1. Where are you from?
Moose Jaw, Sask.
2. How did you get your start in the heavy construction industry and who do you credit for getting you where you are today?
After university, I was hired as the utilities engineer and promoted a year later to city engineer for the City of Prince Albert. I credit Arnie McKay, city manager, for taking a chance on a young engineer. The first job provided me with great experience and a strong foundation for my career.
3. What is your career history?
After being with the City of Prince Albert for four years, I moved to B.C., where I was the city engineer for the City of Penticton and later the director of engineering, development and building inspection for the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen. I then moved back to Regina, where I accepted the position of director of water and sewer for the City of Regina. After spending most of my career in the public sector, I transitioned into the private sector 11 years ago with the Morsky Group of Companies. I am currently the chief operating officer and co-owner of the Magnorum Group (formerly Morsky Group).
4. What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever been given?
My grandfather told me that it doesn’t matter what you do in life, just be the best at it. I don’t claim to be the best at what I do, but I strive to be, and I know that was his point.
5. What’s your favourite thing about Saskatchewan and working in the industry?
Definitely the people and the relationships that are created. I have found that Saskatchewan people tend to have strong work ethics and are business focused. Even with this focus, they don’t let that get in the way of establishing strong relationships with each other.
6. What is the trait you deplore in others?
Lying and arrogance. I tend to gravitate away from people who have either of these two traits.
7. Where would you most like to live?
Winters in Maui, summers in the Okanagan. That’s my retirement plan, anyway.
8. What do you most value in your friends?
Honesty and a great sense of humour. I also know that my closest friends will always be there when I need them.
9. Who are your favourite writers?
George R. R. Martin, Dan Brown, J. K. Rowling
10. Who are your heroes in real life?
My grandfather – from a very young age, he always believed in me and taught me about having a strong work ethic and high morals.