What is something you have changed your perspective on in the past two years?
I’ve shifted from thinking there’s a single “best” way to train to understanding that the best approach is individual. Everyone responds differently, and great coaching means adapting the plan to the person, not forcing the person to fit the plan.
Who has been the most influential person in shaping you as a Health & Performance Coach?
I’ve been most influenced by two coaches at different stages of my journey. Ernie Stewart has shaped how I approach coaching through his ability to blend science with real-world application—taking complex concepts in physiology and biomechanics and making them practical, effective, and sustainable for athletes.
Earlier on, Brett Shillington had a major impact by introducing me to fitness at the age of 14 and coaching me for five years. His approachability, motivation, and consistent support showed me how powerful a positive coach-athlete relationship can be, and it strongly influenced the type of coach I strive to be today.
Who has had the greatest impact on you as a person?
My parents have had the greatest impact on me. They were highly competitive and believed that effort, preparation, and earning results mattered—winning was something to strive for, not something handed out. My dad, in particular, taught me that there is always more to give. When I ran track and field, he wouldn’t be waiting at the finish line; he’d be standing near the last corner, pushing me to go faster, not look back, and act like someone was right on my heels—even when I was well ahead. That mindset taught me to keep pushing, focus on improvement, and never settle once the work starts.
What are your top 3–5 book recommendations for personal growth, performance, or leadership?
• Organizational Behaviour: Improving Performance and Commitment in the Workplace (Canadian Edition) by Colquitt, LePine, & Wesson
• Fundamentals of Fluid Mechanics (Munson, Young, Okiishi) Mindset – Carol Dweck
• Reservoir Engineering Handbook by Tarek Ahmed
What are your current personal training or athletic goals?
My goal is to stay at the top of my athletic potential by continually pushing myself to improve in every training session. After several years where my engineering career took priority, I’m focused on returning to the competition floor while continuing to develop strength, conditioning, and overall athletic performance.
What inspired you to choose a career in the fitness and performance industry?
I originally got into fitness to improve my performance for hockey. After hanging up the skates and going to school, my focus shifted toward training for competition and pushing my own limits physically. Along the way, I fell in love with the community aspect of training—the shared effort, accountability, and support—which ultimately led me to coaching and helping others reach their goals.
What qualities do you believe are most important in an exceptional coach?
• Clear communication
• Adaptability
• Strong technical knowledge
• The ability to motivate without ego
• Leading by example and holding people accountable
What is one fun or unique fact about you that clients might be surprised to learn?
Outside of coaching, I’m a professional engineer—so I naturally enjoy breaking down training into systems, data, and problem-solving strategies.
What is your coaching philosophy?
Great coaching starts with meeting people where they are and guiding them forward with purpose and structure. I focus on intelligent, individualized training that builds confidence, consistency, and long-term performance.