People of PacifiCan: Dugley Wong
Meet Dugley.
Joining PacifiCan from the Canadian Coast Guard, Dugley brings a strong foundation in public service and a deep commitment to meaningful work. With over a decade of government experience, this Senior Business Officer understands the real-world impact that thoughtful actions can have on individuals and communities.
Born just a few kilometers from PacifiCan’s Surrey headquarters, and having lived across Metro Vancouver, Dugley is wise in many ways and enjoys learning about everyday things, such as the best deals in the Lower Mainland.
When he is not onboarding new employees or reviewing client claim submissions, you might find this proud member of the Pride and Recognition Committee exploring a new café or sharing his poetry during our events.
Learn more about Dugley’s journey and the inspiring energy he brings to PacifiCan.
How did you arrive at PacifiCan?
I was able to be seconded into PacifiCan as a Business Officer through the Government of Canada jobs portal, coming over from the Canadian Coast Guard. I joined the PacifiCan team in 2017 when Canada was celebrating its 150th anniversary and projects under the Canada 150 Program required extra support. Having been in government for a decade already, I’ve learned that the right opportunities will present themselves at the right time. By seeking new experiences, it’s amazing what you can learn from others and discover about yourself.
What interested you about PacifiCan?
Having experienced both economic upturns and downturns during my time in government, PacifiCan’s mandate to support the growth and diversification of B.C.’s economy was a purpose I could easily get behind and see myself contributing to. PacifiCan is an agency that drives positivity and contributes to enduring prosperity for British Columbians. Additionally, PacifiCan’s results and performance are widely recognized, and I heard from former colleagues about the great workplace culture, all factors that attracted me to join the team.
What do you do in a typical day?
In a typical day, I provide client service to both internal and external stakeholders, helping them move forward with their tasks and projects under various funding programs offered by PacifiCan. This can include onboarding new employees, responding to client emails or phone calls, performing cost analysis for deeper project assessments, or reviewing client claim submissions to verify eligible costs under our grant and contribution agreements. Most importantly, by supporting and collaborating with other team members, I help ensure proper stewardship of public funds and maintain public trust.
What have you enjoyed about your role at PacifiCan thus far?
Having worked on many different projects delivered by PacifiCan, I take pride in knowing that we have made a difference for many, and will continue to do so for many more years to come.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
The privilege of being a public servant lies in the belief that we can make a meaningful difference for people, communities, and regions. Being able to learn about the diverse needs of the clients we serve and connect with the broader goal of public service gives my work a strong sense of purpose. It allows me to grow, gain new perspectives, and share in the successes of others. Knowing that I am part of a larger system and that I have responsibilities to make a part of it function smoothly reminds me that our work has meaning and value.
A few “quick facts”
By putting words to paper, I have been able to deliver a few spoken word poems at PacifiCan events, honouring some of our past retirees and wrapping up Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign (GCWCC) events, in the hopes that they provide an inspiring message.
What city are you originally from?
I was born just a few kilometers from PacifiCan’s headquarters in Surrey. I grew up in Maple Ridge and later moved around different parts of Vancouver. I now reside in Richmond.
What is your educational background?
My main degrees include a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Simon Fraser University and a Bachelor of Arts in Commerce from Thompson Rivers University, plus many lessons learned from the “school of life.”
Can you share one of your greatest accomplishments?
One of my proudest accomplishments at work is maintaining a positive reputation and promoting high morale as a member of PacifiCan’s Pride and Recognition Committee. I helped develop our previous Instant Reward Recognition Program into the current People’s Choice Reward program. I have also supported other committees, such as the Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign (GCWCC), helping to deliver fun activities and raise awareness for charitable causes, which has been a memorable and fulfilling experience.
Any advice you have for people who may want to join PacifiCan?
If you are interested in joining PacifiCan, then have a willingness to learn and be ready to engage because it is a dynamic organization with an important mission. Commitment and accountability will be important qualities to demonstrate on a regular basis, not only to the organization but also to yourself. When you are humble and have humility, you will be able to serve others without losing your authenticity. Developing relationships is a masterful skill that you will truly appreciate.
Can you give us one or two things that you enjoy outside of work?
Outside of work, simple pleasures like finding a new café in Metro Vancouver and being around the coffee aromas lift my spirit. I also enjoy browsing and comparison shopping around different neighborhoods to build my personal database of trivial information to offer friendly advice.
Name 3 songs that are on your Spotify Playlist
Not tied to any specific genre, here are three songs that inspire me and bring back lasting memories whenever I hear them:
- “Wake Me Up” by Avicii
- “Good Feeling” by Flo Rida
- “Lean On Me” by Bill Withers