Putting people at the core of everything we do is paramount at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). We are committed to ensuring our people — those who make BCIT distinct, are developing while feeling valued, supported, and connected.
BCIT is a people-first organization. We aim to celebrate our employees by sharing their stories through the Our People series. The series features BCIT’s extraordinary employees who share a strong sense of pride and ambition for the Institute and make up our diverse community.
Get to know Aaron Gray, Security Manager, Safety, Security and Emergency Management.
How would you summarize the work that you do at the Institute?
I’ve had the privilege of being part of the BCIT community as an employee for just over five and a half years. But an interesting fact about myself is that before joining BCIT, I served for nearly six years as a contract security professional with Paladin Security. In total, I’ve dedicated over eleven years to supporting the Institute, serving the BCIT community, protecting its people, and educating for lasting safety and resilience.
What has been your most memorable moment working at BCIT?
One of my most memorable moments at BCIT was working in the Emergency Operations Centre during Disaster Day. It was a powerful demonstration of how preparedness and collaboration can make a real difference. Seeing the campus community come together to manage a simulated crisis showcased the strength of BCIT’s Emergency Management program.
What do you enjoy the most about working in post-secondary education?
What I enjoy the most about working in post-secondary education is the people. Each day, I have the privilege of engaging with students, faculty, and staff who bring energy to our campuses. In my role as Security Manager, fostering trust and building strong relationships is fundamental. I take pride in creating a safe environment that allows individuals to focus on learning and personal growth. It’s deeply rewarding to know that my efforts contribute to their sense of security.
What are projects or initiatives that you have completed at the Institute that you are proud of?
I’m proud of initiatives that strengthen engagement between the Security Division and the campus community. One project I am currently working on is the Safer Walk Program, which is designed to enhance personal safety and foster trust. The program provides students, staff, and visitors with a safe way to travel across campus, especially during evenings or whenever they feel uneasy. It offers an on-demand escort service where individuals can request a security team member to walk with them to their destination. The service is available 24/7 and is open to all members of the campus community. To use the program, individuals can call the Security Office at your respective campus or use the Safety Wise app, provide their location and destination, and a uniformed security escort will meet them and accompany them safely. This initiative not only improves safety but also creates meaningful engagement opportunities between the Security Division and the community.
Is there an Institute event or initiative that you look forward to every year?
One initiative that I look forward to every year is the Security Division’s partnership with ICBC for the pedestrian safety campaign. This engagement opportunity is all about keeping our community safe, and I love how simple yet impactful it is. This year we distributed free reflectors to members of our community outside the main entrance of SW01 on the Burnaby campus. These reflectors help pedestrians stay visible to motorists during periods of poor lighting and inclement weather. The response is always incredible, and in just one hour, we handed out approximately 500 reflectors, ensuring hundreds of people were better equipped to stay safe on the roadways. It’s rewarding to see such enthusiasm for safety on our campuses!
Do you have a favourite spot or activity at the BCIT campuses?
One of my favourite spots at the BCIT campuses would have to be the fitness centers. I really enjoy lifting weights and getting a good workout in after work. Training is an excellent way to burn off stress and reground myself after a busy day. Taking that time to focus on physical activity helps me reset mentally and stay energized for everything else on my plate.
Share with us how what you are passionate about outside of work. Do you have any hobbies?
I serve as the Co-Chair for ASIS International’s NextGen Committee for the Pacific Chapter (British Columbia & Yukon). This role allows me to help young security professionals by creating opportunities for networking, mentorship, and professional growth. It’s incredibly rewarding to give back to the industry and support the next generation.
I captain and manage a men’s ball hockey team called the Rockies Hockey Club based in Surrey, BC. A little humble brag — we won the 2024 championship! Leading the team combines my love for sports with teamwork and strategy, which I truly enjoy.
I’m a big family person and love spending quality time with them, experiencing life to the fullest. I also stay plugged into our church community, which is an important part of my life and values.