Trevor Snook

For 25 years, Trevor Snook has called Fort McMurray home. Originally from Flat Bay, Newfoundland, Trevor moved to the region for work and has since grown deeply connected to the community. As a Senior Survey Technologist and a dedicated volunteer, Trevor’s passion for sharing Indigenous knowledge and skills has impacted both his professional life and his contributions to the community. His story is one of humility, mentorship, and a deep respect for culture, tradition, and the natural world.

Trevor’s career in surveying has been rewarding in its own right, but what truly brings him joy is training junior surveyors and mentoring others. His commitment to teaching extends far beyond his job, as he continuously seeks to pass on knowledge to the next generation. “Teach to be humble. Share with all, no teaching is too small or too large,” Trevor says, summing up his personal philosophy.

One of Trevor’s greatest sources of pride is his work with Indigenous youth and elders. Through his involvement with Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC), the Boys and Girls Club, and Careers: The Next Generation, he’s found numerous opportunities to give back. He’s volunteered at community events, from painting at local Boys and Girls Clubs to mentoring Indigenous youth, and he takes every chance to teach workshops on traditional crafts, such as making ribbon skirts and snares or crafting moose calls.

Trevor’s passion for teaching extends beyond skills—he passes down a deep respect for the land and the natural world. “Since becoming a dad, I wanted to pass down tradition and culture to my daughter. I taught her how to hunt, fish, and camp, and how to respect the land and all it provides.” This respect for nature is something Trevor strives to instill in the youth he mentors. He believes these teachings offer more than just survival skills—they build character, responsibility, and an understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things.

One of the pivotal moments in Trevor’s journey came when he was asked to lead a workshop at the ATC Cultural Festival in 2022. Since then, his role as a teacher and artist has expanded significantly, with his work being showcased across the region. His art, which has appeared on TELUS vehicles and utility boxes in Wood Buffalo, reflects his deep connection to Indigenous culture. A particular highlight was having his artwork featured on the torch for the 2023 Arctic Winter Games—an achievement that holds a special place in his heart.

Trevor recently took another step in his journey by starting his own small business, TMS Indigenous Creations. Through this venture, he aims to create authentic Indigenous experiences, offering workshops that teach survival skills, respect for the land, and traditional crafts. His long-term goal is to expand this initiative into Indigenous tourism, offering a safe space where people can learn from nature and form a deeper connection with the world around them.

Fort McMurray has not only been a place of professional growth for Trevor, but also a place where he has found a sense of family, community, and acceptance. His deep involvement in local events, from Treaty Days to community festivals, has allowed him to build lasting relationships with teachers, elders, and knowledge-keepers. “The community has accepted me as a teacher, and thanks to my wife Misty, I’ve made so many connections that allow me to share my knowledge,” he says. Misty has been a central figure in Trevor’s journey, supporting his work and encouraging him to grow as an artist and mentor.

Trevor is acutely aware of the challenges facing today’s youth, from intergenerational trauma to the lack of cultural understanding in a rapidly changing world. He believes that fostering respect for all cultures and embracing diversity is key to overcoming these challenges. “Reconciliation and support of all people as a whole,” he says, emphasizing the importance of understanding, compassion, and community.

As he looks to the future, Trevor’s focus remains on teaching and giving back. He envisions a future where his workshops create lasting memories and where his business, TMS Indigenous Creations, becomes a hub for learning and sharing Indigenous knowledge. Through his teachings, Trevor hopes to inspire others to embrace the land, respect nature, and pass on their own cultural traditions to future generations.

Trevor’s journey is one of growth, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the community. His impact is already felt throughout the region, and with his continued dedication, Trevor Snook is sure to leave “everlasting footprints within the sand.”

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