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Getting a Brief Look into the Perspective of Kryton’s CEO

Describe what you do in 10 words or less.

At Kryton we help our construction partners build dry and durable concrete structures using Krystol® technology.

Where is your hometown and how did it shape you as an individual?

I was born in Rosetown, SK but I grew up in Tsawwassen. It was a small town and we were near the U.S. border and back in those days we could just ride our bicycles back and forth to the candy store, called “Ben’s.” I suppose I grew up feeling quite comfortable travelling internationally!

What was your first job?

Sales clerk in a video store in Richmond (if you exclude labelling pails and sweeping floors at Kryton as a kid).

What is the most important lesson you learned from your parents?

There are so many. You never realize just how many until you start to cite them in conversations. “OMG, I am turning into my parents!” But if I had to pick one, it would be: Believe nothing that you hear, and only half of what you see.

Why did you join the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade?

My father was already a Member. I joined in 1991 and joined the Small Business Council committee. I was interested in learning more about export and international trade from other Members.

How do you think our region will be different 10 years from now?

There is significant uncertainty about the long-term impacts of COVID-19, which may drive much of the change. Aside from that, much depends on the political will exerted. Our population will certainly be greater in 10 years. I’d like to believe that our transportation systems will be greatly improved so people can dependably and efficiently move throughout our region. The same goes for goods. It would be great to see the better movement of goods through improved roadways, ports, and rail systems to help our businesses be competitive with global suppliers.

What were you like in high school?

I didn’t really belong to any particular group, but I got along with all of them.

What is the most difficult thing you have ever done?

Rationalize out over 100 products to pare down to 12 key ones in 2004. My father thought it was idiotic (Of course he invented many of the products I discontinued. I could understand his angst.)

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I ride a motorcycle.

If you could be anywhere else right now, where would you be?

Vancouver is the best city on earth, so no matter where I travel I like coming back home. My favorite vacation was hanging out in Tuscany for a month with friends and family

What qualities make someone successful?

Being authentic, competitive with humility, naturally curious, striving for being different each year.

What is one “life hack” that you think everyone should know?

Be yourself.

If you could have lunch with one famous person, who would it be? (And what would you ask them?)

Hatshepsut. She was the first female pharaoh in Ancient Egypt during the 18th dynasty (circa 1473-1458 BC). I would be interested to know what and who inspired her to be bold enough to buck the normal tradition of men only kings and how she managed those relationships as she later ruled alongside her step son.

If you could witness any event of the past, present, or future, what would it be?

Armstrong walking on the moon. Because it goes to show that a singular vision can be achieved with a team of dedicated people with a very clear goal.

What is the secret to happiness?

Laugh.

Excerpted From Sounding Board