For Dan Janssen, leadership has always started with a simple idea: when something matters, you step forward and do what you can to make a difference.

Dan’s path of service began during his career at Air Canada, where he spent more than two decades working below the wing at Toronto Pearson International Airport. It was there that he first found his voice, speaking up about safety concerns affecting his co-workers.

That experience taught him something that has shaped his approach to leadership ever since: meaningful change rarely happens by working alone. It happens by listening, building relationships, bringing people together and being willing to speak up when it matters.

Over the years, Dan took on increasingly senior leadership responsibilities with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Today, he serves as a General Chairperson with IAM District 140, representing workers and helping navigate complex issues involving employers, governments and the aviation industry.

His work has taken him from the shop floor to negotiating tables and government committees, but his approach has remained the same: listen carefully, understand the issue, treat people with respect and work toward practical solutions.

Dan has also been a strong advocate for workplace safety. He was formally recognized for his health and safety work by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority and helped co-found the Toronto Pearson Worker Health and Safety Forum, an innovative model that brings workers and organizations across the airport community together around a shared goal.

In 2022, Dan brought that experience home when residents elected him to Severn Township Council.

Serving as Ward 2 Councillor has given Dan the opportunity to work directly with residents on the issues that affect their everyday lives. Whether responding to a resident’s concern, working through a difficult issue at the council table or considering the long-term needs of the Township, Dan believes good local government begins with being available, prepared and willing to listen.

His experience on Council has also reinforced his belief that Severn’s future requires thoughtful decision-making. As the Township grows, Council must balance that growth with affordability, responsible management of tax dollars, infrastructure needs and protecting the character of the communities that make Severn a special place to live.

Dan’s commitment to public service extends beyond municipal government. Throughout his career, he has worked with community organizations, labour groups, employers and governments, building relationships with people who don’t always agree but who often share common goals.

He has also put his name forward for public office before, representing his community as a provincial candidate in 2018 and a federal candidate in 2019. Those experiences strengthened his understanding of government and reinforced his belief that public service should always be about the people you represent.

Dan credits much of his leadership development to the education, mentorship and opportunities he received early in his career. That experience created a lasting belief in the importance of helping others find their own voice and giving people opportunities to lead.

Through every role, one principle has remained constant: leadership is about service.

Dan is grateful for the family, friends, mentors, colleagues and residents who continue to challenge, encourage and support him.

Now, after four years representing Ward 2, Dan is asking residents across Severn for the opportunity to serve as their Deputy Mayor.

He believes Severn deserves leadership that listens, works collaboratively and isn’t afraid to speak up when it counts.

Because while none of us can do everything, each of us can do something — and together, we can accomplish a great deal.