Our Team
Stuart Carver
DSO, BA(Hons), MA
President and Founder
Stuart Carver retired from the British Army in 2012 as a Colonel having commanded at every rank, and in some of the most challenging environments in the world- including Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia and Northern Ireland. He has also worked with and led, humanitarian agencies, civilian contractors, government staff and emergency services on numerous occasions.
As well as huge first hand leadership experience, Stuart also has an extensive training background, having designed courses and instructed for junior leaders, middle managers, and senior staff – both military and civilian. This work included the British Security Service (MI5), The Afghan Army, the Baghdad Police Force and numerous Emergency Response agencies. His last appointment in the Army was as CEO of its largest training establishment, leading a mixed military/civilian workforce of over 1000 people. Using a combination of live firing exercises and advanced simulation, over 12,000 people a year were trained for both counter-insurgency and large scale operations. His primary task in this role was acting as a personal coach for senior leaders about to deploy on operations with their units.
On retirement from the Army he joined a large corporation in Calgary where he was the Director responsible for training a large and diverse workforce of 4500 employees – with a focus on leadership and emergency response training. He was also chosen to lead the Corporation’s Flood Recovery Project for the Provincial Government after the June 2013 floods in southern Alberta. This nine month, $60million project, involved over 500 employees.
Having established Sandhurst Consulting, he now concentrates on leadership development, emergency response training and strategic planning. Current clients include Calfrac Well Services, Pason Systems, MEG Energy, Murphy Oil, ATB Financial, Calgary Police Service and the University of Calgary.
Educated at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and a holder of both Bachelor and Master degrees, Stuart is also a proud recipient of the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) for outstanding leadership of a 2000 strong multinational Battlegroup during active operations in Afghanistan, which was presented to him by HM The Queen.
Stuart Carver retired from the British Army in 2012 as a Colonel having commanded at every rank, and in some of the most challenging environments in the world- including Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia and Northern Ireland. He has also worked with and led, humanitarian agencies, civilian contractors, government staff and emergency services on numerous occasions.
As well as huge first hand leadership experience, Stuart also has an extensive training background, having designed courses and instructed for junior leaders, middle managers, and senior staff – both military and civilian. This work included the British Security Service (MI5), The Afghan Army, the Baghdad Police Force and numerous Emergency Response agencies. His last appointment in the Army was as CEO of its largest training establishment, leading a mixed military/civilian workforce of over 1000 people. Using a combination of live firing exercises and advanced simulation, over 12,000 people a year were trained for both counter-insurgency and large scale operations. His primary task in this role was acting as a personal coach for senior leaders about to deploy on operations with their units.
On retirement from the Army he joined a large corporation in Calgary where he was the Director responsible for training a large and diverse workforce of 4500 employees – with a focus on leadership and emergency response training. He was also chosen to lead the Corporation’s Flood Recovery Project for the Provincial Government after the June 2013 floods in southern Alberta. This nine month, $60million project, involved over 500 employees.
Having established Sandhurst Consulting, he now concentrates on leadership development, emergency response training and strategic planning. Current clients include Calfrac Well Services, Pason Systems, MEG Energy, Murphy Oil, ATB Financial, Calgary Police Service and the University of Calgary.
Educated at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and a holder of both Bachelor and Master degrees, Stuart is also a proud recipient of the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) for outstanding leadership of a 2000 strong multinational Battlegroup during active operations in Afghanistan, which was presented to him by HM The Queen.
David Harrison
BEng (Hons), Msc
Associate Senior Director - Emergency Management/Leadership Development
David Harrison
BEng (Hons), Msc
Associate Senior Director – Leadership Development
David Harrison started his career managing a team of engineers in a Hi-Tech manufacturing company. After 7 years of delivering state of the art manufacturing solutions he joined the Army and spent 17 years leading organizations at every level around the globe in some extremely inhospitable environments including Afghanistan, Bosnia, Kosovo and Northern Ireland. After retiring from the Army, David took on various roles within the telecommunications, defense and oil & gas sectors. His diverse career has seen him work with and lead teams from all sectors including government, security services, private sector, military, emergency services, NGO’s and international agencies.
During his time in the military and subsequently working for a major defense contractor, David played a leading role in developing the British Army’s future live simulation equipment and successfully integrated this into a variety of virtual and constructive training exercises. He also played a key part in the development of one of the most advanced After Action Review (AAR) systems in the world which combined human observers and the latest technology to capture data.
David has an extensive training background both in the private and military sectors having designed, delivered and measured training effectiveness of personnel at all levels, from field supervisors to senior executives. He has also utilized this knowledge and extensive training experience to bring state of the art live, virtual and constructive simulation into the corporate training environment. His last role before joining Sandhurst Consulting was with a large oil and gas corporation in Calgary. Initially responsible for designing and delivering leadership training, his diverse experience and knowledge of emergency management made him a natural selection to become the senior project manager for the corporation’s flood recovery efforts in the town of High River, Southern Alberta in 2013, leading a large multi-functional team. Following this successful project the corporation selected him to establish their project management office in order to develop business process and implement their ERP system.
Educated at Loughborough University, Cranfield University and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, David holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree with Honors, and a Master of Science degree in simulation and modelling.
David Harrison started his career managing a team of engineers in a Hi-Tech manufacturing company. After 7 years of delivering state of the art manufacturing solutions he joined the Army and spent 17 years leading organizations at every level around the globe in some extremely inhospitable environments including Afghanistan, Bosnia, Kosovo and Northern Ireland. After retiring from the Army, David took on various roles within the telecommunications, defense and oil & gas sectors. His diverse career has seen him work with and lead teams from all sectors including government, security services, private sector, military, emergency services, NGO’s and international agencies.
During his time in the military and subsequently working for a major defense contractor, David played a leading role in developing the British Army’s future live simulation equipment and successfully integrated this into a variety of virtual and constructive training exercises. He also played a key part in the development of one of the most advanced After Action Review (AAR) systems in the world which combined human observers and the latest technology to capture data.
David has an extensive training background both in the private and military sectors having designed, delivered and measured training effectiveness of personnel at all levels, from field supervisors to senior executives. He has also utilized this knowledge and extensive training experience to bring state of the art live, virtual and constructive simulation into the corporate training environment. His last role before joining Sandhurst Consulting was with a large oil and gas corporation in Calgary. Initially responsible for designing and delivering leadership training, his diverse experience and knowledge of emergency management made him a natural selection to become the senior project manager for the corporation’s flood recovery efforts in the town of High River, Southern Alberta in 2013, leading a large multi-functional team. Following this successful project the corporation selected him to establish their project management office in order to develop business process and implement their ERP system.
