Staff
Carpentry
Albert van Akker – Chair, Architectural Trades & Carpentry Program Leader
250-370-3802
Al completed his four-year Carpentry Apprenticeship here at Camosun in 1996. As a carpenter he worked for Knappett Construction on a number of sites, gaining experience in both wood frame and concrete buildings, as well as highway bridge layout and construction. In 1998, Al was promoted to Foreman and led crews on various projects including the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, the Naval Officer Training Centre and the Bush Creek Bridge.
Tom Newton – Instructor, Architectural Trades & Carpentry
250-370-3801
Tom completed his apprenticeship in Carpentry at Cariboo College in Kamloops in 1979. He also holds a Bachelor of Science degree from U-Vic, and a Teaching Certification from UBC, which he obtained in 1988. Tom operated his own general contracting company in Campbell River for seven years specializing in residential and commercial renovations and new construction. He has taught drafting, metalwork,mechanics, electricity, math electronics, science and English at all levels of secondary school.
Mark Swanwick – Instructor
250-370-3817
Mark completed his four-year Carpentry apprenticeship here at Camosun in 1991. That same year, Mark won first place in the regional Carpentry Apprenticeship competition. As a journeyman, Mark moved to Australia where he worked in both Sydney and Melbourne. Mark also operated his own general contracting company that was involved in the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal expansion.
Geoff Murray – Instructor
250-370-3762
Geoff completed his Carpentry apprenticeship here at Camosun College in 1995, following an Honours degree in Economics at the University of Manitoba. He has worked as a carpenter in both BC and Manitoba, including time as a shipwright, a restoration Carpentry at Craigdarroch Castle and as a lead hand with Citta Construction.
Geoff has also spent time as an instructor for Outward Bound outdoor adventure schools in Canada, North Carolina and Minnesota. More recently he has worked with his wife Rosemary in a company that makes and installs architectural tiles.
Grant Newburg - Instructor
250-370-3749
Grant completed his apprenticeship at Camosun College in 1978. Before joining us as an instructor he worked as a superintendent for Campbell Construction, a carpenter/foreman for C&W Campbell Homes and as a Superintendent for PCL Constructors in Toronto. Grant completed the Technical Education Teachers training at BCIT in 1983.
Derek Smith - Instructor
250-370-3806
Derek completed his Carpentry Apprenticeship here at Camosun in 1995. In addition to that he obtained a Bachelor of Education degree at UBC in 2000. Derek has worked as both a Carpenter and site Foreman on various residential and commercial projects in the Victoria region. Derek has also worked in the secondary school system as well, instructing the Building Trades Technology program at Reynolds Secondary School for several years.
Dale Wildman – Toolroom Attendant
Dale is a graduate of both the Foundation Carpentry course (1993)and the Fine Furniture Program (1995). Following his time at Camosun Dale completed his apprenticeship in the Joinery-Cabinetmaking trade through several shops doing custom boat and yacht fitting.
Last updated: December 13, 2012 3:50 pm
