In celebration of AEC’s 50th anniversary, we’re proud to highlight the individuals who embody our company’s core values of dedication, innovation, and community service. Our success over the past five decades is a testament to our team’s dedication and hard work, and this milestone offers a unique opportunity to highlight some of our most impactful members. As part of our celebration, we are putting the spotlight on three team members whose passion, expertise, and commitment to the community have made a lasting impression. Read on to learn more about their journeys, accomplishments, and what inspires them as they continue to build AEC’s legacy.
Aaron’s passion for construction was ignited by his father, a custom home builder. Working alongside him, Aaron learned the trade and always knew construction would be his future, even if he wasn’t sure where that path would lead. When it came time for college, he chose a program that offered a broad range of experience, allowing him to explore different career avenues in the construction world.
Throughout his career, Aaron has taken something valuable from every project-especially those where he learned from a mistake. Whether it was working a 19-hour day in Oshawa to solve a problem at GM or compiling a 1,000-page specification book for a commercial building tender, his focus has always been the same: doing the best he can for his clients.
In the construction industry, daily challenges are inevitable. For Aaron, the most frequent challenges stem from unclear documentation or communication. Over the years, he has learned the importance of preparing detailed specifications and scope of work to protect all parties involved. But above all, he emphasizes the importance of having difficult conversations to resolve issues-it often leads to better outcomes for everyone.
Aaron’s commitment to his community is just as strong as his passion for construction. He uses his expertise to support various initiatives, including serving on a school committee to plan and oversee an addition and offering construction guidance as a board member for building and site alterations.
From an early age, Kyle’s fascination with building took shape, starting with Lego creations and evolving into constructing skateboard ramps and furniture for friends and family. His summers as a teenager were spent working for a custom home builder, gaining hands-on experience in roofing and pool construction. After graduating from the ACET program at Conestoga College, Kyle focused on site work before joining AEC as a Project Coordinator, where he discovered his passion for project management. Now, nearly seven years later, Kyle is a Project Manager at AEC, enjoying the collaborative process of bringing projects to life.
Among Kyle’s many projects, one that stands out is his work with KidsAbility, where he helped manage the transformation of three locations simultaneously. Each site had distinct needs, ranging from new construction to updating existing spaces, all designed to better serve the community. The impact of these projects was particularly meaningful, as they directly improved the experiences of faculty and students.
Kyle notes that managing projects on time and within budget is always a challenge, but he recalls a particularly memorable experience managing a full office renovation while ensuring the client’s operations continued smoothly. Through strategic planning and teamwork with the client and subcontractors, Kyle and his team were able to complete the year-long project with zero downtime for staff, highlighting the importance of collaboration and execution.
Kyle’s favorite aspect of working at AEC is the emphasis on giving back to the community. He has actively participated in events like Hockey Helps the Homeless, Habitat for Humanity, and Canstruction, finding each experience incredibly rewarding. Supporting various causes within the community is something Kyle looks forward to continuing throughout his career.
With a passion for construction rootedin her family background, Nicole found her path early on. Growing up, she was immersed in renovations, new construction, and various home projects, sparking a deep interest in the field. It was during her first co-op with AEC that Nicole discovered her true calling: construction management.
One of the standout moments in Nicole’s career has been her work on the Peel Regional Police Association (PRPA) facility. This multi-purpose space is designed to support Peel Police staff and their families, offering them a place to work, relax, and connect. Nicole takes pride in contributing to a project that positively impacts the lives of so many.
As a young professional, Nicole thrives on overcoming challenges-whether it’s developing new processes, meeting tight deadlines, or stepping into unfamiliar tasks. She credits her team for their guidance and believes in the power of stepping outside her comfort zone to grow.
Nicole’s passion for mentorship started in school, where she volunteered at open houses and supported first-year students. Today, she continues that tradition by mentoring co-op students at AEC. Looking forward, Nicole is excited to find even more ways to give back to the community while building her career in construction.
