Autobiographical Resume (AR)

Autobiographical Resume

**Content warning** Sensitive Topics. The following section lists RCMP and law enforcement training courses, some of which involve potentially distressing subject matter. Section flagged with content warning start and ending.

Formal Education (credits applied to TRU program)

Local Government Administration Certificate: Capilano University – School of Public Administration (in progress)

• Completed course: PADM 203 (Municipal Law in British Columbia)

Business Skills Certificate: Thompson Rivers University – School of Business and Economics

• Completed courses: MATH-1091 Business Mathematics, BBUS-1371 Management Information Systems I, ENGL-1071 Business Communication, ENGL-1061 Written Communication, MNGT-1111 Supervision

Informal Education (credits not applied to TRU program)

Applied Land Use Planning Certificate: University of Alberta (in progress)

• Completed course: EXLUP 8222 – Rural Environments (2025)

Esri Academy

• GIS Basics (2025)
• Introduction to ArcGIS Monitor – webinar (2025)
• ArcGIS Online Basics (2025)
• Exploring GIS Maps (2025)
• ArcGIS Pro Basics (2025)
• Getting Started with GIS (2025)
• Use a Map for Classroom Instruction (2025)
• Getting Information from a GIS Map (2025)
• Using GIS to Solve Problems (2025)
• Telling Stories with GIS Maps (2025)
• The Systems Approach to ArcGIS: An Introduction (2025)
• Introduction to ArcGIS Monitor (2025)
• Introduction to My Esri Administration (2025)
• My Esri 101 (2025)
• Performing License Administration in My Esri (2025)
• Getting Started with Data Management (2025)
• Getting Started with Mapping and Visualization (2025)
• Getting Started with Spatial Analysis (2025)
• Getting Started with Imagery and Remote Sensing (2025)
• Getting Started with Site Scan for ArcGIS (2025)
• Applying the Racial Equity Workflow Using ArcGIS (2025)
• Basics of JavaScript Web Apps (2025)
• Python for Everyone (2025)

Vancouver Island Construction Association

• Blueprint Reading Fundamentals (2025)

BC Ministry of Citizens’ Services

• FOIPPA Foundations (2023)

Owner Builder Training Ltd

• Owner Builder Authorization (2023)

Alberni First Aid

• Occupational First Aid Level 1 (2023)

Alert First-Aid

• Standard First Aid (2022)
• CPR Level C (2022)
• Forklift Training (2017)
• Lift Truck Training (2017)
• Incident Investigation (2014)
• Office Ergonomics (2014)
• Transportation of Dangerous Goods (2014)
• Workplace Inspection (2014)

Employers’ Advisers Office

• OHS Program Requirements Seminar (2018)
• Accident Investigation Seminar (2018)

Supply Chain Management of Canada

• Introduction to Procurement (2017)

ABCB First Aid

• Occupational Level 2 First Aid (2017)

Justice Institute of British Columbia

• Introduction to SAR BC (2017)
• Introduction to Reception Centres (2017)
• Introduction to Group Lodging (2017)
• Level One ESS (2017)
• Incident Command System Level 100 (2017)
• Basic Security Training – BST (2015)
• Disaster Psychosocial Awareness for Leaders (2011)
• Information Literacy (2011)
• Introduction to Disaster Psychosocial Services (2011)
• Introduction to Emergency Social Services in BC (2011)
• Introduction to Health Emergency Management (2011)
• Level One Emergency Social Services (2011)
• Emergency Operations Centre Level Three (2008)
• Emergency Operations Centre Level Two (2007)
• Emergency Operations Centre Level One (2006)
• Introduction to Emergency Management in BC (2006)

Nanaimo Yacht Charters & Sailing School

• VHF Restricted Operators Radio Certification (2017)

Industry Canada

• Restricted Operator Certificate with Aeronautical Qualification ROC-A (2017)

Qualicum Beach Fire Department

• Emergency Response and Firefighting Basics (2017)

Parkview Driving Academy

• Class 3 and 4 (unrestricted) BC driver’s licence (2016)
• Air Brake Endorsement (2016)

Leavitt Training

• Wilderness & Bear Awareness (2017)

Recreation Facilities Association of British Columbia (RFABC)

• Refrigeration Safety Awareness (2016)
• Swimming Pool Operator 1 (2016)

International Academy of Computer Training (IACT)

