Graduate Profiles
Matt Cassidy (2005)
Title: Fitness and Sports Instructor
Employer: Department of National Defence (CFPSA/PSP)
Job Description:
Under the supervision of the Fitness Coordinator, the Fitness and Sports Instructor prepares and instructs physical fitness training sessions and conducts physical fitness evaluations for CFB Borden in accordance with NPF regulations and policies. He/She advises military personnel in accordance with the CF physical fitness program standards. He/She also performs lifeguard duties, inspects and maintains physical fitness equipment, as well as provides assistance with regional sports programs and administrative support for physical fitness and evaluation programs.
Career Path:
Started as Member Ambassador at GoodLife Fitness, Sherwood Forest Mall (Apr - June)
Progressed to Personal Trainer and Body Result Opportunity Specialist (June - Sept)
Left GoodLife and started with Health Systems Group at the Fanshawe College Community Fitness Center / Fitness 101 (to avoid placement hours!) as both Fitness Consultant and Customer Service Rep (Sept - May)
Final Placement took place at Area Support Unit (ASU) London as a Fitness and Sport Instructor (May)
Applied, was accepted and moved to Cold Lake, Alberta as a full time temporary Fitness and Sports Instructor for CFB 4 Wing Cold Lake(June - Mar)
Currently at CFB 8 Wing Trenton as a full time permanent Fitness and Sports Instructor
How did the FHP program prepare you for this position?:
Obviously all of the knowledge and skills we learned in class helped be out big time, but I must say that perhaps the most help came from the practical components. Although everyone hates them while we're doing them, every job interview I've had since then has involved a practical component, and that is where I blow them away. Whether it be doing a weight room orientation or teaching a step class for the first (and only) time, it gave me the skills to be relaxed, comfortable and confident in my skills. Also, because I was so busy with working and schooling, the time management skills where a big help.
Shannon Fuller (2003)
What is your current job description?
Group and Individual Conditioning Supervisor
London YMCA Centre Branch
Could you summarize your career path and describe how you got to the position you are currently in (e.g., certifications, workshops attended, other work related experiences, continuing education)?
Volunteer Figure skating coach(1991-1996), graduate in FHP (2001), CPAFLA Certification (2001), Co-op at YMCA St. Thomas Wellness Centre(2000, 2001), Part-Time staff at YMCA St. Thomas(2001-2003), Aqua Fitness Certification YMCA(2002), Individual Conditioning Certification YMCA(2002), Group Fitness Certification YMCA (2001), Police Readiness Physical Evaluation Test Workshop (2001), Can-Fit Pro Personal Trainer Specialist(2001), Full-Time as Adult Health and Recreation Team Leader at St. Thomas YMCA (2003) Certified Figure Skating Coach (CanSkate level), Can-Fit Pro Workshop Conference (2002, 2003), Group and Individual Conditioning Supervisor YMCA London(2003).
How did the FHP program prepare you for this position?
This course has prepared me to be multi task orientated which in this is field very important if you want to achieve a lot. I personally found the course to prepare me for the YMCA with general knowledge in promoting Health and Fitness.
It has prepared me with skills in Foundations in Physical Fitness, program administration and Promotion, Health and Wellness, Leadership and Safety and Injury Issues.
I was able to gain the basic knowledge to help me receive my certifications in other areas. This course has also been helpful in the area of Social Interaction. The Human Relations class is one of the most important classes in the FHP program. If you go onto another career you still will carry the skill of communicating properly and professionally with others.
The FHP program is a beneficial starting point for a great career in the Health and Fitness Field. Without this diploma under my belt I never would have achieved the many certifications and I would not be were I am today. (Info date - Mar. 2004)
Mandy Goodhall (2003)
What is your current job description?
I work for a Long Term Care Facility and my current job title is 'Restorative Care Assistant'. The primary focus of my job is to work with the residents and help them to improve or at least maintain their current physical abilities, allowing them to hold on to their independence for as long as possible. I do this through group exercise programs, walking programs and 1:1 training. My main areas of focus are ROM, strength, flexibility and balance. The physical and cognitive capabilities of the residents vary greatly and they have many different physical ailments that require their programs to be tailored (Alzheimers, Parkinson's, MS, Stroke, Diabetes, COPD, Osteoporosis, etc). I am required to complete initial assessments and quarterly assessments on each resident. The quarterly assessments indicate changes in abilities, new goals, and an overview of the goals they have attained and of exactly what restorative programs the resident is currently participating in. Also, I am a member of the Health & Safety committee.
