Daughter inspires former CAF to run for office

Pierre Lemieux’s twenty year career with the Canadian Armed Forces has equipped him with skillset that he’s transferred to various aspects of his life whether it’s been his work in the high-tech sector or in the field of politics as the Progressive Conservative candidate for the riding of Glengarry-Prescott-Russell.

Lemieux began his career in the Canadian Armed Forces at the age of 17 as a cadet officer. He attended the Royal Military College of Canada and received a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. After graduating from RMC, he was posted in Calgary for seven years as part of the 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (CMBG). He recalls his time there fondly saying he had “excellent memories” with the 1 CMBG.

During his career, Lemieux also had the opportunity to visit England, exchanging knowledge with Australian and British soldiers. He also was deployed on UN mission training. After a twenty year career, he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel.

After his career with the military, Lemieux transferred his skills into the high tech world. He soon started his own small business providing consulting services.

“It worked out really well because of the experience I had acquired in the Army. It all bears fruit when you leave the military because you are bringing real skill sets,” said Lemieux.

Lemieux has been on the federal politics scene for almost ten years now. He recalls he first became interested in trying his hand at politics because of his daughter Elizabeth.

“We were just like many other Canadian families; busy with life, work, family and just following politics from a distance. And then my daughter suggested that I should run because if you want to change things you have to get involved,” explained Lemieux.

Lemieux has been in office for ten years now. He has served as Parliamentary Secretary for Official Languages, the Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture and Agri-Food and most recently, the Parliamentary Secretary for Veterans Affairs.

Lemieux believes that the current government is working hard to serve those that serve Canada.

“We have tremendous respect and support for the military. We are strong supporters of the men and women in uniform who protect and defend Canada. The decisions we are making as a government ensure that the military is well funded, equipped and trained,” explained Lemieux.