Issuu

AUGUST 2019 | $3.50 BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

MEET DAVE FILIPCHUK PM42455512

THE PRESIDENT AND CEO OF PCL CONSTRUCTION IS HONOURED TO SERVE THE COMPANY

NEW INSIDE!

2019 LEADERS AWARDS GALA PAGE

12 |

EDMONTON CHAMBER SECTION

PAGE

OF ENERGY

FOR EVERYTHING THAT CAN GO WRONG UNDER YOUR ROOF, THERE’S THE NUMBER THAT LIVES UNDER OURS. Fifty percent of businesses may never re-open after a disaster. That’s why knowing the easiest way to contact SERVPRO® is so important. Because the sooner you get in touch with us, the quicker we can start to minimize the damage, as well as the cost. Just contact SERVPRO of Calgary South or SERVPRO of Edmonton Southside to activate the cleanup team that’s faster to any-sized disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water and fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – it’s your decision to call on the very best. Your trusted, local SERVPRO professional. Services in Canada provided by independently owned & operated franchises of SERVPRO International, LLC.

LAND

SUPEROCEAN

AIR

SEA

#SQUADONAMISSION

STORY TITLE // SECTION

Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time. Volume 7 | Number 8

REGULAR COLUMNS

Turning Optimism Into Reality By Terry Oâ€™Flynn

Billions of Reasons to Tear Down Interprovincial Trade Barriers By David MacLean

Edmonton Chamber of Commerce

CONTENTS COVER FEATURE

Meet Dave Filipchuk The president and CEO of PCL Construction is honoured to serve the company By Nerissa McNaughton

ON OUR COVER: ABOVE: DAVE FILIPCHUK, THE PRESIDENT AND CEO OF PCL CONSTRUCTION PHOTO SOURCE: EPIC PHOTOGRAPHY INC

FIND US ONLINE! B US I N E SS I N E DMONTON.COM BUSINESS IN EDMONTON

@BUSINEDMONTON

BUSINESSINEDMONTON

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

SHARING YOUR VISION. BUILDING SUCCESS. We are more than builders. We are partners who deliver Edmontonâ€™s top projects by understanding your goals, providing innovative solutions, and sharing your vision of success. We are PCL Construction.

Watch us build at PCL.com

STORY TITLE // SECTION

Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time. Volume 7 | Number 8

THIS MONTH’S FEATURES

CONTENTS COMPANY PROFILES

33 53 57 61 70 73 6

R AYWALT

Celebrates 40 Years

K imberley Homes Celebrates 30 Years

L ED Lights Canada

12 22 28

Celebrates 65 Years

20/20 Seed Labs Celebrates 30 Years

Novesta

Celebrates 5 Years

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

Edmonton’s Head Offices The Big Attraction Sponsored by KPMG

ow to Build an Edmonton H Empire “If we want to be a player, we need to be aggressive about the future.” By Laura Bohnert

Check Out the Benefits of Engaging in Edmonton’s Arts and Culture Scene Enrichment, education and awareness are just a few of the gains By Jamelie Bachaalani

Celebrates 15 Years

The Workun Garrick Partnership

2019 Leaders Awards Gala

Putting the Skill into Skilled Labour By Laura Bohnert

he World Needs More T Edmonton

PUBLISHER

Business in Edmonton Inc.

35 Years of Distinction JR. KINDERGARTEN TO GRADE 12

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Brent Trimming brent@businessinedmonton.com

EDITOR

Nerissa McNaughton

COPY EDITOR Nikki Gouthro

ART DIRECTOR

Jessi Evetts jessi@businessinedmonton.com

“Outstanding students, outstanding results.”

ADMINISTRATION

Nancy Bielecki info@businessinedmonton.com

proacad.ca

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS David MacLean Terry O’Flynn

THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS Nerissa McNaughton Laura Bohnert Jamelie Bachaalani

PHOTOGRAPHY

PERFORMING ARTS, VISUAL ARTS & TECHNOLOGY We are committed to maintaining a caring and creative environment that fosters the natural curiosity to learn.

Cover photo by Epic Photography Inc.

ADVERTISING SALES

Sarah Sikora ssikora@businessinedmonton.com Gary Caouette gary@businessinedmonton.com

DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING Mark McDonald mark@businessinedmonton.com

EDITORIAL, ADVERTISING & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES

#1780, 10020 - 101 A Ave. NW Edmonton, AB T5J 3G2 Phone: 780.638.1777 Fax: 587.520.5701 Toll Free: 1.800.465.0322 Email: info@businessinedmonton.com

Image provided courtesy of Bombardier Inc.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Online at www.businessinedmonton.com Annual rates: $31.50 | $45 USA | $85 International Single Copy $3.50 Business in Edmonton is delivered to 27,000 business addresses every month including all registered business owners in Edmonton and surrounding areas including St Albert, Sherwood Park, Leduc/Nisku, Spruce Grove, Stony Plain and Fort Saskatchewan. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents of any advertisement, and all representations of warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertiser and not of the publisher. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, in all or in part, without the written permission of the publisher.

Aurora Jet Partners is a local company with a global reach. We help our clients grow their business and make the most of their personal time. Whether you want to purchase a jet of your own, or charter a jet for a special occasion, Aurora Jet Partners is your local expert resource. Founded and always headquartered in Edmonton, Aurora Jet Partners is active in our community and proud of the entrepreneurial spirit that has made the capital region a great place to do business since our origins in the early 1970s.

Canadian publications mail sales product agreement No. 42455512

AIRCRAFT MANAGEMENT | BROKERAGE | CHARTER | AMO LEVEL MAINTENANCE | CONSULTATION

Edmonton International Airport sales@aurorajet.ca | aurorajet.ca

888.797.JETS (5387) Vancouver – Edmonton – Toronto

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to circulation dept. #1780, 10020 - 101 A Ave. NW Edmonton, AB T5J 3G2 info@businessinedmonton.com

Business in Edmonton magazine’s circulation is audited twice a year by BPA International.

WWW.BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

TURNING OPTIMISM INTO REALITY // TERRY O’FLYNN

Turning Optimism Into Reality BY TERRY O’FLYNN, CHAIRMAN, ALBERTA ENTERPRISE GROUP

he first session of Alberta’s 30th legislature is in the books! Putting aside the filibuster and ear plugs, what has our newly elected government accomplished for Alberta’s businesses so far? Well, they wasted no time in putting on their work gloves. To start, Jason Kenney immediately kept his campaign promise to kill the carbon tax. Bill 1 was brought to legislature and signed into law on June 3 by Lt.-Gov. Lois Mitchell. The bill officially took effect on June 4. For businesses and taxpayers, this means reversing (with some potential refunds) the largest tax hike in Alberta’s history, lower spending costs and thus free up the business revenue needed to create 6,000 jobs. The bill is also expected to free up $1.4 billion of tax burden, providing up to $4,500 per year for small businesses to reinvest in their companies through jobs and innovation. This will ultimately help support Alberta’s growth. Bill 3, the Job Creation Tax Cut (also referred to as the Corporate Tax Cut) was passed on June 12 and was brought into effect on July 1 with the intention of lowering the tax burden on businesses in order to allow them to hire more employees and create more jobs. By 2022, the bill will have lowered the corporate tax rate from 12 per cent to 8 per cent, making it the lowest corporate tax rate in Canada and a combined federal-provincial business tax rate that is lower than 44 American states. Competing in the world economy is vital and a hallmark of a free enterprise system.

for businesses, was passed on June 10. The bill aims to rework costly and inefficient regulatory processes to encourage more business investment. It will save businesses time and money by making it less restrictive to invest in new projects. I believe the free enterprise system is best supported by what this government is doing – allowing regulation to be applied with the goal of getting projects moving through as quickly as possible. This will be an ongoing mission to find balance between regulation and obstruction. Bill 7, the Municipal Government Amendment Act (or the Property Tax Incentive Act), was passed on June 24. The bill moves to allow municipalities to provide 15-year property tax incentives rather than the previous year-toyear incentives. Providing Alberta’s municipalities with one of the longest municipal tax incentive timelines in North America allows Alberta to compete for more business and industry investment, creating a potential for job growth, revitalization, and economic diversification. One major theme is dominating legislation: improving our Alberta business environment. Reducing financial pressures and regulatory burdens enables Alberta businesses to more freely invest in the province, its communities, and its workforce. This government is committed to assisting businesses in getting our economy back on track. Their first legislative steps are creating a sense of optimism in the corporate community. These initial steps will contribute to these businesses turning optimism into reality.

Bill 4, the Red Tape Reduction Act, which moves to cut red tape by a third to remove unnecessary regulations

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

BILLIONS OF REASONS TO TEAR DOWN INTERPROVINCIAL TRADE BARRIERS // DAVID MACLEAN

Billions of Reasons to Tear Down Interprovincial Trade Barriers BY DAVID MACLEAN

nternational market access for Alberta products has dominated headlines and board rooms for years, and that won’t change any time soon. Getting Alberta energy to market at fair prices is the top priority for the Alberta economy, but while policy makers and energy producers chip away at that problem, Canada needs to continue to work on tearing down internal barriers to trade. A recent report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) took a close look at the true cost of internal trade barriers, and the impacts are significant. The IMF report estimates that if all trade barriers (such as vehicle weight and dimension standards, provincial permitting rules, varying technical and safety standards) were eliminated, Canada’s GDP would be 4 per cent higher. That amounts to around $86 billion in additional economic activity across the country every year. Removing all internal trade irritants is impossible but if we can get even halfway there, we’d generate $40 billion in new trade activity – and that’s nothing to sneeze at. Politicians understand this. Over the years, governments have tried in various ways to boost the flow of goods and services within Canada. Provinces have worked together to make trade agreements like the New West Partnership Trade Agreement among the western provinces and the 2009 Quebec-New Brunswick deal. The IMF report says these efforts have paid off in increased economic activity in those provinces. In 2017 the Canadian Free Trade Agreement made government procurement rules more transparent, and there’s a legislated process for reducing red tape and duplication. However, too many exemptions remain, adding

an estimated 7 per cent cost to petroleum products and 27 per cent to manufactured goods. A recent Financial Post story shone a light on Edmontonbased manufacturer Levven Electronics – a manufacturer of internet-enabled light switches and receivers. It’s a local success story, but here’s the rub: varying building codes across Canada prevent Levven from selling switches to 90 per cent of the Canadian home building market. It’s frustrating that the kind of company everybody wants to see here in Alberta – innovative, advanced, export-oriented – is being stifled by policy makers’ failure to adapt to new technology. The challenge here is the absence of a single decision-making entity that can make these trade barriers disappear. The feds, provinces and municipalities all have reasons for their rules. Some of these rules are legitimate and address problems specific to that jurisdiction. Others are just remnants of a failure to update and revise rules in a timely way. Some rules are political; powerful stakeholders have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo. Another problem is that removing trade barriers often doesn’t have an immediate payoff for politicians. Any regulatory change inevitably annoys someone, and the economic benefits are difficult to measure. The massive benefit of broad-based regulatory reform is only visible from a distance. This all boils down to competitiveness. Canada can and should be a global manufacturing powerhouse, but we need to get our own house in order first. CANADIAN MANUFACTURERS & EXPORTERS (CME) IS THE VOICE OF CANADIAN MANUFACTURING. CME REPRESENTS MORE THAN 2,500 COMPANIES WHO ACCOUNT FOR AN ESTIMATED 82 PER CENT OF MANUFACTURING OUTPUT AND 90 PER CENT OF CANADA’S EXPORTS.

