For over 15 years, Sean worked as a tradesman in the film and television industry, where he gained a first-hand understanding of the challenges faced by workers in demanding and unconventional environments. His experiences in the industry have fueled his commitment to creating a better work-life balance for families, with a focus on improving access to affordable childcare—something he knows to be a lifeline for union families.

Sean’s advocacy extends beyond his own industry. As a former executive member of the BC Federation of Labour and the Indigenous Workers Co-Chair, he has lobbied both provincially and federally on issues that affect working people and Indigenous communities. His leadership in the BC Federation of Labour’s Indigenous caucus and as Chair of the Set Decoration Department of IATSE Local 891 has allowed him to forge meaningful connections and build solidarity across various sectors.

Sean attended the University of Alberta and Langara College, combining a solid educational foundation with a real-world, hands-on approach to problem solving. He believes in the importance of data-driven solutions, but also in the wisdom gained from those who live the experiences that statistics can’t always capture.

Focused on building a “people-first” community, Sean is committed to creating a safe, thriving environment where affordable housing, accessible childcare, and universal healthcare—like dental and pharmacare—are not just ideals, but attainable goals. He understands that for families to thrive, they need access to affordable housing and pathways to ownership. Sean is also a staunch advocate for protecting and strengthening co-op housing, ensuring that it remains affordable for the people who live there, while fighting for critical issues like lease extensions at the federal level and aligning housing costs with wages.

To ensure that families see the gains from their hard work, Sean remains resolute in his mission to create communities where every person has the opportunity to succeed, no matter their background or occupation. Whether it’s through his work on the MMIWG Coalition or his advocacy on Labour and Indigenous issues, Sean McQuillan is always ready to listen, lead, and fight for a better tomorrow for all.