WINTER 2019 AVENUES 27 CAREER PROFILE 949 Wilson Avenue Toronto, ON M3K 1G2 Phone: 1-416-633-9670 Fax: 1-416-633-6765 Web: www.cocogroup.com burden at times, but it ultimately creates a safer work atmosphere and can potentially lead to less equipment maintenance. Q: How did you get interested in this field? It’s not a far stretch for me to be in this field – I’ve always loved being outside. I find nature astounding and it demands so much respect. On the other hand, I find manufacturing so interesting because it’s a big but small world. I can speak to many operators about crushing equipment or stockpiling, but the general public has no clue of the amount of preparation and planning that goes into that stockpile, and I’m fascinated by that. Q: What sort of education do you have that is relevant to your job? I went to the University of Toronto for a Bach- elor of Science in biology and environmental science, then attended Sheridan College for their Environmental Control program. Understanding elements of the environment, including soils, groundwater, surface water and air interaction, is critical. University will give Q: Where do you see the industry going in the next few years? I see it changing to align closer with waste management. Recycled materials will become more desirable and I think the aggregate industry will be able to capitalize on this need. I also think the environmental industry will become less of a special- ized industry. Consultants and experts will always be there, but I think my position will become less common going forward and environmental knowledge and needs will come into the hands of operators. I see a potential future where site managers will be responsible for their environmental compli- ance, approvals and site plans. Q: What advice would you give to others looking for a career in the aggregate industry? Take on the challenge! It can be a loud, dusty, too-hot and too-cold work environ- ment, but the career pathways and potential employers are endless. • you that background and the ability to under- stand what is happening. Sheridan College was great because it gave me those hands-on skills for sampling or lab work. Having the two back- grounds allows me to hold different conversa- tions. An example of this is when I’m speaking to an ecologist about changes to a site plan. I agree with their observations, but I’m also able to respond to our needs as an operator and as someone who will eventually be responsible for that mitigation strategy. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25