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

NEW ADDED SERVICE OF TEAM COURIER!!

Team Courier now has the “EasyShipNTrack” delivery web application. Covering metropolitan Edmonton including the suburbs of: Sherwood Park, St. Albert/Morinville, Nisku/Leduc/Beaumont, Gibbons/Fort Saskatchewan, Devon, Spruce Grove/Stony Plain

This allows you to: • Schedule – select date/time when deliveries are required • Track – know the status of your deliveries (with electronic proof of deliveries if required) • Manage – electronic waybills / paperless invoices • 10% off on first 30 day trial

Contact Pat today and we will email you the Team Courier Manual to get you started. Totally transparent, encrypted website for safe usage, fast and very user-friendly. Locally created, custom program.

Ph: 780.446.0886 • Email: teamcourierservices@shaw.ca

HIGHLIGHTS // 2019 LEADERS AWARDS GALA

Business in Edmonton’s 2019 Leaders Awards Gala

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT SARAH FOSTER FROM 20/20 SEED LABS WITH HER BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TERRY CONNELL (SERVPRO EDMONTON SOUTHSIDE), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) SARAH FOSTER (LEADER) AND SHAWN MEVEL (ATB).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT LINDSAY MAYR & MICHAEL MAYR FROM 3-D LINE LOCATING LTD. WITH THEIR BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TERRY CONNELL (SERVPRO EDMONTON SOUTHSIDE), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) LINDSAY MAYR (LEADER). MICHAEL MAYR (LEADER) AND SHAWN MEVEL (ATB).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT ROSE M. EBANS FROM AYRE & OXFORD INC. WITH HER BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TERRY CONNELL (SERVPRO EDMONTON SOUTHSIDE), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) ROSE M. EVANS (LEADER) AND SHAWN MEVEL (ATB).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT ADAM F.D MORRIS FROM COPPERBLOCK CAPITAL CORPORATION WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TERRY CONNELL (SERVPRO EDMONTON SOUTHSIDE), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) ADAM F.D MORRIS (LEADER) AND SHAWN MEVEL (ATB).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT BLAINE MACMILLAN FROM COWAN GRAPHICS INC. WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TERRY CONNELL (SERVPRO EDMONTON SOUTHSIDE), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP), BLAINE MACMILLAN (MNP) AND SHAWN MEVEL (ATB).

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

HIGHLIGHTS // 2019 LEADERS AWARDS GALA

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT HENRY EDGAR FROM EDGAR DEVELOPMENT WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TERRY CONNELL (SERVPRO EDMONTON SOUTHSIDE), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) HENRY EDGAR (LEADER) AND SHAWN MEVEL (ATB).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT GRAHAM MCMILLAN FROM EVOLUTION AV WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TERRY CONNELL (SERVPRO EDMONTON SOUTHSIDE), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) GRAHAM MCMILLAN (LEADER) AND SHAWN MEVEL (ATB).

π SHIPPING SUPPLY SPECIALISTS

OUR BOXES MEASURE UP OVER 1,600 BOX SIZES ALWAYS IN STOCK

ORDER BY 6 PM FOR SAME DAY SHIPPING

COMPLETE CATALOG

1-800-295-5510 uline.ca

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

HIGHLIGHTS // 2019 LEADERS AWARDS GALA

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT CHRIS FILLMORE FROM FILLMORE CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT INC. WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TERRY CONNELL (SERVPRO EDMONTON SOUTHSIDE), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) AND SHAWN MEVEL (ATB).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT JASON SMITH FROM GO AUTO WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TERRY CONNELL (SERVPRO EDMONTON SOUTHSIDE), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) SADIE SMITH (DAUGHTER OF JASON SMITH), JASON SMITH (LEADER), JAKE SMITH (SON OF JASON SMITH) AND SHAWN MEVEL (ATB).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT DARRELL FRIESEN FROM JET LABEL WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TERRY CONNELL (SERVPRO EDMONTON SOUTHSIDE), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) DARRELL FRIESEN (LEADER) AND SHAWN MEVEL (ATB).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT DARCY WEISS FROM JOBSIITE WORKWEAR WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RICH GROOM (VANTA GROUP), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) DARCY WEISS (LEADER) AND JANET RIOPEL (EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE).

TRACY GREGOR ACCEPTS THE EDMONTON BUSINESS LEADERS AWARD ON BEHALF OF HER HUSBAND JASON GREGOR FROM JUST A GAME PRODUCTION. LEFT TO RIGHT: RICH GROOM (VANTA GROUP), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) TRACY GREGOR (LEADER) AND JANET RIOPEL (EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT BRUCE KIRKLAN FROM LEXUS OF EDMONTON WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RICH GROOM (VANTA GROUP), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) BRUCE KIRKLAND (LEADER) AND JANET RIOPEL (EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE).

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

HIGHLIGHTS // 2019 LEADERS AWARDS GALA

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT BARBARA STECKLY FROM PREFERRED CLIENT SERVICES GROUP LTD. WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RICH GROOM (VANTA GROUP), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) BARBARA STECKLY (LEADER) AND JANET RIOPEL (EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT DAVID WELSH FROM PRIMED MEDICAL PRODUCTS WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RICH GROOM (VANTA GROUP), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) DAVID WELSH (LEADER) AND JANET RIOPEL (EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT LYLE BEST FROM QUIKCARD GROUP OF COMPANIES WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RICH GROOM (VANTA GROUP), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) LYLE BEST (LEADER) AND JANET RIOPEL (EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT GLENN STOGRYN FROM STOGRYN SALES LTD. WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RICH GROOM (VANTA GROUP), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) GLENN STOGRYN (LEADER) AND JANET RIOPEL (EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT CURTIS WAY FROM THE RMS GROUP LTD.:WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RICH GROOM (VANTA GROUP), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) CURTIS WAY (LEADER) AND JANET RIOPEL (EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE).

BUSINESS IN EDMONTON’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT JESSE HILL FROM TIER 3 I.T SOLUTIONS WITH HIS BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RICH GROOM (VANTA GROUP), MICHELLE MILLER (MNP) JESSE HILL (LEADER) AND JANET RIOPEL (EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE).

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

MEET DAVE FILIPCHUK // COVER

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

MEET DAVE FILIPCHUK // COVER

MEET DAVE FILIPCHUK

THE PRESIDENT AND CEO OF PCL CONSTRUCTION IS HONOURED TO SERVE THE COMPANY

BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

ave Filipchuk graduated with a civil engineering degree from the University of Alberta on a Saturday and started work with PCL the following Monday. “I thought I was going to be here for a little while and then do an MBA or Masters degree in engineering,” chuckles Filipchuk. That was 35 years ago. He never left and today he’s the president and CEO of PCL. PCL is a group of independent construction companies with projects across Canada, the United States, the Caribbean and Australia. The company’s annual construction volume of $9 billion makes it the largest company of its kind in Canada, and one of the largest in North America; and Filipchuk, it seems, was always on a path to helm the brand. His grandparents were farmers in eastern Alberta. As a boy Filipchuk would spend hands-on weekends in the country, being fascinated by the people, machinery and processes that made farm life work. At 13 he got his first taste of construction when he helped to build the family cabin.

ABOVE: DAVE FILIPCHUK, THE PRESIDENT AND CEO OF PCL CONSTRUCTION PHOTO SOURCE: EPIC PHOTOGRAPHY INC

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

MEET DAVE FILIPCHUK // COVER

“From farming and early construction, I got a real appreciation for the value of hard work and tremendous admiration for the people that do physical work. It is demanding. I treasure the experience I had learning that young in life,” he says.

PCL HAS COME TO MEAN TO HIM, FILIPCHUK SAYS IT IS, “GREAT PEOPLE

The labour and hard work were values Filipchuk would embrace from the start of his career.

THAT ARE JOINED IN EMPLOYEE

“I loved what I did,” he explains of why he never left PCL. “I can’t say I was a visionary that said, ‘one day I will be the CEO of the largest construction company in Canada,’ – it was one day at a time. Over the years I’ve made seven moves to different locations in Canada and the U.S. I’ve had exposure to the different parts of the country and sectors we work in. This has not felt like one job for 35 years. It feels like a new job every time. I love the variety.”

