Justin McGillivray

At an early age it was evident that bicycles would play a major role in my life as an entrepreneur.
My passion for cycling has led me to become the founder and owner of a bicycle service center under the name of Kootenay Cycles. Adding a fresh new spin to what other bike shops are currently offering, Kootenay Cycles main focus is to capture the passion for cycling in all its amazing history and culture.
When I started riding bikes seriously, I was mainly involved in the cross country discipline of cycling. Now as a very adventurous and energetic young man, breaking bike components on my mountain bike was a daily concern. With very little income and a huge curiosity, my instincts brought me to take on the challenge of learning bicycle mechanics. Quickly learning my knack for fixing bicycles, my love for the mechanics side of things grew. The more I rode the more I would learn about the bike and why it would do certain things. This ultimately gave me a better understanding of how to tackle the many different scenarios you face as a bicycle technician.
Ten years later and the passion is only getting stronger, getting involved in all disciplines of cycling, while becoming the head senior mechanic of one of the local bike shops. It is safe to say that cycling plays a major role in my life, keeping up with the latest trends, technology, and events the cycling industry has to offer.
I am currently earning my diploma in Business Management and Entrepreneurship at Algonquin College in hopes to make my passion a career. Earning honors in the first year of the college program, I have developed great experience and skills in the following areas, case study methodology, marketing, business consulting, business planning, presentation skills and time management.
In my spare time, aside from riding bikes I have a deep passion for live music, art, camping, fishing, and anything to do with the outdoors. Through all of these interests I have found that I really love helping people, wether it is, with an issue they are having with their bike or a friend needing a favor. I get much satisfaction from making sure anyone who comes to me for help walks away ten times happier than when they came to me. That to me is what makes great customer service.