David Carey

Alumni

The Bay College Alumni Association is honoring David Lawrence Carey of Channing, Michigan as the 2005 Alumnus of the Year.

“My Bay experience was tremendous,” Carey says “What I needed most when I got to Bay College was a support team of instructors who encouraged me, held me more accountable for my work ethic and believed in me. They did all of that and more.”

David is a 1976 graduate of North Dickinson High School in Felch, Michigan. He first attended Bay College in 1977, receiving a one-year Electrical Certificate. He then returned to Bay in the mid 1980’s continuing his education in computer programming, business, and accounting.

Mr. Carey is the president and owner of the Office Planning Group headquartered in Iron Mountain, the Upper Peninsula’s leading office equipment provider. The company specializes in digital copiers, business computer networks, office furniture, filing systems and office supplies. OPG has offices in Marquette, Iron River, Escanaba, Houghton, and Menominee. The business received the Outstanding Partner Award from Canon USA in 2002.

“Our goal at OPG is to provide extraordinary customer service to every customer in every situation,” he says. “That’s one of the most important things I learned in my business classes.”

David worked for the Dickinson County Road Commission and the North Dickinson Community Schools, as a carpenter, and is a certified motivational instructor.

“As my career grew, my education needs changed and were fulfilled through Bay College and Northern Michigan University” Carey says. “Fortunately, I was single and able to travel to Escanaba for classes not offered in Iron Mountain. I believe strongly that in today’s changing environment, additional education is necessary, but it needs to be easily available, such as the path Bay is providing us in Dickinson County.”

In other activities, Carey has served as technology advisor for North Dickinson Schools; treasurer for the Dickinson County Economic Development Corporation; vice president of Sagola Township Planning and Zoning Board; secretary for the Masonic Lodge #388; and a Shrine Club band member. He also serves as a member of the Bay West Yes Committee.

David resides on Sawyer Lake, north of Channing, with his wife, Sandra. He has two children, a son Jeremy, and daughter, Cayla. He enjoys elk hunting, hobby farming, teaching children outdoor skills and making maple syrup with his daughter.