Educated at Loughborough University, Cranfield University and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, David holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree with Honors, and a Master of Science degree in simulation and modelling.
Zoe Carver
Director – Finance and Administration
Zoe Carver
Director – Finance and Administration
Zoe currently maintains responsibility for the Sandhurst Consulting financial records and corporate administration. Her background is largely in the field of intelligence. She was most recently contracted as an intelligence specialist to assist in the set-up and leadership of a team of analysts for a company specializing in business intelligence.
Prior to that, she spent 17 years working for British Intelligence where her analytical and liaison skills were developed and thoroughly tested. She has a broad toolkit of skills to offer, together with exceptional attention to detail and integrity. She has experience working with the Police, government departments and foreign intelligence agencies.
Between 2009-2012 Zoe held the voluntary role of Chairperson of the (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA), a British registered charity with presence in Canada, fundraising to provide financial support to military personnel, their families and local community groups at the British Army Training Unit Suffield (BATUS).
She also has a certificate in management from the University of Westminster and is a keen amateur ice hockey player.
Zoe currently maintains responsibility for the Sandhurst Consulting financial records and corporate administration. Her background is largely in the field of intelligence. She was most recently contracted as an intelligence specialist to assist in the set-up and leadership of a team of analysts for a company specializing in business intelligence.
Prior to that, she spent 17 years working for British Intelligence where her analytical and liaison skills were developed and thoroughly tested. She has a broad toolkit of skills to offer, together with exceptional attention to detail and integrity. She has experience working with the Police, government departments and foreign intelligence agencies.
Between 2009-2012 Zoe held the voluntary role of Chairperson of the (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA), a British registered charity with presence in Canada, fundraising to provide financial support to military personnel, their families and local community groups at the British Army Training Unit Suffield (BATUS).
She also has a certificate in management from the University of Westminster and is a keen amateur ice hockey player.
Scott Roberts
MA, CEC, ABCP
Associate Director – Emergency Response / Leadership
Scott Roberts is a retired law enforcement professional from the Toronto Police Service. In his 31-year career with the TPS, he served in many uniform, investigative and specialized positions as he advanced to the leadership rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of his career, Scott continually expanded his emergency management (EM) knowledge and skills as a member and leader of many specialized and joint service teams including Counter Terrorism, Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNe), Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR Canada Taskforce 3), Public Order, Critical Infrastructure Protection, Disaster Exercise Design/Execution, and Public Safety and Emergency Management Training. Scott provided leadership when deployed operationally to many large-scale events like the G7, G8 and G20 world leader summits, SARS pandemic and H1N1 Avian flu outbreak. Over the course of his 40-year career, Scott has and continues to facilitate leadership instruction across Canada and the United States. Scott has facilitated instruction for many hundred government and private sector managers and executive leaders. Scott is an accredited Incident Command System (ICS) Canada 100 – 400 lead instructor and regularly facilitates courses in these areas and then exercise mentoring across a number of industries. Scott is also a certified executive and emotional intelligence coach providing coaching as a part of developing current and future leaders in crisis and everyday roles. Scott has been a long-time member of the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Canada Council where he is the current President of the not-for-profit board of directors. Scott is an accredited ICS Canada 100 – 400 lead instructor. He has achieved a certificate in Emotional Intelligence Assessment and Coaching, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Guelph Humber, a Police Foundations Leadership Diploma (Hons) from Humber College, a Graduate Certificate in Municipal Management and Leadership from the University of Alberta, A Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching, and a Master of Arts – Leadership from Royal Roads University.
Scott Roberts is a retired law enforcement professional from the Toronto Police Service. In his 31-year career with the TPS, he served in many uniform, investigative and specialized positions as he advanced to the leadership rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of his career, Scott continually expanded his emergency management (EM) knowledge and skills as a member and leader of many specialized and joint service teams including Counter Terrorism, Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNe), Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR Canada Taskforce 3), Public Order, Critical Infrastructure Protection, Disaster Exercise Design/Execution, and Public Safety and Emergency Management Training. Scott provided leadership when deployed operationally to many large-scale events like the G7, G8 and G20 world leader summits, SARS pandemic and H1N1 Avian flu outbreak. Over the course of his 40-year career, Scott has and continues to facilitate leadership instruction across Canada and the United States. Scott has facilitated instruction for many hundred government and private sector managers and executive leaders. Scott is an accredited Incident Command System (ICS) Canada 100 – 400 lead instructor and regularly facilitates courses in these areas and then exercise mentoring across a number of industries. Scott is also a certified executive and emotional intelligence coach providing coaching as a part of developing current and future leaders in crisis and everyday roles. Scott has been a long-time member of the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Canada Council where he is the current President of the not-for-profit board of directors. Scott is an accredited ICS Canada 100 – 400 lead instructor. He has achieved a certificate in Emotional Intelligence Assessment and Coaching, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Guelph Humber, a Police Foundations Leadership Diploma (Hons) from Humber College, a Graduate Certificate in Municipal Management and Leadership from the University of Alberta, A Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching, and a Master of Arts – Leadership from Royal Roads University.
Tara Tobler
MBA, CBCP, PMP, CIA
Associate Director – Business Continuity
In addition to 15 plus years of project management, audit and process improvement experience, Tara has over 10 years dedicated experience in all aspects of business resilience, including business continuity, crisis management, and emergency response.
Tara has been involved in several Business Resilience Program developments which have included an assessment of existing program capabilities, followed by fit for purpose program delivery that is aligned with organizations objectives and priorities. She has also developed and conducted multiple exercises in business continuity, emergency response and crisis management at all levels of organizations to provide training and ensure that the plans effectively provide for continuity of services during a variety of business disruptions. Tara has worked with companies across various industries, including municipalities, post-secondary education, health care, oil and gas, manufacturing and technology.
One of Tara’s key strengths is her ability to build solid, trusting relationships with her clients. Many clients continue to engage her services for program enhancements or maturity development, ongoing maintenance and exercises, or simply seek her advice.
Tara is a recognized leader in business resilience and is an active community contributor. She has been involved in the Disaster Recovery Information Exchange (DRIE) West chapter since 2010 and has been chapter President since 2014. In 2020 she was the subject matter expert contributor to a new course within NAIT’s Crisis Management Essentials Certificate for CADEM (Centre for Applied Disaster and Emergency Management) program.
In addition to 15 plus years of project management, audit and process improvement experience, Tara has over 10 years dedicated experience in all aspects of business resilience, including business continuity, crisis management, and emergency response.
