The PEGG
March 2002

Modern-Day Professional
With a Traditional Twist

BY BRONWEN STREMBISKI
Public Relations Coordinator

After 20 years in engineering, Bill Page, P.Eng., is just as passionate about his profession as he was when it began. Bill decided to become an engineer in high school after a chemistry teacher showed him a new world of possibilities.

In 1971, Bill received his bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering from the University of Alberta, followed by an MBA in 1975 and an LL.B. in 1988. Today the 52-year-old Edmonton resident is president of his own firm, Page Management Counsel Ltd., and also works for the law firm Ogilvie LLP.
When not working or volunteering, Bill enjoys most outdoor activities -- fishing, sailing, walking, etc. He also enjoys going to the symphony and theatre.

Aside from being an active APEGGA volunteer, Bill is busy in the community as director for the Compassion House Foundation and a canvasser for the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

As an engineer, how do you contribute to APEGGA?
Through my volunteer activities. I lead professional development seminars on ethics, contract management and intellectual property. I am also the co-chair of the ethics committee. I have played various roles in the past - continuing education program and facilitating planning sessions.

Why do you volunteer with APEGGA?
I get back much more than I put in; it's very satisfying. I believe that professionals should support their association. Besides which, I learn so much.

What value do you get from being an APEGGA volunteer?
Like I said, I learn a lot. Volunteering is also a great way to meet people and it's interesting. I get exposed to new ideas all the time.

What would you consider as a dream project, one that you would love to be involved in?
I already am involved with the Compassion House Foundation. I'd love to build a retreat for use by breast cancer patients while undergoing treatment.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Canada first (it's the best in the world). We also really enjoyed New Zealand, the U.K. and Switzerland.

What do you think the next hot trend will be in engineering?
Integrating roles so there is more of continuity between technologies - creating a "continuous learning" and "continuous development" approach.

What high-tech product could you not live without and why?
The pen and paper! It still works best for helping to think and be organized. Beyond that, my Palm Pilot with its modem, keyboard and camera attachments.