CREATING AMAZING THINGS

When asked to describe what PCL has come to mean to him, Filipchuk says it is, “Great people that are joined in employee ownership that work together creating amazing things every day. We create a built environment that is so tangible, [our people] can show it to their kids and reach out and touch it.” Like Filipchuk, PCL is local, approachable, and actually pretty humble. You know, despite having a tremendous impact on communities locally and abroad. “When people think of PCL, they think of us as a big project company,” Filipchuk smiles, “but the reality is, we do a tremendous number of smaller projects; we do projects of all sizes. Most of our projects are under a million dollars in value.” He points to examples of retrofitting a local coffee shop interior and remodelling a bank’s teller area. PCL’s projects are diverse, and for Filipchuk, focusing on diversity for all aspects of PCL is where the strength of the company begins. “We are geographically diverse, sectorally diverse, and have diversity in our employee base across our footprint,” he says with pride. “We never want to become complacent about our position in our market. We work hard to be market leaders wherever we operate. I’m driven to be sure our clients can expect a predicable level of service from PCL everywhere we operate. We do work for many clients on a national scale and they should expect a similar level of PCL service. That is

WHEN ASKED TO DESCRIBE WHAT

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

OWNERSHIP THAT WORK TOGETHER EVERY DAY. WE CREATE A BUILT ENVIRONMENT THAT IS SO TANGIBLE, [OUR PEOPLE] CAN SHOW IT TO THEIR KIDS AND REACH OUT AND TOUCH IT.” one of the ways I will always work, to be sure we continue to serve our customers’ needs and never be complacent in this highly competitive industry.” The customers he speaks of are not just the thousands of clients PCL enjoys working with. It also means the staff. “Our internal customers are our employees. Among our 4,000+ team, about 3,700 are employee shareholders. I want to create an environment where they love what they do every day. For our internal client base, the process is similar to what I said about how we seek to be that leading contractor; for our people we strive to provide consistent, exemplary service. Reliability and predictability are a big part of what defines success.” Success, for Filipchuk, also means leading the industry and being an example of what a top level construction firm can achieve, not just on projects, but for the marketplace as well. To this end PCL has been very proactive in integrating technology into building practices, as evidenced by recent partnerships with AltaML and CopperTree Analytics. Filipchuk explains, “Mark Bryant, our CIO, is a strong leader and great at forming partnerships with Microsoft and many others. Construction has sometimes been seen as a slow-tochange industry. In reality there has been a lot of progressive change in deployment of technology and benefits like

Good Advice is Never in Hindsight FILE TYPES

RASTER GRAPHICS

VECTOR GRAPHICS

A raster graphic is an image made of tiny squares of color information, called pixels or dots.

A vector graphic uses math to draw shapesusing points, lines and curves.

.jpg

.eps

(Joint Photographic Expert Group)

(Encapsulated Postscript File)

• used for photographs and complex images used for logos and illustrations has acquired •• typically • can be scaled no more than 130% scalable to any size without losing quality • doesn’t support transparency • supports transparency • use in Word, Powerpoint or web applications • use for printed collateral, large signs, banners, also screen printing (tshirts, promotional items) and embroidery

.png

.ai

(Portable Network Graphics)

(Adobe Illustrator)

• same as JPG but supports transparency • use in Word, Powerpoint or web when you want a transparent background (example - placing your logo over a dark or patterned background)

• layered working le that is editable in Adobe Illustrator • share with designer/printer if changes necessary

MNP Corporate Finance Inc. acted as exclusive financial advisor to Clareview Drug Mart in structuring and negotiating this transaction.

has acquired

Fournier Drugs Ltd. MNP Corporate Finance Inc. acted as exclusive financial advisor to Fournier Drugs Ltd. in structuring and negotiating this transaction.

Logo & Style Guide September 2014

You’ve built a legacy. Make sure you unlock its full value before taking down the shingle. Tap into MNP’s proven expertise helping clients successfully divest their pharmacy business and achieve their financial and personal goals. We draw on our broad network and relationships with a variety of buyers to maximize your options and opportunities for success.

Contact Mark Regehr, CFA Managing Director, Corporate Finance T: 780.969.1404 E: mark.regehr@mnp.ca

Rofael Corporation has acquired Manitoulin’s Family of

Guardian

PHARMACIES

Manitowaning - Little Current - Mindemoya

“We Care For You”

MNP Corporate Finance Inc. acted as exclusive financial advisor to Manitoulin’s Family of Guardian Pharmacies in structuring and negotiating this transaction.

MEET DAVE FILIPCHUK // COVER

efficiency and speed to market. Our reasons to embrace tech is to get better and better at leveraging technology for safety, efficiency, and value for internal and external customers.” After 35 years, Filipchuk remains inspired every day by the people, processes, and projects at PCL. “Seeing new leaders grow within our organization,” he quotes as one of the things he finds the most inspiring. “We have our PCL Leadership Academy that has a suite of leadership growth opportunities. All employees in the organization, with the support of their supervisor, can enter the program and take part in broad leadership training. Seeing people grow – that is very inspiring.” “We operate in a challenging industry. For me, personally, a key is to focus on driven and passionate employees that we want to set up for success. We have clear boundaries in which we are going to operate while always allowing for creativity that leads to our business flourishing. We are always finding ways to communicate without becoming overly restrictive.” A good day at the office for Filipchuk is seeing the team take pride in their roles and knowing the employees can walk around Edmonton and point out projects to their children while saying, “I had a part in that.” He has much to be proud of as the CEO of PCL, but the very humble Filipchuk sees his role as one in a line of leaders that came before him and will come after him. He is honoured to count his place among the likes of Ernest Pool, Bob Stollery, and Paul Douglas. “Leadership is a journey. Okay, that sounds cliché, but it really is a process of lifelong learning about how to be a better and better leader. I am on that journey today. My

vision around leadership is being passionate about what I do and setting that example for others. If I am effective in doing that, others will step up to replace us in those roles. We are focused on strong succession in our organization, and our leaders do a good job of that.” “Strong leadership is necessary because construction is a very demanding career. We have many opportunities in our business and with each opportunity you are faced with a choice. In my own experience with that, every individual needs to find what works for them. We refer to this as work/ life choices as opposed to work/life balance. My belief is that with our support, the people at PCL find that balance for themselves and what works for them and their family. If I can get them to where they love what they do every day, that makes it easier for them to make those choices.” While many leaders can measure the success of their work by the awards and accolades they receive, Filipchuk takes a different path. “When employees see us recognized for ethical business practices and employee culture, that helps them appreciate where they work,” he smiles. He won’t point to the many awards bestowed upon PCL, but instead counts the sum of

ABOVE: A YOUNG DAVE BUILDING THE FAMILY CABIN WITH IS PARENTS.

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

MEET DAVE FILIPCHUK // COVER

the company’s recognitions as proof that PCL is doing right by its team and clients.

child excel in an activity that will help them succeed in life. “They are both fliers and they love it!” he smiles.

One of the aspects that Filipchuk greatly enjoys is the longstanding policy of giving back to the communities in which PCL operates.

PCL has a long history that stretches back over a century, and thanks to strong succession plans and leaders, it has a great future too.

“We are certainly quite public about our 50-year support of the United Way,” he says with pride. PCL has also committed $1.25 million to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada over five years and supports, among many other initiatives, both the Canadian and American Red Cross.

“We have a legacy as an Edmonton headquartered company,” says Filipchuk. “In 2017 PCL secured a record $10 billion in new work for the first time in our history and we can expect plenty of continued success thanks to a strong backlog across our footprint.”

PCL also has a direct connection to a very special, local nonprofit organization. Edmonton born and raised Bob Stollery was president and CEO of PCL during the 1970s. Bob and his wife, Shirley, provided the founding donation for the Stollery Children’s Hospital.

“The exceptional leaders we have in the organization remain focused on growing leaders to grow the business in a responsible way. Growth is never driven by outside influences; we don’t have the pressure of hitting targets to please external shareholders. We are responsible to our employee shareholders. That is the main driver for us. Being private allows us to take the long view.”

It’s not easy, being the president and CEO of one of the largest construction companies in North America, but as with everything else he does in life, Filipchuk has found ways to do more than cope. He thrives under the pressure. “The greatest clarity of thought I experience is through physical activity,” he points out. “I’ve always been active. I’ve done a lot of recreational racing – five marathons including the Boston Marathon twice. My number one sport was cross country skiing. I’ve completed international Birkebeiner marathons including ones in America and Norway. Now my physical regime is more about maintenance, but I still love to be active. Cycling is a passion, as is skiing on both snow and water.” Filipchuk also loves to cook and looks forward to Edmonton’s (always too short) summer season when he can fire up the grill. He is kept further busy as he and his wife Delphine indulge their children, Eliza and Tess, in their latest sport – cheer. “About three years ago they both got into cheer.” Parents with kids in dance and sports know the pride and joy of seeing their

He closes by thanking those that have helped him achieve his and PCL’s goals. “I always had good mentors in the organization that I trusted, who had succeeded in the company before me, and every one of those moves I made within PCL brought new surroundings, experiences, and new ways of thinking. I learned a lot from that, but I know there is still a lot for me to learn. Part of that is to be willing to take a chance, trust the advice you are given, and go for it.” He pauses to think back to his 13 year old self, swinging a hammer and learning the value of hard work on a farm surrounded by his family. Filipchuk is very grateful to his parents and grandparents for teaching him the value of hard work, and how to value the people you work with. He smiles as he looks out the window of the top floor of PCL, seeing that the view from the office and the view from the family cabin are quite similar, after all.

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

THE BIG ATTRACTION // HEAD OFFICES

THE BIG ATTRACTION

Edmonton continues to draw in a diverse mix of corporations that see the benefits and potential of our city

n just a few short years, the landscape of Edmonton has changed dramatically. The ICE District has revolutionized the downtown and new towers soar high above the city. There are exciting things going on in Edmonton, and that excitement is attracting and retaining corporations that choose the city as their base of operations. As of 2019, more than 1,600 companies have their headquarters here, including well-established staples like Stantec, The Brick, and EPCOR Utilities, along with thriving newcomers like Jobber. The city is also busy shedding its oil and gas reputation. While energy continues to be a major economic driver, the types of business the city is attracting is more diverse than ever, with consumer and retail (442 headquarters) leading the way. Real estate (248), financial services (228) and business services (198) round out the top four. Technology and media companies continue to invest in Edmonton with major corporations such as Pure Canadian Gaming and Magic Lantern Theatres. While this may come as a surprise to some, to KPMG, a global network of professional services firms that provides audit, tax and advisory services, the diversity among Edmonton’s headquarters makes perfect sense. “[Edmonton has] numerous funding and support options, regardless of the stage of your business, including Startup Edmonton, TEC Edmonton, the ATB Entrepreneur Centre and the Edmonton Economic Development Corporation,” says Robert Borrelli, office managing partner for KPMG’s office in Edmonton. What makes Edmonton even more

lucrative for potential headquarters and organizations is the access to a talented labour pool. “With large and esteemed institutions like the University of Alberta, the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) and MacEwan University, there is a readily available pool of talented labour, many of which enter the marketplace with innovative ideas and ready to make an impact.” The Edmonton International Airport and a young and dynamic population (Edmontonians boast a median age of 36.5), also play a role in the city being a viable location to attract and maintain corporate headquarters. With Edmonton being Canada’s northernmost capital city, it’s a strategic hub for those looking to do business in the northern regions. Additionally, the city continues to implement policies and practices to nurture a business friendly corporate environment. The recent cuts to the corporate tax rate (from 12 per cent to 8 per cent), gives Alberta the lowest corporate tax rates in Canada. Edmonton-based companies also do not pay provincial sales, payroll or capital taxes. While property taxes have risen over the years, Edmonton’s property tax per square foot remains amongst the lowest for major Canadian centres. As corporations across Canada wake up to the realities of AI, machine learning, and automation, Edmonton is already pushing forward to capitalize on this growing trend. “The Alberta Government plans to spend US$100 million over five years to attract investment from artificial

KPMG surveyed over 1,300 CEOs from around the world for their growth outlooks, strategic priorities, concerns and objectives. What did they have to say? Read the 2019 CEO Outlook report at home.kpmg/ca/CEOoutlook.

