Mike Rauch

"Our students need equitable access to programs that inspire and encourage today's diverse learners. Our students also need excellent neighborhood schools that provide supportive, inclusive opportunities. Students thrive when education meets passion and belonging." -Mike Rauch

Mike Rauch is a community-minded leader with a background in engineering and business who advocates for educational opportunities, openness, and informed strategic planning. Mike has been closely following school district decisions for the last three years. They have actively engaged with parents, teachers, administrators, and trustees. Mike has felt increasingly moved to contribute his skills and experience to help the district pursue what is best for Abbotsford students. As school board trustees set the direction for Abbotsford schools, he sees it as one of the most important positions in our city. Mike has many years of experience with strategic planning in large organizations, managing large budgets, and making difficult decisions. He has dedicated his volunteer time to building community, especially to support the health and well-being of youth and families. About Mike Rauch

Mike and his wife Winsome joyfully parent their six children. He has lived in Abbotsford for 26 years. Mike grew up in Langley, the son of German immigrants who arrived in Canada in the 1960s with two suitcases and $200. Their eldest child is an Abbotsford Senior 2022 Grad, their other five are still K-12; one child is in the Abbotsford District Soccer Academy and another in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program. Mike originally wanted to become a physics teacher, but ultimately completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of British Columbia. He continued his education with courses in Management Accounting from BCIT and Leadership at the Ivey Business School at Western University in London, Ontario. Early in his college years, Mike was a laboratory assistant in Abbotsford’s W.J Mouat Secondary, supporting the science teachers with setting up equipment and materials. After several engineering internships locally and in Europe, Mike decided to join Helton Industries, his family’s garage door manufacturing business in Abbotsford. Mike earned the respect of the existing management through the simple principles of hard work, respect for others, innovation, and integrity. He grew the company from 30 employees to nearly 300 employees with multiple locations and international sales and logistics. Mike is thankful for Helton's strong performance but is most proud of preserving his father's legacy there: a culture of openness and respect. Mike continues to hold these values dearly. After nearly 20 years in manufacturing and distribution, Mike stepped down from his successful but hectic role as CEO of FlexiForce in 2015 to help his parents with other family business and be present for his young and growing family. Mike is engaged with his community through education, sports events, and youth. He created one of Cycling BC’s most successful cycling venues at Glenridge Acres in Abbotsford, hosting afterschool mountain bike programs for youth ages 8-14, the BC Provincial Mountain Bike Championships for 2021 and 2022, and a family-friendly 12-hour relay event each June. These events have donated thousands towards youth cycling programs, flood relief, and trail building. Mike is also responsible for the early development and launch of the Terry Fox Ride of Hope, a 360km cycling fundraiser inspired by Mike’s friend and Terry’s brother Darrell Fox of Chilliwack. The Terry Fox Ride of Hope has evolved into the largest third party fundraising event for the Terry Fox Foundation. With family at the center of Mike’s life, and kids each with their own unique gifts and interests, Mike has been grateful to engage with many outstanding athletic clubs, dance studios, music schools, and numerous organizations in Abbotsford offering youth programming. Mike’s hobbies include camping, flying, sailing, woodwork, and he started guitar lessons at the age of 45.