Ali English

Technologist

Diploma Architectural Technology
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2019

My interest in architecture began as a result of my grandfather being an architect. I can vividly remember my fascination with his sketches, blueprints and hand-built models. As I began to travel the world as an adult, my exposure to diverse cultures opened my eyes to the vast world of architecture. From the Eiffel Tower to the Pyramids of Giza, I have had the opportunity to experience some of the most monumental structures ever created. I knew that I wanted to have a part in creating that lasting impression for others. It is extremely gratifying to see how form and function can be combined to create an engaging design.

Céline Halliez

Interior Designer

HNDip., WELL AP
Higher National Diploma, St. John’s Central College Ireland

“My Job is my passion. Interior Design/Architecture and Design in general are some of the few subjects that makes my heart skip a beat and keep me up at night. Creating a trustworthy relationship with each client to deliver their vision from a simple sketch to life and having the final product meet or exceed their expectations while being able to be creative and offer innovative solutions to problems is what I thrive for. I also have a very strong personal attachment to designing spaces that are accessible and inclusive to all.” – Celine

Dara Hoffman

Interior Designer

NCIDQ
Interior Design Technology Diploma, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2002

“I am so fortunate to be able to do something everyday that is not only my career but is also my passion. Being able to transform a Client’s vision into a beautiful, well designed and functional environment is so fulfilling to me. I am a believer of the details and that perfection is truly found in them." – Dara

Darryl Rewniak

Architect, Principal

AAA, AIBC, SAA, OAA, B.E.S., M.Arch, B.Env.S, MRAIC
Master of Architecture, University of Manitoba, 1990
Bachelor of Environmental Studies, University of Manitoba, 1987

“Architecture first came to me when I was drafting up house plans in Grade 11. Being able to transform an idea from pen and paper with the use of angles and set squares and then bringing that same idea to life defined what profession I wanted to follow. Thirty years later my passion has turned into functional flow of space and creating spaces for users and the excitement of seeing them move into the new space. When working within the health sector, I have a saying “ you always need to leave a project satisfying the users as one day you may need to be admitted there” and hopefully they remember you for the the good work you completed.” – Darryl

Devin McIntosh

Technologist, Associate

Dip.Arch.Tech.
Architectural Technology Diploma, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2004

“When presented with new information I always ask “how and why it is what it is”. This process resulted in a drive to better understand what is being discussed, often beyond the ability of the original information provider to explain, and fully recognizing that knowing everything is unattainable. Eagerness to understand is of vital importance in the field of Architecture, as understanding the reasons for assemblies and systems being the way they are allows you to develop new solutions. The desire to then scrutinize these ideas with others leads to further improvement.

Critical thinking and logical problem solving often result in a simple and effective solution to what appears to be a complex problem. Architecture is not only about buildings that make a statement, it is about creating a building that works for the users, can be built without superfluous resources being consumed, that compliments the local built environment and improves the community into which it is integrating. Architecture requires a broad knowledge base along with the curiosity to keep learning about all aspects of a building and how they can be improved upon.” – Devin

Drew Lafleur

Technologist

Diploma Architectural Technology
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2015

“Growing up I built a lot of tree forts through which I discovered techniques of structural design and building envelope in the most basic form (as well as how to use a hammer). I knew pursuing a career in construction would be a good fit but the idea of building something I didn’t design wasn’t appealing to me. As I got older, I realized that building anything more than a small treehouse requires contribution from a multitude of people. I chose Architecture because it allows me to be creative and give input on large aspects of a project.

I am always grateful to be a part of a team that brings projects to life. It is a great feeling to walk through a building that I’ve worked on and seeing the result of everyone’s contributions to the end-product. When working on a project, I strive to consider the end user and aim toward an outcome that would create the best experience for them. I am passionate about using Building Information Modeling software is used to deliver an enhanced level of detail and visuals throughout all stages of design and production." -Drew

Eddo Cancian

Architect, Principal

AAA, MRAIC, MBA, NCARB, B.Arch
Masters of Business Administration, Queen’s University, 2000
Bachelor of Architecture, University of Arizona, 1987
Architectural Technology Diploma, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, (NAIT) 1984
Bachelor of Science, University of Alberta, 1982

“Over a career spanning thirty years I often wonder “what is good architecture”? Is it only award winning design? Or efficient, functional and fluid solutions? Should a budget conscious effort feel like a compromise? Does form, actually follow function? Is it society that influences architecture or is it vice versa. Whatever the definition, be it simple or complex; the simple gesture when a client looks you in the eye and says “thanks” is an overwhelmingly good feeling and a testimonial of a job we can proud of and a job well done.” – Eddo

Fiona Nyuli

Marketing Coordinator

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Heather McIntosh

Technologist

Dip.Arch.Tech.
Architectural Technology Diploma, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2004

“It is the goal of a proud Architectural Technologist to create a set of drawings that are clean, accurate, and well organized. Through my years of work, I have enjoyed collaborating with others who share that same belief. You don’t need to have OCD as a technologist, but it helps.” – Heather

Jason McConaghie

Intern Architect, Associate

AAA, MRAIC
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Architecture, R.A.I.C Syllabus/Athabasca University, 2019
Architectural Technology Diploma, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2008
LEED® Green Associate

Affiliations + Additional Training
Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, Student Member
Syllabus Student Member, AAA

One of my all-time favourite architects was the late Zaha Hadid. Her passion and exploration of forms and site were something that has always struck me as amazing. She was “preoccupied with changing our general notions of space – not only in a physical sense, but also socially and culturally” (Zaha Hadid Architect. Arcspace.com). This is a benchmark for my evolution in architecture, to not only design for a physical sense but socially and culturally.

