Mark Hillier graduated from the Sports Administration program at Durham College (DC) in 1990, after which he landed the role of public relations assistant with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE).

Since then he has served as co-ordinator of hockey for the MLSE, director of amateur scouting and director administration for MLSE’s farm team – the Toronto Marlies. In 2003, Hillier transferred to the Atlanta Thrashers where he was responsible for the evaluation of talent for the Ontario region, and from there, moved into the role of head scout with the Winnipeg Jets in 2011 – a brand new NHL team. In 2015 Hillier was promoted to Director of Amateur Scouting where he is responsible for overseeing all amateur scouting activities and for the evaluation of all amateur talent on a worldwide basis.

While Hillier has worked hard to make a name for himself in the world of hockey, his experience began at DC.

“Follow your dreams and passion,” says Hillier. “Don’t be in something for the wrong reasons. You must have a passion for what you do and be willing to work harder than everyone else to achieve your goals.”