Ian MacGregor
Founder, North West Refining
Honorary Bachelor of Science, Construction Project Management
Ian MacGregor is a fourth-generation Calgarian. He is an engineer and an entrepreneur, and founded Tornado Drilling, ABAX Energy Services, Chinook Pipe, Taylor Gas Liquids, Carraig Ridge Development, Enhance Energy, and North West Refining among others.
He has ridden a bike to work since 1988, so far, he has pedaled 236,000 km getting there and back. He has never had a permanent job he didn’t create for himself.
Ian likes building and fixing — he can weld, machine, mechanic, design and draw. He thinks he can fix most things or build new ones if they are needed. His mom taught him that’s where the fun is, and he concentrates on having fun every day.
Evelyne Nyairo
Founder, Ellie Bianca Skincare
Honorary Bachelor of Business Administration
Evelyne Nyairo, M.Sc. P.Biol, is the driving force behind the luxurious all-natural skincare brand, Ellie Bianca. Evelyne has an academic background in biochemistry and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in strategy and innovation. Understanding the importance of technology and innovation, Evelyne is currently researching the integration of AI-powered tools (such as virtual reality, augmented reality and machine learning) into small business operations to create and sustain competitive advantages.
Evelyne’ s efforts have recognized nationally and internationally. She has always championed diversity and is a strong advocate of equal opportunity for all.
A brilliant role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, Evelyne shares her wisdom born of perseverance in the face of adversity. She lives by the quote, “trust the process,” which has given her the grace to nurture her brand.
She thrives best when she can contribute to advancing equality, and through Ellie Bianca, she is able to see this vision become a reality by working with female producers and ensuring that women are rewarded directly for their hard work.
Dustin Westling
Owner and Managing Partner, OneWest Events
Honorary Bachelor of Business Administration
Dustin Westling is a fixture of Canada’s live experiences industry as an event professional, thought leader and industry champion. He is engaged and connected in every facet of the industry, dedicated first and foremost to building community and bringing people together.
As Owner and Managing Partner of OneWest Events, Dustin leads and inspires a team of energetic and dedicated event professionals who truly love what they do, and love doing it together. OneWest is well-known as both creative professionals and community builders; Dustin’s personal philosophy and the OneWest approach to business is built on a belief in collaboration, partnership, positivity and the furthering the industry as a whole.
Along with leading the charge in his team’s ongoing, on-the-ground work in event design and production, Dustin is involved with industry organizations and educational institutions, where he works to help address relevant issues, spark conversation and provide resources for new and upcoming industry professionals. He has been asked to participate on international panels like ILEA’s Global Events Forum and to speak at a wide variety of industry conferences and events.
Dustin’s enthusiasm for raising the bar as the industry continues to evolve, and his unrelenting commitment to collaboration and giving back have not only defined his career and his business, but continue to shape the industry.
Graduation and Convocation
Oki, Âba wathtech, Danit'ada, Tawnshi, Hello.
SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.
We are situated in an area the Blackfoot tribes traditionally called Moh’kinsstis, where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. We now call it the city of Calgary, which is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta.