Deputy Mayor Kenneth Fowler — who is a boilermaker/engineering specialist by trade — has been nominated in the apprenticeship category of the Premier’s Awards as a boilermaker apprenticeship, 2001 Humber College alumnus.
Launched in 1992, the Premier’s Awards honour college graduates across Ontario in recognition of outstanding career accomplishments after graduation while being actively involved in the community.
Graduates are nominated in seven distinct categories: apprenticeship, business, community services, creative arts and design, health sciences, recent graduate and technology.
“I was contacted earlier this summer from the college’s Alumni board. I was incredibly humbled that they chose me,” said Fowler.
“It has been 25 years since I first attended Humber College. I am sincerely grateful that my teachers took the time to imbue me with the foundational skills that helped me achieve what I have today. The Premier’s Awards are a reflection on the quality of education in this province, and I am honoured to represent Humber as this is where I began my journey,” he said.
According to Humber, Fowler was one of the first tradespeople in his local region to earn the interprovincial Red Seal boilermaker certification.
“Previously, when a certification was issued for a tradesperson, its standard was limited to the province that issued it," explained Fowler. "For those who meet the stringent standards, a Red Seal certification indicates that the tradesperson has acquired a level of education that makes them employable at a national level.”
Fowler explained that his expertise, which includes management and occupational health and safety experience, allows him to examine the concerns and issues brought to the town council with a multifaceted perspective.
“Having full-time employment as well as a council seat only reinforces my desire to serve my community as I walk the path they do daily,” he said.
When asked what he would say to youth who are interested in making an impact in their community, Fowler said, “Never let your start dictate your finish line. The trades are in high demand. Paid training, solid education, and the realization that you are creating infrastructures and more that will live well beyond your days. The tools to problem solve, think on your feet, and see things from a unique perspective will aid you no matter what path you choose to follow. You can become an agent of change and not only build but lead by example.”
The Premier’s Awards are given annually. They are administered by Colleges Ontario, the advocacy voice for the province’s 24 colleges. Award-winning comedian and bestselling author, James Cunningham, will be returning as the master of ceremonies for the 2023 Premier's Awards at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel on Monday, November 27, 2023, which will welcome over 800 guests and nominees.
“The thing that excites me the most about November is I will be representing Innisfil and creating new connections with other nominees who come from diverse backgrounds and skill sets,” Fowler said. “Knowledge is something you can give to every person you meet and still retain yourself. It’s a positive feedback loop as education is a gift that grows with each sharing.”