• Adobe Illustrator Specialist Certification (2017)
• Adobe Photoshop Specialist Certification (2017)
• Adobe Indesign Specialist Certification (2017)

British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA)

• PoolSafeBC (2016)
• Vulnerable Populations (2016)
• Healthy Choices (2016)
• Aboriginal Cultural Relations (2016)
• Engaging the Hard to Reach (2016)
• BCRPA Shared Use Agreement Guide (2016)

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety

• WHMIS 2015 for Workers (2016)

New Skills Academy

• Level 3 Administration & Personal Assistant Diploma (2016)

St. John Ambulance

• Occupational First Aid Level 3 (2014)

WorksafeBC

• Supervising for Safety (2014)

ENFORM

• Electronic General Safety Orientation (2014)
• Petroleum Safety Training (2014)

Access Safety

• Benzene Awareness (2014)
• Confined Space (2014)
• Fall Arrest Protection (2014)
• NORM Awareness (2014)

IHRDC

• Introduction to Human Resource Management (2014)

National Boating Safety School

• Pleasure Craft Operator Card (2012)

BCFRD Health and Safety Centre

• OH&S Part 1 (Basic) Course (2012)

**Start of Content warning** Sensitive Topics. The following section lists RCMP and law enforcement training courses, some of which involve potentially distressing subject matter.

RCMP

• Bank of Canada Polymer Notes Awareness (2012)
• Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (2012)
• Canadian Police Information Centre Query Narrative (2012)
• Crime Reduction & Crime Prevention – Put It To Work (2012)
• Crisis Intervention and De-escalation Training (2012)
• Domestic Violence Investigations – National (2012)
• Emergency Vehicle Operations (2012)
• Federal Parolees and the Community Corrections Team (2012)
• Firearms Verification Course (2012)
• Human Trafficking (2012)
• Introduction to Marihuana Grow Ops (2012)
• MPUR: Child Abduction – Amber Alert (2012)
• Officer Orientation and Development Course (2012)
• Police Information Portal (2012)
• Proceeds of Crime Concepts (2012)
• Real Time Identification – Generic Workflows (2012)
• Search and Seizure Without a Warrant (2012)
• Confined Space Awareness (2011)
• Counterfeit Currency Analysis (2011)
• Counterfeit Payment Card Analysis (2011)
• Courtroom Testimony for Intercept Monitor Analysis (2011)
• Critical Incident Stress Management (2011)
• Exempt Bank Awareness (2011)
• Finance 101 (2011)
• Firearms Identification for Public Agents (2011)
• Harassment Awareness in the Workplace (2011)
• HRMIS 8.9 Overview (2011)
• Incident Command System 200 (2011)
• Intercepting Private Communications – An Overview (2011)
• Introduction to Human Sources (2011)
• Introduction to Major Case Management (2011)
• Introduction to Production Orders (2011)
• Investigative Communications 2 – The Theory of Truth and Deception (2011)
• Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues (2011)
• National Police Information Systems (2011)
• Occupational Health & Safety: Frontline Officer (2011)
• Occupational Health & Safety: Supervisor (2011)
• Offence-Related Property Fundamentals 1 (2011)
• Offence-Related Property Fundamentals 2 (2011)
• Offence-Related Property Fundamentals 3 (2011)
• Performance Evaluations (2011)
• Personal Protection Strategy for Infection Prevention and Control (2011)
• Persons with Disabilities: Ability, Capability, Employability (2011)
• Preventing Officer-Involved Collisions (2011)
• Supervisor Development Program: Supervisors Toolbox (2011)
• Terrorism Event: Pre-Incident Indicators (2011)
• Aboriginal and First Nations Awareness (2010)
• Above Ground Storage Tank System (2010)
• Alzheimer Disease: A Resource for Police and Search and Rescue Personnel (2010)
• APEM Exhibits (2010)
• Canadian Labour Code – Awareness for Employees (2010)
• Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear First Responder Basic (2010)
• Counterfeit Travel and Identity Documents (2010)
• Customs and Excise Basic (2010)
• Directory Services (2010)
• Dispute Resolution Using Interest-Based Negotiation Techniques (2010)
• Domestic Violence Investigations – E Division (2010)
• Emergency Medical Response (2010)
• Evidence-based, Risk-focused Domestic Violence Investigations (2010)
• Explosives Awareness (2010)
• Incident Command System 100 Orientation (2010)
• Incident Management Intervention Model (2010)
• Infectious Disease and Pandemic Preparedness (2010)
• Introduction to Disclosure (2010)
• Investigative Communications 1 – The Theory of Communication and Memory (2010)
• Investigative Communications 3 – Interviewing (2010)
• Major Events Security (2010)
• Managing Safely (2010)
• National Sex Offender Registry (2010)
• Recognition of Emotionally Disturbed Persons (2010)
• Security Awareness (2010)