Could you summarize your career path and describe how you got to the position you are currently in (e.g., certifications, workshops attended, other work related experiences, continuing education)?
I chose to get my FHP diploma at Fanshawe because I personally enjoy being active and I wanted to pass my knowledge of health and fitness onto others and encourage them to indulge in an active lifestyle. While I was at Fanshawe I worked for GoodLife Fitness Clubs for about 6 months and realized that personal training wasn't actually something that I enjoyed doing. In my 3rd semester I completed a placement with my current employer for the "programming for diverse populations" class and I really enjoyed working with the residents. Before graduation I was offered a full time position and I have been here ever since. Post grad I have taken one course - Restorative Care Education and Training, from the Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging at the University of Western Ontario.
How did the FHP program prepare you for this position?
The FHP program was a necessity for preparing me for my job. I am definitely better at time management and organization than I was prior to College and I don't know where I would be right now without those anatomy and physiology courses. My knowledge of body mechanics and 'normal' movement are essential for assessing my residents, programming, and goal setting. I still review my notes/texts from time to time and draw on the skills that I learned while at Fanshawe.
Brianne Shea (2001)
Personal Training Director
The Athletic Clubs, London
What is your current job description?
I am the Director of Personal Training for The Athletic Clubs. I have many job responsibilities that include overseeing of the Personal Trainers, Fitness Consultants, and Assistant Directors. I am responsible for all hires and dismissals within the PT Department as well as conducting performance reviews on all current staff within the Department. I conduct meetings with the personal trainers as well as attend meetings with management. It is my job to create goals within the PT Department and to help our trainers reach these goals.
Could you summarize your career path and describe how you got to the position you are currently in (e.g., certifications, workshops attended, other work related experiences, continuing education)?
After graduating from the FHP program I worked in the Fitness Industry full time as a personal trainer and fitness instructor while achieving my personal trainer's certifications. I continued to work part time while going back to school to obtain my degree in English Literature and once I graduated from university I began working for The Athletic Club starting out as a Customer Service Rep. and eventually moving into the position of Personal Training Director.
How did the FHP program prepare you for this position?
The FHP program gave me the hands on experience and knowledge I needed to grow in the fitness industry. It is one thing to enjoy fitness however it is the knowledge of the anatomy and physiology that the FHP program provides that puts us a step ahead in the industry. Without a Health and Fitness diploma I would not be in the job position I am in today. (Info date - June 2006)
Mark O'Dell (1996)
Director of Sports & Leisure
Deerhurst Resort
Huntsville, ON, Canada
What is your current job description?
Director of Sports and Leisure
Owner of 'Motivations Fitness' Huntsville
Keep Deerhurst's Programs up to date and continue to implement new ideas and activities through research and comparisons within the industry
Develop 5 year plan for the development and improvement of the physical areas within the Sports and Leisure department.
Prepare and maintain Policy and Procedure manuals for each and every area of the operation
Communicate with Sales and Marketing in order to develop packages to promote room sales.Prepare annual Capital and operating budgets
Prepare contracts on an annual basis with all concessions
Conduct monthly communication meetings with Supervisors and ManagersMaintain a lateral relationship between Sports and Leisure and pertinent departments
Could you summarize your career path and describe how you got to the position you are currently in (e.g., certifications, workshops attended, other work related experiences, continuing education)?
Started as bartender for seasonal position between terms of FHP Program.
Returned to final Co-op placement in Golf Maintenance at Deerhurst Resort
Returned to Bartender as co-op was completed.
Fall started in Sports at Deerhurst as Sports Coordinator 1998
Following year moved into Sports Manager for 2 years 1999-2002
Interim Director of Sports (maternity position) Sept 2002- June 2003
Awarded the Director of Sports position in June 2003
How did the FHP program prepare you for this position?
Every class I have used to get to where I am and I continually draw from it on a daily basis.
I instruct Classes at Motivations Fitness and I do stretch/Fitness break for corporate clients at Deerhurst.
Still currently do personal training when available and study the human anatomy to further my knowledge.
