Today, André Brin serves as CEO of WTC Winnipeg with a clear vision: to position Manitoba on the global stage and help Manitoba businesses seize international opportunities.

But long before becoming active in Manitoba’s business ecosystem and a trusted voice within the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), André was simply someone driven by curiosity, ambition, and a desire to make a meaningful impact.

From being born in Nigeria to building a career in media, hockey, and now international trade, his path has been anything but conventional. Yet one thread connects every chapter of his story: a passion for learning and bringing people together.

In this conversation, André reflects on the experiences that shaped his leadership style, why he believes international trade is ultimately about people, and what excites him most about Manitoba’s future.

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Before becoming CEO of WTC Winnipeg, who was André Brin?

That’s a great place to start because many people don’t know that my story actually begins in Africa.

I was born in Nigeria. My father was a language teacher from a very small town in Saskatchewan who believed that education could open the world. Because of his career, our family lived in Nigeria, the Northwest Territories, Algeria, Nova Scotia and eventually Winnipeg.

Growing up that way gave me something I only truly appreciated later: it made the world feel accessible. Different cultures and perspectives weren’t abstract concepts; they were part of everyday life.

Professionally, I didn’t imagine I would end up in international trade. I was fascinated by communications and even considered becoming a lawyer because I dreamed of representing hockey players as a player agent. Instead, I found myself working in media with Radio-Canada before moving into a leadership role with Conseil Jeunesse Provincial (Manitoba’s Francophone Youth Council).

Then one opportunity changed everything.

After volunteering at the 1999 World Junior Hockey Championship, I joined Hockey Canada. That experience became a defining chapter of my career and ultimately led me to where I am today.

Your career spans media, youth leadership, professional sports, and now international trade. Looking back, what connects all those experiences?

Every career move I’ve made started with curiosity. I never accepted a role simply because it was the logical next step. I accepted opportunities because they challenged me and allowed me to learn something new.

My father gave me advice that has stayed with me throughout my career.

He used to say, “Imagine you had all the money in the world. Would you still want to do that job?”

That became my compass. I wanted work that excited me every morning—not just financially, but intellectually and personally.

Looking back, every role taught me something I still use today. None of those experiences were wasted.

Many people associate you with collaborative leadership. How would you describe your leadership philosophy?

I’ve never believed there is only one way to lead.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that leaders have to lead authentically. You can’t simply copy someone else’s style.

For me, leadership starts with listening.

It also means creating space for others to lead. One of the hardest lessons for any leader is learning to let go. As you grow into new responsibilities, you have to trust others to own the work you once did yourself.

People also need permission to make mistakes.

My father always used to say, “Show me someone who never makes mistakes, and I’ll show you someone who isn’t trying.”

That idea has stayed with me. If we’re learning, we’re growing. And growth always involves a few mistakes along the way.

Hockey was a major chapter of your career. What lessons from sports still influence the way you lead today?

Sport teaches you that success is never about one individual.

I’ve always viewed organizations as teams—not families. Teams evolve. People come and go. What matters is ensuring every person understands the value they bring.

The best sports organizations aren’t successful because people simply work hard.

They’re successful because they have repeatable systems, sustainable processes, and a culture where everyone understands their role.

That’s exactly what we’re trying to build at WTC Winnipeg.

What attracted you to WTC Winnipeg and international trade?

Initially, it wasn’t trade itself that attracted me—it was business.

I’ve always been fascinated by how businesses grow, adapt, and solve problems.

When I joined WTC Winnipeg as Director of Communications, I became incredibly curious about international trade. I asked questions constantly because I believe good communications begin with understanding the business behind the organization.

The more I learned, the more I realized the incredible potential Manitoba businesses have internationally.

Today, that’s what motivates me: helping Manitoba earn its own gold medals by creating international opportunities for our businesses.

What do you enjoy most about leading WTC Winnipeg?

I love meeting people.

Every entrepreneur has a story, an idea, and a challenge they’re trying to solve.

I enjoy bringing people together around a table and asking one simple question:

“How can we make this better?”

Whether it’s working with businesses, governments, or ecosystem partners, I’m energized by finding solutions that help Manitoba grow.

Helping businesses succeed internationally—even indirectly—is one of the most rewarding parts of my role.

Is there a Manitoba business story that particularly inspires you?

There are so many.

SkipTheDishes is an incredible example because it reminds us that world-class ideas can start right here on the Prairies.

More recently, companies like Sapphire Springs, New Flyer Industries, Peerless Garments, Cypher Environmental and many of the entrepreneurs we’ve featured through WTC Talks continue to inspire me.

What they all have in common is ambition.

They think globally while staying proudly rooted in Manitoba.

That’s something worth celebrating.

Many businesses see international trade as intimidating. What would you tell them?

I’d remind them that starting a business was intimidating too.

International trade isn’t about flipping a switch overnight.

It’s about learning new skills, building trusted relationships, and taking one step at a time.

Fortunately, businesses don’t have to do it alone. Organizations like WTC Winnipeg and the Trade Commissioner Service exist to guide companies through that journey.

Ultimately, if you’re solving a problem for Manitobans, there’s a good chance you’re solving a problem for someone else in the world too.

Looking ahead, what excites you most about Manitoba’s future?

I think we’re entering a pivotal moment.

Market diversification and stronger interprovincial trade have become national priorities, and I believe that’s creating tremendous opportunities for Manitoba businesses.

At WTC Winnipeg, our role is to connect Manitoba companies with opportunities around the world through our global network of more than 300 World Trade Centers.

Trade is built on relationships.

The stronger those relationships become, the stronger Manitoba’s economy becomes.

