UP Alumni & Associates in Manitoba, Inc.

Author: upaamb-infocomm

  • UPAA-MB Congratulates Our Registered Architect, Dennis Flores

    UPAA-MB Congratulates Our Registered Architect, Dennis Flores

    UPAA-MB is committed to promoting professional development and educational advancement among our members and our community.  We would like to congratulate our very own Dennis Flores for achieving his professional designation as a Registered Architect and for becoming a Member of Manitoba Association of Architects.
     
    Dennis Flores with fellow members of Manitoba Association of Architects 2012. Photo courtesy of Winnipeg Free Press.
     
    Dennis has a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture from the Philippines.  Before migrating to Winnipeg, he has worked around South East Asia and United States.  His experience included working on consultant and client sides of his profession.  At present, he is working on the construction side.
     
                           
                                                                  Our architect at work. Photos courtesy of Daryle Malchuk.
     

     1) When did you arrive in Winnipeg? How was your experience as a new immigrant?

     We arrived in August 2004.  As an optimist and coming from a land, where the people are resilient to adversity, it was easy for me adjusting to a new life in a place unlike home.  Winnipeg in general is a smaller, friendlier, safer and has a slower pace of life than in the Philippines.  The most challenging aspect for me in adjusting was looking for the job that I would really love.

    2) One of the challenges that new immigrants face is getting their first Canadian work experience and reference.  Can you share to us how did you get your first job? And was it related to your Philippine educational background or work experience?

     I remember calling all the architectural firms in the yellow pages and leaving them a voicemail expressing my willingness to work for them pro bono for 2 weeks, just to let them gauge my professional capacity.  I got a call back after 13 hours and got hired the following day.  I am fortunate to land my first job in Canada as an Architectural Technologist.

     3) What made you decide to pursue your professional designation?

     The challenge of getting it and the vision that I can accomplish it.

     4) What are the processes you have to go through in order to become a registered architect?  How long did it take?

     The first step was to get my academic credentials accredited by my profession’s corresponding accreditation body, which is the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (www.cacb.ca).  After getting certified, I had to apply as an intern member with the Manitoba Architects Association (www.mbarchitects.org).  Upon completion of the mandatory hours of experience, I was allowed to write the exams for the Architects Registration (www.exac.ca).

     It took me more than 7 years to become a registered architect.

     5)  What advice would you like to give other Filipino architects, who are planning to migrate to Winnipeg?

     Preparation.  More preparation always leads to better execution.  This is why I always encourage friends to start their career path while they’re still in the Philippines.

     

     

  • TUKLAW – “Pakita Mo ang Snake Mo!”

    TUKLAW – “Pakita Mo ang Snake Mo!”

    Summer is almost here which means it’s the perfect time for snake viewing again. As UPAA-MB would not let this

    opportunity to pass, the Membership Committee organized a trip to the Narcisse Snake Dens located at Narcisse, Manitoba last April 29, 2012.

    This winter home of the world-famous Red-Sided Garter Snakes is about an hour drive from Downtown Winnipeg. Members had fun learning more about the snakes as they went along the trails while actually adoring the beautiful day and nature.

    It is not yet too late to visit the dens! You may click here to have more information about the place and snake activity. Most importantly, keep posted for this is just the start of UPAA-MB activities for Summer 2012.