Marketing/Sales/Accounting all these areas are parallels to what I am doing and I need a strong understanding and creative side for these. (Info date - fall 2003)
Title: Fitness and Sports Instructor
Employer: Department of National Defence (CFPSA/PSP)
Job Description:
Under the supervision of the Fitness Coordinator, the Fitness and Sports Instructor prepares and instructs physical fitness training sessions and conducts physical fitness evaluations for CFB Borden in accordance with NPF regulations and policies. He/She advises military personnel in accordance with the CF physical fitness program standards. He/She also performs lifeguard duties, inspects and maintains physical fitness equipment, as well as provides assistance with regional sports programs and administrative support for physical fitness and evaluation programs.
Career Path:
Started as Member Ambassador at GoodLife Fitness, Sherwood Forest Mall (Apr - June)
Progressed to Personal Trainer and Body Result Opportunity Specialist (June - Sept)
Left GoodLife and started with Health Systems Group at the Fanshawe College Community Fitness Center / Fitness 101 (to avoid placement hours!) as both Fitness Consultant and Customer Service Rep (Sept - May)
Final Placement took place at Area Support Unit (ASU) London as a Fitness and Sport Instructor (May)
Applied, was accepted and moved to Cold Lake, Alberta as a full time temporary Fitness and Sports Instructor for CFB 4 Wing Cold Lake(June - Mar)
Currently at CFB 8 Wing Trenton as a full time permanent Fitness and Sports Instructor
How did the FHP program prepare you for this position?:
Obviously all of the knowledge and skills we learned in class helped be out big time, but I must say that perhaps the most help came from the practical components. Although everyone hates them while we're doing them, every job interview I've had since then has involved a practical component, and that is where I blow them away. Whether it be doing a weight room orientation or teaching a step class for the first (and only) time, it gave me the skills to be relaxed, comfortable and confident in my skills. Also, because I was so busy with working and schooling, the time management skills where a big help.
Shannon Fuller (2003)
What is your current job description?
Group and Individual Conditioning Supervisor
London YMCA Centre Branch
Could you summarize your career path and describe how you got to the position you are currently in (e.g., certifications, workshops attended, other work related experiences, continuing education)?
Volunteer Figure skating coach(1991-1996), graduate in FHP (2001), CPAFLA Certification (2001), Co-op at YMCA St. Thomas Wellness Centre(2000, 2001), Part-Time staff at YMCA St. Thomas(2001-2003), Aqua Fitness Certification YMCA(2002), Individual Conditioning Certification YMCA(2002), Group Fitness Certification YMCA (2001), Police Readiness Physical Evaluation Test Workshop (2001), Can-Fit Pro Personal Trainer Specialist(2001), Full-Time as Adult Health and Recreation Team Leader at St. Thomas YMCA (2003) Certified Figure Skating Coach (CanSkate level), Can-Fit Pro Workshop Conference (2002, 2003), Group and Individual Conditioning Supervisor YMCA London(2003).
How did the FHP program prepare you for this position?
This course has prepared me to be multi task orientated which in this is field very important if you want to achieve a lot. I personally found the course to prepare me for the YMCA with general knowledge in promoting Health and Fitness.
It has prepared me with skills in Foundations in Physical Fitness, program administration and Promotion, Health and Wellness, Leadership and Safety and Injury Issues.
I was able to gain the basic knowledge to help me receive my certifications in other areas. This course has also been helpful in the area of Social Interaction. The Human Relations class is one of the most important classes in the FHP program. If you go onto another career you still will carry the skill of communicating properly and professionally with others.
The FHP program is a beneficial starting point for a great career in the Health and Fitness Field. Without this diploma under my belt I never would have achieved the many certifications and I would not be were I am today. (Info date - Mar. 2004)
Mandy Goodhall (2003)
What is your current job description?
I work for a Long Term Care Facility and my current job title is 'Restorative Care Assistant'. The primary focus of my job is to work with the residents and help them to improve or at least maintain their current physical abilities, allowing them to hold on to their independence for as long as possible. I do this through group exercise programs, walking programs and 1:1 training. My main areas of focus are ROM, strength, flexibility and balance. The physical and cognitive capabilities of the residents vary greatly and they have many different physical ailments that require their programs to be tailored (Alzheimers, Parkinson's, MS, Stroke, Diabetes, COPD, Osteoporosis, etc). I am required to complete initial assessments and quarterly assessments on each resident. The quarterly assessments indicate changes in abilities, new goals, and an overview of the goals they have attained and of exactly what restorative programs the resident is currently participating in. Also, I am a member of the Health & Safety committee.
