Loyalist College Graduate Inducted Into the Prestigious Klaus Woerner Skilled Trades Hall of Fame
On March 3rd, Vern Haggerty, a 1978 graduate of the Resource Technician – Environmental program at Loyalist College, was inducted into the prestigious Klaus Woerner Skilled Trades Hall of Fame. He was presented this award by the Honourable John Milloy, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities at a Skills Canada – Ontario gala to recognize the award recipients and as a fundraiser in support of Ontario youth in their pursuit of skills education. Skills Canada – Ontario presents The Klaus Woerner Skilled Trades Hall of Fame Awards in recognition of individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of skilled trades and technologies. These awards have been presented since 2006 in memory of Klaus Woerner, founder and CEO of Automation Tooling Systems (ATS) and a trailblazer for the skilled trades.
“I was humbled by both the nomination and the award,” said Vern Haggerty. “I know that I would not have been hired at Defence Construction Canada if I had not had my college diploma. Having a diploma or skills certificate is even more relevant today than it was then. It’s listed as a requirement in our job descriptions. When I was at the awards ceremony it was nice to see Skills Canada – Ontario promoting employment for youth. We practise the matrix management style here, actively engaging in succession planning and therefore ensure that our employees are a combination of experienced trades people and those new to the field. We need to give more employment opportunities to youth. I will always be thankful to the person who gave me that chance.”
Vern Haggerty’s 30-year career has been with Defence Construction Canada in progressively senior positions. Currently the Manager of 8 Wing Trenton’s Capital Construction Program, he is overseeing a six-year construction program at CFB Trenton, valued at 600 million dollars. Defence Construction Canada’s sole client is the Department of National Defence and Mr. Haggerty has been involved with a number of innovative approaches that have benefited the client and improved working practices and relationships with all stakeholders. He actively supports college and university students through co-op work placement opportunities and summer employment.
“Vern has been an active member of the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT) for 26 years as a Certified Engineering Technician,” said Gene Stodolak, C.E.T., Past President of OACETT and Director of Construction Operations, Mohawk College. “OACETT promotes and values life-long learning. We are very proud that one of our members has been inducted into the Klaus Woerner Hall of Fame through Skills Canada – Ontario. This award recognition is a perfect partnership example of how education, experience and credentialing provide pathways to many successful career opportunities. It was an honour to be part of this event and to co-present the award to Vern.”
“We are so proud of Vern being selected as a very worthy recipient of this award,” said Maureen Piercy, President of Loyalist College. “Vern’s leadership work at Defence Construction Canada is making important contributions to our communities. His emphasis on respectful and effective work processes sets a commendable example for the college and university students who have the opportunity to gain experience there. It was our privilege to nominate Vern.”
Media Contact: Marilyn Warren, Communications, Loyalist College (613) 969-1913, ext. 2332; e-mail: mwarren@loyalistc.on.ca