Finally, if you could leave Manitoba entrepreneurs with one message, what would it be?

Just do it!

Don’t wait until everything feels perfect.

Learn. Ask questions. Meet people. Explore new markets.

The best time to diversify may have been twenty years ago.

The second-best time is today.

Every step you take toward international growth is a step toward building a stronger, more resilient business.

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Looking ahead

If there is one lesson that emerges from this conversation, it is that careers and leadership are rarely built alone.

Throughout André Brin’s journey, curiosity has opened doors, but people have shaped the path. A father who encouraged him to pursue work that would inspire him. Mentors who supported his growth. Teammates who taught him the value of collaboration. Colleagues who earned his trust. Entrepreneurs whose ambition continues to fuel his optimism for Manitoba’s future. Every chapter of his career has been influenced by the people he met and the relationships he chose to build.

Perhaps that is what defines André’s leadership most. It isn’t rooted in authority or titles, but in people. He listens. He creates space for others to lead. He believes that organizations succeed when talented people are trusted, empowered, and encouraged to learn from one another.

Behind his approach lies decades of experience in communications, leadership, sport, and international trade. Yet, throughout our conversation, it became clear that what matters most to him is not simply achieving results, it is helping people and organizations reach their full potential.

In many ways, this is also what international trade is about. Beyond markets, strategies, and opportunities, trade is ultimately a human enabler built on relationships, trust, and collaboration.

If this conversation has sparked your curiosity about international trade, inspired you to explore new opportunities, or simply made you want to learn more about WTC Winnipeg and the WTCA network, we invite you to listen to our first podcast episode Beyond Manitoba Borders, that will be hosted by our CEO, André Brin!

A local entrepreneur is blazing trails in Manitoba’s innovation community.  

Matthew Gale is the founder and CEO of PolySense Solutions, a Winnipeg-based technology company that focuses on real-time monitoring and asset management for laboratories and hospitals.

On March 18, Gale shared some insights at Devil May Care Brewing Company for a WTC Talks event sponsored by Bioscience Association Manitoba and Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. Hosted by World Trade Centre Winnipeg, WTC Talks is a monthly gathering that aims to connect the business community and share stories of trade and growth.

With more than 15 years of experience in engineering and leading research teams, Gale saw firsthand how manual processes and less-than-optimal systems could lead to inefficiency and unexpected expenses.

“There’s a pretty big gap in the market with easy, simple, reliable systems that you can set up and monitor your lab — so we saw that and jumped on it,” Gale said.

PolySense Solutions incorporated in 2018 — combining Gale’s professional background as a mechanical engineering technologist with his interest in electronics — but he didn’t leave his full-time job until 2021.

With 15 years’ experience in engineering and managing research teams, he knew first-hand the frustration of unexpected equipment breakdowns and tedious manual checks. With that in mind, he was determined to create a real-time equipment communication system that uses smart technology to help streamline these operational challenges. The system combines hardware and software components to allow organizations to effectively monitor labs and deal with maintenance, calibration and compliance.

“I made a pretty simple prototype and it was working. Fast-forward and I was brought in as a consultant to develop a few more for a company. Then we decided other people might want this,” he said.

“We turned it into a product and made our first sale probably in 2019 or so. The rest is history. It was just a problem that was driving me nuts, so I decided to solve it.”

Looking back, Gale always knew he wanted to start his own business. He gleaned inspiration from his uncle, a successful entrepreneur in Winnipeg who launched a company called Dimetec.

“Growing up, I got to see his journey from starting a business all the way to being very successful,” he said. “As a kid, I don’t think I really realized it, but looking back I think that really did inspire me to take this journey. … I think I’ve always had that entrepreneur bug.”

In the early days of PolySense, Gale took the time to speak with people in the industry, listen to their feedback and learn what they were looking for. Even though the company might not have gained sales right away, they gained knowledge that helped them succeed later on.

And that success translated to a growth in business south of the border, where they continue to lease their sensors to customers for a subscription fee.

“In Canada, there’s just not as much private biotech up here. Pretty much any laboratory in Canada is public. It’s either in a hospital or it’s publicly funded somehow, so it’s harder to find the decision-maker. It’s harder to get approved for budgets. There’s a number of reasons why it’s just more difficult for us to sell in Canada,” he said.

“But in the U.S., if we can find a laboratory and find the lab manager for that lab, if we can get them on the phone and we can show them what we have, it’s almost a guaranteed sale. It’s just significantly easier to do business in the U.S. for us because of our product.”

At the same time, Gale shared the benefits of running a business based in Manitoba, even when a large percentage of sales are outside the province. Looking ahead, he hopes to expand into Europe within the next few years.

“Manitoba’s home. I’ve got family here. All our employees are here. I love Manitoba,” said Gale, who recently received the Emerging Bioscience Company of the Year at the Bioscience Association of Manitoba Awards.

“There’s a lot of different programs in Manitoba that I’m thankful for, especially the small business venture capital tax credit. I don’t know that PolySense would here without that program. … Another thing that I think is interesting about Manitoba is that it’s a smaller community so it seems there’s always connections.”

If he could share some insight with his younger self, he’d offer some simple advice: Don’t give up.

“The first couple of years weren’t easy,” he said. “There were a lot of days where you wonder ‘Should I get a job like a normal person?’ And I think I’m happy that I didn’t listen to that voice. I think you just have to power through the first couple years — and then it gets fun.”

Manitoba’s collaborative community continues to be a driving force behind one of the largest independent bus manufacturers in the world.

Paul Soubry, recently retired president and CEO of NFI Group, shared his insights during the final WTC Talks event of the season.