Could you summarize your career path and describe how you got to the position you are currently in (e.g., certifications, workshops attended, other work related experiences, continuing education)?
I chose to get my FHP diploma at Fanshawe because I personally enjoy being active and I wanted to pass my knowledge of health and fitness onto others and encourage them to indulge in an active lifestyle. While I was at Fanshawe I worked for GoodLife Fitness Clubs for about 6 months and realized that personal training wasn't actually something that I enjoyed doing. In my 3rd semester I completed a placement with my current employer for the "programming for diverse populations" class and I really enjoyed working with the residents. Before graduation I was offered a full time position and I have been here ever since. Post grad I have taken one course - Restorative Care Education and Training, from the Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging at the University of Western Ontario.
How did the FHP program prepare you for this position?
The FHP program was a necessity for preparing me for my job. I am definitely better at time management and organization than I was prior to College and I don't know where I would be right now without those anatomy and physiology courses. My knowledge of body mechanics and 'normal' movement are essential for assessing my residents, programming, and goal setting. I still review my notes/texts from time to time and draw on the skills that I learned while at Fanshawe.
Brianne Shea (2001)
Personal Training Director
The Athletic Clubs, London
What is your current job description?
I am the Director of Personal Training for The Athletic Clubs. I have many job responsibilities that include overseeing of the Personal Trainers, Fitness Consultants, and Assistant Directors. I am responsible for all hires and dismissals within the PT Department as well as conducting performance reviews on all current staff within the Department. I conduct meetings with the personal trainers as well as attend meetings with management. It is my job to create goals within the PT Department and to help our trainers reach these goals.
Could you summarize your career path and describe how you got to the position you are currently in (e.g., certifications, workshops attended, other work related experiences, continuing education)?
After graduating from the FHP program I worked in the Fitness Industry full time as a personal trainer and fitness instructor while achieving my personal trainer's certifications. I continued to work part time while going back to school to obtain my degree in English Literature and once I graduated from university I began working for The Athletic Club starting out as a Customer Service Rep. and eventually moving into the position of Personal Training Director.
How did the FHP program prepare you for this position?
The FHP program gave me the hands on experience and knowledge I needed to grow in the fitness industry. It is one thing to enjoy fitness however it is the knowledge of the anatomy and physiology that the FHP program provides that puts us a step ahead in the industry. Without a Health and Fitness diploma I would not be in the job position I am in today. (Info date - June 2006)
Mark O'Dell (1996)
Director of Sports & Leisure
Deerhurst Resort
Huntsville, ON, Canada
What is your current job description?
Director of Sports and Leisure
Owner of 'Motivations Fitness' Huntsville
Keep Deerhurst's Programs up to date and continue to implement new ideas and activities through research and comparisons within the industry
Develop 5 year plan for the development and improvement of the physical areas within the Sports and Leisure department.
Prepare and maintain Policy and Procedure manuals for each and every area of the operation
Communicate with Sales and Marketing in order to develop packages to promote room sales.Prepare annual Capital and operating budgets
Prepare contracts on an annual basis with all concessions
Conduct monthly communication meetings with Supervisors and ManagersMaintain a lateral relationship between Sports and Leisure and pertinent departments
Could you summarize your career path and describe how you got to the position you are currently in (e.g., certifications, workshops attended, other work related experiences, continuing education)?
Started as bartender for seasonal position between terms of FHP Program.
Returned to final Co-op placement in Golf Maintenance at Deerhurst Resort
Returned to Bartender as co-op was completed.
Fall started in Sports at Deerhurst as Sports Coordinator 1998
Following year moved into Sports Manager for 2 years 1999-2002
Interim Director of Sports (maternity position) Sept 2002- June 2003
Awarded the Director of Sports position in June 2003
How did the FHP program prepare you for this position?
Every class I have used to get to where I am and I continually draw from it on a daily basis.
I instruct Classes at Motivations Fitness and I do stretch/Fitness break for corporate clients at Deerhurst.
Still currently do personal training when available and study the human anatomy to further my knowledge.
Marketing/Sales/Accounting all these areas are parallels to what I am doing and I need a strong understanding and creative side for these. (Info date - fall 2003)
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