This passion followed Bruce to high school, where he pursued drafting to learn the basics of architecture. When it came time to graduate, he knew exactly what he wanted to do next. 

“I have lived in Hamilton my whole life and knew all about Mohawk College,” he says. “It was the natural next step for my career, so I applied to the Architectural Technology program.” 

Mohawk’s Architectural Technology program prepares students to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team in the development, documentation and management of the sustainably built environment that exists in today’s workforce. With state-of-the-art labs and co-op placements, folks who choose this program are immersed in real-world situations that benefit their knowledge and help them become future ready in their career paths. 

Bruce completed two co-op work terms with the City of Hamilton during his time at Mohawk. Although the city did not have anything specific to architecture available for co-ops at that time, he was able to hone his skillsets in other avenues related to that field. 

Bruce says, “I got hired with the Hamilton-Wentworth region as an inspector for an industrial subdivision. In my second work term, I was in the engineering department preparing drawings for road reconstruction. I got the opportunity to do the architectural blueprints for the reconstruction of Gore Park, which was awesome.” 

Bruce’s goal during his Mohawk studies was to eventually become an architectural technologist, working with the design and drawing side of things. With what he learned; he was able to line up a job right after he graduated doing just that. 

“In 1982, I was fortunate enough to get a job with the city’s former architect Stan Roscoe, where I was able to put what I learned at Mohawk College to good use,” he says. “He designed City Hall, so it’s ironic that I’m working with the City of Hamilton now.” 

Today, Bruce works as an enforcement building inspector with the City of Hamilton. To continue in his career with the employer that hired him during his college days is truly fulfilling for him. He gets to do what he loves and teach others how to, as well. 

“Being in the City’s enforcement division, we see a lot of construction and need to educate the public on what needs to be in place with permits and regulations,” he says. “Those are the lessons that have stuck with me, that I pass onto others in my daily work.” 

Mohawk graduates have ample opportunity to branch out in the career that they have chosen for themselves. If you’re looking to follow in Bruce’s footsteps, he has some sage advice. 

Bruce says, “We have a lot of students coming through on co-ops and I hope they consider working with the City of Hamilton. There is a great opportunity for anyone in any field. The building department is great, the work never stops. Even if you don't get something directly in your field, there are always ways to use your skills in other related areas.”