Wing Tse
2020 TFHA Alum
Current Position
Wing Tse’s primary focus lies in advancing research and practical support for firefighter well-being. Engaged in his honours thesis, he is conducting essential work for a community and government organization, tasked with compiling a comprehensive report on the challenges encountered by firefighters. This report endeavors to explore the intricacies of their experiences, identifying areas for enhancement while emphasizing organizational factors critical to their well-being and behavioral health nationwide.
Wing’s investigation goes beyond surface-level scrutiny. He delves into the nuanced landscape of firefighter experiences, considering variables such as job demands, available resources, and diverse group dynamics, including differences in tenure, rank, and marginalized group status. By pinpointing both areas of concern and organizational strengths, he aims to offer actionable insights for frontline responders and decision-makers alike.
Upon completing the educational report, Wing’s dedication persists. He intends to disseminate his findings through academic publications, fostering learning and development within the firefighting community. Simultaneously, he remains actively involved as a peer supporter and member of the critical incident stress management team, providing direct assistance to trauma-exposed firefighters.
Wing Discusses Current Projects and University Highlights
“I am currently implementing the practical portion of my thesis. But now that I am done with classes, it feels great to focus on my work, volunteerism, and giving myself a break after those four concentrated years!”
Wing thoroughly enjoyed athletics during his time in university and played competitive baseball.
He also enjoyed going to Firefit competitions (at FDIC in Indianapolis) competing on an international level for firefighter fitness.
Q & A’s: Wing’s Experiences, Insights and Plans for the Future
Congratulations on completing your degree! Are you doing anything special to mark the occasion?
I am going to celebrate by taking some well-deserved time for myself.
4. What are your plans for the Summer?
This summer I going to take advantage of am being part of an Advisory Committee for the City of Markham in working towards how we can plan on creating a more inclusive workplace. I am also being on-boarded as a volunteer for the York Region Peer Support Team, Kids Help Phone, and becoming a Big Brother for Big Brothers Big Sisters.
5. What was a highlight of your school experience?
A highlight of my school experience was working on my thesis. It was the most challenging, yet the most fulfilling thing I have worked on in my time as an undergraduate student.
6. Were there any awards or achievements throughout your undergraduate you would like to share?
I was awarded with one of the top presenters of the Annual University of Guelph Undergraduate Thesis Poster Presentation with the second highest grade of the class. I also won the Alumni of Distinction Award for Centennial College.
7. What are your plans for school and career this fall?
My plans are to apply for Masters Programs. I am still debating whether to go into Clinical/Counselling Psychology or I/O Psychology. I will be spending the upcoming year trying to get two papers published in journals along with my research team.
8. Tell us about the humanitarian work you have been doing.
I am continuing the work done on my thesis, working with the community of firefighters to progress the behavioural health and well-being of first responders.
9. How did the award make a difference in your education?
The award gave me inspiration from getting to know its remarkable network of current and past scholars and inspired me to accomplish great things with the values of Terry Fox. This award not only recognizes me, but it also represents who I still aspire to become.
10. What advice do you have for current recipients and those apply for the award?
The advice I give future recipients is to lean on each other. I have found so many great people by getting to know my fellow scholars. Help each other because you are all on the same team. Help each other win, because it is a win for all of us. I thank the future scholars in advance for the amazing things they will do.
Wing Tse in front of Terry Fox Memorial Statue, 40-Year Anniversary event in Ottawa, November, 2022.
Pictured: TFHA Program Alumni, Recipients, Board of Directors and staff.
Pictured: Kirsten Fox, Wing Tse and MP Chris Bittle
