shows to her mirror in her … Read more
“BCIT was my first love story; Jim was my second,” says BCIT alumna Peggy Waldbauer, Medical Lab Technology, ’67. Peggy recalls that she loved her classes and the memories made with friends on the BCIT Burnaby Campus. Little did she know, her affinity for BCIT would lead to finding her future soulmate, sparking the next … Read more
Find the perfect gift for loved ones and feel great knowing you’re supporting local alumni-owned businesses through the BCIT Alumni Holiday Market. Running November 1 to December 31, 2023, the fourth-annual online market offers thoughtful gift ideas ranging from organic skincare products and Indigenous art to modern home goods and curated vintage clothing pieces. The … Read more
Demand for skilled healthcare professionals is rising in Canada as the industry continues to face labour shortages (Statistics Canada, 2023) that significantly impact small, rural communities like Wainwright, Alberta. “It’s just me and one receptionist at a small clinic serving a large geographic area,” says Samantha Bienias, the one medical sonographer stationed at a remote … Read more
In the 1990s, Dr. Judy Shandler, who was teaching at BCIT as well as Vancouver Community College (VCC), was invited to participate in an exchange program to Mysore India and teach at an all-women polytechnic. It was pivotal to Judy’s career as an educator. “My experience teaching abroad was transformative and shaped how I teach … Read more
From a tree planter nearly two decades ago to her new role as Vice President of Sustainability and Chief Forester at Mosaic Forest Management, Molly Hudson carved an uncharted path in an industry traditionally dominated by men. “Being the first woman chief forester in our organization’s history has some symbolism to it,” shares Molly, who … Read more
In fall 2021, an extensive ecological restoration project was initiated to rebuild and conserve the foreshore area of Granite Falls in Say Nuth Khaw Yum Provincial Park. Led by Tsleil-Waututh Nation in partnership with SeaChange Marine Conservation Society and BC Parks, the project was guided by historical knowledge from Nation members and involved many scientists … Read more
On June 15, 2023, more than 110 attendees gathered virtually for the 2023 Online Annual General Meeting (AGM) and special alumni panel presentation, Engage Your Entrepreneurial Mindset. BCIT Alumni Association President Emil Bosnjak welcomed attendees from across the BCIT community including alumni, current and past Alumni Association directors and presidents, the BCIT Leadership Team, the … Read more
In recognition of BCIT alumni mothers and all that they do, we’re sharing the advice and inspiring stories of three alumni moms who are excelling in their careers. These alums working in construction, real estate, and business, demonstrate that the skills required to succeed at BCIT—including time management, collaboration, and commitment—are just as transferrable to … Read more
“It was frustrating to be told there wasn’t a market for my product, when I knew there was,” BCIT alum Olivia Lovenmark, CEO and Founder of Duchess Cocktails, describes the pushback she received from people in the industry when starting her premium bottled cocktail company in 2019. Despite being continually told that the alcohol space … Read more