George Stanko For Mayor

Who Is George Stanko?

George Stanko, P.Eng — Candidate for Mayor of Sarnia

Profile

I am a results‑oriented Chemical Engineer with more than 35 years of experience in manufacturing, global supply chain management, quality control, and plant startups. Throughout my career, I’ve built a reputation as a strategic planner who listens, collaborates, and works toward practical, effective solutions.

I’ve spent over 50 years as a resident of Sarnia, raising my family here and contributing to the community I care deeply about. I am a father of two sons and a proud grandfather of two. My late wife, whom I cared for at home for 12 years during her illness, is buried at Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery — a reminder of how deeply rooted my life is in this city.

My life has taught me the deep value of devotion and care. For 12 years, I stepped away from the corporate world to act as the full-time at-home caregiver for my late wife during her illness. This chapter grounded me in the real, day-to-day challenges facing families, seniors, and caregivers across our community.

I enjoy working in team environments, building consensus, and helping others succeed. These values guide how I lead and how I serve.

Sarnia is on the cusp of vital transformation. With  an Engineering and MBA education and a career built on statistical productivity, analytical problem-solving, and cross-functional negotiation, I know how to bring stakeholders together to achieve consensus. I am running for Mayor to apply proven management, transparency, and collaborative team-work to City Hall. Together, we can build a safe, prosperous, and fiscally responsible Sarnia for generations to come

 

Experience

I am a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) licensed with Professional Engineers Ontario. My career in Sarnia includes:

  • 35 years in the chemical industry, including roles with Monsanto and Dow Chemical Canada

  • Extensive experience in manufacturing operations, global planning, and supply chain management

  • Leadership of both people and technical functions, always focused on safety, quality, and efficiency

  • Serving as President and Chairman of the Board of CORE BioFuel Inc., guiding innovation in clean‑energy technology

After Dow ceased operations in Sarnia, I led CORE BioFuel for five years before stepping away to become a full‑time caregiver for my wife. That experience strengthened my empathy, patience, and commitment to supporting families in our community.

Academics And Professional Development

Academics

MBA , First Year

University Of Windsor

BASc, Chemical Engineering

University Of Windsor

Professional Development

  • Dale Carnegie Course

  • W. Edwards Deming Seminar: Quality, Productivity & Competitiveness

  • Tennessee Associates: Statistical Management for Productivity through Quality

  • Train the Trainer

  • Kepner–Tregoe Analytical Problem Solving

  • Lambton College Fire School

  • Facilitator Institute: The Interaction Method

  • CPR / First Aid, WHMIS

Civic Involvement

I’ve always believed that leadership begins with service. My community involvement includes:

  • SMAA baseball coach

  • United Way Day of Caring volunteer

  • Habitat for Humanity build volunteer

  • GRACE Committee

  • Knights of Columbus, St. Michael — member and volunteer

  • Weekly shut‑in visitor

Why I’m Running for Mayor

Sarnia deserves leadership rooted in experience, compassion, and accountability. My decades of professional problem‑solving, combined with a lifetime of community involvement, have prepared me to serve our city with integrity and practical, steady leadership.

I am committed to building a safer, stronger, more connected Sarnia — one where families thrive, businesses grow, and City Hall works for everyone.

My Promise:

Sarnia will be an innovative city with a diversified economy, welcoming neighbourhoods and excellent quality of life at every age. Growth must be responsible, measurable and shared across the community.

My Ask:

On Oct 26 vote George Stanko for Mayor.