Shannon Black

Manager of Building Services/CBO with the Township of North Dumfries

As a student in both high school and college, becoming a building official was not on my radar. It wasn’t until I was looking for my first co-op placement as an Architectural Technology student, that my grandparents, (who had just built a house in Collingwood) suggested I reach out to the local building official. After spending four months shadowing Bill Plewes, I knew that this was the career I wanted.

Some of the best things about being a building official is that each day is different.  I learn something new every day and really enjoy the camaraderie within the OBOA organization.

I’ve been lucky over the past 17 plus years to have worked for CBO’s and CAO’s who have mentored, supported and encouraged my career goals. I would encourage any female who is considering a career within the building industry to reach out to their local municipal building department. Or seek out your local OBOA chapter and ask to connect with someone who can answer your questions about this rewarding career choice.