“Architecture is really about well-being. I think that people want to feel good in a space … On the one hand it’s about shelter, but it’s also about pleasure.” – Zaha Hadid – Jason

Josh Hao

Interior Technologist

Interior Design Technology Diploma
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2018

AutoCAD Operator Certificate, 2016

Kaitlyn Labrecque

Architect

AAA, MRAIC, B.E.D.S., M.Arch

Master of Architecture, Dalhousie University, 2016 (Thesis Prize Recipient)
Bachelor of Environmental Design Studies in Architecture, Dalhousie University, 2014

Karina Cherniak

Technologist

Dip.Arch.Tech.
Architectural Technology Diploma, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2014

Residential Interior Decorator Certificate
University of Alberta, 2012

“My love for architecture started when I took a wood working class in grade 10. From there I took a design class throughout high school, where I was able to design my own cabin. My love for architecture solidified when I went to Greece and Italy. Seeing the beautiful structures in Europe that are thousands of years old made me appreciate the art of architecture so much more. I find the history of where architecture all began fascinating. Once I knew I wanted to pursue the field of architecture I went to NAIT; I am now eager to learn everything that I can in my new career as a technologist.” – Karina

Keith Tegart

Architect

B.Arch.
Bachelor of Architecture, Carleton University, 1987

“Aspiring to be an architect since first seeing Habitat ’67 in Montreal at age 10, I have studied and worked in Edmonton, Ottawa, Rome and Dubai, while spending the time between traveling the globe in pursuit of deepening architectural knowledge and wisdom” – Keith

Kelly Rusnak

Technologist, Contract Administrator

Dip. Arch. Tech., PMC
Architectural Technology Diploma, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 1998
Project Management Certificate, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2008
Advanced AutoCAD Operator Certificate, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2015
LEED® Green Associate

“Even as a child, I have always been a problem solver. I have always believed that every solution is unique to its problem. The field of architecture is an expression of more than a solution, to me it is an opportunity to create something lasting and beautiful that everyone can appreciate. My technical training, ability to work well with a team, and willingness to learn are my greatest assets in protecting the intent of our solutions. I am always humbled and thrilled to be a part of our projects, and to see the needs of our clients solved.” – Kelly

Kevin Osborne

Senior Technologist, Associate

CET, CSC
Diploma of Architectural Technology, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 1985
National Building Code and BC Building Code Course
Levels 1 & 2 Construction Canada Specification Courses

Affiliations
Construction Specifications Canada (CSC) Edmonton Chapter Chair
Alberta Society of Engineering Technologists (ASET)

“I have wanted to work in the Architectural profession since I was a child. Design, construction and building assemblies has always fascinated me.
I have worked in the industry for over 30 years on almost every building typology there is; I am very proud of the work that I have been fortunate to be involved with, as well as the friendships and professional connections I have made over the years. The greatest joy this work provides is seeing people enjoying the buildings and spaces we create as a team.” – Kevin

Laura Wybenga

Accounting, Office Administrator

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Martin Martinez

Senior Technologist

Dip. Arch. Tech., B.Arch.
Architectural Drafting and Building Technology Diploma, Pacific Design Academy, Victoria BC, 1995
Bachelor of Architecture, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 1993

“I have always been fascinated by the world of Architecture. The amazing aspect of creating a functional space for all of the activities we require in our daily lives becomes a little bit of a puzzle that needs to be solved in the most efficient and practical way. I like to develop my creative potential and resolve all of the challenges that every project brings from start to finish.” – Martin

Mumtaz Anwar

Intern Architect, Associate

B.Arch.
Bachelor of Architecture, Khulna University, Bangladesh, 1997

“My interest in Architecture developed from a very young age and has since become a passion. Design is one thing that always keeps me motivated, engaged and creative. Being from a third-world country, architecture has always been a natural impulse, a calling for me to improve reality, to create a better world, a better tomorrow for the broken world. As creation is a powerful skill, I believe that by expressing unique ideas in a positive way a parallel can be achieved between our imagination and the real world in which we live.