Hosted by World Trade Centre Winnipeg, WTC Talks is a monthly gathering that celebrates Manitoba entrepreneurs and creates connections within the business community by sharing stories of trade and growth. The June 17 event — supported by Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters and DPD Software — took place at La Roca.

Soubry led NFI Group from 2008 to early 2026, steering the company to become a recognized worldwide leader in bus and motor coach manufacturing while also leading the way in zero-emission mobility.

Reflecting on his early years, Soubry always knew that he wanted to be involved in the  business world.

“I never saw myself as an entrepreneur but more operating and running a business — so that’s what I did.”

The company itself launched in 1930 and evolved over the years by acquiring multiple other businesses, including Manitoba manufacturer Motor Coach Industries. Today, NFI Group employs about 9,500 people, with around 3,200 based here in Winnipeg.

“We went from a transit bus business to one of the largest independent global bus makers on the planet,” said Soubry, who also spent 24 years with StandardAero.

During his time in the driver’s seat for NFI Group, Soubry navigated many ups and downs that include leading the company through the pandemic when they refinanced eight times in two years.

“We went through hell with COVID and supply chain. We lost half a billion U.S. dollars in 26 months and we went through $680 million of cash,” he said. “The whole dynamic of COVID screwed up the way you build something and the entire supply chain.”

More recently, the company has tackled tariff-related challenges, which can be particularly tricky when multiple border-crossings are involved throughout the manufacturing process. As an example, Soubry said they have engines that are made in New York and shipped to Canada. After that, the engines are assembled in a bus that goes back to the United States.

“Now it’s got tariffs on the whole thing again,” he said. “So the cost of the bus has gone through the roof, which then drove all the financial turmoil.”

The industry continues to evolve, with a current shift towards the electrification of buses. Soubry said that nearly half the buses they sold last year were either electric or fuel cell electric.

“We can actually impact the environment. If you take one diesel bus off the road and put one electric on, it’s a dramatic impact on the environment.”

Looking ahead, the future is bright for NFI Group, which recently launched a new Winnipeg-based manufacturing facility that is building buses from start to finish for Canadian distribution.

“Now we’re building full Canadian buses for Canadian customers with Canadians here in Winnipeg, which is great.”

Even though he has now handed over the reins, Soubry continues to be involved as an advisor at NFI Group while also sitting on several boards. Based on his broad experience, he appreciates the unique nature of Manitoba’s business community, which tends to collaborate in ways that might not happen in a bigger city.

“I’ve had the opportunity of probably being in about 90 countries and I’ve worked in lots of places, but what we have here is this little melting pot where people fundamentally give a shit about our community. That’s part of the magic here,” he said.

“That’s what’s so cool about Manitoba — if you really want to be involved, it’s available. The connections are certainly an advantage to being a smaller community.”

When people meet Yewande Olubowale today, they see a knowledgeable Trade Advisor and CITP-certified professional helping Manitoba businesses navigate international markets with confidence.

What they may not see is the remarkable journey that brought her here: a journey marked by resilience, continuous learning, leadership, and a deep commitment to helping others succeed.

We sat down with Yewande to learn more about her story, what drives her, and why she is passionate about supporting Manitoba businesses.

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Before becoming a Trade Advisor, who was Yewande?

I grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, one of the most vibrant and fast-paced cities in the world. Growing up there taught me how to be adaptable and think on my feet.

I was also the first child in my family, with younger siblings who looked up to me. From an early age, I felt a sense of responsibility. Success was never just about me—it was about setting an example for others.

Those two experiences—growing up in a dynamic city and being the eldest child—shaped my sense of accountability and leadership.

What values continue to guide you today?

Accountability is probably the most important value for me.

I believe in leading by example. I know there are people who may look up to me, whether they are family members, colleagues, or others around me. I want my actions to reflect the values I believe in.

When people think of me, I hope they remember someone who was trustworthy, accountable, and genuine.

Who had the greatest influence on the person you have become?

Without hesitation, I would say my parents.

They didn’t have everything, but they were intentional about what they gave us. They believed strongly in education and hard work, and they demonstrated those values every day.

Watching them work tirelessly to provide for our family taught me that education matters, effort matters, and that growth requires commitment.

Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my life.

Was there a defining moment that changed the direction of your life?

Yes.

One of the most challenging periods of my life was losing my husband during the same time that I was preparing to relocate to Canada with my children.

I suddenly found myself navigating grief, single parenthood, immigration, and rebuilding my career — all at once.

There were moments when I didn’t have a roadmap. I wasn’t always sure what came next. But I kept moving forward.

Looking back, I realize that experience taught me resilience. It also taught me to focus on what truly matters.

How did that experience shape who you are today?

It taught me empathy.

When you’ve gone through difficult experiences, you begin to see people differently. You recognize that everyone is carrying something, even if you can’t see it.

Today, whether I’m interacting with a client, colleague, or friend, I try to pay attention to the person behind the conversation.

That perspective influences how I build relationships and how I support businesses.

What brought you to Manitoba?

I arrived in Winnipeg in 2021 as a student.

One of the reasons I chose Manitoba was because my younger sister was already living here. Having family nearby helped provide a soft landing as I started this new chapter.

Like many newcomers, I was building a new life while also adapting to a new environment and culture.

How did you discover the world of international trade?

Before moving to Canada, I worked in banking in Nigeria, specifically within an international trade department.

My educational background was actually in biochemistry, but I became fascinated by international trade because it combined analysis, problem-solving, risk management, and global business.

I realized that trade wasn’t simply about transactions. It required critical thinking, understanding markets, evaluating risks, and helping businesses move forward.

That challenge attracted me.

