Amy Haagsma, BCom

Profile

I offer a full range of editorial services, from copy editing and proofreading to indexing and graphic design. I specialize in technical and business communication, though I work across many different industries and for a broad range of clients. My background includes education and experience in editing, writing, graphic design, marketing, and engineering.

My goal is to make each document or manuscript I work on the best it can be, while respecting and maintaining the author’s voice and style. I am often commended for my ability to focus on the details while also seeing the bigger picture.

I am familiar with the Chicago Manual of Style, the Canadian Press Stylebook, Scientific Style and Format, and the AMA Manual of Style, but I am also able to follow your preferred style guide or house style. I am well versed in APA, MLA, and Chicago referencing styles but can also work to different styles per journal or other specifications. I work in Canadian English, American English, and British English, including localizing content for different geographic markets. 

Services

• Copy editing
• Proofreading
• Indexing
• Publishing support
• Graphic design and layout
• E-book formatting
• Website design, consulting, and SEO
• Social media management
• Blog writing

Education

• AMWA Essential Skills certificate (in progress; American Medical Writers Association)
• ASI Training in Indexing course (in progress; American Society for Indexing)
• Business Communication and Professional Writing certificate (Simon Fraser University)
• Editing certificate (Simon Fraser University)
• Diploma of Technology, Civil Engineering (British Columbia Institute of Technology)
• Graphic communications courses (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology)
• Bachelor of Commerce, Marketing (University of Alberta)

Editors Canada volunteer involvement

• Webmaster for Editors British Columbia (2017–present)
• Graphic designer for Editors Canada’s 2017 annual report (2018)
• Professional development co-chair for Editors British Columbia (2017–2018)
• Graphic designer for Active Voice/Voix active, Editors Canada’s national magazine (2017)
• Publications chair for Editors British Columbia and managing editor of West Coast Editor blog (2014–2017)
• Communications and social media committee member for Editors British Columbia (2013–2016)
• Conference co-chair (2016)

Editors Canada certifications and awards

• Certified Copy Editor (2018)
• Certified Proofreader (2017)
• President’s Award for Volunteer Service (2017) 
• Volunteer of the Month (June 2015)