Graham Anderson Whisked Away by TEMS

When an acquaintance happened to introduce Graham Anderson to the Technological Education Multi-Session Program (TEMS) at Queen’s, he was faced with a pivotal decision: continue his path living comfortably as a station chef, or venture back into the world of university. “I’m going to be completely honest ... I was terrified of the thought of going back to university in my mid-30s,” Graham says. “But when I got accepted, I couldn’t have imagined how much of a positive impact Queen’s and the TEMS program would have on my life.”  Graham is now thriving as an Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT), DE Loney Award Recipient, and TEMS alumnus.

The moment Graham stepped foot into the TEMS program, he was surrounded by people whose talents and dreams echoed his own. “They were tradespeople, like me, who were nervous about going back to school but were also looking for something more,” Graham expresses. “We came from different backgrounds, but we shared the same goals, and we forged friendships that I truly believe will last a lifetime.” Through the tough transition from the workforce to post-secondary school, the hunt for a role in a bright new career, and the ever-vibrant days in the life of teaching, Graham’s friends have never left his side: “That network of support carried us through, and even now we’re still in touch, still swapping lesson ideas, still encouraging each other through additional qualification courses and next steps.”

Along with his loyal colleagues and friends, Graham’s professors stood by him through every challenge and opportunity he encountered throughout the program: “The professors were incredible; not just knowledgeable but genuinely invested in our success. They helped us navigate the OCT process, made the transition into school boards smoother, and were in our corner every step of the way.” With the tools and conviction instilled in Graham by his mentors and colleagues, Graham has made incredible advancements in his education and his career.

“Since graduating from TEMS, I’ve gone on to complete three additional qualifications, including my Technological Education Honours Specialist,” Graham begins. “I’ve stepped into a department head role at a tech and trades-focused high school, and I’ve been honoured with a Director’s Citation for my contributions to technological education. None of that would have happened without the foundation TEMS gave me, not just in terms of pedagogy, but in terms of confidence.”

For Graham, this shift in his career path has been nothing short of life-altering. “I now enjoy 13 weeks off each year. I have a steady work schedule that allows me to be home every single evening with my family; no more night shifts!” he celebrates. “My salary has more than doubled, and that shift in both income and work-life balance has opened the door to travel, hobbies, fitness, and time with the people I care about most. I’ve even been able to get back into playing soccer again.”

More than anything, however, Graham’s life has been transformed by what happens in the classroom. “I’ve had the privilege of watching my students grow, graduate, head off to college, and come back to share their journeys. Some have even asked about the TEMS pathway for themselves. And that, to me, is what it’s all about,” he smiles. Graham stresses that of all the education that nourished his growth, one of the most powerful things TEMS taught him was how to build authentic relationships with students. “That’s still the most important part of teaching for me,” he shares. “Helping to shape young lives and watching them thrive… There’s nothing like it.”