Electronic Security is at the forefront of many business and corporation’s priorities these days. Video surveillance, digital imaging and paging systems are only a few ways to protect or enhance your property. However, with the ever-changing products available it can be difficult for the average person to keep up! To help make the process and integration simple and seamless Stokoe Communications was developed by Mohawk Graduate Dave Stokoe. 

After graduating from Mohawk College’s Electronic Technician program Stokoe took a position with Cable 4 (currently Cable 14), a community cable station. During his time at Cable 4 he moved up to become the Program Director/ Operation Manager for the station. Next, his career path moved into the operation of an Industrial Video company. Having this wide range of skills and experiences Mr. Stokoe decided to develop and run his own company Stokoe Communications, which began in 2007. 

Stokoe Communications offers turnkey solutions for any communications application, including but not limited to: cutting edge Digital CCTV, Structured Cabling, Process Monitoring, Perimeter Security, Access Control, Commercial Paging Systems, A/V and Presentation Products. Stokoe Communications provides their expertise to various sectors like, hospitals, child care centers, police, government, schools, colleges, universities, airports, corporations, small business and industrial manufacturing companies. 

As the President and CEO of Stokoe Communications, Stokoe recognizes the importance of customer service. Stokoe said, “Having been in the industry of surveillance/security for years, I identified a need in the community and started Stokoe Communications to address these needs.” Priding themselves on innovative solutions and optimal customer service, “Stokoe Communications believes in total customer satisfaction. To achieve this, the company provides quality products and services with the highest level of technical expertise.” Stokoe emphasized that operating a business, “has taught me to take things in stride, and to always strive for perfection. I have learned that happy customers are return customers so doing it right the first time is our goal.” 

Being an active part of the community is important to Stokoe which is why Stokoe Communications is a proud sponsor of Hamilton Crime Stoppers, the Mount Hamilton Minor Soccer Association and the Chedoke Minor Hockey Association. Also, to ensure he and his staff are up to date on the latest advancements in the field the company is a member of the Canadian Security Association, CANASA. Stokoe said, “Over the years I have attended many trade and industry learning activities. I am firm believer in continuous education.” 

For Stokoe, Mohawk College “gave me the foundation and the skills to succeed in business.” As for his life as a student, Stokoe spoke fondly of his time stating, “I spent a lot of time at the Arnie Centre but also enjoyed going to classes. As well, I enjoyed the atmosphere and campus life.” Dave went on to express that his instructors, “instilled the value of hard work and the knowledge I would need to succeed.” Also, within the business environment Stokoe said that he continually refers back to things he learned at Mohawk and that his education has been beneficial to him both personally and professionally. He added that students who are thinking of joining the 

Electronic Technician program should, “jump in with both feet and enjoy the journey.” 

When asked what was in the future for Stokoe Communications, Stokoe said that the company is currently working closely with Mohawk College as they are installing a video matrix solution for Mohawk College Security which when complete, centralizes all video surveillance across all campuses to one location. Along with surveillance he was happy to announce that, “We provided Mohawk College with the Panasonic WJND400 – 64 Camera System – which was the first system of its kind in Canada!” 

For Stokoe, Mohawk College “gave me the foundation and the skills to succeed in business.” As for his life as a student, Stokoe spoke fondly of his time stating, “I spent a lot of time at the Arnie Centre but also enjoyed going to classes. As well, I enjoyed the atmosphere and campus life.” Dave went on to express that his instructors, “instilled the value of hard work and the knowledge I would need to succeed.” Also, within the business environment Stokoe said that he continually refers back to things he learned at Mohawk and that his education has been beneficial to him both personally and professionally. He added that students who are thinking of joining the Electronic Technician program should, “jump in with both feet and enjoy the journey.” 

When asked what was in the future for Stokoe Communications, Stokoe said that the company is currently working closely with Mohawk College as they are installing a video matrix solution for Mohawk College Security which when complete, centralizes all video surveillance across all campuses to one location. Along with surveillance he was happy to announce that, “We provided Mohawk College with the Panasonic WJND400 – 64 Camera System – which was the first system of its kind in Canada!” 

By Kristy Ryerson

This story was originally published in Fall 2011 of the Mohawk Alumni In Touch magazine.