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

THE BIG ATTRACTION // HEAD OFFICES

intelligence focused tech companies. The money will go to Alberta Innovates, the province’s research development agency, and the non-profit Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute,” says Borrelli.

being welcoming to all and offering a superior quality of life compared to other major cities. Borrelli explains, “Initiatives like Edmonton’s Strategic Plan 2019 – 2028 will help ensure we continue to invest in the competitive development of our city, whether it’s striving to eliminate poverty, developing vibrant neighbourhoods, driving innovation or looking at clean and environmentally sustainable solutions.”

The timing really couldn’t be better. According to KPMG’s 2019 CEO Outlook, which surveys 1,300 CEOs from around the world, including 75 from Canada, there has been a 16 per cent jump since 2018 in CEOs’ perception of embracing innovation and data analysis within their corporations1, and about 79 per cent of CEOs believe automation will create more jobs than it will eliminate. The CEO Outlook further notes that Canadian CEOs have already realized 12 per cent returns on implemented robotic process automation (RPA), with no other global CEOs reporting returns last year. Clearly, Canada is onto something, and knowing we must be a part of this evolution, the city is making the necessary investment to be a leader in this space.

There are many reasons why Edmonton has bolstered its reputation as a coveted destination for corporate headquarters and will continue to grow in this regard. With an eye on continued diversification, constantly evolving infrastructure and increasing investment in innovation, Edmonton’s potential truly is limitless. KPMG’s 2019 CEO Outlook can be accessed from the KPMG website. Visit kpmg.ca to gain valuable insights about the key factors that affect business on a global scale.

Aside from the factors that make the city attractive in the commercial sense, Edmonton also has a reputation for

https://bit.ly/2XKttAH

THE EDMONTON HEAD OFFICE FEATURE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY KPMG

PCL Construction Inc

Rank: Engineer Cdn (out of 800)

Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis

CL is a group of independent construction companies owned by almost 4,000 employee shareholders across Canada, the United States, Australia and the Caribbean. These diverse operations in the civil infrastructure, heavy industrial, and buildings markets are supported by a strategic presence in 31 major centres. PCL Construction is the largest contracting organization in Canada and one of the largest in North America. Dave Filipchuk

9,000,000,000

Stantec Inc.

REVENUE

www.pcl.com Rank: Engineer Cdn (out of 800)

118

4,328,483,000

AutoCanada Inc.

he Stantec community unites more than 15,000 employees working in over 250 locations. They collaborate across disciplines and industries to bring buildings, energy and resource, and infrastructure projects to life. Their work - professional consulting in planning, engineering, architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, surveying, environmental sciences, project management, and project economics - begins at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships.

REVENUE

4,283,800,000

116

Government of Alberta agency responsible for administering the Gaming and Liquor Act, Regulation and related policy. Ensures the gaming and liquor activities in Alberta are conducted honestly, openly and with integrity, and maximizing the economic benefits of gaming and liquor activities in the province to benefit all Albertans. Alain Maisonneuve

REVENUE

Gord Johnston

Rank: Store Cdn (out of 800)

www.aglc.ca Rank: Auto Dealership Cdn (out of 800)

155

utoCanada is one of Canada’s largest multi-location automobile dealership groups, currently operating 48 franchised dealerships in eight provinces and has over 3,400 employees. In 2014, their dealerships sold approximately 57,000 vehicles and processed approximately 786,000 service and collision repair orders in their 822 service bays during that time. Michael Rawluk REVENUE

www.stantec.com

3,150,781,000

www.autocan.ca

When asked, 73% of Canadian CEOs are confident in their ability to react to disruption. What else are they confident in? Read KPMG’s latest report: home.kpmg/ca/CEOoutlook.

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

THE BIG ATTRACTION // HEAD OFFICES

ATB Financial

Rank: Bank Cdn (out of 800)

207

Workers’ Compensation Board - Alberta

lberta Treasury Branches, doing business as ATB Financial, is a financial institution and crown corporation owned by the Province of Alberta. ATB operates in Alberta only, providing financial services to nearly 700,000 Albertans and Alberta-based businesses. ATB has 172 branches and 135 agencies, serving a total of 243 communities in Alberta. Trevor Alexander

2,179,392,000

EPCOR Utilities Inc.

REVENUE

www.atb.com Rank: Utility Cdn (out of 800)

233

2,117,510,000

Canadian Western Bank

Stuart Lee

Chris H. Fowler

REVENUE

1,758,000,000

Capital Power Corp.

www.epcor.ca Rank: Utility Cdn (out of 800)

301

1,303,663,000

Servus Credit Union Ltd.

Garth Warner

Alcanna Inc.

www.capitalpower.com

411

REVENUE

South Country Co-op Ltd.

677,729,000

Alberta Investment Management Corp.

www.liquorstoresna.ca Rank: Food Sell Cdn (out of 800)

450

Kevin Uebelein

www.servus.ca Rank: Finance Cdn (out of 800)

442

lberta Investment Management Corporation, AIMCo, is one of Canada’s largest and most diversified institutional investment managers with more than $100 billion of assets under management. Established on January 1, 2008, AIMCo’s mandate is to provide superior long-term investment results for its clients. AIMCo operates at arms-length from the Government of Alberta and invests globally on behalf of 32 pension, endowment and government funds in the Province of Alberta.

558,830,000

Agriculture Financial Services Corp.

www.aimco.alberta.ca Rank: Finance Cdn (out of 800)

472

e are a member-owned Co-operative with locations throughout Southern Alberta. We employ close to 700 employees at our various locations and take pride in the fact that that we have over 62,000 members.

Paul Haynes

Steve Blakely

REVENUE

www.southcountryco-op.crs

484,974,000

Failure. 75% of Canadian CEOs want their employees to innovate without the fear of failure. Discover other insights from Canadian CEOs at home.kpmg/ca/CEOoutlook.

405

REVENUE

outh Country Co-op Limited (formerly Medicine Hat Co-op Limited), with our head office in Medicine Hat, was incorporated in 1956.

539,625,000

Rank: Credit Cdn (out of 800)

t Servus Credit Union we’re building a better world, one member at a time. We’ve been shaping the financial fitness of Albertans for 80 years with a full line of secure financial services. We help members manage their money wherever they are through 100 branches in 59 communities; online, mobile and telephone banking; and 1900 no-fee ATMs across Canada. We reinvest our profits in our members and the communities we serve. The rest we return to members as Profit Share Rewards.

lcanna Inc. (TSX: CLIQ) is the private-sector largest retailer of alcoholic beverages in Canada and in the top 3 in North America. The company operates 260+ stores under the brand names Wine & Beyond, Liquor Depot, Ace Liquor, Solo Liquor and Brown Jug in Alberta, B.C. and Alaska. Alcanna owned 25% by Aurora Cannabis Inc after a $138 million cash injection in 2018 also owns the Nova Cannabis brand with 8 stores in Alberta and 1 in Toronto and anticipates reaching 100 Nova Cannabis stores by the end of 2021.

658,931,000

www.cwb.com

REVENUE

Rank: Store Cdn (out of 800)

292

WB Financial Group is a diversified financial services organization serving businesses and individuals across Canada. Operating from its headquarters in Edmonton, Alberta, CWB’s key business lines include full service business and personal banking offered through branches of Canadian Western Bank, and Internet banking services provided by Motive Financial. Highly responsive specialized financing is delivered under the banners of CWB Optimum Mortgage, CWB Equipment Financing, CWB National Leasing, CWB Maxium Financial and CWB Franchise Finance.

Brian T. Vaasjo REVENUE

1,249,000,000

Rank: Bank Cdn (out of 800)

REVENUE

apital Power (TSX: CPX) is a growth-oriented North American power producer headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. The company develops, acquires, operates and optimizes power generation from a variety of energy sources. Capital Power owns approximately 4,500 megawatts of power generation capacity at 24 facilities and is pursuing contracted generation capacity throughout North America.

www.wcb.ab.ca

PCOR’s story began over 120 years ago, as Edmonton’s power and water utility and Canada’s first municipally owned electric utility. EPCOR Utilities Inc. has been a stand-alone company since 1996. The City of Edmonton is thier sole Shareholder, and they operate as a commercial entity, governed by an independent Board of Directors.

210

he Workers Compensation Board is a statutory corporation created by government under the Workers Compensation Act to administer a system of workplace insurance for the workers and employers of the province of Alberta. The organization is employer funded to provide cost-effective disability and liability insurance.

Curtis Stange REVENUE

James Burns

Rank: Service Cdn (out of 800)

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

www.afsc.ca

Are you thinking big picture? Think bigger. Consider the 360 Experience – our approach to understanding your business. Our advisers will work with a multi-disciplinary team of professionals to compile a comprehensive 360-degree review of your current operations and review critical issues facing your industry. We of course will share our findings with you, to help you gain deeper insights into your business and our advisers can then provide new ideas to help you better your business and gain momentum. Get started today and speak with one of our advisers: Deborah MacPherson KPMG Enterprise Lead Tax Partner T: 780-429-7374 E: dmacpherson@kpmg.ca kpmg.ca/enterprise

© 2019 KPMG LLP, a Canadian limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. All rights reserved. 24165

THE BIG ATTRACTION // HEAD OFFICES

North American Construction Group Ltd.

Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)

513

Alberta Capital Finance Authority

orth American Construction Group (NACG) is the premier provider of heavy construction and mining services in Canada. With over 60 years of experience, NACG can provide a comprehensive and integrated approach to meet our customer’s requirements from consultation to completion _ a distinct advantage that few contractors can rival. Martin Ferron

Troy Holinski

REVENUE

410,061,000

www.nacg.ca

TerraVest Industries Inc.

Rank: Manuf Cdn (out of 800)

607

273,112,000

Melcor Developments Ltd.

erraVest Capital is anÊIndustrial ManufacturerÊfocused on acquiring businesses with strong cash flow generation, long track records of operating success, strong balance sheets and committed management teams. We are focused on creating value for shareholders through our existing lines of business as well as acquiring additional businesses with stable cash flows and potential for growth through our support.

www.acfa.gov.ab.ca Rank: Real Est Cdn (out of 800)

609

elcor Developments manages the full life cycle of real estate development: from acquiring raw land, to community planning, to construction and development, to managing leasable office, retail and residential sites. They develop and manage mixed-use residential communities, business and industrial parks, office buildings, retail commercial centres and golf courses.

Dr. Dustin Haw

Darin Rayburn

REVENUE

286,000,000

www.terravestindustries.com

K-Bro Linen Inc.

Rank: Service Cdn (out of 800)

627

268,725,000

Edmonton Regional Airports Authority

www.melcor.ca Rank: Transport Cdn (out of 800)

-Bro was founded in 1954 as Stork Diaper Service and later grew to meet the needs of the healthcare and hospitality industries. To better reflect the company’s evolving role and in honor of its founders - the Kinasewich brothers, the name was changed to K-Bro Linen Systems Inc. in 1984. Today, K-Bro is the largest provider of laundry and linen services in Canada meeting the needs of healthcare, hospitality and other commercial sectors.

REVENUE

Tom Ruth

640

he Regional Airports Authorities Act of 1989 governs airport authorities in Alberta. The Edmonton Regional Airports Authority (known as Edmonton Airports) was established under the act in 1990. Transport Canada officially handed the management of the Edmonton International Airport to Edmonton Airports on Aug. 1, 1992. EIA leases its land from Transport Canada. The Authority is legally and financially independent. We operate as a not-for-profit corporation. All income and surpluses must be applied to the promotion of our purposes.

REVENUE

239,534,000

www.k-brolinen.com

ENTREC Corp.

Rank: Transport Cdn (out of 800)

689

215,707,000

Vertex Resource Group Ltd.

eadquartered in Alberta’s Capital Region in Acheson, Alberta (AB) _ just outside of Edmonton, Alberta - ENTREC has been providing specialized crane and integrated service solutions throughout Western Canada for over 18 years.

John M. Stevens

Terry Stephenson

REVENUE

www.corporate.flyeia.com Rank: Service Cdn (out of 800)

713

ince 1962, Vertex has been a leading North American provider of environmental services. With over 50 years of expertise, Vertex helps clients achieve their development goals through our versatile suite of services. From the initial site selection, consultation and regulatory approval, through the construction, operation and maintenance phases, to conclusion and environmental cleanup, Vertex offers a diverse range of services throughout the life cycle of our clients projects.

REVENUE

173,143,000

www.entrec.com

Peace Hills General Insurance Co.

Kathy Boychuck

150,385,000

Rank: P&C Insurance Cdn (out of 800)

730

eace Hills General Insurance Company has been insuring Western Canadians since 1982. They are committed to serving the community and feel this is best met by distributing their product though an independent brokerage system. Peace Hills Insurance has over 200 employees who are dedicated to serving over 760 broker offices across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, the Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Yukon Territory.

REVENUE

136,400,000

www.peacehillsinsurance.com

Nearly 80% of Canadian CEOs believe AI and robotics will create more jobs than they will eliminate. Learn their other perspectives by visiting home.kpmg/ca/CEOoutlook.

605

he Alberta Capital Finance Authority (“ACFA”) is a provincial authority and acts only as an agent of the Alberta crown. Its business is to provide local entities with financing for capital projects. ACFA is able to borrow in capital markets at interest rates which would not be available to local authorities acting independently. ACFA makes loans to Alberta municipalities, school boards and other local entities at interest rates based on the cost of its borrowings.

REVENUE

Linda J. McCurdy

Rank: Finance Cdn (out of 800)

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

www.vertex.ca

Are you making the most of your day? As a business owner, you have a lot on your plate. KPMG Enterprise advisers are dedicated to working with private company owners – we understand the unique challenges you face. We can help you navigate these challenges, so you are making decisions that are in the best interest of you and your business, and so nothing important is missed. Speak with one of our advisers today: David Magdalinski KPMG Enterprise Tax Partner T: 780-429-6035 E: dmagdalinski@kpmg.ca kpmg.ca/enterprise

HOW TO BUILD AN EDMONTON EMPIRE // CONSTRUCTION

How to Build AN EDMONTON EMPIRE

“If we want to be a player, we need to be aggressive about the future.”

BY LAURA BOHNERT

f you’re keeping an eye on the Edmonton skyline, then you’ve probably caught a glimpse of the recent surge of development—development that certainly isn’t “ICE-olated” to the downtown core. Edmonton’s entire metropolitan region is busy with investments that promise to turn the region into a powerhouse, but it takes more than a few new buildings to build an economic empire. As Chris McLeod, director, marketing & communications, Edmonton Global, explains, one of the most important things Edmonton and its surrounding communities can do right now is recognize that the competition isn’t with each other. “What we are advocating for is collaboration across the entire Edmonton Metropolitan Region and across all of our industries. When we collaborate, align, and harmonize our voices, we have the power to be heard and become far more competitive on a global scale.” The Edmonton Metropolitan Region is home to 15 municipalities, and the past line of thinking was that those municipalities were in competition with each other for investment. McLeod, however, is adamant about that being the wrong strategy for attracting business growth and investment potential. “When we package the Edmonton Metropolitan Region as a whole, we are able to compete with the top regions and cities in the world. Our GDP is $105 billion annually, we’re the fifth largest and second fastest growing economy in Canada, and we have a strong connection to four key sectors (food and

AS CHRIS MCLEOD, DIRECTOR, MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS, EDMONTON GLOBAL, EXPLAINS, ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS EDMONTON AND ITS SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES CAN DO RIGHT NOW IS RECOGNIZE THAT THE COMPETITION ISN’T WITH EACH OTHER. ABOVE: CHRIS MCLEOD, DIRECTOR, MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS, EDMONTON GLOBAL.

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

HOW TO BUILD AN EDMONTON EMPIRE // CONSTRUCTION

agriculture, health and life sciences, energy and clean-tech, and manufacturing and advanced manufacturing). We are young, educated, and growing—we are the youngest community in the country and ranked as the best for youth work. We have seven colleges and universities with 100,000130,000 students enrolled, and the University of Alberta is currently one of the top five research centres in the world for AI. That large talent pool and international leadership in AI is critical for the future of our region.” However, “One of the things Edmonton Global has done is look at the competitiveness of regions compared to others, and we’ve confirmed that we are nowhere near as strong as we credit ourselves,” McLeod reports. “If we want to be a player, we need to be willing to look hard at ourselves and be aggressive about the future. Business practices that were put into place 30-40 years ago were valuable when they were created, but today we need to look at them and ask if they are empowering our future or keeping us locked in the past. “Around the world there are companies and communities who are embracing AI, machine learning, robotics, and adapting their management practices. There’s a real danger in not realizing that many things that were science fiction 30 years ago are being done today. The biggest thing, though, is to recognize that the competition isn’t with each other; we are collectively competing with Austin, Singapore, and Shanghai. We need to collaborate together with the focus of winning on the global stage, but we have to get aggressive and there isn’t a ton of time.” “It’s really about being ‘investment ready’,” says Grant Bain, director, planning & development, Leduc County. “Leduc County has its own internal economic development function, a key focus of which is to work with our regional partners, including other municipalities and Edmonton Global, to ensure we are well positioned to attract the right kind of investment. “Investment readiness creates certainty for investors. Communities need to be prepared to invest in key strategic infrastructure; they must be nimble and responsive. We need to connect businesses that are mutually supportive from a supply chain perspective.” “Leduc County is on a path to diversify its economy,” explains Bain. “The resource sector has been a foundation

“THE INTENT IS TO BRING NEW BUSINESSES AND CAPITAL INVESTMENT INTO THE EDMONTON METROPOLITAN REGION,” SAYS ROBYNN HOLSTEIN, INTERIM DIRECTOR & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, PARKLAND COUNTY. THEIR SUCCESS HAS INTRODUCED BUSINESSES LIKE FREEDOM CANNABIS, FOUNTAIN TIRE, AND STIHL INTO ACHESON. for the development of our economy for many decades, and it will continue to be important as we grow and diversify. While the Nisku Business Park has historically been heavily reliant on the oil and gas sector, recent development in Nisku and surrounding areas has seen the emergence of nontraditional businesses (a distillery, a mushroom company, large-scale cannabis production, etc.). ABOVE: ROBYNN HOLSTEIN, INTERIM DIRECTOR & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, PARKLAND COUNTY.