Tara has been involved in several Business Resilience Program developments which have included an assessment of existing program capabilities, followed by fit for purpose program delivery that is aligned with organizations objectives and priorities. She has also developed and conducted multiple exercises in business continuity, emergency response and crisis management at all levels of organizations to provide training and ensure that the plans effectively provide for continuity of services during a variety of business disruptions. Tara has worked with companies across various industries, including municipalities, post-secondary education, health care, oil and gas, manufacturing and technology.
One of Tara’s key strengths is her ability to build solid, trusting relationships with her clients. Many clients continue to engage her services for program enhancements or maturity development, ongoing maintenance and exercises, or simply seek her advice.
Tara is a recognized leader in business resilience and is an active community contributor. She has been involved in the Disaster Recovery Information Exchange (DRIE) West chapter since 2010 and has been chapter President since 2014. In 2020 she was the subject matter expert contributor to a new course within NAIT’s Crisis Management Essentials Certificate for CADEM (Centre for Applied Disaster and Emergency Management) program.
John Doe
CPP, CPO
Sandhurst offers the services of carefully selected risk management professionals who provide corporate security services in a discreet manner. Led by one of the most experienced and highly regarded operators in the business, they provide their knowledge and advice in every area of security management. The team has Certified Protection Professionals(CPP) and Certified Protection Officers (CPO) specializing in personal protection for VIP's and high net worth people and their families. Whatever the concern our team is able to offer sound advice and judgment to security situations.
Given the nature of some of their work they would rather remain anonymous on a public website.
Ernie Corbett
BA, PMP, ABCP
Senior Associate – Emergency Management
Ernie is an experienced emergency management professional and certified project manager, specializing in the implementation of large emergency management programs. With more than 20 years experience in the military, public and private sectors, he has recently focused on delivering solutions to clients in the Oil and Gas sector.
Combined with a background in communication systems, Ernie brings operational experience of working in public safety, including 9-1-1, emergency air transportation, and public safety systems.
He has implemented large scale IT and communication programs across multiple jurisdictions, including federal, provincial and municipal levels of government, and for large private sector clients. One of the most notable achievements was assisting with the delivery of the City of Calgary’s state of the art Emergency Operations Centre.
More recently he has been working on the design and implementation of large scale Emergency Management Programs. These programs have covered Response, Recovery and Business Continuity streams. Delivery of complex programs such as these have required Ernie to ensure coordination and collaboration across multiple business units and functions. Business Impact Analysis, policy, plans, training and the delivery of large scale, multifaceted full-scale exercises have all featured in these programs.
Much of his success in delivering Emergency Management programs is based on his own operational experience. The Quebec Ice Storm, Winnipeg Floods, Slave Lake Fire, Pine Lake Tornado and the 2013 Calgary Floods are just some of the incidents where Ernie has led teams and gained first hand experience.
Educated at the University of Manitoba with a BA in Political Science, he is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and an Associate Business Continuity Professional (ABCP). Ernie is also ICS 300 certified.
Ernie is an experienced emergency management professional and certified project manager, specializing in the implementation of large emergency management programs. With more than 20 years experience in the military, public and private sectors, he has recently focused on delivering solutions to clients in the Oil and Gas sector.
Combined with a background in communication systems, Ernie brings operational experience of working in public safety, including 9-1-1, emergency air transportation, and public safety systems.
He has implemented large scale IT and communication programs across multiple jurisdictions, including federal, provincial and municipal levels of government, and for large private sector clients. One of the most notable achievements was assisting with the delivery of the City of Calgary’s state of the art Emergency Operations Centre.
More recently he has been working on the design and implementation of large scale Emergency Management Programs. These programs have covered Response, Recovery and Business Continuity streams. Delivery of complex programs such as these have required Ernie to ensure coordination and collaboration across multiple business units and functions. Business Impact Analysis, policy, plans, training and the delivery of large scale, multifaceted full-scale exercises have all featured in these programs.
Much of his success in delivering Emergency Management programs is based on his own operational experience. The Quebec Ice Storm, Winnipeg Floods, Slave Lake Fire, Pine Lake Tornado and the 2013 Calgary Floods are just some of the incidents where Ernie has led teams and gained first hand experience.
Educated at the University of Manitoba with a BA in Political Science, he is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and an Associate Business Continuity Professional (ABCP). Ernie is also ICS 300 certified.
Benjamin Morgan
MA
Senior Associate – Emergency Management, Crisis Communications
For over 15 years, Benjamin served as an EMT and Advanced Life Support Paramedic a variety of Alberta communities, including First Nations communities, High Level, High Prairie, Saddle Lake, Olds, Banff, Cochrane, Three Hills, and the City of Calgary. During his time with the City of Calgary Emergency Medical Services, Benjamin held the role of Public Education Officer (2004 – 2007), where he authored/issued over 150 media releases and conducted over 180 media interviews each year.
After completing his Master’s Degree of Professional Communications, Benjamin returned to the City of Calgary in a newly created role, Supervisor, Crisis Communications. He rebuilt the City’s crisis communication plan, formed a crisis communications team of 84 professional communicators, and fostered critical relationships with external stakeholders. Engaging with his creative and innovative nature, Benjamin helped form the city’s new public relations and crisis team which was accountable for corporate media relations, social media, crisis and issues management.
Benjamin played critical communication leadership roles during Canada’s two largest and costliest natural disasters: 2013 Calgary Flood & 2016 Fort McMurray wildfires. Acknowledgement for his contributions were received from Prime Minister level on both occasions. These two unprecedented events have afforded Benjamin unique communication experience and perspective in responding to disaster events and engaging with multiple stakeholder groups and levels of government. Benjamin was called as an expert communication witness at the Elliott Lake mall collapse public inquiry hearing, participated in a DRDC research project: Expert Round Table of Social Media in Emergency Management, and has traveled across the country sharing his experiences with municipalities, schools, and organizations.
With a drive for continuous learning, Benjamin immerses himself in the classroom environment where he doesn’t’ think of himself as a teacher but rather a facilitator of the exchange of information. He finds that through teaching others, he continues to be challenged and learn. Benjamin facilitates Issues Management, Risk, and Crisis Communications at Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alberta – part of the bachelor of public relations program. He also teaches Risk and Crisis Communication in the School of Humanitarian Studies at Royal Roads University in Sooke, British Columbia. This graduate level course is offered through the school of humanitarian studies and welcomes participants from the Master of Arts in Emergency Management, International Peace-building, and Interdisciplinary studies.
For over 15 years, Benjamin served as an EMT and Advanced Life Support Paramedic a variety of Alberta communities, including First Nations communities, High Level, High Prairie, Saddle Lake, Olds, Banff, Cochrane, Three Hills, and the City of Calgary. During his time with the City of Calgary Emergency Medical Services, Benjamin held the role of Public Education Officer (2004 – 2007), where he authored/issued over 150 media releases and conducted over 180 media interviews each year.
