At CaTECH Systems, the dedication and passion of our employees are the driving force behind our success. Today, we’re thrilled to celebrate four incredible individuals who have each spent 20+ years shaping CaTECH’s legacy: Mike Stea, Reynaldo Garcia, Irina, and Sherwin. Their stories highlight the spirit of growth, and camaraderie that define our company. Below are their journeys and what they have to say on their 20 year work anniversary.
Mike Stea on his 20 year work anniversary
Mike’s journey from a junior technician to Project Manager exemplifies the career growth and mentorship opportunities CaTECH offers. His commitment to excellence and his ability to take on new challenges have made him an integral part of our team.
Below is his thoughts on his journey:
Where do I start, I was 19 years old and had a lot of hopes/dreams and was taking the Network Cabling Technician Specialist Course at Humber College where a Catech representative came to interview myself and the rest of the students.
For some reason I’m not sure what it was but something caught my attention whether it being the Logo that was catchy or just the name itself caught my attention as it was different then a lot of the other companies and I just knew that I wanted to work for this company. So, I called that representative back and went for a 2nd interview, and I was offered the job.
I was first placed at the GTAA Toronto Pearson Airport where I spent a ladder part of 3 years there involved in the Auditing all the Fiber and Copper connections coming out of the Terminal 2 Building so customer could plan to route connections elsewhere going to other buildings/terminals to plan to Demolish Terminal 2 building without any interruptions in business services elsewhere. Was also part of deploying all PC’s within the Terminal 1 Check in’s and Gates and performing network switch upgrades after hours throughout the entire Airport.
After the 3 years spent there as a Junior/Intermediate Technician I then spent another 7 great years going up the ranks every year as a Technician evolving into a Senior Technician doing other great Projects Notably Sheridan College, Wilfrid Laurier University, Telus Hood rd, Telus Marmac, Telus Consilium, Centennial College, Mars Discovery District, Mcdonalds NCR Rollouts, Canadian tire Rollouts, American Express, Rogers 8200 Dixie, Rogers 333 Bloor Sportsnet, Rogers CityTV, Rogers York Mills, Rogers Wolfedale etc…
I met a lot of amazing people in the company throughout that 10 year Journey being a Technician all willing to Teach me and work together as a team problem solving and the end goal to make sure Project Satisfaction is met with the customer meeting specific timelines that the PM put out for us Technician’s. Specifically, there was 1 Technician that stood out for me that was my mentor throughout the years that taught me how to do all Fiber and copper connections, problem solving and testing and that Technician at that time was Jon Elmensdorp and I thank him for all he taught me throughout those years believing in me.
Moving on to the next 10 years, There was a lot of Transitioning happening throughout the company and I would said about midway through my 10th year I took on a New Major roll, Nick Diakopoulos at this time was my Project Manager and he met with me one day and said “Mikey, how do you feel about moving up in the Company and becoming a Project Coordinator/Junior Project Manager”?
At the time I was a little bit hesitant to take this new role/responsibility as I knew it wasn’t going to be easy, and I never saw myself being a Manager. I talked it over with Nick and he told me “listen I will teach you everything and will have your back if there are any struggles or issues I will always be there” and he said he believe greatly that I could do this.
So, I took Nick’s word and he was true to his word, he taught me everything he knew, how to manage Tech’s, how to use our Q360 system and how to use ProQuote as I was doing my own Quotes for my specific customers at that time – Rogers Data Centers – 45 Esna Park, 550 Cochrane, TDC 333 Bloor and IBM – 3500, 3600, 100 Gough rd, 245 Consumers, 151 Front, Rogers Center.
As the years went by, I took a lot more clients on and everyone was satisfied with the work I was performing, Management and Customers. I give a lot of Credit to Nick and Jon for mentoring me throughout the years and this has been a Great company to work for throughout the years. I’ve recently returned to Pearson Airport the past 11 months where everything started but this time around I’m the Project Manager for this Account.
Again, I’m grateful for what this company has done for me and Cheers to another 10 years!.
Thank you.
Reynaldo Garcia on his 2 decades of dedication at CaTECH
Reynaldo’s story highlights the opportunities for skill development and leadership that CaTECH provides. His journey showcases how a supportive environment can foster both professional and personal growth.
Below is his thoughts on his journey:
WOW!! I don’t even know that I’m 20 years in service now. It’s like, it was only yesterday when I joined CATECH in August 2004 as Junior Cable Technician. I would like to send my sincere gratitude to Enzo Bordone and Neil Richardson (Steve & Colin’s Dad) for hiring me and putting their trust in me from day one. I was a new Immigrant then.
The last 20 years have not only allowed me to grow professionally, but it also provided me with an incredible opportunity to travel from Windsor to Ottawa to Quebec City because of the various projects that we have done during that time.
After giving me a chance to be a Team Leader, this gave me an opportunity to develop valuable skills, took on increasing responsibilities, had a chance to collaborate with different colleagues and built camaraderie. Looking forward to continuous growth and more challenges to come.
Many Thanks to Scott & Cathy for creating a happy “CATECH Family”. Also, Thank You to my former Project managers (Tommy and Mike) and Colin my current PM in supporting and guiding me in my journey.
Irina Ricknauth shares her thoughts on 20+ journey with CaTECH
Irina’s dedication and passion for collaboration have played a significant role in CaTECH’s success. Her ability to adapt and learn reflects the dynamic environment we strive to create.
Below is her thoughts on her 20 year journey at CaTECH:
Reflecting on my 21+ years at CaTECH, I’m grateful for the opportunities, growth, and incredible colleagues I’ve had the privilege to work alongside. What started as a role in a dynamic company has evolved into a journey of continuous learning and collaboration. Each challenge and success has shaped my path, and I’m proud to have contributed to CaTECH’s growth. Thank you to everyone who’s been part of this amazing experience. Here’s to many more years ahead!
Sherwin Mataragnon
Sherwin’s commitment and gratitude reflect the strong relationships and shared vision that make CaTECH more than just a workplace.
Sherwin expressed his sentiments about his journey below:
As I look back on my 20-year journey at CaTECH, I’m filled with gratitude and pride. It’s been a path marked by growth, challenges, and countless memorable moments. Every challenge was an opportunity to learn and grow, both personally and professionally.
What stands out most, though, are the people I’ve worked with. CaTECH isn’t just a workplace; it’s a community. Here’s to the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the exciting future ahead. Thank you, CaTECH, for an incredible 20 years!
20 year work anniversary celebration:
The journeys of Mike, Reynaldo, Irina, and Sherwin embody the values that define CaTECH Systems: dedication, growth, and community. Their combined experience of over 80 years highlights the strength and resilience of our team.
As we celebrate their incredible milestones, we’re reminded of the importance of fostering a workplace where employees can thrive, learn, and build lasting relationships. Their stories inspire us to continue building on the foundation they’ve helped create.
