In Focus | Jim Kitchin

In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition for the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. The team at KelownaNow.com is passionate about this community and the people that make it amazing. We want to show our friends, neighbours, family and colleagues that we notice them and the fabulous things that they do.

What is your name?
Jim Kitchin.

Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I was born and raised in Kelowna, having now lived here for the 32 years.

Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My favourite person to spend time with is my girlfriend, Jessie Mae Mcfadyen. With all the stresses related to my work, she helps me relax, take a step back and appreciate the little things in life.

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would like to visit Greece because of its history, structures and beautiful islands.

What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
My favourite store in Kelowna would have to be Rona contract sales. I have been going there almost on daily bases for years and developed many great relationships with the staff.

What is your favourite activity?
My favourite activity has to be riding motorcycles with golf coming a close second.

If you had to choose: pizza, tacos, or burgers?
Burgers! You just can’t beat a good burger.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Well I’ve definitely had a few, however, the one that comes to mind is when I was mini golfing on a first date with my now-girlfriend and on a particular hole, after numerous failed attempts I swung a little too hard out of frustration. The ball ricocheted and hit me square in the nose. We ended up having a good laugh and in the long run, it all worked out.

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Seeing my father overcome so much with his battle against cancer and keeping such high spirits throughout his shortened life.

Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Football games on the weekends with my family in the stands.

Where do you volunteer, or give back to in the community?
I'm always looking for great causes to get involved with, but most recently I supported the 'Make a Wish Foundation' with a hospital activity book.

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Put an end to world hunger!

What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Golf, there are some of the most beautiful courses are located here!

Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
When time permits, the gym is always a great spot.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would like to see change in the downtown core of Kelowna. There is so much potential for our community to grow and expand.

What do you think makes Kelowna great?
There is so much about Kelowna that makes it great. It doesn’t matter what season it is, there is always lots to do. The summertime weather with the lake is a huge benefit!

What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1) Travel to Greece
2) Ride a motorcycle from Canada to Mexico
3) Own a house somewhere tropical

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I am terrified of snakes.

How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest)
I am typically reached best by a phone call or texting. I have a fairly small presence on social media, Facebook being the main source of activity.

What is the name of your business/organization?
Chriscan construction.

Why did you get into/start this business?
I began in the construction industry years ago because I enjoyed the satisfaction of taking a concept and developing it into something real. Recently becoming an owner of Chriscan has only further solidified these feelings. To be involved in something that others have dreamed about and to see and feel the fulfillment in their face when the project is completed is what motivates me.

What is the goal of your business?
The objective of Chriscan construction is to understand our customers individual goals and provide a personalized, reliable product with a high level of detail and service. In other words, we want to complete a project that both parties can be proud of.

What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
My biggest struggle in life was losing my father to cancer. This has also helped me become the person I am today.

If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I wouldn’t change a thing.

What do you always find yourself saying?
'I’m exhausted'.

Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
I think it is very important to shop within your community. As a local business owner, I understand the need to have support from the locals. Generally speaking, the money spent here will stay here. Developing personal relationships with people in the community is essential to our growth.

What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment to date has been joining the ownership team of Chriscan construction. I am fortunate to have Mr. Len Suchocki as a mentor to guide me through an ever-changing time.

Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
I would like to give a shout out to Devin Krenz. Devin is a local professional working for one of British Columbia’s largest utilities.

My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Devin Krenz.

We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kelowna.