Canadore College Alumni Nominated for Premier’s Awards
Canadore College is proud to have nominated three distinguished alumni — Shane Eddy, Mat McLeod, and Scott Wabano — for the 2025 Colleges Ontario Premier’s Awards for outstanding college graduates.
“We are immensely proud of the accomplishments of our graduates,” said Canadore College President and CEO George Burton. “Shane, Mat, and Scott represent the caliber of talent, dedication, and innovation that characterizes our alumni. Their success highlights the enduring value of a Canadore education as a catalyst for professional achievement and impactful community engagement.”
“I am incredibly proud of our graduates for their well-deserved recognition,” said President of the Canadore College Alumni Tanya Bedard. “Their achievements and contributions across a variety of fields are truly inspiring. We are thrilled to acknowledge and celebrate their accomplishments, and we extend heartfelt congratulations to all the nominees for this year’s awards.”
Established in 1992 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Ontario’s college system, the Premier’s Awards celebrate exceptional graduates from the province’s 24 publicly assisted colleges. Awards are presented in seven categories: Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, Community Advancement, Cultural and Creative Achievement, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Innovation, Health Care and Community Well-being, Workforce and Skilled Trades Advancement, and Francophone Outreach. To date, five Canadore College alumni have received this prestigious honour.
Shane Eddy graduated from Canadore’s Aircraft Maintenance Technician program in 1984 and began his career as a licensed helicopter maintenance engineer. Nominated in the Workforce and Skilled Trades Advancement category, Eddy now serves as President of Pratt & Whitney, leading global teams that advance aerospace manufacturing and skilled trades development. He has overseen the design and production of major aircraft and propulsion systems including the CH-53K, UH-60M, and F135 engines. His leadership has expanded industrial operations across four continents, creating jobs and strengthening the future of skilled trades. Eddy remains deeply committed to community advancement through organizations such as Life Bridge which supports education and opportunities for underserved individuals.
Mat McLeod, a 1998 graduate of Canadore’s Welder-Fitter program, is a successful entrepreneur based in Nipissing First Nation. He is a driving force behind Gen7 Fuel, a rapidly growing network of Indigenous-owned gas stations and convenience stores operating exclusively within First Nations communities. Nominated in the Entrepreneurship and Economic Development category, McLeod has guided Gen7 Fuel’s expansion across Ontario and British Columbia, fostering economic growth, job creation, and community self-sufficiency. A dedicated mentor for more than 20 years, McLeod continues to use his business as a vehicle for reconciliation, sustainability, and intergenerational prosperity.
Scott Wabano, a 2-Spirit Cree fashion stylist, creative director, and founder of Wabano, a production company dedicated to Indigenous representation in fashion and media, graduated from Canadore’s Broadcasting–Radio program in 2016. Nominated in the Cultural and Creative Achievement category, Wabano uses storytelling to amplify 2SLGBTQ+ and Indigenous voices. Recognized among Forbes 30 Under 30 and featured in Vogue, they have collaborated with global brands including Sephora, Nike, and TikTok, while co-founding organizations that empower youth and promote cultural advocacy. Wabano’s work challenges stereotypes, celebrates diverse Indigenous identities, and redefines representation across creative industries.
