Class Notes

Gail Hildebrand (Library Operations '20)

“Since graduating, I have worked as a Clerk in our local South Central Regional Library system in southern Manitoba. I quickly moved to a Branch Administrator role. After five years with our library system, I was recently promoted to Director of Library Services. Thank you so much to the amazing instructors who made my courses a pleasure to take!” 

Venkat Gertz (Aircraift Maintenance Engineers Technology '21)

“I moved to the United States back in 2022 — found a job as an apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Technician with United Express and eventually got my FAA A&P License in January 2025. I now work as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician for United Airlines in Denver, CO. I am really grateful for the foundational knowledge I was offered at SAIT.” 

Tait Hoyem (Software Development '21)

“I found my space in Assistive Technology, helping those — like myself — with visual impairments to have better access to technology. This has led me to contracting with organizations focused on open-source, working with universities to transcribe their material into accessible formats and creating my own company. I now work at CNIB Access Labs creating Android applications that help the auditing process.” 

Kate Stevens (Radio '21)

“Since graduating, I am one of the youngest voices ever hired at CKUA radio — one of our first public broadcasters that reaches the entire province via 16 transmitters! I host The Upload, a daytime show where I talk about music news, arts and culture. It airs Monday through Thursday from 11 am to 1 pm. I have won a number of accolades and continue to use the skills and inspiration I learned at SAIT daily.” 

Christian Cox (Environmental Technology '22)

“Since graduation, I have had the opportunity to work with Friends of Fish Creek and the Alberta Native Plant Council to rescue hundreds of native prairie plants from development and to germinate and grow a huge variety of plants. I'm hoping to change public attitudes towards land management and promote native perennials in our city's public and private landscaping.” 

Mohamad Alissa (Civil Engineering Technology '23)

“SAIT was an eye-opener to the world of engineering and played a key role in shaping my career path. After graduating, I pursued my engineering degree, which I recently completed. The hands-on training and practical skills I gained at SAIT gave me a strong foundation, and I’m proud to be ready to contribute to the engineering community in British Columbia.” 

Mariana Baltar Day(Legal Assistant '24)

“Since graduation, my career has gained incredible momentum. I secured a promotion at the very company where I completed my practicum. The transition from student/assistant to a role in management with more responsibilities and knowledge was seamless, thanks to the technical expertise and hands-on skills I developed during my studies and now apply at my current job. After years of practicing law in Brazil, I graduated from SAIT with the confidence to excel in the Canadian workforce. I am excited to continue building on this foundation as I grow in my new role.” 

Selena Houle (New Media Production and Design '23)

“Started a marketing agency in my second year of college. After four years, we moved to Bragg Creek and pivoted to hyperlocal media production. Six years later — I'm a part-time YouTuber, self-published author, and I archive free public domain video-editing resources. I also run an Alberta-based arts and culture blog called Killer Content. In it, I focus heavily on community, covering issues like infrastructure concerns and community planning. I also interview local artists and small businesses, with deep dives on niche film, fashion and design trends. Doing something cool? Hit me up.” 

Lauren Narang (Business Administration — Management '24)

“Since graduating, I’ve continued my academic journey here to complete my degree, building on the strong foundation this school gave me. Today, I’m gaining valuable experience as an HR Intern with one of Canada’s leading oil and gas companies. Looking ahead, I’m excited to grow into a career where I can make a meaningful impact in Human Resources.” 

Rheya Patel (Bachelor of Business Administration — Human Resource Management '24)

“Since graduating, I’ve gotten to engage with the community as an alumna through volunteering, and to tap more into my studies in Human Resources by serving with CPHR (Chartered Professionals in Human Resources) Alberta as part of their social media committee. It’s been amazing meeting many like-minded individuals who are fascinated by the complex dynamics of organizations and their employees.” 

Cherry Tuble (Business Administration — Management '24)

“I am very proud of my alma mater. SAIT played a pivotal role in shaping my professional journey. Building on my background in chemical engineering, the program further developed my skills, helping me achieve a higher job grade in my career. As I am originally from Manila, this education provided me with excellent career opportunities in Canada, for which I am sincerely appreciative. SAIT gave me more than just an education; it provided credibility, confidence and skills with real-world relevance that have had a lasting impact on my career. Let's get acquainted on LinkedIn!” 

