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VICA Team


 

Rory Kulmala

Chief Executive Officer

Rory has been working the construction scene throughout Canada for the last 25 years but primarily in the West as a general contractor and owner for both public and private sectors. In addition to his experience, he has accreditation as an Applied Science Technologist and a PMP, including an MBA.

 

Amie Flint

Director of Operations

Amie joined VICA in October 2016 as the coordinator of our then Constructing a Future Program. After developing that program to meet the contractual criteria of the government funder she went on to redevelop it for the second contract. Amie is excited to return to VICA in her new role combining her past experiences in accounting, social work, employment services and human resources.

 

Dawn Charity

Manager, Member Services (Nanaimo)

Dawn is a familiar face to many in the construction industry, as VICA’s longest staff member of 20 years. With her extensive knowledge and experience, she is always ready to assist members and future members alike.

 

Sarah Bartfai

Manager, Events & Administration

At VICA since 2009, Sarah takes charge of events and administration with a smile. You’ll often find her at the office or one of our events. Known for her friendly approach and attention to detail, she ensures everything runs smoothly and seamlessly.

 

Jessica Bonney

Manager, Training & Education

Jessica joined the VICA team in 2024 as the Manager of Training and Education. She brings with her a background in operational excellence, project management, and leadership. Jessica is passionate about education as a catalyst for strong industries, career growth and organizational development.

 

Audrey Wilson

Manager, Marketing & Communications

Audrey was born and raised in Victoria, where she developed a deep love for the West Coast’s outdoorsy lifestyle. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing, blending her passion for creativity with strategic communication. Audrey is thrilled to join the Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA) as the Marketing and Communications Manager, where she is excited to contribute to an organization dedicated to educating and advocating for the construction industry.

 

Jennifer Thorkelson

Office Administrator

Jennifer joined VICA in July 2024 as the office administrator and is looking forward to greeting you with a smile. Jennifer completed a degree in Anthropology at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax and came back out west to be closer to family. In the past, she worked in the optometry field, and is pivoting to something new after staying home to raise two sons. In her spare time, you will find her hiking, reading or playing outside with her boys.

 

Sheila Crowley

Administrative Assistant

Sheila Crowley brings a wealth of diverse experience to the VICA team, having spent over 25 years working with a small construction subcontractor. With a passion for service and a commitment to excellence, Sheila has worn many hats throughout her career. She has owned and operated her own landscaping business, worked as a roofer, and even served as a fitness instructor. Outside of work, Sheila is a proud mother of two grown daughters and a devoted dog mom. Her varied background and dedication to service make her a valuable asset to the VICA community.

Ruth Lebbetter

Accounting Specialist

Ruth joined the VICA team November 2022, taking on the position of the Accounting Specialist. After a lengthy stint, over 25 years, in the retail building material industry, evolving her skills in marketing and accounting she has crossed over to learn another “ frame” of the construction industry. When not in the office she can be found on the golf course or cruising thru the Saanich inlet on her paddle board.

 

Taylor Wyllie

CYF, Program Coordinator

Taylor was born and raised in Victoria, where she is thrilled to be immersed in the beautiful nature. With her experience working with children and youth for over 10 years, she has brought encouragement and exploration to their ongoing learning. She is looking forward to making more connections within the community and the Create Your Future Program!

 

Alison Bott

CYF, Program Coordinator

Alison joined VICA in August 2023 having spent the previous 15 years working for the Greater Victoria School District, with disengaged youth. As a former career coordinator, she encouraged students to find their pathway and make connections between classroom education, post-secondary instruction, and the workplace. Trades have always been something Alison has been passionate about, helping students find work experience placement opportunities with the Youth Work in Trades program, finding a sponsor employer and registering with the ITA as a youth apprentice.

 

Greg Hemminger

Tailgate Toolkit Coordinator, Vancouver/Lower Mainland

Greg Hemminger is the new Harm Reduction Project Coordinator for the Lower Mainland representing VICA out of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association office. Over the last 4 years Greg has been an active part of the mental health and addictions community across the greater Vancouver area. He has served as a board member for the Maple Ridge Treatment Centre running biweekly support groups for men in early recovery. He also helped create the Fun in Recovery Program which accompanies clients to community outings such as sporting events to show clients that there is a new world awaiting them outside of addiction. Greg looks forward to contributing to the Harm Reduction program and bringing this essential project to the lower mainland.

 

Mika Dumont

Tailgate Toolkit Coordinator, Southern Interior

Mika Dumont is the Tailgate Toolkit Coordinator for the Southern Interior region of BC. Over the past 9 years, Mika has gained experience in the fields of addiction, mental health, and construction. She looks forward to helping to end stigma in our industry.

 

Rose Olsen

Tailgate Toolkit Coordinator, Vancouver/Lower Mainland

Rose has been actively involved in supporting the entrenched and unhoused population of the Fraser Valley. After pursuing education to become a community support worker, she developed a passion for assisting people. Rose was a valuable member of an exceptional team in Abbotsford that established a drop-in center in the heart of the city and pioneered the first Safe Injection Site. Since 2013, she has been working on the front lines, teaching numerous neighbors and professional community members how to use naloxone. After taking a break to build cabinets for a year, Rose felt the calling and returned to work with the community.

 

Alexandra Stockli

Tailgate Toolkit Coordinator, Vancouver Island

Alexandra is the Tailgate Toolkit Program Coordinator for Vancouver Island. She joined VICA in September of 2024. Her previous background working with community members living with substance misuse and mental health disorders has provided her a wealth of knowledge and experience that she is excited to bring to the Tailgate Toolkit program. She looks forward to bringing awareness to those in the industry about mental health and addiction.