When I moved to Manitoba, I discovered the World Trade Centre Winnipeg and saw an opportunity to support businesses from a different perspective — not from the banking side, but from the business side.

What do you enjoy most about working with Manitoba businesses?

The people.

Working with businesses has been eye-opening because behind every company is a person with ambitions, concerns, challenges, and goals.

I enjoy learning about their journeys and understanding where they are trying to go.

Every business is different. Every product is different. Every situation is unique.

That means there is never a one-size-fits-all solution. I enjoy finding creative ways to support clients and helping them identify the next step forward.

Is there a moment that reminded you why your work matters?

There are many.

One example involved preparing market intelligence for a business. After receiving the report, the client shared that it provided exactly the information they needed to move forward with confidence.

Moments like that are rewarding because they show that your work is making a real difference.

Another example happened after I met a business owner at an event. During our conversation, funding for equipment came up.

After returning to the office, I couldn’t stop thinking about the discussion. I started researching and discovered a funding opportunity that had opened only the day before.

I immediately reached out because I knew it could help them.

Those moments remind me that sometimes impact comes from simply paying attention and following through.

Many businesses see international trade as intimidating. What would you tell them?

International trade can absolutely feel complex.

There are regulations, tariffs, changing market conditions, and many risks to consider.

That’s why continuous learning is so important.

The fundamentals of trade may remain similar, but the information changes constantly. New policies emerge. Markets shift. Border processes evolve.

Businesses that invest in learning and stay informed are much better positioned to succeed.

The good news is that Manitoba has an incredible ecosystem of organizations, advisors, training programs, and resources designed to help businesses navigate these challenges, including government-supported export programs that offer funding, training, and market-entry support to help companies expand into new regions and global markets.

What opportunities excite you most for Manitoba businesses today?

I think Manitoba businesses are in a strong position.

We have an ecosystem that genuinely wants businesses to succeed. There are organizations, funding programs, trade commissioners, industry associations, and support networks available to help companies grow.

I’m also excited about diversification.

Businesses are increasingly exploring opportunities beyond traditional markets and taking advantage of trade agreements and international partnerships.

Through the World Trade Centre Association network, Manitoba companies can connect with opportunities and relationships around the world.

That’s incredibly powerful.

You recently earned your CITP designation. What does that mean to you?

The CITP designation represents a commitment to excellence and continuous learning.

The process gave me a stronger framework for supporting businesses and strengthened the way I approach trade conversations.

I also see it as an opportunity to share knowledge.

The more trade professionals and business leaders understand international trade best practices, the better positioned Manitoba businesses will be for long-term success.

That’s why I enjoy speaking about the designation and encouraging others to explore professional development opportunities in trade.

How are you continuing to grow, both professionally and personally?

Professionally, I’m always learning.

I continue to read, stay informed about developments in international trade, and learn from colleagues and industry experts.

Personally, one of my most important goals is being the best mother I can be.

I want my children to know they can always come to me, be vulnerable, and share what they’re experiencing.

I’m also intentionally building relationships and strengthening my support network. Being an immigrant can be challenging, and I’ve learned the importance of surrounding yourself with people you trust — people who help you grow personally and professionally.

What impact do you hope to leave on the people you work with?

I hope people see diligence, honesty, and trust.

Whether someone knows me as a colleague, client, partner, or friend, I want them to know they can rely on me.

I want to be someone who contributes meaningful value, whether that’s through trade expertise, encouragement, or simply being present when support is needed.

Finally, what would you say to a Manitoba entrepreneur considering international growth?

Take advantage of the opportunities available to you.

Build relationships. Ask questions. Keep learning.

You don’t have to navigate international trade alone.

There is an entire ecosystem of people and organizations ready to help you explore new markets, reduce risks, and grow with confidence.

The world is full of opportunities—and sometimes all it takes is the courage to take the first step.

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Looking ahead

From Lagos to Winnipeg, Yewande’s story is one of resilience, empathy, a passion for learning, and a commitment to helping others succeed. Today, she brings those same values to supporting Manitoba businesses as they explore opportunities beyond borders.

Ready to enter a new market? Connect with Yewande and start the conversation.

In May, Milèna Audino, Associate Trade Advisor, traded prairies for skyscrapers as she spent the month living and working in New York City.

While there, Milèna worked remotely from the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) offices in Lower Manhattan. Between new routines, long commutes, reconnecting with friends, and building new relationships, her time in NYC offered a firsthand look at how global connections shape both personal and professional opportunities.

Now back in Winnipeg, Milèna reflects on her experience and what she learned from being immersed in “The City That Never Sleeps.”

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What brought you to New York City?

Adventure and change, honestly.

An opportunity to stay in New York came up and I immediately said yes. WTC Winnipeg was really supportive and allowed me to work remotely, which made this whole experience possible.

I think I just crave change sometimes, and I’d also never been to New York before!

What surprised you most?

How big everything is.

I knew New York had five boroughs, but I didn’t realize each one feels like its own city. Everything is just so much farther than I expected. A “close” commute here can easily be 45 minutes, and that kind of long commute is very normalized.

The other thing that surprised me was how friendly everyone is. New York has this reputation for being fast and intense, but I found people incredibly welcoming.

There’s also a strong sense of community, especially when it comes to their sports teams. I was in the subway the night the Knicks made it to the finals, and everyone was chanting. You could really feel the energy.

You spent part of the month working from the WTCA office in NYC. What was that experience like?

Everyone at WTCA was very welcoming, and I had the chance to meet the team and join them for lunch when I first got here.

