Anchored Here: Ermin Pagtakhan
Ever wonder what Kintec Footwear is all about? We stopped by their new location on Clarke Street to meet with their Director of Store Operations, Ermin Pagtakhan, to learn more!
Ermin has been servicing our community for over 15 years, helping people get through injuries and help keep them active. While completing his degree in Kinesiology at SFU, Kintec offered Ermin an internship where he quickly absorbed the world of specialized footwear, sports medicine and foot health products. Within minutes of meeting Ermin, it’s clear that supporting others by clearly understanding their pains and needs, in a caring, friendly and genuine manner is a great strength of his. It’s no surprise that Kintec supported him in becoming a Certified Pedorthist immediately after completing his degree, and he’s been helping our community ever since!
Unlike most shoe stores, Kintec requires customers to book an appointment prior to their visit, it speaks to their excellent customer service standards to ensure that they can provide the highest level of safety and personalized service during your appointment with their Fit Experts. They are 100% Canadian owned, and operated, and consist of a team of Canadian Certified Pedorthists, kinesiologists, and Olympic and national calibre athletes.
There’s nothing worse than entering a big box store, eager to buy shoes, with no one in sight to assist, or being one of many requesting shoe sizes that are nowhere to be found. If you’re looking for the right fit and a tailored experience, book your next appointment at Kintec, and be sure to say hello to Ermin!
How do you contribute to the social development of Port Moody?
I've interacted with thousands of people over the years and I know each of them have learned how to keep themselves active and on their feet whether it be from an assessment with me and my team, educational blogs, or finding the right products and services to help get rid of their injuries and pain. I'm proud to be part of the solution that allows people to walk their dog, play with their kids, or run a marathon pain free.
What values should we stand for as a community?
Being Active. It's great to witness so many people in our community out on walks, runs, hikes, bike rides, etc. There's a bit of excitement for me knowing I could pass by someone on the trails that I know and say Hi. This demonstrates how our community shows kindness to each other and the importance of getting to know our neighbors.
Describe the most authentic moment you’ve witnessed during your time here.
Running friends coming together to ensure the Kids Fun Run (part of Golden Spike Days Festival) was safe, fun, and memorable. We had Kintec’ Run Group leaders lead the warm-up exercise before the run, we had volunteers along the route to ensure safety, and tons of high fives thrown around led to remarkable smiles on each and every kid in that event.
What kind of legacy do you intend on leaving behind?
I want people to know that we are the go-to place to help when they can't work without foot pain, or they can't enjoy a run due to discomfort in their knees, or they have to avoid activities when they are worried about the aches that follow. I want the community to know that we are here to help keep them active and on their feet for life.
What ultimately anchors you here?
The people that I've met over the years. The run community that shared the same goals and passions as I have. The past and current team members that I've worked with who are still part of the community in some shape or form. And last but not least, raising my family in the Tri-Cities has been amazing. I get to share and experience all the beautiful things in our backyard with them. And for that I am thankful.