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Chilliwack News: Chilliwack City Managers Earn Advanced Credentials

By on May 1, 2012

By Starlee Renton. Chilliwack’s Director of Public Works and three other staff members have earned the advanced credential of Registered Technology Manager (RTMgr), from the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC).

“Congratulations to staff on this achievement,” said Chilliwack Mayor Sharon Gaetz. “There’s a global shortage of trained personnel in the technology industry and we’re fortunate to have highly skilled employees who continue to advance their credentials and expertise.”
RTMgr is a professional designation awarded to managers who meet ASTTBC’s advanced criteria of management training, skills and experience, applied in a technology environment.

From Left- ASTTBC Executive Director John Leech, Clarissa Brennan, Glen Macpherson, Wil Wedel, Brendan Kurtz, and Mayor Sharon Gaetz


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“Few people are aware how much technologists, technicians and technical specialists support us in our daily lives,” said ASTTBC Executive Director, John Leech. “We ensure the safety of our tap water, the supply of gas, hydro and telecommunications to homes and businesses. We dispose of waste and wastewater, plan and maintain roads, traffic signals, street lights and subdivisions – even inspect firefighting equipment. All these functions demand excellent management, planning, and supervision. It’s clear that Chilliwack Council sets high standards for its Engineering and Public Works staff – and their management team.”

Staff Background

Glen Macpherson graduated Sheffield University in England as a Civil Engineer, spending 16 years in government services there before immigrating to Canada in 1995. Glen became Director of Public Works in Chilliwack in 2007 and now adds RTMgr certification to his long-held credential as an ASTTBC-certified technologist (AScT). He oversees about 100 city staff in water and sewer services, wastewater treatment, street services, flood protection and maintenance of the city’s vehicle and equipment fleets.

Utilities Superintendent Brendan Kurtz, AScT, RTMgr, graduated from BCIT in Civil and Structural Engineering Technology, and began his career in the community as a Public Works Technician. He made a quick transition into management in part through taking numerous professional development courses and constantly strives to augment his skills.

Senior Utilities Technician Clarissa Brennan, AScT, RTMgr, is a BCIT Mechanical Engineering Technology grad who started her career in consulting engineering. Advancing from design work into multi-discipline project and team management, Clarissa actively promotes technology careers for women through ASTTBC’s “Women in Technology” committee and serves on the governing council of her professional association.

William Wedel, AScT, RTMgr, also a Senior Utilities Technician, graduated the Okanagan University College Civil Engineering Technology program. He developed a strong civil construction and road works background with a Calgary engineering firm, before returning to his birthplace of Chilliwack as a Traffic Technician. William has grown his management skill set and now oversees multi-million dollar capital projects. His community service includes volunteer activity as President of the Chilliwack Search and Rescue service.

About ASTTBC

Established in 1958, the Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of British Columbia is the voice of Technology Professionals in the province. The Association’s mission… to serve the public by regulating and supporting Technology Professionals’ commitment to a safe, healthy and sustainable society and environment.

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