Neil Aldrin Adavan (Object Oriented Software Development '25)

“Studying at SAIT became a turning point in my journey in Calgary. Even before graduating, I was given the opportunity to work part time, which supported me financially and allowed me to gain valuable real-world experience through my co-op/practicum. Today, I am proud to be working as a Full Stack Developer at a rapidly growing solar company — one that is making an impact not just in Alberta, but across Canada. This journey has strengthened my passion for technology and reinforced my belief that dedication, education and perseverance truly open doors to meaningful opportunities.” 

Taegen Bradley (Automotive Service Technician '25)

“Since graduating, I have successfully achieved my status as a Journeywoman Automotive Service Technician. While my daily role involves the service and repair of all makes and models, I apprenticed primarily with Volkswagen and I have found a particular passion for the technical complexity and diagnostic challenges of European brands. I regularly attend specialized factory training in Vancouver to further my technical expertise and to stay at the leading edge of the industry. I am focused on building the high-level experience required to one day challenge the Master Technician exam.” 

Dante Bravi (Automotive Service Technology '25)

“Since graduation last year, I have had great experiences contributing to research I truly enjoy and believe in. I am excited to continue to learn and am grateful SAIT has acted as a strong foundation for my journey.” 

Nic Gillespie (Mechanical Engineering Technology — Design and Automation '25)

“I was hired by Finning before I even graduated, and now I work in mine sites around Western Canada with Autonomous Haulage Systems! Working in the mining industry and directly supporting autonomous mining operations has been the coolest experience of my life.” 

Kayden Gudmundson (Mechanical Engineering Technology — Design and Analysis '25)

“Since graduation, I have moved to Thunder Bay, Ontario where I am pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering. Thanks to SAIT for taking me into the Mechanical Engineering Technology program or else I would never have been able to pursue my dream of becoming a mechanical engineer.” 

Ethan K. (Architectural Technologies '25)

“I was unsure which course I wanted to go with at first. But after choosing and going through the AT program, not only did I have an excellent professor who I still stay in touch with, I was able to also secure a position in an amazing architecture firm full time!” 

Navneet Kaur (Legal Assistant '25)

“My practicum at the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta during SAIT’s Legal Assistant program was a defining experience that confirmed my interest in the justice system and led me to work at a law firm. I transferred my SAIT diploma toward a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies and I am continuing toward law school with the goal of becoming a lawyer.” 

Yesha Dhirenhumar Shah (Product Management '25)

“SAIT made me believe that I could get into IT without years of experience that companies generally require, even for entry-level roles. I got in! And so did many!” 

Jennifer Tiburcio (Business Administration — Human Resource Management '25)

“I received a job offer from SAIT one week before completing my program in December 2024. I began my career as a Program Assistant in the School of Business, where I worked for 10 months before moving into my current role with the First Year Experience Team. Working at SAIT has been incredibly rewarding. As an alumna, it means a great deal to give back to the institution and to support students navigating their own paths. I continue to learn and grow through opportunities to collaborate with dedicated, inspiring colleagues, and I’m grateful to work alongside so many amazing people every day.” 

Peng Wang (Civil Engineering Technology — Municipal '25)

“Since graduating, I have been building my career in Canada’s civil and structural engineering industry, combining hands-on field experience with a growing focus on structural design. I’ve worked across materials testing, construction supervision, and Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QA/QC), and I am now transitioning into a Junior Bridge Engineer role with the global consulting and engineering company WSP. This journey reflects my long-term commitment to learning, professional growth, and contributing to safe, resilient infrastructure.” 

Pasindu Kudakalu (Bachelor of Business Administration — Human Resource Management '26) 

“I have been at SAIT for a very long time. There was one reason I kept coming back and that’s the hands-on experience SAIT gives its students. I have been very fortunate to study at SAIT. I do hold a Business degree and two diplomas with SAIT. Amazing instructors, and the amazing courses SAIT offers its students are the stepping stone for students to land a job of their choosing. Amazing experience here at SAIT.”

Chynna McGaffey (Engingeering Design and Drafting '11)

“My SAIT education gave me the foundation to step confidently into the workforce right after graduation. After several years raising my kids on a goat farm, that same training helped me transition back into Alberta’s oil and gas industry. I’m now a Certified Technician in civil design and project management with a great consulting firm, thriving in a field where the possibilities feel limitless.” 

Saba Sadiq (Petroleum Engineering Technology '16)

“Since graduating, I’ve completed my bachelor’s degree from the University of Wyoming and I now am working with Ryder Scott, a petroleum engineering consultancy in Houston, Texas, gaining exposure to the broader oil and energy industry globally.” 

