What is something that distinguishes Activa as a developer and homebuilder?
“Activa is differentiated as a developer and homebuilder by our deep connection to the communities we build. We’re large enough to offer a diverse range of housing options that meet the needs of today’s homebuyers, while remaining rooted in the Kitchener-Waterloo region. Because we live and work here, we have a personal investment in the success of our communities. That local connection drives our team’s passion about creating neighbourhoods where people can thrive while contributing to the continued growth and success of the region we’re proud to be part of.”
What’s your favourite way Activa shows up in the Waterloo Region through community initiatives and sponsorships?
“I’m proud of all the ways Activa shows up in the Waterloo Region, but one that stands out to me is our partnership with the University of Waterloo Athletics and Recreation Department. We have the opportunity to support local athletes, youth, and families by fostering community engagement through recreation and shared experiences. This includes our sponsorship of the Waterloo Warriors Multi-Sport and Games Day Camp, the Team Up Community Outreach Program, and Warriors Family Day. It’s especially rewarding to give back to organizations that have such a positive impact on the next generation and help develop future community leaders for this Region that we call home.”
Amy Ashton
Vice President,
Employee & Corporate Services
What does a meaningful workplace culture look like to you?
“A meaningful workplace is a culture where employees feel safe, supported, and valued. When there is trust, transparency, and a shared sense of purpose, it creates an environment where strong teamwork and a sense of belonging can thrive.”
What’s your favourite way Activa shows up in the Waterloo Region through community initiatives and sponsorships?
“One of my favourite ways Activa shows up in the Waterloo Region is through hands-on community initiatives that really bring employees together to give back. The WRPS Backpack Challenge stands out to me as it creates meaningful opportunities for our team to give back and make a difference to local causes. Seeing our team donate backpacks and school supplies to help students start the school year feeling prepared and confident is incredibly rewarding. What makes this initiative especially impactful is the level of employee engagement. It creates a strong sense of pride and connection while making a real difference for families across our community.”
Peter Armbruster, P.Eng
Senior Vice President,
Community Development
What do you hope families experience when they choose to live in a community you helped design?
“I hope families experience a strong sense of connection and belonging. Through a mix of housing types, walkable streets, and thoughtfully designed parks and shared spaces, we aim to create places where people feel supported and proud to call home.”
What’s your favourite way Activa shows up in the Waterloo Region through community initiatives and sponsorships?
“Activa has been a proud supporter and sponsor of Habitat for Humanity for over 30 years and I have really enjoyed working with this great charitable organization. Over the years, we’ve supported their work in a variety of ways, from providing them with access to single-detached homes in the 1990’s, donating funds to support their builds (including a $25k donation on our 25th anniversary), sponsoring and participating in their golf tournament for many years, and helping them to build their new homes.”
Jake Tortyna, CFA
Vice President,
Finance
How does your role support long term growth?
“My role focuses on building strong financial foundations that support sustainable long-term growth, ensuring the work we do today helps set future teams and communities up for continued success. By making thoughtful financial decisions and planning for the future, we can continue investing in our people, our operations, and the neighbourhoods we build.”
What’s your favourite way Activa shows up in the Waterloo Region through community initiatives and sponsorships?
“I am proud of Activa’s contribution to helping Marillac develop its transitional shelter program. It’s meaningful to be part of an organization that supports local non-profit partners dedicated to expanding access to safe, affordable housing and providing support to individuals and families in our community.”
Kristie Pecora
Vice President,
Sales & Marketing
What do you love most about working in this industry?
“What I love most about working in this industry is the opportunity to be part of something meaningful. Each home represents a place where families will grow and create lasting memories, and being part of that journey is incredibly rewarding.”
What’s your favourite way Activa shows up in the Waterloo Region through community initiatives and sponsorships?
“I really love when we come together to support local organizations through collections at our annual holiday party. In the past, we’ve collected stuffed animals for the WRHN Children’s Department. Seeing our team rally around these initiatives and generously give back to our community is especially rewarding. It’s a wonderful reflection of Activa’s commitment to supporting local organizations and making a positive impact in the Waterloo region.”
Ron Pullman
Vice President,
Construction
How do you ensure homes are built to stand the test of time?
“Ensuring homes are built to stand the test of time comes down to a commitment to quality at every stage of the construction process. From working with trusted trade partners and using high-quality materials to maintaining strong standards and attention to detail, every decision is made with lasting quality, and always with the homeowner in mind.”
What’s your favourite way Activa shows up in the Waterloo Region through community initiatives and sponsorships?
“One of the things I appreciate most about Activa is its commitment to supporting meaningful community initiatives where we live and work such as Hockey Helps the Homeless. Being involved in this initiative makes me proud to be part of an organization that looks beyond business success and is dedicated to making a real difference in our community. Through initiatives like Hockey Helps the Homeless, Activa invests its time, resources, and energy into causes that improve the lives of others, reinforcing the values we strive to uphold every day.”
Peter Goc, CPA, CA
Chief Financial Officer
What excites you most about stepping into the CFO role at this stage of growth?
“What excites me most about stepping into my role at this stage of growth is the opportunity to help shape what comes next. Being part of a team that is growing thoughtfully and building strong foundations for the future is incredibly motivating.”
What’s your favourite way Activa shows up in the Waterloo Region through community initiatives and sponsorships?
“Our work with KidsAbility stands out to me because it directly supports local children and families, helping them access programs and services that make a real difference in their lives. It’s a partnership that reflects Activa’s commitment to giving back to the communities we serve.”
Matthew Warzecha, MCIP, RPP
Vice President,
Design & Development
As you step into your role, what are you most looking forward to contributing to the Activa Team?
“I look forward to bringing my experience as a land use planner to Activa’s development team. Planning provides a unique perspective on how communities evolve over time, and I hope to contribute to creating neighbourhoods that are complete, sustainable, and designed to support a variety of housing, transportation, and lifestyle choices. The most successful neighbourhoods thoughtfully bring together homes, parks, schools, shops, employment areas, and public spaces in ways that enhance everyday lives. By creating places where daily needs are within easy reach and shared spaces encourage connection, we can help foster a lasting sense of belonging.”
What’s your favourite way Activa shows up in the Waterloo Region through community initiatives and sponsorships?
“Activa has a long history of supporting organizations and events that make a meaningful difference in the Waterloo Region. One example is LemonAID Day in support of Family & Children Services. This event reflects our commitment to supporting local children and families by partnering with organizations that provide critical services in the community. Supporting initiatives like LemonAID Day helps create a positive impact in the broader community beyond the homes and neighbourhoods we build.”
