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Meet Brian! He works in aviation, is passionate about fitness and health, and is a proud citizen of Kelowna!
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Grew up in Edmonton, Alberta. Came to Penticton in 1973 on the back of a 10-speed bike and 10 days travel. Kelowna as of 1985.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My soulmate Lynn is my entire support structure. She get’s me, understands me (and that can be challenging), pushes me and keeps me focused.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
MacDermott’s on Bernard. I appreciate quality. Wayne, Jay and the team never let me down.
Describe yourself in one word.
Stubborn. (You did say one word – right?).
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Kihei Maui is our “go-to” place. You feel like you’re a world away but the culture is so relatable. An excellent day is described best as “being at the beach”. Love the ocean.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Kelowna & area camping is second to none. Anywhere outdoors with our Bernese Noki, and we’re loving life.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Drove a forklift into the leading edge of a freshly painted airplane. Lost my job at the same time.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I’ve always been a “fitness” guy committed to Bodyshop Fitness & Nutrition on the Westside for years. 5:30 in the morning, 3 times weekly is the routine. Just over a year ago, however, Lynn & I met with their nutritionist (Allie from Bodyshop) and committed to a healthier lifestyle and understanding of intake and nutrition. Eating healthy and limiting all those things we know we should, paid off for both of us. Never felt better or been in better shape since we met 23 years ago.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I was meant to fly and did so as a commercial pilot early on. Thanks to my Dad who would take me to the airport on Sunday mornings to watch the planes come and go.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Most recently, I accepted an invitation to the COEDC Advisory Council. The Commission/Council plays a key role in building the economy of the Region that extends from Peachland to Lake Country. I’m fortunate to join an elite group of Professionals where we look to positively impact growth of our community and businesses alike.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Homelessness. Because it affects people around the world. Kelowna has its own set of challenges in this regard and it’s a topic we can’t dismiss.
Where would you like to see a positive change in Kelowna and why?
Again, and because of its importance, the homeless situation in Kelowna. The support these individuals need at so many levels is their reality. This is a situation that impacts everyone to some degree in Kelowna. Having lost a Son just two years ago, who was homeless for a time, holds special meaning for us.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
I never take for granted what I am able to see every day in this piece of paradise. Certainly the lakes but also the amenities we have surrounding us.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
The gym is one such place but anywhere really where you can let your mind wander and think about the “what-ifs."
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1) A trip to ride the greatest roller coasters in the world.
2) To achieve my scuba certification.
3) Visit the cliffs of Ireland.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I met my wife when she jumped out of my airplane. I was a pilot for a skydiving school at the time. Couldn’t get that Cessna back on the ground quick enough.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Linkedin - Brian Wall
Email: brian.wall@aem-corp.com
What is the name of your business/organization?
AEM - Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing Corp
Why did you get into/start this business?
Having a passion for flying all my life, joining the AEM Team brought me full circle back to my roots in Aerospace/Aviation.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Not only is shopping local important for supporting those in the community so that they can continue to do what they love, it is more sustainable AND helps the local economy.
What is the goal of your business?
We are a Leading Global Provider of Specialty Aviation Solutions. Our products are found on aircraft both fixed wing and rotary in many applications. PA Systems, Avionics, Audio & Intercoms and Master Caution Panels to name a few.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
The loss of our Son. Hug your kids every day and tell them how much you love them.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
Life is a lesson. Knowing what I know today, I believe I might have had some different approaches to the challenges of day to day life. Living each day as if it were your last is a humbling way to gain perspective.
What do you always find yourself saying?
“No Surprises” - "Life's a Lesson"
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Always look for the positive. Build people up. Acknowledge everybody’s purpose. Help one another where you can.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Garth Brooks. This guy has one of the greatest perspectives on life I have ever witnessed.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Nothing can replace the personal touch. The human interaction is often what closes the purchase. Our landscape is changing and it’s up to us.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My Family. They are all my proudest experiences in life. We are little, without our circle of influence.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Tim. My sounding board. My friend. Keeps me grounded and pointed in the direction.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Brad Hall - Owner Bodyshop West Kelowna, Coach, Fitness Guru & all-around-good-guy.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
We all have the opportunity to be our very best, whatever that may be. Stand up for yourself, be true to yourself & give of yourself where you can. Bold are those who strive for a better place. Humbled are those who get the chance to do so. Your behavior today predicts your behavior in the future. If your not happy with what you reflect today, it's never too late to change coarse.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!
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