One thing I realized as I spent more time there is that every World Trade Center operates differently depending on the team, structure, and type of work being done. Going into it, I think I expected things to be a bit more similar, but it really showed me how different organizations can be. Even though we’re all part of the same global network, every office has its own dynamic and way of operating.

How does the WTCA network help Manitoba businesses?

The biggest thing is access.

If a Manitoba company wants to enter a new market, find distributors, explore suppliers, or connect internationally, the network creates introductions that would otherwise take a long time to build.

Recently, I worked with a fashion company from Paris that wanted to explore opportunities in Canada. Winnipeg wasn’t necessarily the best fit, so I connected them with WTC Vancouver.

What’s really cool is that they kept in touch with me afterward, so I got to see what happened next and how that initial introduction helped move things forward.

Without those introductions, businesses might send hundreds of emails and hope someone replies.

The WTCA network makes those introductions more credible and opens doors faster.

Why are international relationships so important right now?

Things change all the time. Tariffs change, borders change, markets change.

Having relationships internationally helps businesses stay informed and manage risk. It helps with things like navigating borders, understanding regulations, preventing issues before they happen, and just having support when things shift.

I think a lot of it comes down to risk management and economic security.

Did this experience change how you think about global collaboration?

Definitely. I kept thinking about how cool it would be if the WTCA created more exchange opportunities between offices.

We have WTCs in major cities around the world, and I think there’s a lot we could learn from each other. A month felt like the right amount of time because after the first couple of weeks, you really start understanding the environment.

You learn how another office works, understand a different market, and bring that experience back.

I think there’s a lot of potential there.

Outside of work, what was your favourite NYC memory?

Oh my, there are so many.

I won the Broadway lottery and saw Aladdin, so that was pretty cool. I also spent time with close friends from university who now live in New York, and I even made new friends along the way.

But honestly, one of the biggest takeaways was realizing how global friendships become.

You meet people somewhere, everyone moves around, and all of a sudden, you have connections in different places all around the world.

I think that’s really special.

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Milèna’s month in The Big Apple was more than just a remote work experience. It was a chance to explore a new environment, learn from a different market, and see firsthand how valuable a global network can be.

Through the WTCA network, Manitoba businesses have access to those same connections.

Interested in learning more? Book an appointment with a trade advisor today.

A Winnipeg business is gaining momentum after building a method to simplify processes in the construction industry.

David Peters is the founder and CEO of ConstructionClock, an app that makes it easier for construction companies to track time, manage projects and grow their business.

On May 13 at Low Life Barrel House, Peters gave an inside glimpse at his entrepreneurial journey during a WTC Talks event, sponsored by Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. Hosted by World Trade Centre Winnipeg, WTC Talks is a monthly gathering that celebrates Manitoba entrepreneurs and creates connections within the business community by sharing stories of trade and growth.

Peters launched ConstructionClock in 2022 after spending nearly two decades in the construction industry as a building contractor across Western Canada. Since then, ConstructionClock has grown to employ more than 30 people and work with upwards of 3,000 companies across the globe — and the local business continues to expand both at home and abroad.

Reflecting on his younger years, Peters recalls doing poorly in school as a teenager. When his dad asked the 16-year-old if he’d like to build a house with him, the business-minded teen didn’t hesitate.

“I dropped out of school and started at a window manufacturing company during the day. Then evenings and weekends, we built that house for the next two years,” he said. “I felt like I knew everything that there was to know about construction at 18, and I started contracting.”

As an exterior contractor, he kept busy doing roofing, siding and windows — that is, until he broke his back. Needing a new plan, he rented a desk at North Forge for $150 per month and wrote down three main peeves he had in the construction industry.

“One was estimating, one was labour tracking, and one was the safety aspect. So I spent some time on all three, and then I decided to do roofing estimating because I thought I could build a calculation engine that can solve this. I went out and started talking to roofing companies and we built an app,” he said. “It flopped. It needed tons of work.”

From there, he decided to shift his focus to labour tracking and developed an app that can automatically clock in crews and instantly export to payroll.

“I decided to forego what we had invested in there, and then I had to start from scratch on something else,” he said. “It was the best decision we had made.”

As the business began to get bigger, Peters faced decisions to facilitate that growth.

“When you’re an early-stage tech company in a place like Winnipeg, there’s a tremendous amount of trade-offs that you need to make. You can’t go out and hire the best people because you are not a name they even recognize, so they’re not going to leave their company and come work for you,” he said.

“I think one of the reasons we became successful is because I made bets on people early on that were coming out of the University of Manitoba who wanted to work for a tech company. So I hired them and then I gave them the space to develop.”

After a few years in operation, more than 80 per cent of their revenue now comes from the United States — but they hope to change that.

It came as a positive surprise when a company in Australia discovered ConstructionClock’s app on the App Store and became a valued customer. Based on that success, Peters decided to do a marketing blitz in Australia in early 2026.

“They have a construction industry that’s absolutely booming,” he said. “In the first three months, we picked up 300 construction companies there.”

The team recently travelled to Australia for a trade show and landed their largest client yet, followed by even more connections. Another trade show unlocked potential opportunities in India.

Closer to home, Peters offers some advice for making a mark right here in Manitoba.

“The biggest thing for me in doing business in Manitoba is you have to relentlessly network. Had I not done that or had I been super introverted, I would not have been successful in Manitoba,” he said.

“It’s very much about building relationships here. Once you have those relationships, you can do really big things, as we’ve seen from some great businesses here.”

Looking ahead, he foresees more growth on the horizon for ConstructionClock — and he’ll need to find more talented team members to keep up with it.

“We can see ourselves getting to that point where we’re serving a million people around the world, and we’re tracking and paying construction workers globally,” he said.