After completing his Master’s Degree of Professional Communications, Benjamin returned to the City of Calgary in a newly created role, Supervisor, Crisis Communications. He rebuilt the City’s crisis communication plan, formed a crisis communications team of 84 professional communicators, and fostered critical relationships with external stakeholders. Engaging with his creative and innovative nature, Benjamin helped form the city’s new public relations and crisis team which was accountable for corporate media relations, social media, crisis and issues management.
Benjamin played critical communication leadership roles during Canada’s two largest and costliest natural disasters: 2013 Calgary Flood & 2016 Fort McMurray wildfires. Acknowledgement for his contributions were received from Prime Minister level on both occasions. These two unprecedented events have afforded Benjamin unique communication experience and perspective in responding to disaster events and engaging with multiple stakeholder groups and levels of government. Benjamin was called as an expert communication witness at the Elliott Lake mall collapse public inquiry hearing, participated in a DRDC research project: Expert Round Table of Social Media in Emergency Management, and has traveled across the country sharing his experiences with municipalities, schools, and organizations.
With a drive for continuous learning, Benjamin immerses himself in the classroom environment where he doesn’t’ think of himself as a teacher but rather a facilitator of the exchange of information. He finds that through teaching others, he continues to be challenged and learn. Benjamin facilitates Issues Management, Risk, and Crisis Communications at Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alberta – part of the bachelor of public relations program. He also teaches Risk and Crisis Communication in the School of Humanitarian Studies at Royal Roads University in Sooke, British Columbia. This graduate level course is offered through the school of humanitarian studies and welcomes participants from the Master of Arts in Emergency Management, International Peace-building, and Interdisciplinary studies.
Lance Bushie
CD, MA
Senior Associate – Emergency Management
Lance Bushie is an emergency management professional with over 30 years’ experience in senior management, leadership and training roles. Lance started his career in 1989 when he joined the Peace River Fire Department. He progressively rose through the ranks of the department and was promoted to Director of Protective Services/Regional Fire Chief for the Town of Peace River and the County of Northern Lights.
Lance has 15 years’ experience with the Canadian army leading teams in remote environments under austere conditions during which he was awarded a Commanders Commendation (Chief of Land Staff) for his leadership.
Emergency Management is a focal point for Lance, and his experience includes Director of Emergency Management and involvement in four disastrous flooding events in the Town of Peace River. He was a task force leader during the 2011 Slave Lake wildfires. During the migrant crisis in Lesvos, Greece he was the Operations Chief for a team of Canadians performing water SAR activities and liaised with the UNHCR, Hellenic Coast Guard and numerous international NGOs. Most recently, he provided response and leadership support to the High Level Fire Department Fire Chief during the 2019 Chuckegg Creek Fire.
Lance is a certified ICS Canada 300 instructor and is NFPA certified in 472, 1001, 1006, 1021, 1041, and 1051. Lance is also a certified rail car dangerous goods specialist, trained by the Security and Emergency Response Training Center in Colorado.
Sharing his knowledge is a passion and Lance has been published in both Canadian Fire Fighter and Firefighting in Canada magazines.
Lance Bushie is an emergency management professional with over 30 years’ experience in senior management, leadership and training roles. Lance started his career in 1989 when he joined the Peace River Fire Department. He progressively rose through the ranks of the department and was promoted to Director of Protective Services/Regional Fire Chief for the Town of Peace River and the County of Northern Lights.
Lance has 15 years’ experience with the Canadian army leading teams in remote environments under austere conditions during which he was awarded a Commanders Commendation (Chief of Land Staff) for his leadership.
Emergency Management is a focal point for Lance, and his experience includes Director of Emergency Management and involvement in four disastrous flooding events in the Town of Peace River. He was a task force leader during the 2011 Slave Lake wildfires. During the migrant crisis in Lesvos, Greece he was the Operations Chief for a team of Canadians performing water SAR activities and liaised with the UNHCR, Hellenic Coast Guard and numerous international NGOs. Most recently, he provided response and leadership support to the High Level Fire Department Fire Chief during the 2019 Chuckegg Creek Fire.
Lance is a certified ICS Canada 300 instructor and is NFPA certified in 472, 1001, 1006, 1021, 1041, and 1051. Lance is also a certified rail car dangerous goods specialist, trained by the Security and Emergency Response Training Center in Colorado.
Sharing his knowledge is a passion and Lance has been published in both Canadian Fire Fighter and Firefighting in Canada magazines.
Kyla Burtyn
BA (Hons)
Associate – Emergency Management / Regulatory Compliance
Kyla is an accomplished Project Manager and Regulatory Compliance Specialist. She has over 15 years in program and project management, ten of which have been focused on Emergency Management (EM) and Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S). Her areas of expertise include strategic planning, regulatory compliance (audit / analysis, regulatory interpretation, and liaison activities), program development, and process optimization. She has worked in public and private sectors across North America, and has experience working in government, transportation, oil and gas / energy, cannabis, and ICI / construction industries. Kyla has a strong understanding of how to structure and implement a sustainable and compliant EM or OH&S program, and has worked with stakeholders at all levels – from executive to front line workers – to ensure the suitability, support, and success of programs and corporate initiatives. Educated at Carleton University, Kyla holds a B.A. Honours in Political Science, and has advanced certificates from the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs in Energy and Natural Resource Infrastructure Protection. She is a certified COR auditor and working towards obtaining CRSP and CEM designations. Kyla is a volunteer with the Red Cross Calgary Disaster Management Team and the Canadian National Emergency Response Team.
Kyla is an accomplished Project Manager and Regulatory Compliance Specialist. She has over 15 years in program and project management, ten of which have been focused on Emergency Management (EM) and Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S). Her areas of expertise include strategic planning, regulatory compliance (audit / analysis, regulatory interpretation, and liaison activities), program development, and process optimization. She has worked in public and private sectors across North America, and has experience working in government, transportation, oil and gas / energy, cannabis, and ICI / construction industries. Kyla has a strong understanding of how to structure and implement a sustainable and compliant EM or OH&S program, and has worked with stakeholders at all levels – from executive to front line workers – to ensure the suitability, support, and success of programs and corporate initiatives. Educated at Carleton University, Kyla holds a B.A. Honours in Political Science, and has advanced certificates from the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs in Energy and Natural Resource Infrastructure Protection. She is a certified COR auditor and working towards obtaining CRSP and CEM designations. Kyla is a volunteer with the Red Cross Calgary Disaster Management Team and the Canadian National Emergency Response Team.