**End of content warning**

Encon Management

• Complete Supervisor’s Certificate (2008)
• Supervisory Module 3 (2008)
• Supervisory Module 2 (2007)
• Supervisory Module 1 (2006)

City of Port Alberni

• In-service for Aquatic Centre (2016)
• Critical Incident Peer Counselling Training (2010)
• Adobe Acrobat (2006)
• Don’t Shoot the Messenger (2006)
• Emergency Procedures (2006)
• Fire Extinguisher Training (2006)
• Freedom of Information (2006)
• Child Protection (2005)
• Mental Illness First Aid (2005)
• Violence in the Workplace (2005)
• Workplace Roles and Responsibilities (2005)

Stratford Institute

• Medical Office Assistant Diploma (2005)

North Island College

• Simply Accounting (2003)
• Word Level 1 (2003)
• Word Level 2 (2003)
• Excel Level 1 (2003)
• Foodsafe Certificate (1998)

BC Hospitality Industry

• Serving It Right certificates – Server and Licensee (2002)

Granton Institute of Technology

• Human Relations certificate (2001)
• Criminal Law certificate (2001)
• Bookkeeping – Part 1 (2001)
• Bookkeeping – Part 2 (2001)
• Canadian Studies (2001)

Employment

Development Services & Business Licence Clerk: City of Port Alberni, 2022-Present (3 years)

Description of Responsibilities:

• Handle the submission, initial review, and monitoring of development and building applications.
• Answer questions and give direction on bylaws, the Official Community Plan (OCP), and regulatory policies and procedures.
• Work closely with developers, contractors, and residents navigating complex land use ideas and policies.
• Coordinate with internal departments for planning, engineering, fire, and building inspections.
• Support business licensing policies and bylaws.
• Developed streamlined processes for application intake and public information requests, improving customer service delivery.

Notable learning:
This role strengthened my understanding of planning procedures, regulatory interpretation, and inter-departmental collaborations, while enhancing my ability to communicate complex information clearly in a way that makes sense to the public. After noticing the same mistakes and questions be asked regarding our forms, I took the initiative to figure out better solutions and redesign our development services forms and workflows.

Economic Development Assistant: City of Port Alberni, 2016-2022 (6 years)

Description of Responsibilities:

• Conducted research and maintained business directories and community profiles.
• Assisted the Economic Development manager in business retention and expansion programs, such as the Façade Improvement Program and Shop Local Port Alberni program, working in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures, and other local partners.
• Supported residents and businesses with permitting and licensing procedures.
• Helped develop marketing materials and municipal branding.

Notable learning:
Working in economic development improved my research and communication skills and gave me valuable insight into how the City supports local businesses. Through programs like the Façade Improvement Program, I saw how even small funding boosts could lead to visible community vibrancy. 

Owner/Operator: Platinum Pro Services, 2015-Present (10 years)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Built a janitorial services business from the ground up.
• Manage staffing, payroll, supply procurement, and contracts.
• Developed and enforced health and safety policies aligned with WorkSafeBC.
• Focused on ideas to improve efficiency, customer satisfaction, and operational growth.

Notable learning:
I have learned that running my own business is a process of continuous improvement. I’ve gained real-world experience in leading a team, making smart financial decisions, problem-solving, and developing clear workplace policies. Being a small business owner has taught me to be resourceful, adaptable and resilient.

Records Clerk/Exhibits Custodian/Transcriptionist: RCMP/City of Port Alberni, 2006-2014 (8 years)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Processed legal records, investigative files, and evidence with confidentiality and accuracy.
• Transcribed sensitive interviews and prepared reports to Crown Counsel.
• Verified records and maintained accuracy.
• Appointed as Firearms Verification Officer and Critical Incident Peer Counsellor.

Notable learning:
These roles taught me to be calm, precise, discrete, and highly-organized while operating within strict legal and ethical policies and procedures. I became someone others trusted to manage complex tasks with accuracy, whether it was transcribing major crime interviews or preparing files for Crown Counsel. It was a fast-paced and often emotionally intense environment, but it shaped how I work and how I carry myself – with resilience, patience and the ability to keep moving forward even when the task is tough.

