Barnetson, Cam

Cameron Barnetson spent his entire 30 year career at BCIT, starting in 1964 with BCIT’s opening. He worked first as a Chemistry instructor, then later as the Department head. “For much of his career, Cameron led the Chemistry department, but refused to move higher into administration because he wouldn’t give up teaching.” (2012) He acted “as the on-call referee for the BCIT soccer team. He saved any honorariums they paid him and donated them back to the team.” (2012)
In an interview in 1996, Barnetson claimed he originally took the job at BCIT because it was “interesting”, “challenging”, and most important of all, it was “dealing with students.” He already had a great deal of industrial experience, and he felt BCIT would become an institute that provided more “applicable” learning for young people.
Barnetson passed in 2001, leaving a strong legacy behind him in the institute—and most especially the Chemistry Department—he helped create.

Caitlin Mortimer, Professional Experience student, created 2024-03-08

(2012) “A FATHER’S COMMITMENT TO PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE WORKFORCE CONTINUES THROUGH HIS SON’S GIFT.” BCIT Foundation Report on Giving 2011-2012, p. 8. https://www.bcit.ca/files/foundation/pdf/bcit_foundation_annual_report_2011_12.pdf

(1996). Part 4 - Pioneers archiving project: BCIT 30th Anniversary Interviews 1996, tape 2 [Video]. BCIT. Library Services. https://atom.lib.bcit.ca/part-4-pioneers-archiving-project-bcit-30th-anniversary-interviews-1996-tape-2