In order to do so, they would need to bolster their workforce to about 500 people — an exponential growth from their current staff of about 35.

At the same time, he expressed gratitude for the investors that believed in him as well as for the provincial government’s Venture Capital Tax Credit.

“We would not be here today without that,” he added. “It was a game-changer for our business.”

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The next WTC Talks event will take place on June 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. at La Roca, 155 Smith St. The event, sponsored by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME), will feature the story of Paul Soubry from NFI Group Inc.

A month after moving into MoveMobility’s new facility, Carrie McDonald still finds herself taking a wrong turn now and then.

“I’m still trying to remember which door goes to where,” laughs the company’s Chief Administrative Officer.

After eight years with MoveMobility, it’s a problem she doesn’t mind having.

Not long ago, the company was running out of room. Employees were working elbow to elbow, with desks squeezed into every available corner. But as they started manufacturing Type II ambulances — compact, van-based emergency vehicles — it became clear that squeezing people in wasn’t a long-term solution.

This spring, MoveMobility officially moved into its new 60,000-square-foot facility in CentrePort Canada, more than three times the size of its previous location. The -million investment marks a major milestone for the Manitoba company, which designs and manufactures wheelchair-accessible vehicles, ambulances, and mobile medical units that help organizations improve access to healthcare and transportation.

We sat down with Carrie to talk about this significant milestone, the company’s growth, what it means for Manitoba, and how the team is preparing to expand into new markets.

As someone who has watched this company grow firsthand, what does this milestone mean to you personally, and what will it allow MoveMobility to do next?

For me personally, it means we have the opportunity to help even more people — helping them get where they need to go and access the healthcare they need.

There’s an ambulance shortage across North America. Communities are feeling the impact. People call 911 and sometimes there isn’t an ambulance available. That’s literally a life-and-death issue, so knowing we can be part of the solution makes me incredibly proud.

From a company perspective, this investment reflects confidence in our team and in the opportunities ahead. We have the people and capabilities to continue growing, bringing new products to market, and entering new markets.

What does this expansion mean for Manitoba and Manitobans?

I hope Manitobans are proud that something being built right here is making a real difference for communities across Canada.

Growth also means more job opportunities. We’re continuing to hire and build a skilled workforce, and at the same time, we’re helping put Manitoba on the map by showing what companies here can do.

Who are some of the people, organizations, or partners that helped make this expansion possible?

Oh, there’s a lot of them! CentrePort Canada has been excellent — I’ve never been this involved with a business park before, but they go above and beyond. You can reach out to anyone on the team, and they’re always happy to make introductions for you.

World Trade Centre Winnipeg has been great too, whether it’s Market Intelligence, answering questions related to funding opportunities, or connecting us international trade training, like FITTskills.

The province has been there as well. Elected officials have listened to us throughout our journey and provided support.

Really, it was a group effort. It took a lot of people.

In 2024, the Manitoba government provided .3 million in grant funding to support MoveMobility’s expansion at CentrePort.

You just completed the Feasibility of International Trade FITTskills course through the CME cohort. What were your biggest takeaways, and how has it changed the way you think about exporting?

FITTskills gave us a much better understanding of everything we need to think about before entering a new market. When you start an export journey, you don’t know what you don’t know. There’s so much out there, and especially right now, with tariffs, it can be overwhelming when you start to look into it.

What it’s really done is help us build a list of everything we need to understand before we commit to entering an export market. Even if it does nothing more than create a series of checklists of things we need to take care of, that’s going to be extremely helpful.

One of our assignments was secondary research. We had a couple of markets in mind, and I was surprised they got eliminated just from doing that research. It didn’t cost anything, it probably took 30 minutes, and it was enough to tell me, “Okay, this one doesn’t really make sense.”

In partnership with the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT), World Trade Centre Winnipeg delivers FITTskills—an internationally recognized, instructor-led trade training program that equips professionals with the practical skills and credentials to compete in global markets. Carrie completed the course through a cohort offered in collaboration with Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME).

Earlier this year, you won the Innovation in Trade Award at the DARE Innovation Awards. What did that recognition mean to you?

Honestly, it was a complete surprise. I didn’t even realize it was an individual award — I thought it was for the company, so it made the moment even more surprising.

I remember looking at the other nominees in our category and thinking, we don’t have a chance. When they called my name, I just kept thinking, how did I win this?

What I really appreciated, though, was that the award recognized creativity in trade. I’m more of a creative person — not a numbers or facts-and-figures person — so the fact that it recognized trade as an area where creative minds are needed and can succeed, I really appreciated that.

As demand continues to grow, what opportunities for MoveMobility are you most excited about?

There’s a lot to be excited about. As I said, the Type II ambulance is opening up a number of opportunities for communities, and being able to help people get emergency care when they need it is huge.

I’m also excited about our mobile health vehicles, which we describe as “doctor’s offices on wheels.” They bring healthcare directly to remote communities and to people who might otherwise struggle to access care closer to home.

To me, that’s a form of prevention. If more communities invested in these types of vehicles, we could help people get the care they need earlier and reduce some of the strain on the emergency system. As everyone knows, that’s an issue right across the country.

Is there a story that reminds you of the impact of this work?

One that has always stayed with me happened early in my time here.

We partnered with Variety Manitoba and donated a specialized van to a family with three children who used wheelchairs. Without that vehicle, they had talked about potentially selling their home just to afford transportation that could accommodate their family.

 Because of that partnership, they didn’t have to make that choice.

Something as simple as getting everyone in the same vehicle and going out together as a family completely changed their lives. Seeing that impact firsthand was incredibly powerful.

