“Their contributions embody the values and vision that we hold dear at NAIT”
What does it take to earn NAIT’s most prestigious award? Success is part of it – being among the best in one’s field, whatever that may be. But, more importantly, an honorary degree or diploma recognizes those who have made a commitment to make a difference.
“Their contributions in their respective fields embody the values and vision that we hold dear at NAIT,” says Peter Leclaire, vice-president, academic at NAIT. “Their dedication to excellence and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact serve as an inspiration to our entire academic community. We are honoured to recognize their accomplishments.”
This year, those accomplishments are attributed to Jason Carter (Graphic Communications ’01), Suzanne McAdam, Mark McNeill (Marketing ’82) and Arnold Rumbold.
"On behalf of NAIT, I congratulate our esteemed honorary degree recipients,” says Leclaire.
Here’s who they are and why the polytechnic is proud to include them as members of its own community.
Jason Carter
Honorary Bachelor of Technology
Who Carter is: Jason Carter’s name is synonymous with prominent works of art – primarily paintings and carvings – in which he focuses the “Indigenous lens” of his Cree heritage on landscapes and wildlife. His work, which sells internationally, is designed to inspire, amuse and offer optimism.
The impact he has made: In addition to modelling how a thriving business can be built on artistic creativity, Carter shares his talents with communities and charitable organizations. He receives numerous requests for donations each month, most of which are fulfilled. Carter has also volunteered time and effort for groups such as Spirit North, which connects Indigenous youth to sport, play and the outdoors.
Fascinating fact: Carter started painting professionally only to have something to hang on the walls for his first gallery showing, which featured his soapstone carvings.
“I try to create something that people want to have around them, that they feel good about, that changes their state of mind positively.”
– Jason Carter
Learn more about Jason Carter
Suzanne McAdam
Honorary Bachelor of Technology
Who McAdam is: For more than 30 years, Chief Warrant Officer Suzanne McAdam has been a driving force behind the efficacy and preparedness of medical services in the Canadian Armed Forces, at home and around the world.
The impact she has made: To ensure that military members are fully prepared for their roles, McAdam has sought to ensure thorough, rigorous training. This led her to spearhead and foster a relationship with NAIT’s Centre for Advanced Simulation – a connection she has enthusiastically maintained since 2016.
Fascinating fact: McAdam initially considered following her father into medicine but was enticed by a high school classmate’s stories of travel and adventure with the Forces.
“If you’re deploying people, you want what’s best for them. If you don’t send [them] out trained to the max … I don’t think we’re doing justice for our members, who could lose life or limb.”
– Suzanne McAdam
Learn more about Suzanne McAdam
Mark McNeill
Honorary Bachelor of Business Administration
Who McNeill is: Now president and CEO of the Stream-Flo Group of Companies, a global leader in wellhead technology and services, Mark McNeill started with the firm in 1979 as a machinist. He moved into sales following his time at NAIT, opening Stream-Flo offices around the world.
The impact he has made: In addition to growing the company to 1,200 employees, with a heavy emphasis on export, McNeill is focused on supporting communities that the company serves and that make its success possible. These include its own staff, the towns and cities in which it operates, and NAIT – a steady source of graduates that help Stream-Flo succeed.
Fascinating fact: Mark McNeill’s first placement involved establishing Stream-Flo in Indonesia, which accounts for a considerable portion of the company’s business to this day.
“Our guiding principle says you have to give back to your community.”
– Mark McNeill
Learn more about Mark McNeill
Arnold Rumbold
Honorary Electrical Installations Technology diploma
Who Rumbold is: Now retired, Arnold Rumbold had a long and successful career as journeyperson then master electrician, and ultimately as a self-employed estimator for electrical installations on large construction projects. His clients included major firms across Western Canada, keeping his skills in high demand.
The impact he has made: A patron of the trades, arts and community-building organizations, Rumbold, along with his wife Grace, has supported them with sincerity and enthusiasm. Beneficiaries include Camp HeHoHa, Edmonton Opera Association and NAIT, the latter in the form of bursaries and endowments.
Fascinating fact: Even as a kid, Rumbold was fascinated with electricity – teaching himself to turn a small motor into a generator for lights for his bicycle and even for the yard surrounding the family’s home in the northern Alberta forest.
“People worry about security of employment. I found security was within my own self.”
– Arnold Rumbold
Learn more about Arnold Rumbold