Finning Technician Shawn Hardy Named 2026 Knapheide Technician of the Year in Canada
Thirteen years after joining the Kamloops branch as what he fondly calls a “greennose helper,” Shawn Hardy has earned one of the highest honours in his field: the 2026 Knapheide Technician of the Year for Canada. Shawn is the fourth Finning technician to receive this national award since 2022, underscoring the strength of the company’s technician talent.
Selected through peer nominations, the recognition carries special meaning for Shawn. “To be acknowledged by the people I work with… it’s definitely heartwarming,” he said.
From farm life to a career as a Heavy Duty Technician
Shawn’s mechanical foundation was shaped on a small farm in Fernie, B.C., where hands-on problem-solving was part of daily life. After completing heavy-duty pre-employment training and spending time in the coal industry, he joined Finning seeking a new challenge and found a career that he says clicked.
He completed his Heavy Duty Technician apprenticeship through Thompson Rivers University and has steadily progressed through roles as helper, apprentice, technician, lead hand, and now chargehand. Each step has reinforced his love of the skilled trade and the people behind it.
Rebuild expertise and mentoring new technicians
Some of Shawn’s most rewarding days come from full machine rebuilds. Transforming equipment at the end of its lifecycle into machines that look and perform like new highlights the strength of Finning’s rebuild capabilities and lifecycle support.
“Seeing a machine come in not working at all and kicking it back out the door looking brand new. That’s pretty rewarding,” he said.
He takes equal pride in supporting newer technicians, helping them develop safe, efficient, and high-quality work habits. He leads by listening which is something he learned from his own mentors.
“The old timers taught me so much. They didn’t just think it, they lived it,” he said. It’s the same advice he shares with new apprentices now: listen, stay humble, and take every opportunity to learn.
Technician leadership that sets the Finning standard
Service Supervisor Karl Brunner says Shawn’s influence is felt across the entire shop. As chargehand, Shawn supports a team of 20–25 technicians and welders, mentoring newer apprentices and early career technicians, and helping ensure work is done safely, correctly, and efficiently.
“Shawn sets a highlevel bar for a Finning standard,” Brunner said. “He leads by example, is always willing to help, and consistently upholds top standards in safety, efficiency, and contamination control.”
Brunner adds that Shawn’s support extends beyond the workday. “No matter if he’s on shift or at home, he’s always there for anyone who needs him. He’s proud of where he works, and we are proud to have him as a chargehand.
Committed to community and connection
Shawn’s impact reaches far beyond the shop floor. A long-time member of Finning’s frontline safety team, he’s played a role in advancing personal protective equipment (PPE) and serious injury prevention (SIF) using Human and Organizational Performance (HOP) that other industry professionals have only just begun to explore.
He and his wife Sarah are also developing a “butterfly effect” initiative to help fund counselling for children who cannot afford it, a cause close to his heart. And with inspiration from his nine-year-old daughter, Shawn is organizing a Girl Guides tour to introduce young people to the world of heavy-duty equipment.
“I’m proud to work at Finning,” he said. “I like doing things that bring people into our world.”
Looking ahead
For Shawn, receiving the award marks an important milestone, but also a starting point. He is focused on strengthening his leadership, supporting his team, and continuing to build a collaborative workplace where people are safe, respected, and empowered to grow.
Shawn and his wife Sarah, with David Primrose at the awards gala in Dallas, TX
“Keeping everyone on the same page is the only way anything works,” he said. “If people are supported, everything else follows.”
Celebrating all our finalists
Finning also congratulates this year’s additional finalists, Michael Crutcher and Tyson Fortowsky, along with all nominees across our branches. Their dedication, skill, and commitment to excellence represent the very best of Finning’s frontline talent.
Celebrating all our finalists
Finning also congratulates this year’s additional finalists, Michael Crutcher and Tyson Fortowsky, along with all nominees across our branches. Their dedication, skill, and commitment to excellence represent the very best of Finning’s frontline talent.
Interested in a career like Shawn's?
At Finning, technicians don't just fix machines. They build skills, mentor others and grow into leaders. We're hiring skilled technicians and apprentices across Western Canada who want to learn from the best, work on industry leading equipment, and build a career they can be proud of. If you're ready to grow your skills click here and apply today.
Finning is the world's largest Caterpillar dealer, selling, renting and providing parts and service for equipment and engines to customers across diverse industries, including mining, construction, petroleum, forestry and a wide range of power systems applications. We operate in Western Canada, South America, and UK and Ireland.