After writing a definitive account of the Climate of BC, John’s focus shifted to economic geography and energy policy (Geography and Energy, 1989, John Wiley), interests that he maintained throughout his life. John was the second Head of the Geography Department (1968-1974). During his tenure he is credited with making several key appointments that proved instrumental in the department’s emergence as a globally recognized research and teaching unit. John spearheaded the BC Atlas of Resources, a large and colourful book for its time.

John was dedicated to a high quality education system. Early in his UBC career he was seconded to the university administration and became the university academic planner. Soon he was chosen to join a select team commissioned by the Province to design a plan for expansion of university and college education in BC. In 1962 the team produced the highly influential Macdonald Report. That set the scene for the founding of the modern post-secondary system of education in BC, including the establishment of UVic, SFU, UNBC, two-year university colleges and the system of transfer credit.

Research interests focus on the energy Industry in BC.