Glenn Chatten

Principal, Wordclear Specifications

With an honors degree in religious studies and psychology from the University of Waterloo and having studied for a M.Div. at McMaster University Seminary, at first glance, Glenn Chatten may not seem to be considered a likely candidate for work in the Construction or Architectural Design Industry. Add also the fact that he is a well known, award winning, singer/songwriter, CFMA nominated, professional finger-style guitarist and an accomplished touring recording artist, the chances of seeing him in at construction or design meetings would seem remote.

Yet, Glenn has carved out a niche for himself in the world of construction by his varied experiences ranging from being a steel worker at Inverleigh Bridge Construction in the mid-eighties; the CEO of an award winning Ontario contracting firm in the nineties; the Architectural Sales Representative for Western Canada for General Paint Inc; to a successful specification writer working in partnership with Specworks Inc. in Vancouver, BC.

The strong thread that has tied all these experiences together has been his continued intent and focus on, awareness of, and ability to utilize his finely tuned and engaging communications skills.

For the past ten years as the Principal of Wordclear Specifications, Glenn works not only as an architectural consultant creating construction documentation and specifications for the West Coast industry but also offers education in the importance of specifications by providing presentations, lectures and workshops to firms, associations, college and universities; and teaching all of the courses (PCD, TR, CA, Specifier) offered by Construction Specifications Canada (CSC).

He brings with him an extensive knowledge of, and experience in - construction design, communication, building envelope sciences, specification writing, contract documentation and project management.

His seminars and lectures are both informative, educational and some would even say, entertaining.