The "That's me" Biography

Born in Montreal, raised in Toronto, Bruce Rattray earned a degree in Chemical Engineering from Queen's University in 1973. He then began his professional career in Ottawa where at various times he worked for Pollution Probe Ottawa, the federal Department of the Environment and the federal Department of Energy Mines and Resources.

He moved to Kimberley, British Columbia in 1980 where he met his wife, Shirley. Together they moved to Inuvik, Northwest Territories in 1982 for the start of a three year work commitment which eventually turned into 24 years, mostly spent in the city of Yellowknife.

Beginning his career with the Government of the Northwest Territories as the Assistant Regional Engineer in Inuvik, Bruce Rattray worked in the Department of Transportation and the Department of Public Works and Services, retiring from the position of Deputy Minister in 2005.

During the 1990's he became involved with the Northwest Territories Association of Professional Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists, eventually serving as President. In recognition of his contribution, he was awarded the Distinguished Life Membership by the Association.

Rekindling his interest in environmental matters, Bruce attended Royal Roads University and was awarded a Masters degree in Environment and Management in 2000.

While in the north, Bruce and Shirley raised three children. Monte, age 25, is a graduate of the University of Alberta with a degree in Computer Engineering and is now living in Calgary. Allyce, age 23, graduated from the University of Alberta with a degree in languages and returned to work in Yellowknife. Kevin, age 21, is currently studying Environmental Engineering at the University of Alberta.

Bruce and Shirley Rattray arrived in the Cariboo in 2006 as full-time residents of Bridge Lake. Active outdoor enthusiasts, they were attracted by the skiing, hiking and paddling opportunities for which the Cariboo is famous. An amateur woodworker, Bruce has built most of the furnishings in their house and filled the cupboards and shelves with "little round things" produced on his lathe. He credits playing the guitar with helping him to survive the stress of exams in university but acknowledges that his proficiency peaked in the mid-70's and has been declining ever since.

Bruce Rattray's commitment to the community is evidenced by his involvement in the creation of Friends of Bridge Lake, for which he served as founding member and President.