Amanda Philipow (Graphic Communications and Print Technology '17)

"After graduating, I gained some incredible on-the-job experience in marketing for a local Alberta business for over nine years that taught me so much. When that unexpectedly ended, I funnelled my skills into growing my family's small snack business, finished a ConEd certificate and very recently found myself back at SAIT — this time as staff! The future is uncertain, but it's also full of possibility, so who knows what's next.” 

Hunter Mills (Bachelor of Business Administration '19)

“After graduation, I worked alongside my dad, Charlie Mills (also a SAIT alumnus: Mechanical Engineering Technology ’79), building and rehabbing bridges across Western Canada — an incredibly meaningful experience! I later moved to Dublin and worked at the Central Bank of Ireland’s Climate Change Unit on EU investment fund regulations for a little over two years. Today, I live in Dili, Timor-Leste, working with the g7+ Secretariat, advising developing country governments on attracting investment and strengthening their economies.” 

Ryan Evans (Avionics Technology ’01)  

“2026 is Skye Avionics’ 20th anniversary — a milestone reflecting two decades of innovation, dedication and hands-on experience in aviation. I have had the opportunity to work across a wide spectrum of the industry, designing and building proprietary products used by law enforcement agencies and air ambulance operators including having one of our systems installed on a Presidential aircraft. My work supports firefighting missions, specialized aircraft modifications, engineering, certifications and the complete re-design and rebuild of the iconic De Havilland Beaver's electrical and avionics systems. I am proud of what we have accomplished and excited for what’s next.” 

William Kilgallon (Bachelor of Applied Information Systems Technology ’01) 

“On Sept. 29, 2025, the Western Association of Broadcast Engineers (WABE) gave all the former SAIT Broadcast Systems Technology instructors the R.W. Lamb Award for contributions over a lifetime to the broadcast industry in Western Canada. It is the highest honour WABE gives.”  

Matt Squires (Hotel and Restaurant Management ’01, Outstanding Young Alumni Award ’10) 

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to join the Hotel Arts Group as Director of Sales and Marketing. This role is especially exciting as we provide onsite catering for all SAIT events.”

Bengt Northwood (Nuclear Medicine Technology ’04)

“After a short time working in nuclear medicine technology within Alberta, I’ve had the opportunity to build a long and rewarding career within SAIT. I began as an instructor in the Nuclear Medicine Technology program, later serving as Academic Chair for Diagnostic Imaging and Associate Dean within the School of Health and Public Safety. I now work as Director of Academic Systems, focusing on improving academic operations and systems in support of employee and student success. SAIT brought me to Alberta as an NMT student and has provided me the opportunity to learn and grow throughout my career.” 

Trevor Chittick (Journalism ’06) 

“In May 2025, my novel The Boy in Mitchell Bay, a mystery for middle grade readers (ages 9 to 12) based in small-town Nova Scotia, was published. In May 2026, the sequel (book two of a five-book series) The Ghost in Mitchell Bay was published. In September 2026, my young adult thriller/horror novel Stanley will be published. It has been a busy, fulfilling year. I can always be reached at my website.” www.tscbooks.ca

Gregory Doudican (Business Administration — Finance '06, Telecommunications Technology '03)

“Imagine a smorgasbord. That is what I've been up to since graduating, first in 2003 and then in 2006. I've worked for the Government of Canada and the United Nations, and volunteered with the Canadian, American and British Red Cross. I've worked in immigration law, both with law firms and in-house at lululemon and Uber. I've started an ethical fashion brand out of Kashmir, Northern India, and now lead some of lululemon's sustainable product strategy and sustainable supply chain work. I’ve lived many places, lived many lives, and SAIT was the kick-off point for this wild ride.” 

Roryy Nagassar (Automotive Service Technician '07)

“After completing my apprenticeship training at SAIT in 2007, I continued working in the automotive service trade until March 2025. At that point I was fortunate enough to be hired as an instructor at SAIT! I currently teach fourth year in the Automotive Service Technology diploma program. I'm really enjoying this change and look forward to teaching for years to come!” 

Ryan Bowron (Electrical Engineering Technology '09) 

“We are, we are, we are. Class of EET ’09!! A truly foundational experience! Since graduating from SAIT, I have worked for a few years in industry and I am currently endeavouring to complete the final year of my undergraduate degree at the University of Calgary.”  

Tony Braga (Telecommunication Engineering Technologist '91)

“My career in Information Technology began at SAIT in 1991, and that foundation set the course for more than three decades in IT. Since graduating, I’ve worked across network infrastructure, systems, and technology consulting, adapting as the industry evolved. Those years built strong problem-solving, leadership and communication skills, which later led me into network marketing and online business. I’m grateful that SAIT was the starting point. Always happy to reconnect — find me on LinkedIn and Facebook.”   

