Having retired from Sault College in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, after impactful service, at all levels of the education sector, David’s work benefitted both Sault College and Algoma University, as well as both local school boards. As an educator who completed graduate academic training, he worked for several area school boards early in his career and pursued his passion helping young people succeed. David taught at Central Algoma Secondary School and at Korah Collegiate and Vocational School.
At Sault College in the roles of Dean and subsequently President, David’s drive to see the college succeed was unmistakeable. As Dean he led departments such as Aviation, Business, Skilled Trades, Natural Environment, and Culinary. He forged close relationships with community partners and governmental partners.
While serving as Sault Ste. Marie’s Provincial Member of Parliament his efforts in supporting the education sector resulted in a level of provincial resources not seen in the community in many decades. He brought approximately $70 million in provincial funding to support new infrastructure, renovations, equipment, program development and jobs at Sault College. In fact, David secured funding for the new Academic Building, the IE3 Building, the Health and Wellness Centre, the Common Link and the new Aviation Hangar at the Sault airport.
With respect to Algoma University, David led the independence initiative and convinced the provincial government to grant Algoma University College an independent charter from Laurentian University. In 2008, Bill 80 was passed in the Ontario Legislature establishing Algoma University. Local autonomy for the university has created new opportunities and the ability to move forward in ways not previously thought possible. The university’s special mission, infusing indigenous cross-cultural learning and teaching is at the core of its vision. In support of growth and expansion at Algoma University, David brought approximately $30 million in provincial funding for many initiatives including securing funding for the Biosciences and Technology Convergence Centre, the 10,000 sq ft expansion and modernization of the George Leach Centre, the Invasive Species Research Chair, the Digital Games Business Incubator and Computer Gaming Technology Centre, as well as for other facility improvements and to expand academic programming.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
Most days begin with an early gym workout to boost my energy level and focus so that I am better prepared to tackle the daily challenges ahead. Physical activity helps sharpen my thinking and ensures I start the day with discipline and intention.
Throughout the day, which is usually highly structured, I participate in, listen to, and often lead meetings on issues that are priorities for the organization. I frequently meet with external stakeholders to discuss initiatives, identify challenges, and determine follow-up actions. I find it important to prioritize issues carefully to ensure the most pressing needs are addressed first.
Building in dedicated time for focused work on complex strategic goals is also vital. Delegating operational tasks where appropriate fosters a team-centered approach, strengthens trust, and empowers others to grow in their roles. A productive day, for me, is one where progress is made not only on immediate concerns but also on long-term objectives.
How do you bring ideas to life?
Bringing ideas to life and ensuring their successful implementation requires meaningful collaboration. A concept may initially seem strong, but its true validation comes from understanding its broader implications, including both intentional and unintended consequences.
I highly value the opinions of all staff within the organization. Their perspectives are critical not only because they offer practical insight, but also because their buy-in is essential to successful execution. Networking and maintaining a high level of staff engagement helps ensure that varying opinions are understood before committing to move forward.
I firmly believe that good ideas can emerge from any level of an organization. Whether a suggestion comes from a senior executive or a frontline employee, it deserves thoughtful consideration. When people feel heard and respected, innovation flourishes.
What’s one trend that excites you?
Artificial intelligence is exciting for a variety of reasons, but for me, it represents the ability to achieve what we once thought impossible. It is contributing to earlier detection of diseases, accelerating innovation in transportation, advancing renewable energy solutions, and transforming medical science.
While the benefits are immense, it must be approached responsibly. Ethical scrutiny, transparency, and thoughtful governance are essential to ensure innovation serves humanity in a fair and equitable manner.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Reading and staying up to date on the latest trends and news is a habit that significantly enhances productivity. Being informed provides greater assurance that decisions are grounded in current and relevant information.
Staying informed builds critical thinking, prevents tunnel vision, and allows for meaningful contributions in meetings and conversations. Informed leaders build trust, credibility, and influence.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Do not be afraid to ask for help. Seeking advice accelerates learning and leads to better outcomes.
Building and nurturing positive relationships is essential. Invest time in people who genuinely care about you and demonstrate loyalty, integrity, and trust.
Finally, do not take time for granted. Appreciate each day, pursue meaningful experiences, and make a difference in the lives of others.
Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on.
Slowing down decision-making, when circumstances allow, often produces better long-term results than acting quickly for the sake of appearing decisive. Measured reflection, consultation, and thoughtful analysis build stronger, more sustainable outcomes.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Make whatever effort possible to remain physically active. Regular exercise improves heart health, mental clarity, and overall well-being while reducing stress and improving long-term health.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
Taking a break, going for a walk, or practicing mindfulness helps reset focus and improve clarity. Short pauses improve productivity and decision-making.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Building meaningful relationships opens doors to opportunities and provides long-term support and growth. Strong relationships often form the foundation of career advancement.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Trying to do too much independently can reduce effectiveness. Learning to delegate, trust others, and collaborate improves results and strengthens teams.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A digital impact measurement platform designed for public sector and nonprofit organizations that helps track performance, visualize outcomes, and improve transparency and accountability.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Power BI helps transform data into meaningful insights through dashboards, charts, and performance tracking, improving decision-making and organizational alignment.
What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?
Purchasing books on leadership and decision-making provided valuable insights and strengthened leadership effectiveness and critical thinking.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
“How to Win Friends and Influence People” provides timeless lessons on leadership, communication, and relationship-building.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
“The Diplomat” provides a realistic portrayal of leadership, ethical dilemmas, and decision-making in high-pressure environments.
Key learnings
- Establish disciplined routines to maintain productivity.
- Collaboration strengthens outcomes and decision-making
- Strong relationships support long-term success.
- Continuous learning enhances leadership effectiveness.
- Delegation and balance prevent burnout.