A graduate of Ryerson Polytechnic University (Bachelor's Degree of Technology in Architectural Science), Shawn Ruthven first went to work for a Toronto-based contractor, gaining practical experience in managing construction projects. In 1992 Shawn began working for a corporate interiors contractor in Toronto as a project coordinator and contract administrator. He later relocated to Vancouver to partner with a project management firm on a one-year commercial development project, during which time he further honed his management skills. Afterwards, looking for an opportunity to work for a more diverse project management firm, Shawn joined Kindred.

During his 11 years at Kindred, Shawn has handled a variety of projects ranging from commercial and institutional facilities to high-end residential homes. As a project manager and estimator, his dedication to supporting his clients' objectives, and to developing and enforcing realistic project budgets and schedules, have won him the respect of numerous past and present clients and peers.