VICA Team
Rory Kulmala
Chief Executive Officer
Rory has been working the construction scene throughout Canada for the last 25 years but primarily in the West as a general contractor and owner for both public and private sectors. In addition to his experience, he has accreditation as an Applied Science Technologist and a PMP, including an MBA.
Sarah Bartfai
Director of Operations
With VICA since 2009, Sarah brings deep organizational knowledge and a people-first approach to her role as Director of Operations. She oversees core operational functions, supporting staff, systems, and programs to ensure the organization runs smoothly and delivers value to members. Known for her collaborative leadership style and attention to detail, Sarah helps keep VICA aligned, efficient, and moving forward. Outside of work, she manages an equally busy operation at home with three energetic boys.
Kathy Whitcher
Events & Advocacy Support
Kathy is a senior leader with over 30 years of experience in urban development, municipal planning, infrastructure delivery, and industry advocacy across British Columbia. She is known for navigating complex stakeholder environments, aligning public policy with project delivery, and advancing practical, community-focused solutions. Outside of work, Kathy enjoys long walks with her black lab and spending time with her family, including her two amazing grandsons.
Jennifer Thorkelson
Manager of Training, Education, and Workforce Development
Born and raised in Victoria, Jenn is excited to step into the role of Manager of Training, Education, and Workforce Development after serving in an administrative role with VICA. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and brings a people-centred approach to supporting workforce growth, training excellence, and career development in the construction industry. Outside of work, Jenn enjoys spending time with her family and staying connected to her community.
Ruth Lebbetter
Accounting Specialist
Ruth joined the VICA team November 2022, taking on the position of the Accounting Specialist. After a lengthy stint, over 25 years, in the retail building material industry, evolving her skills in marketing and accounting she has crossed over to learn another “ frame” of the construction industry. When not in the office she can be found on the golf course or cruising thru the Saanich inlet on her paddle board.
Kate Wilson
Administrative & Education Assistant, Victoria
Kate moved from Vancouver to Victoria in 2020 after studying at SFU. She brings a strong interest in the construction industry to her work at VICA and enjoys supporting members and the broader construction community. Outside of work, Kate can often be found enjoying a quiet evening with a good book and her cat.
Kelly Marcan
Manager, Member Services
Kelly brings 25 years of experience in the hospitality and recreation industries to VICA. Following a career shift into the countertop sector, she discovered a passion for the construction industry and is eager to apply her strong background in customer service and people-focused support to her new role in Member Services.
Outside of work, Kelly enjoys camping, gardening, and walking. She is also actively involved in her community as a Scout Leader with her youngest daughter and can often be found cheering on her eldest in dog agility training. Most of all, she values time spent with her husband and two daughters.
Kattina Charbonneau
Administrative Assistant, Nanaimo
With over 10 years of experience in office administration, client services, and operations, Kattina is passionate about keeping things running smoothly and efficiently. She enjoys connecting with people, building strong relationships, and contributing to a positive, supportive community. Outside of work, Kattina loves going on adventures with her family and volunteering in the St. John’s Ambulance Therapy Dog program with her black lab, Pax.
Taylor Mhene
CYF, Program Coordinator
Taylor was born and raised in Victoria, where she is thrilled to be immersed in the beautiful nature. With her experience working with children and youth for over 10 years, she has brought encouragement and exploration to their ongoing learning. She is looking forward to making more connections within the community and the Construct Your Future Program!
Alison Bott
CYF, Program Coordinator
Alison joined VICA in August 2023, having spent the previous 15 years working for the Greater Victoria School District, with disengaged youth. As a former career coordinator, she encouraged students to find their pathway and make connections between classroom education, post-secondary instruction, and the workplace. Trades have always been something Alison has been passionate about, helping students find work experience placement opportunities with the Youth Work in Trades program, finding a sponsor employer and registering with the ITA as a youth apprentice.
Greg Hemminger
Tailgate Toolkit Coordinator, Vancouver/Lower Mainland
Greg Hemminger is our Harm Reduction Project Coordinator for the Lower Mainland, representing VICA out of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association office. Over the last 5 years, Greg has been an active part of the mental health and addictions community across the greater Vancouver area. He has served as a board member for the Maple Ridge Treatment Centre, running biweekly support groups for men in early recovery. He also helped create the Fun in Recovery Program, which accompanies clients to community outings such as sporting events to show clients that there is a new world awaiting them outside of addiction. Greg looks forward to contributing to the Harm Reduction program and bringing this essential project to the Lower Mainland.
Mika Dumont
Tailgate Toolkit Coordinator, Southern Interior
Mika Dumont is the Tailgate Toolkit Coordinator for the Southern Interior region of BC. Over the past 10 years, Mika has gained experience in the fields of addiction, mental health, and construction. She looks forward to helping to end stigma in our industry.
Rose Olsen
Tailgate Toolkit Coordinator, Vancouver/Lower Mainland
Rose has been actively involved in supporting the entrenched and unhoused population of the Fraser Valley. After pursuing education to become a community support worker, she developed a passion for assisting people. Rose was a valuable member of an exceptional team in Abbotsford that established a drop-in center in the heart of the city and pioneered the first Safe Injection Site. Since 2013, she has been working on the front lines, teaching numerous neighbours and professional community members how to use naloxone. After taking a break to build cabinets for a year, Rose felt the calling and returned to work with the community.
Alexandra Stockli
Tailgate Toolkit Coordinator, Vancouver Island
Alexandra is the Tailgate Toolkit Program Coordinator for Vancouver Island. She joined VICA in September of 2024. Her previous background working with community members living with substance misuse and mental health disorders has provided her a wealth of knowledge and experience that she is excited to bring to the Tailgate Toolkit program. She looks forward to bringing awareness to those in the industry about mental health and addiction.