Maintenance Assistant: City of Port Alberni, 2015-2016 (1 year)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Assisted with routine upkeep and general maintenance of city infrastructure, including janitorial, painting, and small repairs.
• Ensured public areas were safe and functional.
• Set-up and take-down of events and activities through city facilities.  

Notable learning: 

This role gave me a real look at the work it takes to keep a city running smoothly behind the scenes. It also taught me the value of teamwork and following safe work procedures in physically demanding environments.

Recreation Receptionist: City of Port Alberni, 2005-2008 and 2015-2016 (4 years)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Served as the first point of contract for the public at City recreation facilities.  
• Registered participants for programs, processed payments, managed facility bookings, and provided general information to the public.

Notable learning: 

Being the first point of contact enhanced my customer service and administrative skills within a municipal setting. I learned how to manage tasks efficiently, communicate effectively with the public, and work as part of a team to support community programming and recreational services.

Labourer 1: City of Port Alberni, 2014-2015 (1 year)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Maintained city parks and green spaces through lawn care, planting, and general landscaping tasks.
• Operated and maintained various tools and equipment, including mowers, trimmers, blowers, forestry mulcher, and other required hand tools.
• Drove a Class 3 garbage truck with air brakes to collect garbage from public waste receptacles across city parks and facilities. 

Notable learning:
This role gave me hands-on experience in both outdoor maintenance and equipment operation. Driving a Class 3 garbage truck helped me build confidence handling large vehicles safely and efficiently. I also gained a better appreciation for how regular maintenance and waste collection play a big role in keeping public spaces clean, functional, and welcoming.

Volunteer Work

Volunteer foster: Alberni Valley Cat Rescue, 2023-Present (2 years)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Fostered kittens and mother cats until adoption readiness.
• Provided socialization for feral cats and kittens.
• Made decisions on care, treatment, and feeding routines.
• Built entire kitten and cat foster room with attached adoption room.

Notable learning:
Alberni Valley Cat Rescue focuses on rescuing feral cats and kittens which has given me a deeper appreciation for the importance of animal welfare for all animals. It has taught me to stay calm and decisive during unpredictable health issues, behavioral challenges, and emergency vet care situations.

Co-Founder & Admin: Port Alberni LGBTQ Meetups and Events (Facebook Group), 2022-Present (3 years)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Co-created and manage an online community for local LGBTQ+ residents.
• Organize social events and promote inclusive community involvement.

Notable learning: 

Creating this group has shown me how important community and connection really are. We’ve grown to over 400 members and have hosted dozens of events, from casual coffee meetups to community activities. I’ve learned how to bring people together and handle group dynamics with care, creating a space where people feel safe and welcomed. 

Volunteer Firefighter: Qualicum Beach Fire Department, 2017 (6 months)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Trained in emergency response and firefighting techniques.
• Assisted with emergency medical callouts and fire patrol.
• Participated in team drills and fire safety practices.

Notable learning: 

Although my time was cut short due to injury, it left a lasting impression. I learned how to operate under high-stress conditions, value teamwork, and understand the seriousness of safe and clear communication when lives are on the line. I also discovered how my smaller stature could be an unexpected advantage – whether squeezing into tighter spaces during simulations or maneuvering easier during rope rescue training. It taught me that everyone on the team brings something different to the table, and sometimes the things that set you apart – like size – can become your greatest strengths in the right situation.

Vice-President: Nanaimo Pride Society (formerly VIRA), 2015-2016 (1 year)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Played a lead role in organizing events and handling logistics.
• Helped bring Nanaimo’s first official Pride parade to life.
• Worked with marketing teams and community partners to raise funds and build  awareness.

Notable learning: 

This was more than just event planning – it was advocacy in action. Helping launch Nanaimo’s first Pride parade showed me what it takes to move an idea into reality. I learned how to work with different teams, juggle logistics, and stay focused on what really mattered – creating something meaningful for the community.

Secretary: Vancouver Island Rainbow Association (VIRA), 2013-2015 (2 years)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Recorded meeting minutes and kept track of organizational records.
• Supported event planning, volunteer coordination, and internal communication.
• Played a key role in the transition from VIRA to the newly formed Nanaimo Pride Society.

Notable learning: 

Being part of the team that helped transition VIRA into the Nanaimo Pride Society showed me what it really takes to grow something meaningful. It wasn’t always easy, but staying organized, communicating clearly, and working through changes as a team made a big difference. 

