Bio: Born and raised in Winnipeg, Don followed some family influences and began his working career in the retail jewellery business. One of the youngest to earn the Gemological Institute of America's Diamond Grading Certificate, Don worked for several well-known jewellery chains before moving to one of the largest independent jewellery stores in Winnipeg where he ultimately ended up as sales manager / assistant to the owner. Don eventually returned to school, attending Red River College where he earned a Business Administration Diploma.

Following graduation Don spent several years working as a military reserve officer in a variety of training and logistical positions. Now in Victoria, Don transitioned out of the military and, falling back on his jewellery experience and business training, opened Victoria's first independent jewellery appraisal service. Don grew this business over the next couple of years and, along with a partner, took over an existing upscale jewellery store in Oak Bay which he operated for the next 11 years.

Don returned to school in 2000, this time to follow a long-standing interest in computers and technology. He graduated from a certificate program run by the University of Victoria that included a number of industry certifications and over the next several years worked in positions of increasing complexity and responsibility within the Victoria technology community, ultimately attaining a position at Royal Roads University. He continued his pursuit of education, attending several advanced cybersecurity-related courses and earning additional professional certifications.

In 2017 Royal Roads University created an IT Security Specialist position within their IT Department and, based on his strong interest and professional education, Don was appointed to this position. Since assuming this role, Don has worked to increase the cybersecurity awareness of the Royal Roads community and grow the cybersecurity culture of the university. Noteworthy amongst the cybersecurity programs Don has developed for RRU is the Cybersecurity Ambassadors initiative. Cybersecurity Ambassadors are specially trained employees who are available to assist colleagues with any cyber issues or questions they may have. This program has been very successful and has been replicated by other organisations.