Is there a story that reminds you of the impact of this work?

Honestly? Outgrowing this building.

Right now, this facility feels huge and we’re still getting used to it. But I look forward to the day when we’re elbow-to-elbow again because it means we’ve continued to grow and help even more people. Whether that’s in two years, five years, or ten years, that’s the feeling I want to remember.

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Interested in growing your business internationally?

World Trade Centre Winnipeg helps Manitoba companies prepare for international markets through market intelligence, trade advisory services and export training, including FITTskills. Book an appointment with one of our Trade Advisors to learn how we can support your export journey.

A lifelong entrepreneur continues to move forward with a mission to remove barriers to transportation and health care.

Richard Jones, CEO of MoveMobility, recently shared insights from his entrepreneurial journey at a WTC Talks event. The March 19 event, hosted by World Trade Centre Winnipeg and sponsored by BDC, drew a crowd to Torque Brewing.

The company completed its first wheelchair van conversion in 2007; however, its roots stem back much further. Jones reflected on his youth in England in the 1980s, growing up on his family’s farm.

“The farm was stricken by a fire and it went through quite a few of the buildings. I was 11 at the time, and it left such a mark on me that it made me wake up to the fact that you’re not going to get through life if you’re just going to dream along — you just won’t make it,” he said. 

“So at that point, I started to really push myself to think outside the box and develop that culture of helping others.”

The fire destroyed a year’s worth of food and fodder, so nearby farmers stepped up to help and brought truckloads of food for the animals. This gesture of generosity impacted young Jones, who also wanted to find a way to help his family — and others too. 

When he was about 14, he launched his first business doing lawn care after school. He built a trailer for the back of his bike to transport a push mower to jobs. As the business grew, he started to skip school to take on more work, resulting in letters home from the principal. 

By the time Jones finished school, the business was already up and running. His dad joined the endeavour, and the business continued to grow. Over time, they landed landscaping jobs for commercial hotel properties, schools, playing fields, golf courses, cemeteries and more. 

Eventually, the family sold their farm and Jones felt ready for another challenge. He started to look for opportunities in other countries. Since his family is part of the Plymouth Brethren, he reached out to other members around the world — including in Manitoba. 

In 2004, they bought Manitoba-based business called Accutool from one of their contacts, which helped to facilitate the emigration process for Jones and his family. They continued to employ the company’s existing staff, and they quickly learned how to operate a business in Canada. After operating the company for several years, they gave the business to the employees, who purchased the inventory from Jones and his family. 

Around 2007, they bought a business called Van Extras that focused on commercial vehicle outfitting. With an eye on expansion, the team logged and analyzed every incoming and outgoing phone call — a practice Jones recommends for every business owner. 

Over a six-week period, they received 13 incoming calls inquiring about wheelchair-accessible vehicles, which wasn’t part of their business at the time. 

“It was on a Monday morning when I just had inspiration. The week before, we had three of those 13 phone calls within a space of about 36 hours. I came into work one morning and I said to the one staff member ‘We’re doing this. We’re going to make this happen’ — not knowing what we’re going in for,” Jones said. 

“So, again, we reached out for help. We went to the industry, and we started to research who else was doing it, what was the competition we were going to be up against.”

They reached out to a B.C. company that was doing similar work, and the owner offered to share his knowledge with Jones. 

The new venture seemed to be an ideal fit for Jones, since he was able to help people, employ staff and make money all at the same time. 

“For the first six to eight months, we were producing one vehicle a month at that point, so it was very slow but we built on it. Now we’re pushing somewhere between 30 to 40 vehicles a month out the door,” he said. “It’s been a huge journey.”

They ran the business under the Van Extras name for a while, before partnering with a marketing agency to rebrand as MoveMobility.

For Jones, listening to customers is the most important aspect of creating a sustainable business, which is evident in how his customers drove forward the idea for MoveMobility. 

He also noted that it’s impossible to create and run a sustainable business on your own. 

“Even if there are some smaller businesses here today, be encouraged and reach out,” he said. 

“There is help available. Seek to leverage the support that you can get.”

A turning point for the business took place in 2017 when Jones heard a speaker at a conference talking about the importance of having an in-house innovation team separate from the main business. Wanting to take the business to the next level, he sought help and hired an engineer. Today, 20 per cent of MoveMobility’s staff works in innovation and engineering.

With an interest to capture more of the Canadian market, MoveMobility eventually opted to open and operated a facility in Ontario. However, they decided to shut down the Ontario-based facility two years ago and bring all the manufacturing back to Manitoba.

“The innovation team in Winnipeg re-engineered everything that we were doing, and the quality that was coming out of the Winnipeg plant way exceeded the Ontario plant,” he said. “We weren’t there every day, and the culture wasn’t quite the same.”

During the pandemic, they once again responded to customer needs and started to develop mobile medical units equipped with cupboards, drawers and more. 

“Those machines have been working ever since then, and the output has really increased,” Jones said. “Now we’re doing six to seven fully outfitted vehicles with that same equipment per month.”

Today, the company is located in CentrePort Canada, which has bolstered their reach even further.

“They network at a different level, and their contact base and the way that they do business is huge,” Jones said. “It’s been an excellent support for us.”

At the same time, he expressed appreciation for the support the company has received from World Trade Centre Winnipeg. 

“Over the last 10 years, the vision that I’ve had for the business has really come to fruition and we couldn’t have done it alone. There are many who have helped us from insurance to finance to development, research,” Jones said.

“World Trade Centre has been very helpful to us in contacts, enabling us to get to the next level.”

Looking ahead, MoveMobility is now working towards building ambulances as a spinoff from the medical vehicle.

