Alex Himmelman

About me

I was born/grew up in: Halifax, Nova Scotia

I now live in: Halifax, Nova Scotia

I completed my training/education at: I have undergraduate degrees in both History and Environmental Design and Architecture from Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia

What I do at work

I am the Nova Scotian Provincial Director for the Atlantic Canada Aerospace and Defense Association (ACADA). Our members come from businesses and industries who work in the aerospace, defence, and security industries in Atlantic Canada. ACADA is an Industry Association that advocates on behalf of its members regarding issues of concern. Such issues are government procurement opportunities, labour force development and export development.

I coordinate with my other three Atlantic Provinces colleagues to provide learning opportunities for our members on trends that are taking place in our industry. We also meet with members of both the federal and provincial governments on issues relating to our members.

The majority of my workdays are spent hosting events, leading trade missions, liaising with government partners and engaging our members directly. My key activities are communications related. I draft proposals, send emails and liaise with a variety of partners through meetings and phone conversations.

My career path is

I ended up in my current career mostly by chance; I was not planning for this.  After graduating high school, I studied at Dalhousie where I completed an undergraduate degree in History.  After this I went on to work for several years as a professional sailing coach, most notably for several years at the international level as a coach with the Canadian National Sailing Team. 

In my mid twenties I made the decision to change my career path and returned to Halifax where I completed a second degree at Dalhousie in Environmental Design and Architecture.  I used my education to start and run my own small business in contracting and furniture design while also starting a family.  Eventually my project management and coordination experience led me to a career in the Aerospace industry where I still work today, although in a very different role.

In each position I had I learned new things and developed new skills. I didn’t know it at the time, but all of my education and experiences have helped prepare me in some way for what I do now.

I am motivated by

I enjoy the opportunity to engage with intelligent colleagues through my work.

How I affect peoples’ lives

My work benefits Canadians by contributing to economic development of Atlantic Canada. Through my work with ACADA, I help make sure our member companies have opportunities for growth and in particular export development.

Outside of work I

I have multiple hobbies that range from playing competitive sports to gardening. The majority of my time is spent looking after my young family.

My advice to others

Pursue educational options you find interesting and engaging, the first few years of any career are always challenging so you should look for employment with at least some aspect of your work you find rewarding or interesting.