From lug nuts to leadership: one alum’s journey through the trades at Northern Lights College
At NLC, education is only the beginning.
That’s certainly true for Rod Cork who started out as an Automotive Service Technician student in 2005 and now serves as the Dean of Trades and Apprenticeship.
An education that fueled a career path
When Rod enrolled at NLC, he probably didn’t imagine that one day he’d be leading the very department he trained in. It didn’t take long for his experience to inspire something more.
“The full apprenticeship training prepared me to advance through the automotive service trade to Service Manager, then into the role of teaching as faculty, and then onto department leadership including Chair, Associate Dean, and now Dean,” Rod explains. His strong foundation as a student laid the groundwork for a career that’s been equal parts hands-on and deeply impactful.
A teaching dream realized
While teaching had always been a long-term goal, the opportunity to return to NLC came ahead of schedule.
“[I] was called upon earlier than expected,” Rod recalls, “but I knew the people in the team I would be working with, so I took the chance and changed directions.”
That leap of faith has led to a fulfilling second act in education — one where he’s had the opportunity to shape the next generation of trades professionals.

Celebrating success, every day
Today, what Rod values most about working at NLC is the chance to be part of something bigger. He loves celebrating the many successes in his department and enjoys working with and learning from the diverse community of staff and students at NLC.
“The faculty are passionate about their chosen area of expertise and have a deep desire to create paths to success for our students,” he noted — a quality that hasn’t changed in the years since he was in the classroom.
A standout moment and a lasting impact
One of Rod’s most memorable moments as a student came early on: being nominated for the tool award as a Level 1 apprentice.
“What an amazing way to begin my time in the trade,” he reflected. It was a moment of recognition that helped shape his confidence and commitment — and one that sticks with him to this day.
Throughout his journey, Rod has had the support of key mentors and colleagues.
“There have been a number of folks over the years who have supported my growth,” he said, naming Stan Kachmarski, his AST Instructor; Rick Hall, Chair and co-faculty; and the “amazing leadership team” who’ve helped guide his path.
Giving back through the trades
When asked what advice he’d give to students considering a future in post-secondary education, Rod is quick to reflect on the bigger picture.
“For me, this has been an exceptionally rewarding way to give back to the trades and community,” he said.
For those wondering whether NLC is the right place to start their own path, Rod is just as confident.
“We have highly qualified instructional faculty, it’s close to home, and it’s financially efficient.”
More than a school — a community
From apprentice to administrator, Rod has seen NLC from every angle.
“It has been a fantastic journey, from being the learner all the way through to being an educator and administrator,” he said. “Seeing all sides of how this sector operates has been a wonderful learning journey.”
To Rod, NLC stands out in the post-secondary landscape of British Columbia.
“It is a unique community… a wonderful, positive and rewarding place to work.” And perhaps most powerfully, “NLC just does it better. This is a school that takes the time to teach what isn’t in the textbook — professionalism, work ethic, and accountability.”
With leaders like Rod guiding the way, it’s clear the future of trades education at NLC is in capable hands — hands that once turned wrenches in the very same classrooms.