Occupational Health & Safety Committee Member at Large: City of Port Alberni, 2010-2014 (4 years)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Participated in monthly safety meetings and workplace inspections.
• Completed health and safety checklists for city-owned facilities.
• Reported health and safety concerns and made recommendations to improve safety.

Notable learning: 

Doing inspections and filling out checklists taught me to pay close attention to detail and speak up when something didn’t seem right. It gave me a better understanding of how Occupational Health & Safety Policies connect to the real, day-to-day safety of people on the job.

Employee Family Assistance Support Society Member: City of Port Alberni, 2011-2014 (3 years)

  Description of Responsibilities:

• Helped promote awareness of EFAP benefits to City employees. 
• Shared information about available mental health and wellness resources.

Notable learning: Being part of the EFAP committee helped me understand the importance of normalizing support. I learned how to talk about sensitive topics in a respectful way and how to encourage others to access help without stigma.

Interests and Additional Experiences

Escape Rooms, 2016-Present (9 years):

• Over 250 completed escape rooms across Canada, U.S. and Europe.
• Solve puzzles and complex challenges using logic and observation.
• Work with teammates to work through fast-paced timed scenarios.
• Adapt quickly to unknown changing environments.

Notable learning: 

Escape rooms have strengthened my critical thinking and teamwork skills. I’ve learned how to stay calm under pressure, approach problems from different angles, and work effectively with others, often leading others, toward a shared goal.

DIY Projects & Builds, 2001-Present (24 years):

• Completed hands-on projects including hidden doors, feature walls, an in-floor wine cellar, outdoor kitchens, decks, accessory buildings, and functional spaces through landscape design.
• Managed every phase from design and planning to budgeting and execution.

Notable learning: 

DIY projects have taught me how to take an idea and turn it into something real. I’ve learned to plan ahead, pay attention to detail, and problem-solve when things don’t go as expected. I often use SketchUp to visualize layout and test ideas before committing to materials, which has helped me improve my spatial awareness and design thinking. Each project reminds me that I’m capable of figuring things out.

Hiking & Walking, 1999-Present (26 years):

• Hike and walk regularly to maintain physical and mental wellbeing.
• Some of the time used to take in audiobooks on planning, leadership, or design.

Notable learning:
Regular time outdoors helps me stay focused and grounded. It maintains my overall well-being and gives me the time and space to process ideas, problem-solve, or just reset after a busy day.

Resin Art & Creative Projects, 2022-Present (3 years):

• Create handmade decorative and functional pieces using resin.
• Practice layering, finishing, and precision in detail work.

Notable learning: 

Resin art has helped me develop patience, creativity, and an eye for detail. It makes me slow down, experiment with new techniques, and approach each piece with care and focus.

Lifelong learning through audiobooks and podcasts, 2005-Present (20 years):

• Listen to topics related to planning, psychology, leadership, and design.
• Use time during walks, chores, and commutes to stay engaged with ideas.

Notable learning: 

Listening to audiobooks and podcasts has become part of my daily routine. It’s an easy way for me to keep learning and stay curious, even when I am busy. I love learning different perspectives that can apply to both work and everyday life.

Vehicle repairs and sales, 2001-2020 (19 years):

• Purchased vehicles from the auto auction to rebuild and sell.
• Diagnosed mechanical issues.
• Did hands-on repairs and handled resale.

Notable learning: 

Fixing up cars I bought from the auto auction taught me a lot about patience, problem-solving, and trusting my instincts. I had to figure things out as I went, from mechanical repairs to deciding what was worth fixing and what wasn’t. 

Other

Roommate Living Guide Creator, 2017-Present (8 years):

• Created a written guide for successful co-living arrangements, drawing from personal experience managing shared living spaces with multiple adult roommates. 
• Includes tips on shared responsibilities, conflict resolution, boundaries, and communication. 

Notable learning: 

Creating this guide taught me how to analyze social dynamics, reduce misunderstandings, and improve harmony in the home. It helped me understand more about communication, boundaries, and cooperative living – all of which tie leadership, emotional intelligence, and practical life management. 

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Having trouble viewing this page? Feel free to download the AR pdf here.**Content warning** Sensitive Topics. Pages 4-6 in the attached AR pdf. The following section lists RCMP and law enforcement training courses, some of which involve potentially distressing subject matter.