Over the last few months, the contenders aiming to become the next mayor of Ottawa have been presenting their campaign agendas. Now, it’s time to delve into the individuals driving these policies. Let’s focus on Alex Lawson.
Alex Lawson leads a hectic life. Apart from owning a home framing business, he actively volunteers and is a father to three daughters. Additionally, he is currently in the race for Ottawa’s mayoral position.
When asked about his relaxation methods, Lawson mentions his rural property in Dunrobin. However, even in that setting, work remains a priority for him, whether it involves constructing a new chicken coop, tending to acres of grass, or enjoying a walk in the forest with his daughters and dog.
While the occasional leisure moments do exist, such as playing board games like Life and Labyrinth with his family, Lawson doesn’t easily pick favorites. He finds it challenging to pinpoint a preferred musician, book, or historical figure, as he remains open to new experiences and perspectives.
His half-brother and campaign manager, Emrys Graefe, attributes this trait to what he calls a “class difference,” highlighting how Lawson’s focus on work and family leaves little room for traditional leisure activities pursued by typical politicians.
Class dynamics have played a significant role in Lawson’s life, shaping his perspective. Reflecting on his upbringing and experiences, especially witnessing his mother’s struggles to provide basic necessities, such as snowsuits, Lawson feels a deep sense of obligation and a drive to give back to the community that supported him during tough times.
Lawson’s journey took a significant turn during his time at Ridgemont High School, where a construction technology class sparked his interest. Despite not being a standout student overall, excelling in this particular subject set him on a path from a tradesman to a business owner and now a mayoral candidate.
Transitioning from sweeping houses to framing new homes, Lawson’s determination and willingness to learn propelled his career forward. Eventually, he ventured into entrepreneurship by starting his own framing business, Capital Framers, which currently employs around 16 individuals.
The onset of the pandemic brought unforeseen challenges for Lawson and his business. While experiencing surging demand amid the housing market boom, supply chain disruptions and pandemic-related restrictions added complexity to their operations, requiring constant adaptation and problem-solving skills.
Despite his success in business, Lawson’s interest in politics developed later in life. Initially, his involvement in political activities, such as serving on the Kanata Conservative Association board, stemmed from a desire to support a friend’s campaign rather than strong party allegiance. His lobbying work was seen as a means to address industry gaps and advocate for trade-related issues.
Driven by a continuous pursuit of improvement and a proactive approach to problem-solving, Lawson remains focused on identifying gaps, seeking opportunities for growth, and actively engaging with the community. His diverse life experiences and varied roles have equipped him with a multifaceted perspective, inspiring him to address challenges and contribute to positive change in Ottawa.
