Nathan Bubbis

From EGM Heritage


Nathan S. Bubbis, P. Eng. B. Sc. (Civil Engineering)

1957 - Nathan (Nat) S. Bubbis, Photo Credit - Association files

Nathan was born in Philadelphia in 1912. He received his education in Winnipeg, ending up with a B.Sc. in civil engineering at the University of Manitoba in 1934. His basic training as a new graduate followed a familiar pattern to most engineers who stepped out into their profession during the depression. His first work was as a bricklayer's and plasterer's helper, and if any of the members still have a 1920 vintage house that has magnesite stucco hanging from its outside walls, we are sure that friend "Nat" could still dig in and correct the situation with a first class job.

Early Professional Career

He joined the City of Winnipeg engineering department in 1934 as a pipe plant inspector, later transferring to the drafting and design branch before moving up to the position of engineer-in-charge.

Military Service

During the period 1942-45, "Nat" was attached to the Royal Canadian Artillery, 13th Battery, 38th Field Regiment (Reserve).

Later Professional Career

In 1944, he was promoted to engineer of water works and sewage, holding this position until 1948. Since that time he has been general manager and chief engineer of the Greater Winnipeg Water and Sanitary Districts. During the 1950 flood situation, his position placed a direct responsibility on him which resulted in his being made chairman of the City of Winnipeg Rehabilitation Committee, notwithstanding all of the other technical problems which confronted his municipal responsibilities.

Association Activities

Apart from his association membership, he belongs to the following list of technical and executive groups, holding many official appointments within them: The Engineering Institute of Canada; American Water Works Association; Canadian Institute of Sewage and Sanitation; Western Canada Water and Sewage Conference (Here he was awarded the Lindsten Memorial Award for outstanding work in promoting interest in the conference activities} ; American Public Works Association; Federation of Sewage and Industrial Wastes; and the Community Planning Association of Canada.

How he does it we don't know, but "Nat" finds time for curling, gardening, and fishing, as well as playing golf at the Glendale Country Club.

Wife Rose and Daughter Roslyn Cecile take over where the City and suburban councils leave off, so it takes a man with tact to hold down this full time job.

References

The above was extracted from the meet the councilor section of Volume 1, No. 3 December edition of The Manitoba Professional Engineer, December 1956.

  • Manitoba Professional Engineer 1956-12
  • Compiled by

    Posted by Glen N. Cook, P.Eng.(SM), FEC