News Archives: Jory Simard: Leveraging Opportunity
Wednesday, January 25th, 2023
NWP Alumni Jory Simard
Jory Simard credits Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) as the roadway that carved the way to his future successes and entrepreneurial endeavours.
As someone who has called Grande Prairie home his entire life, Simard explained that there is “nothing but opportunity to be leveraged” in the Peace Region and can’t wait to make his way back. Simard is currently completing his second-year Juris Doctor (JD) at the University of Alberta, with the hope of enrolling in the combined JD and Master of Business Administration program.
Simard started his educational journey at then Grande Prairie Regional College in 2017 in the University Transfer Bachelor of Commerce program. In 2019, Simard transferred to the University of Alberta, where he majored in Business Economics and Law.
Reflecting on his time at NWP, Simard explained you cannot beat the companionship of the close-knit community and optimal class sizes.
“You always have a set group of people you’re going to see every day,” said Simard. “You can always count on the professors knowing your name. Their main objective is that their students are going to have what they need to succeed.”
Simard boasts that the connection he made with his instructors at NWP followed him into adulthood. He keeps in close contact with many of them and explained at NWP “you are more than just a number; you are part of a community”.
When he is finished his schooling, Simard without a doubt wants to return to his home community. He can’t picture practicing law, or owning a business, anywhere else.
“I am currently co-owner of an entertainment business and I’d like to see where that takes me as well,” Simard said.
J.D. Entertainment is a successful 360 video booth rental service company, which Simard and his business partner launched in 2022.
“We are six months into it now and are building a great rapport with our clients. There’s been a lot of learning every day of what it takes to run a business in Grande Prairie,” said Simard. “We’ve noticed how good the community is and how conducive it is to a business environment.”
“I believe the best way to learn is from doing. So, I’m trying out this business and will see what comes of it. Grande Prairie is such a vibrant community, and it is growing every day. There is so much opportunity in Grande Prairie and I want to be a part of it.”
Simard believes his time, education and the connections made at NWP has prepared him well for whatever his future holds.
“NWP was just the beginning of the road, and that road is endless,” said Simard. “I wouldn’t ever change the path I have chosen.”
Check out NWP Business and Office Administration programs by visiting NWP.me/Business
