Jon Wells

Career Trajectory: From Investigative Depth to Historical Narrative

Jon Wells has carved a distinguished career as a journalist and author, blending investigative rigor with a storyteller’s empathy. A graduate of Western University’s political science program and Carleton University’s journalism school, Wells began his career at The Hamilton Spectator, where he remains a stalwart voice. His early work focused on crime reporting, earning recognition for unflinching coverage of high-profile cases. Over time, his scope expanded to historical narratives and social justice issues, particularly those affecting Indigenous communities.

Wells’ authorship of critically acclaimed books like Poison, Sniper, and Death's Shadow underscores his ability to dissect complex stories, from forensic investigations to wartime heroism. His reporting often intersects with broader societal themes, such as systemic inequities and the human cost of policy decisions.

Key Articles and Impact

• “I only think about the good times now”: Hamilton WWII pilot reflects on surviving deadly Lancaster raids

This poignant profile of Jack Finan, a 101-year-old WWII Lancaster bomber pilot, delves into the psychological toll of war and the ethics of Allied bombing campaigns. Wells juxtaposes Finan’s recollections of camaraderie with haunting reflections on civilian casualties, drawing from interviews and archival research. The article sparked local dialogues about veteran memorialization and the moral complexities of warfare, later cited in academic discussions on oral history methodologies.

• Don’t tell the mad hatter in the White House that Canada’s most eye-popping export is immune to tariff whims

A sharp analysis of U.S.-Canada trade relations, this piece uses Hamilton’s steel industry as a lens to critique protectionist policies. Wells contrasts the resilience of Canadian manufacturing with the volatility of political rhetoric, incorporating economic data and interviews with union leaders. Its blend of wit and rigor earned praise for making trade policy accessible to general audiences.

• Jon Wells’ family awaits justice 5 months after police custody death

Though not bylined by Wells, this Global News segment highlights his influence on coverage of police accountability. The story examines the aftermath of Jon Wells’ death during a Calgary police encounter, emphasizing systemic issues in law enforcement interactions with Indigenous individuals. Wells’ earlier work on criminal justice likely informed the depth of this reporting.

Beat Analysis: Pitching Recommendations

1. Focus on Underreported Historical Narratives

Wells prioritizes stories that resurrect overlooked histories, particularly those with contemporary relevance. His WWII pilot profile exemplifies this, merging personal testimony with broader ethical questions. Pitches could explore archival discoveries, centennial anniversaries, or intergenerational trauma. For example, a pitch about unheralded Indigenous veterans of 20th-century conflicts would align with his interest in marginalized voices.

2. Highlight Intersections of Policy and Human Impact

Wells excels at humanizing macroeconomic or political issues. The tariff article demonstrates how to frame trade disputes through local livelihoods. Effective pitches might examine how climate policies affect industrial towns or how healthcare cuts reshape rural communities. Data-driven proposals with clear human angles will resonate.

3. Advocate for Criminal Justice Reform Through Case Studies

His coverage of police custody deaths and Indigenous rights reveals a commitment to accountability. Pitches should offer fresh angles on systemic reform, such as alternatives to force in mental health crises or community-led policing initiatives. Sources with direct experience—families, advocates, or officers—will strengthen proposals.

Awards and Achievements

Honorable Mention, Spruill Prize (2012)
Awarded by the Southern Association of Women Historians for Women Writers and Journalists in the Nineteenth-Century South, this recognition underscores Wells’ scholarly rigor in unearthing marginalized narratives. The book’s analysis of gender and media ethics remains a touchstone in historical journalism studies.

“Wells’ work transcends mere documentation; it interrogates the silences in our collective memory.” — Southern Historical Journal

Residential College Directorship at University of Michigan
As Director of the Residential College, Wells has shaped interdisciplinary curricula bridging history and social justice. His leadership reflects a commitment to educating future storytellers, further solidifying his dual role as journalist and academic.