Phil Poole
BSc (Hons)
Associate – Emergency Management
Phil Poole joined Sandhurst Consulting in 2018, with over 14 years of emergency response, regulatory and audit experience, and an extensive background in conducting specialized training in emergency response and business continuity planning. He brings expertise in operations, deployment, public consultations and training to the team. In addition to focusing on the Oil & Gas industry in North America, Phil has worked with many international clients throughout his career, broadening his experience in vital areas of Emergency Response and best practices. Phil is an experienced and certified ICS Canada training instructor. With a Bachelor’s degree in Technology from Milton Keynes University, and a diploma in Innovation and Design, Phil continues to advance his education and is planning to undertake a Masters Degree in Emergency Management, in the near future. With years of experience in the British Armed Forces, Phil brings a level of commitment and dedication that exceeds client expectations. Clients have relied on Phil’s experience to provide them with guidance before, during and after incidents; proving himself to be a key asset in assisting clients during real time emergencies and with post-incident reporting. Phil has helped to shape clients Emergency Management programs and is known for his willingness to share his knowledge and experiences. Outside of work, Phil enjoys spending time playing guitar, distance shooting (marksmanship), football and rugby.
Phil Poole joined Sandhurst Consulting in 2018, with over 14 years of emergency response, regulatory and audit experience, and an extensive background in conducting specialized training in emergency response and business continuity planning. He brings expertise in operations, deployment, public consultations and training to the team. In addition to focusing on the Oil & Gas industry in North America, Phil has worked with many international clients throughout his career, broadening his experience in vital areas of Emergency Response and best practices. Phil is an experienced and certified ICS Canada training instructor. With a Bachelor’s degree in Technology from Milton Keynes University, and a diploma in Innovation and Design, Phil continues to advance his education and is planning to undertake a Masters Degree in Emergency Management, in the near future. With years of experience in the British Armed Forces, Phil brings a level of commitment and dedication that exceeds client expectations. Clients have relied on Phil’s experience to provide them with guidance before, during and after incidents; proving himself to be a key asset in assisting clients during real time emergencies and with post-incident reporting. Phil has helped to shape clients Emergency Management programs and is known for his willingness to share his knowledge and experiences. Outside of work, Phil enjoys spending time playing guitar, distance shooting (marksmanship), football and rugby.
Paul Flavell
MA
Senior Associate – Emergency Management
Paul Flavell retired from the British Army in 2011 having served in some of the most challenging environments in the world, including Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Sierra Leone and Iraq. He has also worked with, and led, teams of humanitarian agencies, civilian contractors and emergency services on numerous occasions. Along with his extensive leadership experience in crisis environments, Paul has wide experience as an operations manager, strategic planner and is also an accomplished trainer and coach. He has planned and executed training at every level from individual through to large teams of over 1000 individuals with numerous platforms. His experience has also involved the training and mentorship of junior, middle and senior management positions. He has also planned and conducted specialist anti-terrorist training for both domestic and international audiences, and hostile environment courses for media agencies and civilian businesses. He is a skilled major event planner and has been instrumental in planning and executing numerous high profile major events. He has extensive experience in all domains of simulation; virtual, constructive, and physical to support training and planning activity. On retiring from the Army, Paul took his extensive operational leadership and training portfolio into the civilian workplace and became a successful director of training programmes for a US defence contractor. This position saw Paul supporting military, first responders, and civilian agencies in the US, UK and Canadian markets with world leading training, simulation and mentorship. He has also widened his education and training portfolio into the Emergency Management (EM) arena; he is qualified ICS instructor with extensive on-site and ICP level mentorship experience. He has a particular interest in working with remote communities in Northern Canada and First Nations. Educated at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and Cranfield University, Paul holds a master’s degree. Paul is a volunteer with Team Rubicon Canada and is an active supporter of veteran’s charities.
Paul Flavell retired from the British Army in 2011 having served in some of the most challenging environments in the world, including Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Sierra Leone and Iraq. He has also worked with, and led, teams of humanitarian agencies, civilian contractors and emergency services on numerous occasions. Along with his extensive leadership experience in crisis environments, Paul has wide experience as an operations manager, strategic planner and is also an accomplished trainer and coach. He has planned and executed training at every level from individual through to large teams of over 1000 individuals with numerous platforms. His experience has also involved the training and mentorship of junior, middle and senior management positions. He has also planned and conducted specialist anti-terrorist training for both domestic and international audiences, and hostile environment courses for media agencies and civilian businesses. He is a skilled major event planner and has been instrumental in planning and executing numerous high profile major events. He has extensive experience in all domains of simulation; virtual, constructive, and physical to support training and planning activity. On retiring from the Army, Paul took his extensive operational leadership and training portfolio into the civilian workplace and became a successful director of training programmes for a US defence contractor. This position saw Paul supporting military, first responders, and civilian agencies in the US, UK and Canadian markets with world leading training, simulation and mentorship. He has also widened his education and training portfolio into the Emergency Management (EM) arena; he is qualified ICS instructor with extensive on-site and ICP level mentorship experience. He has a particular interest in working with remote communities in Northern Canada and First Nations. Educated at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and Cranfield University, Paul holds a master’s degree. Paul is a volunteer with Team Rubicon Canada and is an active supporter of veteran’s charities.
Carlee McClelland
BA, MDEM, ABCP
Associate – Emergency Management
Carlee McClelland is a graduate of York University with a Master’s degree in Disaster and Emergency Management, an undergraduate degree in sociology from Mount Royal University, is ICS 300 certified, and has the Associate Business Continuity Professional (ABCP) certification. She specializes in emergency management and business continuity and has experience working in the public and private sector and experience volunteering with non-profit agencies. Carlee has a diverse background working with clients from Transportation, Municipalities, Oil and Gas, , Forestry, and Utilities to support the development of Emergency Management and Business Continuity programs. In her free time, Carlee volunteers with the Canadian Red Cross as an Emergency Response Team member and supported residents following the 2020 Fort McMurray Floods. Carlee works closely with several clients to understand their industry and identify their needs and requirements to form a strong program. She has a love for technological solutions and a strong background in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and virtual command posts. She regularly supports clients with emergency management and business continuity program documentation, managing training programs, designing exercises and post-exercise reports, and supporting the integration of new technologies.
