Workforce and Skilled Trades Advancement

Dave Conroy is the founder and director of The Little Building Company, a sustainable construction firm based in Douro-Dummer, Ont. A graduate of the sustainable building design and construction program, he has grown the business significantly over the past decade while creating skilled local jobs and promoting environmentally responsible practices. The company is recognized for its use of green building materials, energy-efficient technologies and commitment to quality. Through mentorship, ethical leadership and award-winning design, Conroy contributes to raising standards in sustainable construction while supporting his community and sector.

Brian Duquette is the founder and president of Interface Testing Services, a non-destructive testing (NDT) company known for its focus on innovation, safety and workforce development. Since launching the business, he has grown it to serve more than 400 clients across the energy and utility sectors. Duquette has introduced technologies such as the Lock-On Life Support System and drone-based inspections, helping to improve safety and operational efficiency. His efforts have contributed to a 380 per cent increase in the NDT workforce in Lambton County, creating more than 100 skilled jobs. A graduate of a welding program, he combines technical knowledge with business leadership to support industry growth.

Shane Eddy began his career as a licensed helicopter maintenance engineer after graduating from the aircraft maintenance technician program. He is now president of Pratt & Whitney, where he leads global teams focused on aerospace manufacturing and skilled trades development. Eddy has overseen the design and production of major aircraft and propulsion systems, including the CH-53K, UH-60M and F135 engines. His leadership has contributed to the expansion of industrial operations across four continents, generating employment and supporting the future of skilled trades. He is also involved in community initiatives through organizations such as Life Bridge, which promotes education and opportunities for underserved individuals.

Andrew Falotico is a leader in health and safety, working at the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and the Amalgamated Transit Workers Union (ATU). Over the past several years, he has been a driving force on the Bus Design Innovation Project — working collaboratively with the TTC and Centennial College to incorporate Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Bus of the Future recommendations. These address several safety concerns, such as blind spot mitigation to reduce pedestrian fatalities, improved air quality on buses to minimize viral transmission and better accessibility on transit for patrons with disabilities.

Nate Fehrman has built two highly successful construction companies on a foundation of social responsibility and community involvement that he embodies as a CEO. In 2013, Fehrman co-founded michael + clark construction in London. Fehrman has led complex projects across Ontario and grew the business into one of the largest construction companies in southwestern Ontario. In 2023, Fehrman assumed sole leadership of the company, which employs 60 people and reports significant annual growth. He has since added a second division, which has grown in annual revenue, and opened a new location.

Darryl Gratrix is a leader in high-precision manufacturing and a driving force behind skilled trades advocacy in Ontario. As production manager at Molded Precision Components and founder of NextGenSkilledTrades, he has helped launch careers, modernize training and shift public perception about the trades. Gratrix champions co-op programs, apprenticeship pathways and industry-education partnerships, while using social media and virtual reality outreach to reach thousands of students, parents and educators. Through hands-on mentorship, policy engagement and systems-level leadership, he is helping shape the next generation of trades professionals and the future of Canadian manufacturing.

Kraun Electric Inc. CEO Aaron Jones has moved from labourer to leader by combining his technical expertise with a passion for business strategy and team development. After earning his diploma in electronics engineering technology in 2003, he steadily advanced at Kraun Electric, eventually buying the company in 2018. Since then, the company has nearly quadrupled its revenue, undergone a strategic rebrand, and grown to more than 130 employees. Jones is a champion of inclusivity and mentorship — especially for women in skilled trades — and fosters a culture built on service, potential, authenticity, relationships and knowledge to drive the company and its employees forward.

Lilly Lazare-Greene is a passionate Indigenous welder and advocate for women in the skilled trades. She runs three college welding shops, a millwright shop and a fabrication shop where students practice skills necessary to master the trade. Lock In, an installation project she designed and built with an all-female team, was a central feature of campus tours during orientation week and a symbolic way for students to show their commitment to educational goals. Lazare-Greene actively supports women entering the trades through college tours, media, mentorship and community outreach with the YMCA’s Star4Women and Tech in the City programs.

Dino Miceli is the founder and president of Calibur Tool and Mold, a Windsor-based plastic injection and compression mold company established in 2016. With more than 30 employees, the business continues to grow under his leadership. Miceli brings more than 30 years of hands-on experience and formal training in tool and mold making. He mentors youth through apprenticeship programs and supports local charities, including Autism Ontario. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his company quickly adapted to produce protective equipment. A long-standing contributor to Windsor-Essex’s tool and mold sector, Miceli collaborates regionally and internationally to promote innovation and competitiveness.

Patrick Moore is a craftsman and construction manager known for his work in historic carpentry and heritage restoration. After earning trade diplomas and completing an apprenticeship through Ontario colleges, he became the first English speaker to complete France’s master’s program in carpentry, where he studied the traditional craft of stereotomy. Moore teaches internationally, manages complex heritage construction projects in Canada and has received several awards for his contributions to the skilled trades. He also runs a school dedicated to teaching stereotomy and continues to mentor the next generation of tradespeople.

Vikki Schlonies is a Red Seal journeyperson plumber, educator and advocate for equity in the skilled trades. She leads the plumbing faculty team at her alma mater, an Ontario college, where she recruits, trains and mentors future trades professionals. Schlonies also coaches apprentices in competition and serves as a spokesperson for a marketing campaign and photo exhibit that highlight diversity in the trades. A member and instructor with UA Local 527, she is actively involved in curriculum development and initiatives to support worker retention.

Judson Simpson is the longest-serving executive chef at the House of Commons in Ottawa and the first to be both Canadian-born and Canadian-trained. He was appointed to the role at age 31, making him the youngest person to hold the position at the institution. Widely regarded as a leader in Canadian culinary arts, Simpson played a key role in introducing the Certified Master Chef designation to Canada. The internationally recognized certification is the highest available for chefs, with fewer than 100 recipients worldwide since its creation in 1981. Simpson was the first Canadian to earn the designation, which only five chefs in the country have achieved.