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.

My journey in welding started right after high school when I attended Cambrian College for two years. I graduated at 19 and earned my Red Seal certification by 21. Over the past 18 years, I’ve built a career in the trades, including 13 years as a ticketed welder. My experience includes seven years in mechanical maintenance and a specialization in fabricating one-off industrial parts—especially components that are obsolete or difficult to source. I’ve worked with everything from heavy steel to cast aluminum and white metal, and I have a strong appreciation for wetting processes like oxy-fuel welding and soldering. Some of my proudest projects include turbine repairs on a $20-million turbo blower, fabricating century-longevity parts for Ontario Power Generation, and designing a custom aluminum spiral staircase for my own shop.



What brought me to APR Welding Academy was the clean, professional work environment and the genuine, family-like atmosphere built by a young and ambitious leadership team. The best part of my job is sharing knowledge with students and working alongside such a passionate team. Academically, I hold an associate degree in Metal Fabrication, a Red Seal certification, and I’ve completed my time served as a Millwright apprentice. Outside of work, I enjoy specialty repairs, ornamental metalwork, and collecting industrial oddities—especially pieces with historical value. A fun fact about me: I’m left-handed because I was born with two thumbs on my right hand, and after surgery, I naturally adapted. I’m also a first-generation Canadian. My advice to students? When the work gets tough, picture yourself on a beach with a cold Corona. Stay humble, be patient, and treat others how you’d want to be treated.

I started my welding career back in high school through the OYAP program. I was hesitant at first, but looking back, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made—it set me on the path to where I am today. As one of the younger members of the APR team, I may not have the same years of experience as some of my colleagues, but I bring a fresh perspective and a strong foundation in custom fabrication. I originally came to APR as a student in the pipe welding program and loved the atmosphere and the people. When things didn’t pan out in the field, I reached out to Jeremy and said, “Let’s make something happen.” He brought me on board, and I’ve been here ever since.



My favorite part of working at APR is the people—everyone has a great attitude and is always willing to help out. It’s a collaborative, supportive environment that makes each day enjoyable. One of my proudest achievements is simply making it to where I am today. The journey wasn’t always easy, but I never gave up, and I’m grateful for the encouragement I’ve had along the way. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me out at camp or riding quads—anything outdoors that helps me recharge. My advice for students or anyone curious about welding? Get comfortable with being uncomfortable, and don’t be afraid to take constructive criticism—it’s how you grow.

I’ve always been drawn to training and development—supporting people as they learn new skills is something I find deeply rewarding. My career has naturally led me toward education-focused roles, from working as a Content Coordinator in Training and Development at a large sales corporation to handling administration for a continuing education business for refrigeration technicians. With nine years of administrative experience in industries like law, real estate, and education—and five years as a freelance social media content manager—I bring a wide skill set to APR Welding Academy. Whether it's building digital assets or learning new systems from scratch (like sales funnels or landing pages), adaptability is one of my biggest strengths. What truly attracted me to APR was the respectful, people-first culture. After years in corporate environments where I often felt like just a number, it’s refreshing to work with owners like Alyssa and Jeremy, who genuinely care about their team.



My favorite part of working at APR is the people, but I also love the challenge of learning a new trade and streamlining internal operations. I’m passionate about building systems that help others feel supported and prepared. I’ve completed hundreds of hours of personal and professional development, especially in mental health support and crisis intervention—creating safe spaces is something I value deeply. Outside of work, I’m all about cozy, creative “grandma hobbies” like colouring, reading, baking, and painting, especially textured abstract art. I’m also a big cat lover. Fun fact: I keep a list of “sensory nightmares” to avoid—dry microfiber and the sound of Styrofoam are top offenders—and I will never, ever turn on the overhead lights (lamps only, always). My advice to students or anyone unsure of their path? Don’t let fear stop you from trying something new. You might discover a passion that changes everything.

With a background in data communications, I transitioned into the welding industry through family connections, ultimately finding my place at APR Welding Academy, where I specialize in CNC work. My skill set is focused on stud welding and precision welding. What attracted me to APR was the incredible team and the opportunities for growth within the company. One of my proudest accomplishments is earning my all-position stick welding tickets.



A fun fact about me is that I’m really strong! Outside of work, I enjoy playing video games. My advice for anyone interested in welding is simple: You only get out of it what you put in.