Brett Sharman

How/Why I Become a Teacher?

I am curious by nature. I am in interested in how things work (ideas, products, systems) and how they can work better (which for me means more sustainable, responsible, ethical and delightful). After establishing a successful career in industry, I decided to take some time off to follow my curiosity and study a master’s degree. During my studies, I came across a work opportunity in academia that piqued my interest. I got the job and have worked in higher education ever since. Being a teacher at Confederation College allows me to nurture my curiosity and share my passion, knowledge and skills with others.

My Educational Background & Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Built Environment, specializing in industrial design, from Queensland University of Technology, Australia. Kick-started my professional career, which began in product design and marketing.
• Master of Environment, specializing in economics and policy, from Griffith University, Australia. Helped me transition into business management and evolve into an expert in environmental and socially responsible business.
• In the near future, I will be a starting a doctoral degree in business design in which I will explore approaches for redesigning organizations to be more responsive to the acute, global-scale challenges and opportunities we face this century (e.g. climate change).

My Relevant Experience in the Field

I have 20+ years of international business experience in design, marketing and managerial roles across a variety of different organizations, including small and medium-sized enterprises, multinationals and higher education institutions (colleges and universities). I have worked with clients and suppliers across the world (Europe, Asia, North America and Australasia), spent time living and working professionally in several countries (Australia, Canada and Spain), and hold citizenships for several countries (Australia, New Zealand and Canada).

I have been a full-time professor and the program coordinator for the International Business Management program at Confederation College since 2015.

My Hobbies & Other Interests:

Parenting (I have two amazing kids), reading, design, art, surfing (believe it or not, but you can surf in Lake Superior), snowboarding, cycling (I ride to the college most days, even in winter), trail running, exploring the great outdoors, travelling to foreign places, learning Spanish, practicing happiness and mindfulness.

Current Courses Taught: 

• IG101 Market Research
• IG108 International Marketing
• IG204 International Negotiation
• IG210 Ethics, Responsibility and Sustainability