I joined the APR family as a pup, handpicked by Jeremy (our CEO), and quickly took on the role of protector, morale booster, and self-appointed foot warmer. Whether I’m patrolling the shop for suspicious activity (like squirrels), offering emotional support, or ensuring no snack goes unsupervised, I take my job seriously—especially when it involves sitting on someone’s feet. I may act tough, but I’m secretly scared of vacuums and cardboard boxes. Off-duty, I love long walks, new smells, and pretending I’m small enough to be a lapdog. My advice? Stay focused, support your team, and if you're anxious—I'll be there to sit on your feet.

I was adopted by Jeremy and Alyssa when I was eight months old and immediately took on the role of Chief Morale Officer at APR. I specialize in boosting spirits, giving top-tier cuddles, and reminding everyone to take paw-sonal breaks—usually while lounging on Alyssa’s desk. With skills like the perfect sad eyes, expert-level distraction techniques, and a knack for turning any meeting into a cuddle session, I keep the team smiling. My favorite perks? Greeting visitors, supervising lunch, and snagging dropped snacks. When I’m not napping in the sun or sneaking onto someone’s lap, I’m here offering essential moral support—because everyone needs a little pawsitivity in their day.

My vision for APR Welding Academy is to deliver hands-on, visual-based education that supports all types of learners, especially those who thrive through doing. I believe in creating a collaborative, respectful team environment where everyone contributes and grows together. We offer monthly workshops to help staff continually improve their skills and knowledge. One of my proudest achievements has been systemizing our curriculum and office processes, which has allowed us to focus more on growth and innovation.



Welding has always been a driving force in my life—from buying my first home to starting my own fabrication shop and traveling across Canada. That passion fuels my dedication to teaching and building an academy that goes beyond traditional methods. Looking ahead, I aim to develop welding simulators for confined spaces, heights, and awkward positions to better prepare students for real-world challenges. I hope to leave a legacy of transforming trades education by focusing on practical, meaningful training that pushes students beyond the basics. My advice? “To be a good welder is to be comfortable in uncomfortable positions and situations.”

I began my career as a dental hygienist, but everything changed when Jeremy and I partnered to purchase APR Welding Academy in 2021. Leaving the dental world to manage APR’s operations was a big leap, but one I’m incredibly proud of. My background in customer service, organization, and process management helped us transition smoothly, and I’ve loved playing a part in building something that truly makes a difference. From scheduling classes to supporting the team, my focus is keeping the academy running efficiently while maintaining the family-run spirit Bob and Paulette started.



Since taking over, we’ve welcomed hundreds of students—many of whom have gone on to become Red Seal Welders and Metal Fabricators. Watching their growth has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. Though I mainly manage operations, I also hold a CWB ticket and can jump into the shop when needed (thank goodness for gloves!). Outside of work, I love spending time with my two “baby boys,” Carson and Chewie. My advice to anyone considering welding is simple: give it a shot. You might just discover a skill—or a career—you never expected to love.

I started my career in graphic design and computer programming, earning diplomas in both fields and working for about ten years at a local newspaper. After losing that job, I made the leap into welding by enrolling in APR Welding Academy—and that decision completely changed my life. Since then, I’ve worked at Algoma Steel for nearly twelve years, spending time as a structural welder, in the welding shop, and eventually managing the welding department. My wife and I also ran a small business creating handmade home décor items, which gave me valuable experience in both creativity and entrepreneurship. These diverse experiences have shaped who I am and what I bring to the team at APR.



What drew me to APR was the opportunity to return to welding and give back by teaching the next generation. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch students gain new skills and grow in confidence. I hold a Red Seal Welder certification, a Welding Supervisor certification, and diplomas in Welding Technique, Graphic Design, and Computer Programming—and I bring everything I’ve learned into the classroom. Outside of work, I enjoy building and painting models, 3D printing, drawing, paintball, archery, gaming, and watching sci-fi and fantasy. My advice for anyone considering welding is this: give it a try. It can open doors you never expected and may just become a passion that changes your life like it did mine.