Carlee McClelland is a graduate of York University with a Master’s degree in Disaster and Emergency Management, an undergraduate degree in sociology from Mount Royal University, is ICS 300 certified, and has the Associate Business Continuity Professional (ABCP) certification. She specializes in emergency management and business continuity and has experience working in the public and private sector and experience volunteering with non-profit agencies. Carlee has a diverse background working with clients from Transportation, Municipalities, Oil and Gas, , Forestry, and Utilities to support the development of Emergency Management and Business Continuity programs. In her free time, Carlee volunteers with the Canadian Red Cross as an Emergency Response Team member and supported residents following the 2020 Fort McMurray Floods. Carlee works closely with several clients to understand their industry and identify their needs and requirements to form a strong program. She has a love for technological solutions and a strong background in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and virtual command posts. She regularly supports clients with emergency management and business continuity program documentation, managing training programs, designing exercises and post-exercise reports, and supporting the integration of new technologies.
Lorne Miller
BBE, CEM
Associate – Emergency Response / Leadership
Lorne Miller is a born and raised Calgarian who has pursued a successful career as a professional fire fighter with the Calgary Fire Department. He has a particular interest and extensive experience in the Emergency Response field and is qualified in the Incident Command System, Critical Incident Stress Management, Emergency Operations Centre specific courses, and most recently he completed the Hazardous Materials Technician course. All of this training was put to the test during 2013 Southern Alberta floods. Lorne held various positions within the Emergency Operations Centre in Calgary throughout the duration of the incident.
In addition, he has also been a part of numerous other activations/incidents within Calgary. His experience in the EOC coupled with his front-line experience as a responder, allows him to relate to both sides and see the bigger picture.
Lorne completed the Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment for the City of Calgary in 2014 and 2015. He was successfully able to lead a team of 45 departments and collaborate with key external stakeholders to produce an in-depth report which has been the foundation to future editions ever since. He then went on to design and develop emergency response exercises for the City.
In 2020, Lorne completed his Certified Emergency Manager Designation (CEM).
Lorne is also an excellent, highly regarded facilitator. He has taught Leadership, Emergency Management and first Aid to a wide variety of audiences and has an enviable talent for relating to front-line leaders. He is also a keen hockey coach at numerous levels.
Educated at Mount Royal University, he has a degree in Business and has also sat on the Board of the university with specific responsibility for establishing mentorship programs. Lorne prides himself on continuously improving the community he lives in through both professional and personal means and is a keen community volunteer.
Lorne Miller is a born and raised Calgarian who has pursued a successful career as a professional fire fighter with the Calgary Fire Department. He has a particular interest and extensive experience in the Emergency Response field and is qualified in the Incident Command System, Critical Incident Stress Management, Emergency Operations Centre specific courses, and most recently he completed the Hazardous Materials Technician course. All of this training was put to the test during 2013 Southern Alberta floods. Lorne held various positions within the Emergency Operations Centre in Calgary throughout the duration of the incident.
In addition, he has also been a part of numerous other activations/incidents within Calgary. His experience in the EOC coupled with his front-line experience as a responder, allows him to relate to both sides and see the bigger picture.
Lorne completed the Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment for the City of Calgary in 2014 and 2015. He was successfully able to lead a team of 45 departments and collaborate with key external stakeholders to produce an in-depth report which has been the foundation to future editions ever since. He then went on to design and develop emergency response exercises for the City.
In 2020, Lorne completed his Certified Emergency Manager Designation (CEM).
Lorne is also an excellent, highly regarded facilitator. He has taught Leadership, Emergency Management and first Aid to a wide variety of audiences and has an enviable talent for relating to front-line leaders. He is also a keen hockey coach at numerous levels.
Educated at Mount Royal University, he has a degree in Business and has also sat on the Board of the university with specific responsibility for establishing mentorship programs. Lorne prides himself on continuously improving the community he lives in through both professional and personal means and is a keen community volunteer.
Paul Rankin
BSc (Hons)
Associate – Emergency Management
After serving in Her Majesty’s Royal Navy, Paul joined the UK police force where he spent 11 years as an officer in London, working in specialist units including Public Order, Counter-Terrorism and CBRN before joining the Tactical Firearms Unit. Paul managed to walk the fine line of remaining an operational officer while working as a member of the training unit. As the lead medical instructor, he had the opportunity to work alongside and instruct the fire service, EMS as well as various UK policing and military units. He is proud to have graduated from Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth as well as Imperial College, London. His background as a military officer and police officer allowed him to develop a broad range of operational experience in incident management, ranging from tactical response to incident command. As an instructor, this knowledge was further developed in the training environment where he has experience ranging from program development to multi-agency exercise design. Paul emigrated to Canada in 2016, where his love of the wilderness and the Rocky Mountains drew him to Alberta. He has been successfully delivering and developing training courses for outdoor professionals, emergency responders, military, and government organisations. Whether teaching in the classroom or in the mountains, Paul prides himself on being able to deliver technical subject matter and advanced concepts to both lay persons and advanced practitioners. He is an active member of Search and Rescue Alberta, and is a certified ICS Instructor.
After serving in Her Majesty’s Royal Navy, Paul joined the UK police force where he spent 11 years as an officer in London, working in specialist units including Public Order, Counter-Terrorism and CBRN before joining the Tactical Firearms Unit. Paul managed to walk the fine line of remaining an operational officer while working as a member of the training unit. As the lead medical instructor, he had the opportunity to work alongside and instruct the fire service, EMS as well as various UK policing and military units. He is proud to have graduated from Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth as well as Imperial College, London. His background as a military officer and police officer allowed him to develop a broad range of operational experience in incident management, ranging from tactical response to incident command. As an instructor, this knowledge was further developed in the training environment where he has experience ranging from program development to multi-agency exercise design. Paul emigrated to Canada in 2016, where his love of the wilderness and the Rocky Mountains drew him to Alberta. He has been successfully delivering and developing training courses for outdoor professionals, emergency responders, military, and government organisations. Whether teaching in the classroom or in the mountains, Paul prides himself on being able to deliver technical subject matter and advanced concepts to both lay persons and advanced practitioners. He is an active member of Search and Rescue Alberta, and is a certified ICS Instructor.
Christina Caffrey
MA DEM, CEM, CBCP
Christina has had a successful career as a professional in emergency management with inspiration to enter the field coming from living in Thailand 2004 and assisting with the Indian Ocean tsunami recovery efforts. Her areas of expertise include business continuity, strategic planning, and project management. She has worked in the non-profit, private, and public sectors in emergency management and business continuity.
She completed a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) at Trent University in International Development Studies, while doing a year abroad in Ghana (West Africa), and a Master of Arts at York University in Disaster and Emergency Management. She also has designations as a Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) through Disaster Recovery Institute (DRI) Canada, Crisis Communications Planner (CCP) through the International Consortium for Organizational Resilience (ICOR) and is a Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) through the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM). She is certified in the Incident Command System (ICS) and can instruct up to ICS 400. In 2011 she received the DRIE Ontario award for Excellence in the field of Disaster Management.