My career at ACI has been the new beginning of a personal journey that has broadened my horizons and allowed me to explore new approaches to creative work and enlightened me to the endless possibilities that exist.” – Mumtaz

Rod Colwell

Senior Technologist, Project Coordinator

Dip. Arch. Tech.
Architectural Technology Diploma, Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology, Hamilton ON, 1982

Born and raised in a small town in Southern Ontario I used to annoy the local builders with questions on how to build houses. When I started my first drafting class in High School, I was hooked and told my family that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. I have a keen interest in both history and military aircrafts so much as I have been building plastic aircraft models since my teenage years. My passion for breaking down and sorting details to make things work led me to be a construction document specialist. I strongly believe that everyone has something to bring to the table and any idea should not be easily dismissed.

Over thirty years of experience working in Architectural firms with different methods of delivery and various building types provide a comprehensive approach to project coordination and quality assurance / quality control.

Ron Nemeth

Architect, Principal

AAA, OAA, B.Arch
Bachelor of Architecture, Université de Montréal (1986)
Management of Health & Social Services Certificate (part-time), McGill University (1998)

“Is there another profession referenced as repeatedly as Architecture in the cliché “I always wanted to be …”? Buried in a musty box in a Montreal basement are decades-old house plans drawn in HB pencil when I was still a teenager. Thirty years later I’ve long understood that the thrill of imagining such spaces is only the beginning: ‘selling’ them with passion and patience, refining them to meet budgets and needs, and finally observing their impact and relevance in built form bring full circle those early strokes of a pencil.” -Ron

Visit Ron’s Blog:
CEFPI Spring Conference

Scott Marples

Technologist

Diploma Architectural Technology
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2016

“Growing up building Lego, I’ve always been interested in using my imagination to create structures. After first studying architecture in high school, I had no doubt that it was a passion of mine. I am fascinated by the effect that advancing technology has had on the industry, and I am excited to see where it takes things in the future. Walking through a finished job, after being a part of the team and the hours that it takes to bring a design to life, is one of the most rewarding feelings I’ve ever experienced.” – Scott

Steve Bethel

Technologist, BIM Director

Dip.Arch.Tech.
Architectural Technology Diploma, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), 2007

Completed Principles of Construction Documentation (PCD) Course, CSC Edmonton

“I didn’t know men could build such things.” This is a line from the movie Gladiator, one of the characters says it when they first set eyes on the Colosseum. It’s been a line that has always resonated with me. Having the ability to visualize something, translate that into a two dimensional image, then into a three dimensional monument has always astounded me.

Imagining, visualizing and building has been a part of my whole life, from couch cushion forts, LEGO space stations, animal enclosures and DIY projects at home. But to imagine a 3D element, translate that to a two dimensional drawing then into reality, that is what drew me into the technical side of architecture. With the power of Revit and virtual / augmented reality I help share that 3D vision of a space with others, allowing clients to see their space in 3D, allowing them to better visualize their finished product. – Steve

Steven Senger

Technologist

Dip. Arch.Tech.,
Architectural Technology Diploma,
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2006

“Turning ideas into real-world things for me goes all the way back to playing with Lego as a kid. Eventually that passion for taking ideas and making them a physical reality lead me into drafting and architecture. With 5 years experience working with ACI’s partner company Stephens Kozak Architects Ltd., I had the distinct honour and pleasure to work on over a dozen different RCMP and other Protective Services projects before joining ACI Architects. Now I bring the same careful consideration and attention to client driven requirements and standards that proved to be so prominent a feature in Protective Services projects.” – Steven

Tracey Stawnichy

Construction Administration

CSC PCD Course
CSC CCCA Course
Construction Administration Program at U of A Faculty of Extension
LEED AP
2012-2013 Member – Construction Administration Advisory Committee, U of A
CSC Spec I and Spec II
Member of CSC since 2005, currently the Chair and Newsletter Editor of the Edmonton Chapter

Trish Bolen

Technologist, Associate

Dip. Arch.Tech., LEED® AP, BD+C
Architectural Technology Diploma, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2004

Affiliations
Construction Specifications Canada (CSC), Edmonton
Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC)

“Since I started my career with ACI Architects, my knowledge of the design and construction industry has proliferated. ACI has allowed me to diversify my experiences through a variety of projects from education and commercial to healthcare and law enforcement. From each project type results a distinct set of consequential regulations defining safety, comfort, health and aesthetics, necessary for quality buildings.

I began with working drawings but have expanded into the contract administration stage of projects. It is rewarding to see complex designs that I have detailed come to life on site. As I take on more responsibility for the projects I work on, the better I feel about the final product.” – Trish

Visit Trish’s Blog:
Building Lasting Change

Youlim Jo

Technologist

Engineering, Design, and Drafting Technology
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2018
LEED® Green Associate

Zach Greene

Technologist

Diploma Architectural Technology
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), 2015

Completed Principles of Construction Documentation (PCD) Course, CSC Edmonton
Completed Construction Contract Administrator (CCA) Course, CSC Edmonton

“The future of the architectural world really excites me. With technology getting more advanced each year the ability to turn an idea or a 2D drawing into a 3D, realistic, virtual space is now a reality. I really enjoy sharing this experience with others because they get to interact and visualize their projects in unique way, that they were unable to before.” – Zach