July 19, 2023, Vaughan, Ont. – The OBOA is pleased to announce that effective August 8th, 2023, Jonathan DeWeerd will step into the role as Director of Education. 
“I’m looking forward to this new role,” says Jonathan. “I’ve been an active member of the OBOA since 2013, upgrading my skills through the various training courses, attending the AMTS whenever possible and serving as a Board Member for the past two years. I understand and appreciate the value of the OBOA and I’m looking forward to helping the organization move forward as we continue to strengthen the Ontario building industry.”
Jonathan brings over 20 years of experience in the building industry. His career first started as a carpenter/site supervisor for various renovation and new home builders and he later progressed to become a project manager for an engineering company. After seven years, he moved into the role of Building Official and then Deputy Chief Building Official for the Township of Perth East, and then to the City of Stratford as Chief Building Official. Jonathan also spent five years as an instructor at Fanshawe College where he taught a refresher course for the Carpenter Apprenticeship Program, provided by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities.
In his role as OBOA Board Member, Jonathan most recently spearheaded the OBOA-ITS Internship Program which is set to launch this year. He has a diploma in Architectural Technology from Fanshawe College and a General Carpenter (Apprenticeship) certificate from Conestoga College.
“The hiring committee went through a rigorous process of interviewing some very strong and qualified candidates,” says OBOA CEO, Lawrence Wagner. “It was not an easy decision, but we all agreed that Jonathan brings the necessary skills and insight that we are looking for in a Director of Education. We are looking forward to having him join our team.”
Jonathan replaces Lynn Balfour who retired in February 2023.
About the OBOA
Founded in 1956, the Ontario Building Officials Association (OBOA) supports the construction of safer, more sustainable and accessible buildings in Ontario. The OBOA delivers training and certification to Building officials, promotes uniform code application, works with industry partners, and policy makers with a goal to advance the Building Official profession.
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Media inquiries: Priya Ramsingh, Senior Communications Lead,
437-247-2497, priya@oboa.on.ca