Christina has practical and operational experience in emergencies and disasters that include: 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, 2011 Slave Lake wildfires, 2012 Hurricane Sandy, 2013 southern Alberta floods, 2014 Calgary ‘Snowtember’, 2014 Calgary underground fire, 2016 Fort McMurray/RMWB wildfires, 2021 Yukon floods, 2020-present COVID-19 response, and many more small and medium-scale incidents and large-scale exercises. She has led the labour action business continuity planning multiple times for critical infrastructure services in the public sector.
Christina believes in helping to inspire and influence the future generations of those entering the field of emergency management and instructs for the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) for their emergency management program. She is also a proud and active volunteer of Canada Task Force 2. She has published articles for Municipal World magazine and has a pending article to be released in Canadian Security magazine.
Jason Hunt
Associate - Emergency Management
Jason Hunt
Associate – Emergency Management
Jason joined the Sandhurst team in 2021 with over 30 years of fire service experience in a wide variety of roles and specializations.
Jason has worked in the United States and Canada and is nationally accredited in Structural Fire Fighting and Hazardous Materials Response. After joining the Calgary Fire Department in June of 2002, Jason became a member of the Heavy Rescue Team, specializing in Rope Rescue, Confined Space & Trench Rescue, Mechanical Entrapment and Heavy Vehicle Extrication, during this time Jason was deployed to perform high risk rescue standby and response for some of western Canada’s elite response companies including Canada Task Force 2. Jason became a Safety Codes Officer with the Calgary Fire Department and brings an understanding to the industry of education and prevention first and foremost, and then reactionary response when necessary.
Jason has extensive instructing experience covering a wide array of emergency response subjects and has had a career full of opportunities to utilize and instruct ICS / IMS within the Fire Service as well in the commercial and industrial private sector. He is a certified ICS facilitator.
Jason joined the Sandhurst team in 2021 with over 30 years of fire service experience in a wide variety of roles and specializations.
Jason has worked in the United States and Canada and is nationally accredited in Structural Fire Fighting and Hazardous Materials Response. After joining the Calgary Fire Department in June of 2002, Jason became a member of the Heavy Rescue Team, specializing in Rope Rescue, Confined Space & Trench Rescue, Mechanical Entrapment and Heavy Vehicle Extrication, during this time Jason was deployed to perform high risk rescue standby and response for some of western Canada’s elite response companies including Canada Task Force 2. Jason became a Safety Codes Officer with the Calgary Fire Department and brings an understanding to the industry of education and prevention first and foremost, and then reactionary response when necessary.
Jason has extensive instructing experience covering a wide array of emergency response subjects and has had a career full of opportunities to utilize and instruct ICS / IMS within the Fire Service as well in the commercial and industrial private sector. He is a certified ICS facilitator.
David Loban
Associate - Security Management
David Loban
Associate – Security Management
David is an experienced professional who has a comprehensive knowledge of life safety, security and business operations systems coupled with extensive experience in marine and transportation operations. During nine years of military service he worked in several operational theatres including Europe, Africa, Central America and Northern Ireland. He implemented overt and covert, urban and rural surveillance initiatives including project management of a $50 million integrated surveillance project in Northern Ireland. Since leaving the military, David has successfully completed a number of large-scale integrated systems and operations projects in North and South America. These include projects in the ports, aviation, oil and gas, mining and power generation industries as well as critical infrastructure protection projects for Canadian and US government and corporations. He has also been involved in several design-build projects working directly with Architectural companies and EPC companies providing initial security and CPTED design and budgeting, through tender management to project management and commissioning. Most recently, David worked extensively at the Port of Vancouver as part of a team responsible for the implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility (ISPS) code and the implementation of Transport Canada’s Marine and Transportation Regulations at over many Container, Bulk and Gas Transfer facilities. David graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering from Reading University. He holds a Certified Protection Professional (C.P.P.) designation from the American Society of Industrial Security, is qualified as a Port Facility Security Officer (P.F.S.O.) and a Company Security Officer (C.S.O.) under the International Maritime Organization.
David is an experienced professional who has a comprehensive knowledge of life safety, security and business operations systems coupled with extensive experience in marine and transportation operations. During nine years of military service he worked in several operational theatres including Europe, Africa, Central America and Northern Ireland. He implemented overt and covert, urban and rural surveillance initiatives including project management of a $50 million integrated surveillance project in Northern Ireland. Since leaving the military, David has successfully completed a number of large-scale integrated systems and operations projects in North and South America. These include projects in the ports, aviation, oil and gas, mining and power generation industries as well as critical infrastructure protection projects for Canadian and US government and corporations. He has also been involved in several design-build projects working directly with Architectural companies and EPC companies providing initial security and CPTED design and budgeting, through tender management to project management and commissioning. Most recently, David worked extensively at the Port of Vancouver as part of a team responsible for the implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility (ISPS) code and the implementation of Transport Canada’s Marine and Transportation Regulations at over many Container, Bulk and Gas Transfer facilities. David graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering from Reading University. He holds a Certified Protection Professional (C.P.P.) designation from the American Society of Industrial Security, is qualified as a Port Facility Security Officer (P.F.S.O.) and a Company Security Officer (C.S.O.) under the International Maritime Organization.
Charlene Rankin
Associate - Administration
Charlene Rankin
Associate – Administration
Charlene has over 20 years experience in office and training administration. She has supported executives, partnerships, business units, operation teams and HR departments across a variety of private and public business sectors. With a background in senior level administration, and office management, she brings a dedicated commitment to providing exceptional administrative support.
With many years experience in Oil and Gas as a training administrator, she coordinated the logistics, vendor management, tracking and reporting for regulated OHS training in Canada and OSHA training in USA.
Charlene is a highly organized, detail oriented, and pro-active administrator, focused on delivering excellent client service and supporting the Sandhurst values.
Charlene has over 20 years experience in office and training administration. She has supported executives, partnerships, business units, operation teams and HR departments across a variety of private and public business sectors. With a background in senior level administration, and office management, she brings a dedicated commitment to providing exceptional administrative support.
With many years experience in Oil and Gas as a training administrator, she coordinated the logistics, vendor management, tracking and reporting for regulated OHS training in Canada and OSHA training in USA.
Charlene is a highly organized, detail oriented, and pro-active administrator, focused on delivering excellent client service and supporting the Sandhurst values.