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

HOW TO BUILD AN EDMONTON EMPIRE // CONSTRUCTION

“We believe that a more diversified economy will help soften the peaks and valleys typically associated with the boom and bust cycle of the energy sector. As we see new investments in the County—like the Amazon warehouse, a project that is expected to create more than 600 full-time, stable and well-paying jobs—we are afforded opportunities to reinvest in critical infrastructure to further support growth in other sectors, particularly transportation and logistics and agribusiness. We see these being attractive opportunities, given the direct access available to other modes of transport, especially Edmonton International Airport.” “Leduc County is also part of a four-party partnership with the City of Edmonton, City of Leduc, and Edmonton International Airport to advance the Airport Accord project,” Bain adds. “The Airport Accord is a joint land use planning and economic development initiative focused on maximizing the economic potential of the airport as a key economic driver for the region.” Parkland County is also looking into new ways to remain nimble and competitive with the goal to stimulate business growth and investment. “The intent is to bring new businesses and capital investment into the Edmonton Metropolitan Region,” says Robynn Holstein, interim director & business development officer, Parkland County. Their success has introduced businesses like Freedom Cannabis, Fountain Tire, and Stihl into Acheson. Holstein points out that Parkland County’s former reliance on the coal industry makes diversification particularly important to the area. “The accelerated phase-out of coalfired power generation has had serious impacts within Parkland County, and those will need to be offset by new economic development.” Development, she points out, that will support residents through job creation and through a more diverse tax base that will offer protection from market boom and bust cycles. “Parkland County takes pride in our proactive role with large-scale infrastructure projects supporting the Acheson Area,” adds Jody Hancock, director, engineering services, Parkland County. “A number of planning studies outlining the long-term development of our infrastructure throughout

the business park have been coordinated and completed by Parkland County with the intention of streamlining growth and supporting new investment. Our goal is to minimize risk, attract new development and to make it easy to get started and stay in Acheson.” The Edmonton Metropolitan Region needs to work together with businesses supporting businesses. Darrell Petras, executive vice-president, business development, TEC Edmonton, explains that the high risk associated with the growth of successful new tech businesses is evidence of the importance of that level of collaboration. “Professional service providers, mentors, affordable space, and investors are often all required to move technology companies forward. New tech businesses are built on new ideas that require testing. Post-secondary institutions can offer a good place to test ideas, particularly if prototype development or health testing is needed. Often, short courses and workshops can help entrepreneurs early on, as they learn from the success and failure of others. Tech companies offering a unique product or service must ensure they are solving a problem or addressing a need in the market and that the overall market will be large enough to support growth. The right mentor can be invaluable.” Of course, the benefits of industry collaboration are reciprocal. Tech companies that are supported by their surrounding industries are able to influence those industries with their ideas. Further, “As tech sectors begin to establish, experts will be drawn into the region to work with the companies. As expertise and success increase, investors will gain confidence in those sectors in the region and more funds will move into the region. As seasoned and new experts achieve success, they may offer mentoring to others and start new companies. The output will be a diversified economy, a technology hub, and tech-based jobs.” “We’re stronger together,” Petras concludes. “There’s currently a focus on collaboration within Edmonton as well as on working with our counterparts in Calgary. To really make an impact, we need to be working together, reducing gaps and seeking opportunities to build and support stronger businesses.”

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

How Real Estate is an Indicator of the Economy

t remains a time of economic uncertainty in Alberta as housing prices have levelled off and are yet to return to the highs we saw a few years ago. Real estate continues to be an incredibly strong indicator of the economy – and I would argue, it may be the strongest of all. Numbers vary, but most reports have three quarters of the average Canadian’s wealth invested in real estate. A sizable drop in home prices often means a sizable drop in a person’s equity.

Polling has shown that Millennials’ top issue is affordability. They are more likely to stay at home and save up for a dream home than venture out and rent at first opportunity. Accordingly, they are more likely to stretch their resources to move into a dream home. On average, they are a bit older when purchasing their first home, compared with earlier generations. At the age of 30, just 50 per cent of Canadian Millennials own their homes. Edmonton’s market statistics suggest that is closely in line with the national averages.

REALTORS® are acutely aware of this. We see the gradual trends in our statistics, but we also see it when talking to clients – how their views of the market change, how spikes in the economy impact them, and how their buying patterns change, generation by generation.

Regardless of the age and buying pattern of Edmontonians, they’ve consistently turned to REALTORS® to provide their home-buying expertise. With proprietary tools to understand Michael Brodrick, Chair, REALTORS® Association of Edmonton the market, REALTORS® help their clients – young and old – plan for the future and choose a home that will help ensure their long-term financial stability. When it comes to investing the Look no further than the latest generation venturing into majority of your wealth, trust those who spend their lives home ownership – Millennials. Millennials now represent over studying the market. half of first-time home buyers.

Moving Life Forward. Your next phase of life starts with a REALTOR®

RAYWALT CONSTRUCTION LTD. CELEBRATES 40 YEARS By Nerissa McNaughton

Steblyk are active partners alongside Johnson, Zutz and Allison. While the carefully planned out succession plans took place, the team continued to grow. Raywalt started with 18 staff, and now works with 150 during construction season.

aywalt, an underground utilities contractor serving the greater Edmonton area, is celebrating 40 years. It all started in 1979 when co-founders Ray Necula and Walter Volsky launched the business to to complement Necula’s earthworks company.

“Our success has been based on maintaining a solid management team and our experienced and loyal support staff and field personnel that make the ‘Raywalt Difference,’ says Johnson. “The balance between keeping the crews busy while maintaining capacity for our loyal clients is never easy, but honest communication is a key. With ever-increasing technical challenges and changing specifications, our team is diligent and adept at keeping on top of a changing construction landscape.

In 1988 Volsky became the sole owner. From the early days, Ron Johnson, president, and Mark Zutz, operations manager, were part of the team. Along with Tom Allison and two other partners, Derrick DiPalma and Gerry Turner, they purchased Raywalt from Volsky in 2004. The leadership team continued to evolve with sale of shares by DiPalma and Turner, and today Jordan Rice, Andrew Kowalchyk, and Tom

RAYWALT CONSTRUCTION LTD. CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

“As with every construction company in our type of business, Edmonton’s short summer means seasonal work and assessing crew requirements early every spring. We have a good number of returning employees, but it is always a scramble to fill in the rest of the positions. Additional to that, the economy in Alberta in recent times is difficult for almost all businesses due to governments that have been playing political games at the expense of Alberta,” Johnson is frank about the challenges Raywalt faces. “However, we are a resilient bunch in our company as are the people of Alberta, so we are optimistic about the future and look forward to a returning steady investment climate in the province with risk takers allowed to carry on business without unnecessary government interference.”

cut. When we managed to divert the river one evening, a large crowd of people had gathered to watch the proceedings. When it succeeded, the crowd applauded and cheered! It was actually quite weird because we were all just concentrating on getting that portion completed and did not realize the size of the crowd that gathered above on the bank of the Bow River. “A couple of other projects that were quite memorable for us were the storm outfall to the river at Keswick in southwest Edmonton. It included a lot of different components, which required daily and intense hands-on involvement. Another was installing twin large diameter sewers in Riverbend, which were installed at a depth of 15 metres in adverse and challenging ground conditions.”

Although many companies in Alberta struggle during times of economic recession, Raywalt has remained steadfast for four decades, thanks to a reputation for outstanding work and innovative problem solving.

He notes that while some jobs stand out for various reason, each one is considered memorable and a valuable part of Raywalt’s project portfolio.

“I remember very well one particular day during the crossing of the Bow River in downtown Calgary,” smiles Johnson, referring to just one of the projects that required the quick thinking and creative solutions that RayWalt is known for. “We were installing a large diameter water main by open

Raywalt is very invested in its staff, and grateful for the innovation, passion and drive they bring to work every day. Raywalt relies on its team, and is also adamant on investing in the equipment and technology that enables them to work efficiently and safely.

“The most rewarding thing about Raywalt is the people who have become part of this company. Any company can buy equipment if they have the wherewithal, but the true value is in a staff committed to succeeding and continually learning and striving to improve. We have been fortunate to assemble a group of people who care about what they do.”

Johnson explains, “Our company has evolved in its operation since 1979 by constantly updating our equipment fleet as well as bringing some talented and hard-working individuals on board to compete in a challenging business. We ran big old red Khoering backhoes back in ’79 which were work horses, but ran their course and were replaced by modern additions over the years. “We sometimes need to remind people standing on the sidelines that you need the right equipment to do a job, but the basics do not change. Many years ago, as we were installing a deep sewer on 50 Street in Leduc, someone came by and asked, ‘why do you need to dig so much of the road up?’ A superintendent at the

Congratulations Raywalt on 40 great years! We are proud of our history with Raywalt in supplying hot tap, valve insertion and line stop services. CELEBRATING OUR 74TH YEAR

RAYWALT CONSTRUCTION LTD. CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

time said, ‘You’ve got to dig a hole to put in pipe!’ That pretty much sums it up! Also, safety is always the first priority on any job site, not just in the case of an excavation nine metres deep on an existing street.”

much effort, talent and grit is required to achieve a successful project,” Johnson points out. “A successful project starts long before anyone shows up on site to begin installing the infrastructure. Sometimes months of planning and preparation are required to get ‘a shovel in the ground,’ as they say. Additionally, after the project appears to be completed, maintenance extends well beyond the time that roads are paved and shallow utilities are completed.”

Bystanders often only see the trenching and the equipment, but there is so much more that goes into a Raywalt project.

Congratulations!

“Someone who sees the company working in an area probably does not realize how

Raywalt is not only active in the building of communities, the company supports communities socially as well and has ongoing relationships with Kids with Cancer Society, Brain Campaign, Alberta Diabetes Foundation, Edmonton Opera, The United Way of Alberta Capital Region, ABC Head Start Society, Alzheimer’s Association, Habitat for Humanity®, Mental Health Foundation, Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society and the Festival of Trees, to name a few.

orwood Waterworks is the leading supplier of water

works products in Alberta. Established in 1922, the company serves the waterworks, agriculture, oil and gas, and forestry industries. The company’s success is built upon providing the

best value, service and expertise in the industry

through our technical and experienced staff. As a full line waterworks distributor, Norwood stocks one of the largest inventory levels of waterworks products in Canada. Norwood Waterworks is proud to be partnered with Raywalt Construction and wishes them another 40 Years of Success!

780-488-7788 | e-mail Sales@NorwoodWaterworks.com | www.NorwoodWaterworks.com

term suppliers such as Inland and Norwood Waterworks, to name a few.”

Five years ago, Raywalt was profiled in Business in Edmonton Magazine in celebration of its 35th anniversary. Today Johnson reflects on the things that changed, the things that remain the same, and the exciting developments planned for the future.