Bradley Dillman (Business Administration '92)

“Thirty-five years later, I am still utilizing the skills and knowledge I learned from the Business Admin program at SAIT (and I still remember the smell of amaretto-flavoured coffee in the Senator Patrick Burns building lobby). Since then, I've worked and lived in various parts of Canada and North Africa. The foundation I received from SAIT has carried me through 35 years of oil and gas, then real estate; now I’m working in contracts in the aviation industry, based in Nova Scotia.”

Bryce Boehmer (Chemical Technology '95)

“Since graduating 30 years ago, my career has taken a different road. I became a Process Safety Management Specialist and that has taken me all over the world doing risk-based process safety studies. I am currently working for Inter Pipeline Ltd., a major pipeline company in Calgary, as a Senior Process Safety Engineering Advisor.”   

Sean Finnan (Cinema, Television, Stafe and Radio Arts '97)

“Since my graduation from CTSR (majoring in the Film program), I have worked consistently in the film and television industry, receiving my 25-year union pin two years ago! Based out of Vancouver, I am working mostly in the Lower Mainland, but I have been lucky to travel all over BC and Alberta — and once Newfoundland — with various productions. I am a member of the Directors Guild of Canada (DGC) since 1999 and I am currently working on a Netflix movie titled Time Out. My previous project was Percy Jackson and the Olympians Season 3 for Disney Plus. It’s been an incredibly rewarding ride.” 

Shane Daly (Aeronautical Engineering Technology '98)

“I went to work as an engineer for one of my instructors just prior to graduating. A couple of years later, I started my own company, Innovative Wings Inc., building custom high-performance aircraft for private individuals. Twenty-six years later, the company has grown and made a very good name for itself in the amateur-built aircraft industry worldwide. We are still going strong out at the Springbank Airport.” 

Al Beeber (Journalism Arts '80)

“After 45.5 years as a newspaper journalist/editor, I retired from the business in October 2025 after being elected to my first term as a member of Lethbridge City Council. My education at SAIT laid the foundation for a very long and meaningful career, which I was proud to leave on my own terms.”   

Todd Montgomery (Cinema, Television, Stage and Radio Arts '83)

“SAIT is The Best!  Everything I needed to know to be a professional broadcaster was there. I graduated from CTSR in 1983 and was lucky enough to have a great start. I went on to interview, meet and get to know some amazing people like Celine Dion, Bryan Adams, Bon Jovi, AC/DC, Alice Cooper, Cheap Trick, Nazareth, INXS,  Blue Rodeo, Meat Loaf, Roxette, Men at Work, The Guess Who, Jeff Beck and many other dynamic people!! Thank you to Pat Pearson, the late Darrel Janz, and Don Wood — fantastic instructors and fantastic broadcasters at SAIT. One lesson that stays with me is the quote, ‘It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.’ Thank you SAIT, and thank you, City of Calgary.” 

Paul C. Clark (Power Engineering Technology '76)

“After graduation, and with my 3rd Class Steam Engineering Certificate and my Associate's diploma, I secured a job with Calgary Power at the Sundance Thermal Power Plant. Then I attended NJIT in Newark, NJ and graduated in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology. I worked as an Instrument Engineer at CE Lummus in Bloomfield, NJ, then moved to Calgary, working at Bantrel for a few years. I moved back to New Jersey and switched to teaching high school Industrial Arts. In the end I had 22 years in Engineering and 20 years teaching Construction, Electrical Technology, Plumbing, HVAC, AutoCAD, Masonry and Landscaping. I enjoy my retirement by restoring antique cars and I encourage everyone to be a lifelong learner and teach others.”

Bill Pringle (Television, Stage and Radio Arts '77)

“I never pictured myself volunteering in mental health but it’s now 28 years with the Saskatoon branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association: 15 years at the provincial level and eight years at the national level. This year I received the King Charles III Coronation Medal and a Philanthropist of the Year. Retirement opens new opportunities. Volunteer! It’s worth it.”  

Luda Paul (Graphic Arts Administration '78)

“After graduating, I worked as a graphic artist before joining SAIT Graphic Services as a Graphic Artist and Prepress Technician. After six years of teaching at SAIT part time, I taught graphic communication and print technology programs full time from 1991 to 2011 and took more than 800 hours of professional development courses at universities in Canada and the United States. I was also a member of local and international print and graphic industry organizations. I retired in 2011 and I’ve been enjoying retirement and working from home as a freelance graphic/production artist and photographer.”