Mike McGinty
MA, MSc
Associate Director – Leadership Development
Mike McGinty spent a full career as an officer and Apache helicopter pilot in the British Army. He was fortunate enough to fly, command and deploy on operations overseas in every rank up to Lieutenant Colonel. He led the British entire helicopter force for the politically fragile final summer of deployment in Iraq and again in Afghanistan in the summer of 2010 when the level of violence was at its height. His last role in the UK was as base commander of a flying station leading a team of over 600 and responsible for all aspects of a community of over 2000 people and assets in excess of $500 Million.
In addition to his personal leadership roles, Mike also has extensive expertise as an operations manager, trainer, educator and strategic planner. He taught tactical and strategic planning from the lowest to the highest levels and culminated his career having been selected to represent the UK in lecturing and mentoring at the Canadian Forces College. There he taught planning, decision making and led on the development and delivery of leadership and ethics training to the top 10% of officers in the Canadian Armed Forces.
Since leaving the Army in 2014, Mike has remained active as a leader. He is the head of Risk Management and Security at the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan Campus where he leads on all aspects of risk management, security, emergency management and continuity planning. He also continues to teach, working as a sessional academic instructor for the Royal Military College, teaching planning and leadership for their Master’s degree programs. Having been asked to join the Canadian Army Reserve, he leads and trains the Canadian Armed Forces territorial response force for Emergency Management in the province of British Columbia. As a consultant, he has worked on numerous Emergency Management exercises, large and small, including those run by government, energy companies and universities. He is ICS 300 qualified with extensive EOC expertise and has a particular interest in wildfire detection as advisor to a tech start-up in the field.
Mike was awarded the Queens Commendation for Valuable Conduct for his leadership in Afghanistan and has two Masters degrees: an MA from Kings College University of London and an MSc in Corporate Management from Cranfield University.
Mike McGinty spent a full career as an officer and Apache helicopter pilot in the British Army. He was fortunate enough to fly, command and deploy on operations overseas in every rank up to Lieutenant Colonel. He led the British entire helicopter force for the politically fragile final summer of deployment in Iraq and again in Afghanistan in the summer of 2010 when the level of violence was at its height. His last role in the UK was as base commander of a flying station leading a team of over 600 and responsible for all aspects of a community of over 2000 people and assets in excess of $500 Million.
In addition to his personal leadership roles, Mike also has extensive expertise as an operations manager, trainer, educator and strategic planner. He taught tactical and strategic planning from the lowest to the highest levels and culminated his career having been selected to represent the UK in lecturing and mentoring at the Canadian Forces College. There he taught planning, decision making and led on the development and delivery of leadership and ethics training to the top 10% of officers in the Canadian Armed Forces.
Since leaving the Army in 2014, Mike has remained active as a leader. He is the head of Risk Management and Security at the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan Campus where he leads on all aspects of risk management, security, emergency management and continuity planning. He also continues to teach, working as a sessional academic instructor for the Royal Military College, teaching planning and leadership for their Master’s degree programs. Having been asked to join the Canadian Army Reserve, he leads and trains the Canadian Armed Forces territorial response force for Emergency Management in the province of British Columbia. As a consultant, he has worked on numerous Emergency Management exercises, large and small, including those run by government, energy companies and universities. He is ICS 300 qualified with extensive EOC expertise and has a particular interest in wildfire detection as advisor to a tech start-up in the field.
Mike was awarded the Queens Commendation for Valuable Conduct for his leadership in Afghanistan and has two Masters degrees: an MA from Kings College University of London and an MSc in Corporate Management from Cranfield University.
Patrick Tower
SMV, CD, MBA
Associate Director Leadership Development
Patrick Tower is a decisive, action-oriented leader with more than 20 years of leadership and management education, training and experience. During his military career in the Canadian Army, he was awarded the Star of Military Valour, second only to the Victoria Cross, by the Governor General for his leadership, courage and extreme devotion to duty under intense enemy fire. In an organization that prides itself in producing exceptional leaders, Patrick Tower was recognized as being one of the best. During 32 months of operational service in Afghanistan and Bosnia-Herzegovina, he consistently demonstrated the ability to excel in the most stressful environments, despite seemingly impossible odds, making sound and timely life or death decisions. In short he is the prime example of a front line leader who has led others under the most extreme circumstances and can talk from personal experience.
Patrick’s leadership in battle was featured in the best selling books Fifteen Days by Christie Blatchford and Contact Charlie by Chris Wattie. Patrick was chosen as both The Globe and Mail Nation Builder of the Year and Maclean’s Magazine Newsmaker of the Year for 2006.
Since retiring from the military, Patrick has successfully leveraged the skills he developed while serving his country to help organizations make positive business impacts and gains. As the head of leadership development for a major international energy corporation he has designed, implemented and delivered highly regarded leadership, management, and operations excellence programs at all levels within the organization. This included a human factors approach to tactical execution that revolutionized frontline oilfield operations.
Patrick Tower is a natural leader and first class facilitator, who possesses the experience and professionalism required to achieve operational and corporate excellence and the ability to pass this on to others.
He has an MBA from Royal Roads University in Victoria and a master’s certificate from the Schulich School of Business at York University.
Patrick Tower is a decisive, action-oriented leader with more than 20 years of leadership and management education, training and experience. During his military career in the Canadian Army, he was awarded the Star of Military Valour, second only to the Victoria Cross, by the Governor General for his leadership, courage and extreme devotion to duty under intense enemy fire. In an organization that prides itself in producing exceptional leaders, Patrick Tower was recognized as being one of the best. During 32 months of operational service in Afghanistan and Bosnia-Herzegovina, he consistently demonstrated the ability to excel in the most stressful environments, despite seemingly impossible odds, making sound and timely life or death decisions. In short he is the prime example of a front line leader who has led others under the most extreme circumstances and can talk from personal experience.
Patrick’s leadership in battle was featured in the best selling books Fifteen Days by Christie Blatchford and Contact Charlie by Chris Wattie. Patrick was chosen as both The Globe and Mail Nation Builder of the Year and Maclean’s Magazine Newsmaker of the Year for 2006.
Since retiring from the military, Patrick has successfully leveraged the skills he developed while serving his country to help organizations make positive business impacts and gains. As the head of leadership development for a major international energy corporation he has designed, implemented and delivered highly regarded leadership, management, and operations excellence programs at all levels within the organization. This included a human factors approach to tactical execution that revolutionized frontline oilfield operations.
Patrick Tower is a natural leader and first class facilitator, who possesses the experience and professionalism required to achieve operational and corporate excellence and the ability to pass this on to others.
He has an MBA from Royal Roads University in Victoria and a master’s certificate from the Schulich School of Business at York University.