He concludes, “In the coming years, the new ownership group will take over and the company will continue to provide the service our clients expect and deserve. Our safety management and culture are designed to provide a safe workplace for all employees and will continue to evolve and become more comprehensive as new opportunities and challenges present themselves.

“At this time on our 40th anniversary, we would certainly like to acknowledge those who have been instrumental in our growth and success. First of all, Walter Volsky, who founded the company and carried it through the early years. We also thank our long-time clients, Dream Development Edmonton, MLC Group Inc., Anthem United, Cameron Development Corporation, Allard Developments Inc., and Sherrick/Delcon. We would also like to acknowledge other crucial parts of the team: engineering consultants such as Stantec, IBI Group, Select Engineering Consultants, Invistec Consulting Ltd., J R Paine & Associates Ltd., and CT & Associates Engineering Inc. We are also grateful for long-

“If I were to express to our clients one thought, it would be that we hope to be the most reliable and project success-oriented company in our area and that they can depend on us to look after the many details that sometimes go unnoticed.” With the outstanding reputation Raywalt has in and around Edmonton, it is clear that the company has not only met but exceeded this goal.

Cement • Aggregates • Concrete • Pipe

Congratulations on on 35 40 years, years, Raywalt Raywalt Construction Congratulations ConstructionCo. Co.Ltd.! Ltd.! Proud totowork youtoto build community. Proud work with with you build our our community.

www.lehighhansoncanada.com 5

RAYWALT CONSTRUCTION LTD. CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

Learn more at www.raywalt.ca online or on their Facebook page.

CONGRATULATIONS RAYWALT ON 40 YEARS IN BUSINESS from your friends at NAPCO Royal Pipe & Fittings

CONGRATULATIONS RAYWALT on 40 Years!

Connecting You to a Smarter Future.

p: 780-459-6611 e: info@standardgeneraledmonton.ca www.standardgeneraledmonton.ca

CONGRATULATIONS TO RAYWALT ON 40 YEARS OF SUCCESS.

LEADING THE TRENCHLESS INDUSTRY SINCE 1970

STANDARD GENERAL SERVING EDMONTON SINCE 1969

CONGRATULATIONS ON 40 YEARS OF SUCCESS Congratulations RAYWALT on your 40th Anniversary

21521 112 AVE EDMONTON, AB P: 780-486-4050 | F: 780-488-7984

WITTEN LLP | 2500 Canadian WesternBank Place 10303 Jasper Avenue Edmonton, AB T5J 3N6 Phone: 780-428-0501 | Fax: 780-429-2559 | www.wittenlaw.com

WWW.NEPTUNECORING.CA 6

CHECK OUT THE BENEFITS OF ENGAGING IN EDMONTON’S ARTS AND CULTURE SCENE // ARTS & CULTURE

CHECK OUT THE BENEFITS OF ENGAGING IN EDMONTON’S ARTS AND CULTURE SCENE Enrichment, education and awareness are just a few of the gains BY JAMELIE BACHAALANI

ith over 70 festivals, dozens of art galleries, yearround live theatre, and a never ending lineup of emerging artists and musicians, Edmonton’s art and cultural scene isn’t just thriving — it’s booming. From grassroots organizations to newly renovated landmarks, you don’t have to look very hard to find a plethora of exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the city. For instance, did you know that downtown Edmonton is home to the largest museum in western Canada? Last October the Royal Alberta Museum (RAM) re-opened their doors after moving to a new 419,000 square foot facility, and the response from the city has been very positive. “In 2014 and 2015, the Royal Alberta Museum welcomed 154,000 visitors annually. Since re-opening, over 244,000 people have visited the new space,” says Shelley Grollmuss, vice president of industry development at Travel Alberta. Throughout the museum’s expansive permanent galleries, which feature engaging exhibitions complemented by internationally touring features, over 2.4 million stories are waiting to be heard, including the largest touring collection of Viking material in the world. The Vikings: Beyond the Legend is a joint venture between and produced by the National Museum of Denmark and MuseumsPartner in Austria, and the first international exhibition to be showcased at the RAM. With over 650 objects dating from the 9th to 10th century, including unique artifacts like “Thor’s hammer,” Edmontonians and visitors can spend hours learning about the evolution of

Vikings as skilled artisans, farmers, traders, and explorers and how they changed the course of history. Guests also have the opportunity to learn about Viking culture, society, and technology through striking multimedia and 11 immersive and interactive displays. You can test your ability to maintain the rowing cadence of a Viking ship with an augmented reality experience, handle a precise replica of a Viking age sword, learn about the rune alphabet, and more before the exhibit closes on October 20, 2019. Grollmuss says historical sites and cultural landmarks like the Royal Alberta Museum have a huge cultural and financial impact on both Edmonton’s urban and rural communities. “Attractions and events definitely improve Alberta’s reputation as a fabulous place to visit, but they also provide community members and visitors with a better quality of life.”

ABOVE: SHELLEY GROLLMUSS, VICE PRESIDENT OF INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT AT TRAVEL ALBERTA. BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

CHECK OUT THE BENEFITS OF ENGAGING IN EDMONTON’S ARTS AND CULTURE SCENE // ARTS & CULTURE

A study by the Department of Canadian Heritage confirmed that there is indeed a correlation among social, physical, mental, and economic wellbeing and arts and culture. The benefits include improved economic performance; enhanced opportunities for creativity and innovation; enriched quality of life, health and well-being; urban revitalization; greater community cohesion and civic participation; a deeper appreciation for diversity; improved community safety and social behaviour in youth at risk; opportunities for cognitive growth, learning and skills development; and more reflective and engaged citizens. Another cultural landmark residing in the city is the Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA), which also underwent major renovations from 2007 to 2010. The 85,000 square foot gallery, designed by Randall Stout, is a world-class centre for regional, national, and international art and education. With over three floors of exhibition space, a 150-seat theatre, an award winning restaurant, and the Singhmar Centre for Art Education, it’s no surprise that the gallery is visited by over 100,000 people every year. In 2018, the AGA welcomed 128,616 visitors, which is an increase of more than 16,000 people from 2017’s total. ABOVE: RENDERINGS SUPPLIED BY FORT EDMONTON PARK MANAGEMENT. ARTIST RENDITION ONLY.

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

CHECK OUT THE BENEFITS OF ENGAGING IN EDMONTON’S ARTS AND CULTURE SCENE // ARTS & CULTURE

AS PART OF THE AGA’S WORK TO INCREASE ATTENDANCE AND Through the support of the City of Edmonton, the AGA offers several access initiatives including free admission for minors, Alberta students, and an all access evening with free admission for all every Thursday evening. “We also host several free admission community days such as National Indigenous People’s Day, Canada Day, and Family Day,” explains Melanie Houley, head of marketing, communications, and development. “This enables us to provide an accessible space for all visitors to engage with the AGA, and be enriched by and support local, national, and international artists.” As part of the AGA’s work to increase attendance and accessibility, the gallery adjusted their membership categories on June 1 of this year to better reflect guests’ needs, desired experiences, and to better align with market pricing. Nestled on 64 hectares of wooded parkland along Edmonton’s River Valley is one of the largest living history museums in Canada. Fort Edmonton Park, which sits on Treaty 6 territory, is currently in the midst of a $165 million enhancement project, which includes a new entry and admissions area complete with gender-neutral washrooms, a cafe, and gift shop. Other parts of the project include an expansion of the midway with a larger Ferris wheel, more games, a maze, and an event tent for weddings and birthdays. Plus, there’s a hotel expansion, a new steam train maintenance facility, and a complete replacement and upgrade to underground utilities. Perhaps the crown jewel of the project though is the new Indigenous Peoples Experience. Fort Edmonton Park Management is also working closely with its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) partners, the Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations and Métis Nation of Alberta, along with many additional Indigenous communities to create the Indigenous Peoples Experience — a signature exhibit focused on the cultural heritage of First Nations and Métis peoples in and around Edmonton.

ACCESSIBILITY, THE GALLERY ADJUSTED THEIR MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES ON JUNE 1 OF THIS YEAR TO BETTER REFLECT GUESTS’ NEEDS, DESIRED EXPERIENCES, AND TO BETTER ALIGN WITH MARKET PRICING. “The exhibit will host different Indigenous narratives that tell the story of Edmonton before colonization. We all have a lot to learn from these narratives, which will include the history of Métis scrip, residential schools, and the Indian Act,” Doris Gladue, managing director of Indigenous relations, explains. The new Indigenous Peoples Experience is about affirming and recognizing the diversity of these narratives in the most authentic and respectful way, which honours Indigenous ways of knowing and being.” Not only is the Indigenous Peoples Experience a critical component in Alberta’s journey of reconciliation, Grollmuss says that more and more people are interested in engaging with this part of Edmonton’s history. “At least one in three travellers are interested in learning about Indigenous cultures and participating in authentic cultural events. This is now a $166 million industry with over 125 Indigenous-owned businesses.” Both Edmontonians and visitors can explore all of the new developments at Fort Edmonton Park by May 2021. There is no shortage of ways to feel enriched in Edmonton thanks to world-class arts and culture facilities and initiatives. Engage in the attractions that tourists travel from all over the world to see. We are very fortunate to have this level of an arts and culture scene right in our own backyard.

