In Focus | Devin Krenz

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?
Devin Krenz.

Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I’ve lived in many communities in BC growing up including Squamish, Dawson Creek and Valemount. Kelowna has been home-base now for almost 17 years in which I have spent some time away for school.

Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
I would say my girlfriend Tara Kramer. She is a very positive and smart person and we always have a great time together.

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Tough to answer as there are many places that I would love to go. I love to travel to other parts of the world. If I had to pick one, I’d say Spain. I’ve heard it’s beautiful and there are lots of great islands and beaches.

What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Gasoline Alley Harley Davidson is probably my favourite now, but I do like a lot of the motorsport dealers as I love all motorsports.

What is your favourite activity?
I have many favourite activities, depending on the season. I’d say snowmobiling and skiing in the winter, then riding my motorcycle and boating in the summer. I also love to travel.

If you had to choose: pizza, tacos, or burgers?
Definitely tacos!

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I thought about sharing, but decided not to relive it publicly.

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
As I get older, I realize that my parents, Julio and Lyn Krenz, inspire me the most. They both managed to work throughout their lives, raise three children and still be very involved with the community. Both have put countless hours into sports, schools and Cops for Kids. My dad is still very active with Cops for Kids well into retirement and I think that is truly inspiring.

Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Camping and riding ATV’s with family and friends.

Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I work for FortisBC and they have had some events to raise money for Children’s Hospital as well as some employee’s families going through hard times. I have participated in the events, such as long distance runs and barbeques, and I also donate to Cops for Kids.

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Resolving conflict between nations. Whether it be caused by greed, religion or race, I think the wars need to stop.

What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
I have so many, but I will go with boating as my favourite.

Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I like to ride my Harley when I need some time alone.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I think the city of Kelowna does a great job of balancing the priorities of the people here so I’m not really sure I have a good recommendation. Keep up the great work!

What do you think makes Kelowna great?
I think Kelowna has a lot going for it, It’s an amazing place. I think the weather, the mountains, the lake and the geographic beauty make it a great place to live.

What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1) Skydiving
2) Travel to every continent
3) Flying in a fighter jet

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I’m a bit of an adrenaline-junky. I love speed and motorsports.

How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest)
Facebook

What is the name of your business/organization?
FortisBC.

Why did you get into/start this business?
I’m an electrical engineer and have always had an interest in power. FortisBC has generation, transmission and distribution electrical assets throughout the interior of BC, along with natural gas transmission and distribution pipelines throughout BC. They offered me an opportunity to work in a field I’m interested in while being in a place I love and I still managed to stay near family. It worked out perfect, really.

What is the goal of your business?
To provide safe, reliable, cost effective gas and electric energy to customers.

What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
I would have to say my biggest struggle was getting my engineering degree. I had to work hard at it.

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

What do you always find yourself saying?
I say 'eh' a lot. When I go to the United States they point me out as Canadian right away.

If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Michael Jordan, I was a big fan of his growing up. I always thought it would be cool to meet him.

Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
I think it’s important to support the local economy because it means supporting those around you, as they will support you.

What has been your proudest accomplishment?
I would say it's being able to maintain great friendships with so many awesome people. I have lived in many places while growing up, going to university and for work. I have many friends whom I respect and share many great times with. I have been very privileged to have them in my life.

Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
I would like to give a shout out to my parents, Julio and Lyn Krenz, for being great leaders and mentors in life.

My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Garrett Jones.

Some general comments I would like to share are:
Keep a good work/life balance, enjoy your life and those around you and always show respect for people because what goes around comes around. I also believe you regret the things you don’t do in life more than the things you do, so just go for it! Lastly, put the effort in for spending time with those you love. Life goes fast.

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.