“We’re proud to say that hopefully by the end of this year, if not Q3, we should have a fully compliant tested Type 2 ambulance,” Jones said.

“There are only a couple of manufacturers that do ambulances in Canada. With the recent disruption in the supply chain, the manufacturing of a product like this in Canada — let alone in Manitoba — is going to be a real flagship for the province.”

To help ensure the success of other Manitoba entrepreneurs, Jones urges the provincial government to find ways to support them in their growth. 

“Manitoba is built up of a lot of small businesses. We’ve got the bigger businesses as well, but what makes this economy so stable is the smaller businesses,” he said. “We don’t get the boom or bust. We’ve got a lot of good stable smaller businesses.” 

And to keep up with MoveMobility’s growth, Jones anticipates their challenge for the next decade will be to find the right talent to continue the upward momentum.

“I think that one of our constraints is going to be recruiting or finding the right people and the right managers to get us to the next level. I think we can do it, but it’s just going to take a lot longer,” he said. 

“Business always comes back to people.”

International trade is at the forefront of plans for many Canadian businesses as they look to expand.

And now more than ever, the expertise of international trade professionals is in demand. 

Virginie De Visscher understands this need firsthand, since she pursued her Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation more than 10 years ago. To achieve this designation, she earned a Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) diploma by completing six FITTskills courses. These courses focus on the feasibility of international trade, international market entry strategies, global value chain, products and services for a global market, international trade finance, and international sales and marketing. 

Other requirements for the designation include completing three years of full-time work in international trade, agreeing to abide by the CITP standards of ethical conduct and passing a professional exam. 

For De Visscher, international trade seems like a natural fit. Born in Belgium, she gained an expansive worldview as a child since her father worked in the diplomatic service so she moved with her family throughout Africa and Asia. 

At age 18, she returned to Belgium to go to university and attained a degree as a biosystems engineer. After that, she moved back to Africa and spent years working in the Democratic Republic of Congo, followed by a short stint in Zimbabwe. After that, she spent nearly five years in Uganda working in international trade with a coffee company.

For her next global move, she decided to immigrate to Canada with her young family. As a francophone, she was fast-tracked through Manitoba’s provincial nominee program. 

Less than 10 days after arriving in Canada, she volunteered with World Trade Centre Winnipeg and  ended up landing a job with the organization. At the time, she was working with Manitoba companies that were interested in expanding internationally. 

“Even though I had quite a lot of experience in supply chains, procurement, global markets and other aspects of international trade, I realized there were some aspects where I could be better,” she said. 

“I looked into the FITT program, and it allowed me to leverage the knowledge that I brought and supplement it with what I was lacking at the time. I was fortunate enough that World Trade Centre Winnipeg saw the benefit and allowed me to bring my skills back into the organization.”

She began pursuing courses towards her CITP designation in 2014 and finished all the modules a year later. She continued working throughout her studies, all while raising her two young children. 

Looking back, she recalls long days of dropping her kids off at daycare early in the morning and then studying for two hours at a coffee shop before starting her workday at WTC Winnipeg. 

“I did that for months,” she said, “but it was probably the best way for me to study at the time while managing life and career.”

It was worth the effort since De Visscher immediately began to notice the positive impacts of her new knowledge. 

“It made me more rounded to work with Manitoba companies and equivalent counterparts. Right away, I had a better appreciation of all the facets of international trade and what it meant. It gave me more experience and knowledge to work with the companies, along with the credibility and credentials that came with the certification,” she said. 

“At that time, the CITP recognition was being rolled out through Global Affairs Canada. Because I was working with a lot of trade commissioners, it ensured we spoke the same language. It really did impact my career, right from the time that I started studying to the time that I got the designation.” 

Overall, De Visscher feels the most valuable asset she gained was the confidence that stemmed from her newfound knowledge. 

She also earned the satisfaction of toiling through concepts that were challenging for her, particularly those related to finance and law. 

“It’s not simple, and I had to study multiple times. I put an additional challenge on my head by giving myself boundaries with the time to complete the modules so it wouldn’t impact my family and employer too much,” she said. 

“It was time bound, which gave a little bit of self-inflicted pressure to get it done. If I didn’t put that timeframe, it would have been harder to accomplish.”

Today, De Visscher serves as the executive director of business events at Destination Canada, which promotes Canada as an international destination for leisure and business events. In this role, she continues to see the benefits of the skills she gained through FITT.

“I have to write a lot of strategy. Taking the good practices that I learned into this role has been super helpful,” she said. “The connections that I created during my time with World Trade Centre Winnipeg also came in handy in this role since I’m working with federal trade commissioners.”

And in today’s world, she says the CITP designation is more relevant than ever. 

“With the knowledge that I have, I can understand what’s being talked about and what’s happening,” she said. “I understand the impacts and can be knowledgeable in those discussions.” 

For others who are considering pursuing the CITP designation, De Visscher shares some words of wisdom. 

“Do it sooner rather than later, have a curious mind and continue to be an avid learner. I’m super proud to have done it. I would recommend it to anyone who is considering doing business outside of Canada,” she said. 

“It’s a very recognized certification, so it labels you with expertise and knowledge. It’s a worthwhile program, and if more people had the basis on how international trade really functions, it might work better in the world.”

World Trade Centre Winnipeg has partnered with the Forum for International Trade Training to provide FITTskills courses and offer the opportunity to begin the process toward CITP certification. Learn more here: Certified International Trade Professional (CITP®) | World Trade Centre Winnipeg

From inspiring discussions to powerful connections, our first WTC Talks event was an experience to remember. This video brings to life some memorable snapshots from the evening: