Sawmill Group: Honouring legacy through endowment and community commitment

Published on August 20, 2026

For the Sawmill Group, philanthropy has always been part of its identity — rooted in the generosity of founder Tom Goodchild and carried forward by his son and current president, Tasker Goodchild. Their endowment is a natural legacy — shaped by decades of community involvement, a deepening commitment to hospitality and trades, and a desire to support future generations.

For more than 30 years, the Sawmill Restaurant Group has hosted charity golf tournaments — an initiative first championed by Tom as a way to have fun and invest in the local community. As his son, Tasker, recounts, “Tom saw giving back as part of his purpose and positioned community support as foundational to how he ran the business.

After Tom’s passing and following a pause on events brought on by COVID-19, Tasker and the Sawmill team decided to resume these tournaments both as a tribute to Tom’s legacy and a vehicle to support youth entering the culinary industry.

Fueled by proceeds from the golf tournaments, the Tom Goodchild Memorial Endowment Fund, provides vital awards for students in NAIT’s Culinary Arts and Professional Food Studies programs. 

“By supporting NAIT’s students, we’re removing financial barriers, and helping young people build rewarding, sustainable careers in industries that are essential to our community and resilient in the face of the evolving nature of work.” 

Sawmill’s connection to NAIT is personal and long-standing. Tom studied at NAIT and later served on the NAIT Foundation Board. Tasker is also an alumnus and credits his NAIT business education as the foundation that later enabled him to pursue an MBA.  

Looking Forward 

The Sawmill Group has set an ambitious goal for the Tom Goodchild Memorial Endowment Fund — to raise $500,000 in 10 years. Beyond the revitalized golf tournaments, they envision expanding fundraising efforts through innovative ideas. For example, in celebration of their 50th anniversary this year, a series of gala events will invite attendees to choose local charities to support with the proceeds from their tickets. 

Sawmill is committed to building momentum, elevating the trades, and honouring a legacy that has shaped Alberta’s hospitality landscape for half a century. 

“We hope to do more than just raise funds — we aim to invest in the next generation and champion the message that hospitality and the trades aren’t just stepping stones, they are vibrant, valuable career paths where people can thrive.”  

Student Awards

If you are a full-time student or an apprenticeship student, you may be able to apply for NAIT Awards.