THE month starts here: some things that you need to know - and a few you probably don't.

THE COLLECTED WISDOM OF ...

Name: Andy Cotnam

Title: President, general manager

Company: ANO Architects/Architectes Inc.

Residence: Timmins

Q What's the best advice you've ever received?

Look for the best in everyone and accept and appreciate them for who they are.

Treat everyone you meet like you want to be treated. In business and family relationships, remember that the most important thing is trust.

Q What's been your biggest challenge?

Finding the right balance between my personal and work life. To make time for the ones we love and really enjoy that time.

Q What's been the biggest surprise?

The healing quality of nature when you take time to experience and appreciate its awesome beauty.

Q What have you learned the most?

To forgive myself and others.

Q What's is the secret to success?

Choose a good team. Demand excellence and be willing to pay for it.

Q What's been your most rewarding career experience?

There have been many, such as College Boreal, but anything that lets me and my team flex our creative wings has been rewarding. This includes work we've done on the Peetabeck Academy in Fort Albany, and the Hearst Welcome Centre.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

-ANDY COTNAM

Print Get the Mag Weekly Updates