On the surface, TYCROP is a manufacturing company located on the outskirts of Chilliwack in the small farming community of Rosedale. But in the eyes of founder Gary Teichrob, one of UFV’s 2025 honorary degree recipients, it’s so much more.

“We’re passionate innovators, designers, engineers, and creators, but we pride ourselves in being more than just a manufacturer,” Gary says. “We have a team of extremely talented individuals that have the ability to act upon the opportunities that matter most, those that work towards a sustainable future and energy diversification, fostering a bright future for the generations to come.”

Reading those words, it is naturally synergistic for Gary and the University of the Fraser Valley to have forged such a strong bond, sharing the same passion for community building and transforming lives. Gary exemplifies innovation and leadership and is a champion of UFV’s trades and technology programs.

“Over the years, Gary has donated tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of surplus steel and aluminum to our welding program, showing his commitment to education and community support,” says Matt Olafson, an associate professor of welding in the Faculty of Applied and Technical Studies. “He has a long history of hiring our students, developing their skills by continually challenging them, and encouraging further education in their chosen field.

“Many students who’ve left UFV to work for Gary have returned to UFV as faculty members to teach the next generation of welders, myself included.”

Gary, who grew up on a farm in Rosedale, founded TYCROP in 1978 with his wife Elaine. They started with agricultural innovations before branching into transportation, the golf and turf industry, oilfield equipment, and more recently electrification, power generation, and hydrogen technologies. Gary’s inventive mind has fueled the creation of thousands of pieces of industrial equipment, earning him 48 patents that he is proud to say bear his name.

Cameron McCall, a UFV welding alumnus who works at TYCROP, says that even with his success in the business world, Gary remains the same humble, down-to-earth farm boy he’s always been, with unbreakable love for his family and faith.

“His commitment to giving back to the community in which he was born and raised is unparalleled,” Cameron says.

Spencer Julseth-White, an associate professor of welding at UFV, agrees. Spencer worked at TYCROP for more than three years.

“Gary’s leadership is defined not only by his achievements but also by his demeanour,” he notes. “In the face of daunting challenges, he remains composed and approachable, fostering an environment where collaboration thrives. His ability to transform obstacles into opportunities is both inspiring and transformative for those fortunate enough to work with him.”

Gary is quick to give credit to his employees. Once you get past day one of a new business, he says, it’s all about the people who work for you. They are the ones who grow the business. He is proud of what they’ve built together, and he’s pleased to be recognized as one of UFV’s 2025 honorary degree recipients.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this honorary degree, a recognition of the work I’ve dedicated myself to over the past 47 years,” Gary says. “Achieving formal accreditation has always been a dream of mine, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to stand alongside the graduating students this year, despite my career journey unfolding in reverse. I suppose that means I’m committed to working a little longer!”