Alumni industry leaders share insights on the impact of the pandemic at BCIT Alumni Association's 2020 AGM

With COVID-19 restrictions starting to ease in many regions, Canadian businesses are pondering post-pandemic recovery. Three alumni guest speakers Reza Bafandeh, VP, Food-X Technologies; Brad Kirk, COO, Harilela Hotel Group; and Anne McMullin, CEO, Urban Development Institute joined us at our 2020 AGM for a lively discussion, moderated by BCIT VP Advancement Paul McCullough, from the perspectives of e-grocery delivery, hospitality and tourism, and real estate development.

Said BCIT Alumni Association President Emil Bosnjak, "In this challenging time, I am encouraged and overwhelmed by the countless stories of our alumni stepping up to help through their innovations, generosity, and time. We have the unique ability to solve problems, persevere, and come together as a community. It's what we do best and I look forward to working together for better days ahead."

Get all the highlights from the AGM.

 

A virtual graduation celebration for BCIT's newest alumni

Congratulations to the 5,000 newest members of our alumni family. This year, BCIT's graduating students celebrated their achievement virtually through our Graduation Celebration Video, hosted by BCIT alumna and Global BC news anchor Sophie Lui. The event was truly exceptional, with memorable, funny, poignant, and entertaining appearances from some well-known grads you are sure to recognize. Read the full story and watch the video.

 

Reading is leading: Join our new BCIT Alumni Online Book Club

Did you know reading is good for your brain, health, and happiness? Now, it's also great for connecting with other BCIT alumni. We're proud to introduce our new online book club, exclusively for BCIT alum. Enjoy books from different genres, connect with other alumni, and share your perspectives. It's absolutely free to join--just get a copy of each book and start reading! Sign up now.

 

Your free alumni digital card gets you $100 off a BCIT Part-time Studies course and more

Advance your career and save money! Simply download the BCIT Alumni Perks app to access an annual $100 off a BCIT Part-time Studies course. You can work towards a certificate, diploma, or bachelor's degree at your own pace. Choose from hundreds of online courses this fall, from business to IT, trades to health sciences at bcit.ca/pts.

Search for ‘BCIT Alumni Perks’ in the Google Play or App Store. The app is free. Download it today.

 

BCIT alumni step up to help communities in need through innovation and generosity

When life as we knew it came to a grinding halt due to the pandemic, these BCIT alumni sprung into action. Karl Chen is helping the Asian elderly, disabled, and immunocompromised community with their errands. Joshua Bradshaw has designed and is manufacturing a face shield to help protect frontline workers. Keisha Go and Jamie Haakons mobilized to print thousands of face shields and ear savers to help local healthcare workers. And Kris Dickie and his team developed a portable handheld device to help with identifying cases of COVID-19.

 

This grad's career started with building replica ships from Lego

Four generations of marine careers in Sean Poole's family proves that sailing runs in the family. This Nautical Sciences alumnus, now director of vessel operations with Seaspan, says his BCIT education gave him everything he needed to succeed in his career of choice. Now he's giving back, as the newest volunteer on BCIT Alumni Association's Board of Directors. Read more.

 

When DNA evidence proves unreliable: Forensic Science alumna presents at conferences

When DNA was first used as a forensic tool, it was deemed the holy grail of the justice system. But while forensic DNA technology is evolving, Forensic Science and Technology alumna Michelle Le has shown that DNA science also has the potential to produce falsely incriminating evidence. Read more.

 

Upcoming Events & Opportunities

Sign up for Google's Search Inside Yourself Program

This November 26 & 27, enhance your leadership skills and personal performance with this Mindfulness + Emotional Intelligence + Compassionate Leadership program. Get an exclusive 25% off with this coupon code: BCIT25. BCIT proudly hosts this world-renowned program at our Downtown Campus, 555 Seymour Street, Vancouver.

Register now

Apply to be an mentor with BCITSA's Mentorship Program

As an industry mentor, you will be paired with a student in your industry for six months. Share your experience in career development and help your mentee understand employer expectations and job requirements. Check out the mentor requirements and application process today.

Learn more

Put BCIT Computing students to work for you

Remember the valuable experience you got working on real-world projects in your BCIT program? Are you now in a position to engage a student team in YOUR project? Check out the Industry Sponsored Student Projects (ISSP) program or this 90-second overview video. We’re currently accepting proposals for the fall term. All projects will be completed remotely. The deadline to submit a proposal is July 30. Fill out our submission form now.

Learn more

 

Alumni Partners, Benefits & More

Find out how much you can save on home and tenant insurance from TD Insurance.

Reward yourself with a BMO® BCIT MasterCard® from Bank of Montreal.

 

Eat and be merry. Save 75% on your first Fresh Prep order. Download our free BCIT Alumni Perks app to get the discount code.

Get 10% off at Marks and refresh your wardrobe. Download our free BCIT Alumni Perks app from your app store.

Learn about an exclusive financial support package for BCIT Apprentice students.

 

Blast from the Past

Did you know BCIT once had a women's field hockey team called The Cougars? (photo, circa 1973)
Photo credit: BCIT Archives