Bio
A Red Seal Journeyman Carpenter, Doug began his carpentry career in 1987 as part of the very first Carpentry program offered at what was then Malaspina College. He was hired by a local builder then in the early 1990s, he started his own company and went on to build large custom homes across Vancouver Island for nearly 35 years.
In 2020, he joined the Carpentry program at Vancouver Island University. He is responsible for maintaining the Nanaimo and Duncan carpentry shops, ensuring tools, equipment, and facilities remain safe and in good working order. His role also includes repairs and maintenance, as well as coordinating and budgeting lumber and material orders that support apprenticeships Levels 1–4, Trades Sampler programs, and training for nearly 400 students each year.
Working alongside students gives him the opportunity to share real-world jobsite knowledge and experiences that help prepare them for the trade. He values the strong teamwork within the Carpentry department and believes communication and collaboration are key to supporting student success. One of the most rewarding parts of his role is watching new students become excited and engaged in carpentry — “it only takes a little fresh sawdust and they’re hooked.”
Outside of work, he is a retired volunteer firefighter with 25 years of service and has also volunteered with Search and Rescue for 20 years. He enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting, and has a passion for wildlife photography and video. Woodworking and carpentry continue to be an important part of his life, whether helping friends and family with projects, working on his own home, or building in his home workshop.