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

PUTTING THE SKILL INTO SKILLED LABOUR // TRAINING & EDUCATION

PUTTING THE

SKILL INTO SKILLED LABOUR BY LAURA BOHNERT

ith the effort that is being put into creating Alberta’s diverse and rich economy, it’s no wonder that the definition of skilled labour is becoming a lot more complicated. As Neil Fassina PhD CPHR ICD.D, president, Athabasca University (AU), describes, “Today’s businesses are diverse, innovative, and complex. They are looking for modern talent that can effectively apply both technical and nontechnical knowledge in today’s marketplace, while seamlessly adapting and upgrading their skills to proactively respond to the continuous disruption characteristic of our globally connected and complex economy. These renaissance

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

employees effectively bridge practical job skills with those characteristics that make us human, such as critical thinking, communication, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness.” If that description sounds a little too ideal to be obtainable, don’t worry. There is one key strategy that can help chisel together the diversity of that skillset: knowledge. “Knowledge is a core tool in any career toolbox,” Fassina emphasizes. “Given the global shift towards knowledgebased economies, this statement cannot be over emphasized. Education enables learners to systematically develop, strengthen, adapt, and apply their knowledge in today’s marketplace as well as the marketplaces of the future. In

PUTTING THE SKILL INTO SKILLED LABOUR // TRAINING & EDUCATION

many cases, an individual’s knowledge is recognized through a formal certificate, diploma, or degree. These credentials are heavily relied upon during recruitment and selection processes in today’s economy.” “Beyond the knowledge gained by completing a credential, education opportunities like those at Athabasca University (you can learn more about these by visiting www.athabascau. ca) also enable learners to develop highly marketable skills that are developed through the education process,” Fassina continues. “For AU learners who balance university studies with full-time work, family life, and community engagement, they develop incredibly strong time management skills, self discipline, and resiliency. These transferable skills can be applied to numerous roles. “In many ways, this is why we are incredibly excited about the role we play at Athabasca University. Learners can achieve their personal learning goals, whether technical or otherwise, without having to sacrifice living their lives or step away from the economy. With educational pathways that enable learners to choose what works best for them, Athabasca University’s flexible and open education options help to remove barriers for access to and success in obtaining a university-level education – often complementing their technical skills or enabling them to attain them.” Stephanie Culleton, education and program coordinator, Careers In Transition, agrees that the complexity of the workplace market has shifted the needs of those who are looking to find a way in. “With an unemployment rate of 6.7 per cent and an increased proportion of applicants coming from the oil and gas industry, we have seen a change in demographics, and that has necessitated us to change the way our program operates. Our clients are now more likely to have been previously employed in very lucrative jobs. They typically were hired without a high school diploma, and now are not employable because they do not have their basic education, making it impossible to be hired in an entry level position. As many have not been in an education setting for a prolonged period of time, additional supports are required for their success.” Culleton continues, “We feel that it is important that such potential employees have strong critical thinking and

“KNOWLEDGE IS A CORE TOOL IN ANY CAREER TOOLBOX,” FASSINA EMPHASIZES. “GIVEN THE GLOBAL SHIFT TOWARDS KNOWLEDGE-BASED ECONOMIES, THIS STATEMENT CANNOT BE OVER EMPHASIZED.” problem-solving skills, as well as the education (through the GED) to support their success in the workplace, [which is why] we focus on helping our students be independent learners; to solve problems effectively and independently. “Education provides individuals with employment and further education options that were not available to them previously. It also provides capacity to achieve selfsufficiency. This ultimately enables individuals to make forward-facing decisions, not fear-based decisions.” However, while education provides a key to accessing the necessary skills for the job market, Culleton stresses, “It is very important that job-seekers do their research into the programs and careers that they are pursuing. Questioning which program will best meet their needs through the shortest and most effective route available will arm them with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful and

ABOVE: NEIL FASSINA, PHD CPHR ICD.D, PRESIDENT, ATHABASCA UNIVERSITY

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

PUTTING THE SKILL INTO SKILLED LABOUR // TRAINING & EDUCATION

will provide the skill training required for them to achieve employment. Student funding for a low-income individual is capped, so it is important that the funding is utilized effectively and not misused, leaving the student with no way to complete their program due to exhaustion of their funding.” Dart Wooden, program manager of the self-employment program at the Anderson Career Training Institute (ACTI), agrees that the complexity of Edmonton’s economy has led to a shift in both the desired skills of employees and the needs of those job-seekers who are seeking employment, but he sees an alternative opportunity built into that complexity. “We offer a self-employment program,” he explains. “We have been seeing a lot of professionals with unique bodies of knowledge and experience, and who, because of changes in the marketplace, have been unable to find an employer who can offer enough work or who can pay what that employee is worth.”

INSTEAD OF REWORKING THOSE SKILLS TO MATCH THE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES OUT THERE, WOODEN SUGGESTS LEARNING

Wooden refers to this as “the aftermath of employment,” adding that a lot of the people who come to ACTI “were recently laid off and had trouble finding new employment because their skillset is too high. Employers can’t afford to pay them the true value of their skills anymore. Right now, especially, employers are looking for employees who can bring more value to the business than it costs to pay them.”

HOW TO MARKET THE SKILLS AND

Instead of reworking those skills to match the employment opportunities out there, Wooden suggests learning how to market the skills and experience the job-seeker already has into the start of their own consultancy.

explains. “It’s really always about showcasing the knowledge and experiences people have and learning how to shape that into a business opportunity.”

The self-employment program is offered free of cost, funded by the Alberta government in an effort to get Albertans back to work, and as Wooden suggests, it’s because of Edmonton’s current economic complexity that the self-employment route is such an important option. “Now, more than ever, employees need to take ownership of how they are going to make it in the world, and self-employment is the path for many people to get there.” While its necessity may be increasing, one thing has remained consistent for the 22 years ACTI has offered the self-employment program. “The heart of the program has always been personal development,” Wooden

EXPERIENCE THE JOB-SEEKER ALREADY HAS INTO THE START OF THEIR OWN CONSULTANCY.

“Self-employment training really offers people two things,” Wooden summarizes. “The first is the sense of community and belonging individuals can gain working with 12-18 fellow entrepreneurs who are all on the same journey. It’s an important thing for them to realize they are not alone. Second is the knowledge they can gain from the almost 400 combined years of entrepreneurial experience of the classroom instructors. And of course,” Wooden concludes, “the main focus is on helping these individuals create jobs for themselves.” The job market has changed and job seekers are changing along with it with help from the resources that enable them to make a smoother transition into a new and exciting career.

ABOVE: DART WOODEN, PROGRAM MANAGER OF SELF-EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM AT ANDERSON CAREER TRAINING INSTITUTE.

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

2019 Board of Directors

Alberta’s Place in Confederation

Board Executive

Chair: Dawn Harsch President & CEO, ExquisiCare Senior Living and Care at Home Vice Chair: Bryan DeNeve Senior Vice President Finance & CFO, Capital Power Secretary-Treasurer: Craig Thorkelsson Head of Tax, PCL Constructors Inc.

Board Directors

Dr. Glenn Feltham President & CEO, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology Sandy Jacobson Vice President, Richardson Executive Search Elan MacDonald Senior Vice President, National Client Development, Global Public Affairs Scott McEachern Vice President, Pipeline Control, Enbridge Pipelines Inc. Dennis Schmidt Legal Counsel and Associate Development Manager, Alldritt Land Corporation LP Annemarie Petrov President & CEO, Francis Winspear Centre for Music Jeffrey Sundquist Chief Executive Officer, EDC Environmental Group of Companies Inc. Dr. Jenelle Trenchuk-Saik President & CEO, Parker Ford and MacKay Specialty Opticians

Edmonton Chamber Executive Janet M. Riopel President & CEO

Dave Warren Chief Operating Officer Scott Channon Director, Marketing and Communications Amin Samji Acting Director, Member Services Brent Francis Director, Advocacy and Outreach Christen Rumbles Director, Finance

Contact

Edmonton Chamber of Commerce #600 – 9990 Jasper Avenue Edmonton, AB T5J 1P7 T: 780.426.4620 780.424.7946

By Janet M. Riopel, President & CEO

lberta’s 18th Premier, the Hon. Jason Kenney, was elected with a strong mandate to defend Alberta’s interests within Canada. This win came on the heels of many headlines advising us that support for Alberta separatism is on the rise. Many Albertans are rightly concerned about our place in confederation. It’s no surprise that Alberta is feeling isolated and alienated by the rest of Canada. B.C. has put up a slew of unconstitutional barriers against pipelines that would carry Alberta oil and refined products to the west coast for shipment to new markets. These barriers were so damaging that the federal government had to buy the Trans Mountain pipeline from Kinder Morgan just to keep the project alive. We see similar challenges looking to the east - Quebec’s Premier said that there is no “social acceptability” for new oil pipelines, labelling Alberta oil as “dirty” energy. Despite buying the Trans Mountain pipeline, the federal government has put further roadblocks in the path of developing Alberta’s energy resources. Bill C-48, which bans oil tankers along B.C.’s northern coast, was passed in June alongside Bill C-69, which reforms how energy projects are regulated by the federal government. According to industry experts, Bill C-69 will make it harder for projects to gain federal approval, with some critics calling it the “no more pipelines bill”. With so many threats to our economy, Albertans are rightly concerned about their role in Canadian confederation. In a June 2019 report, the Senate Transport and Communications Standing Committee expressed concerns about the signal Bill C-48 sends to prairie Canadians: “By landlocking prairie oil, both symbolically and practically, Bill C-48 tells these provinces that they have a lesser place in Confederation, that it is not an equal partner within Canada.” This is especially problematic when you consider that Alberta is the largest net contributor to the federal equalization program. While equalization is poorly understood, and the reason for Alberta’s large contribution is in part due to having the largest average incomes in Canada, it’s hard not to feel like Alberta is not being appreciated for giving so much to the rest of the country. Especially when the Fiscal Stabilization Fund, which provides funding to provinces when their budget revenues drop quickly, did little to help our provincial government make ends meet. Even though our revenues dropped by $8.8 billion in 2015, the fiscal stabilization fund paid less than $250 million to cover the shortfall. Imagine your house flooded, and the insurance company only covered 2.8% of the total cleanup and repair costs. That’s basically what happened to Alberta in 2015. With all the factors at play, it’s no wonder sentiments of Alberta alienation have been on the rise. We surveyed Edmonton Chamber members in April to see if they shared these concerns, and the results were truly staggering. 80% of our members felt equalization was unfair to Alberta, and 87% believe Alberta should Continued on next page... BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

demand changes to equalization. 81 per cent said Alberta is treated unfairly by the federal government, and 86 per cent said Canadians outside of Alberta are not sympathetic to our economic struggles. While some might hope that a change in government could reverse this trend of Alberta alienation, our members are not convinced. 75% agreed that the needs of other provinces will be put before Alberta’s needs, regardless of who forms government. Only 13% said they thought the federal government is taking the right steps to help Alberta’s economy. In terms of how best to defend Alberta’s interests, 33% preferred a diplomatic approach while 65% wanted Alberta to “get tough.” This overwhelming response shows how large the divide is between Alberta and Ottawa, and reflects an economic and regional gulf that continues to grow. Canada’s federal system has always defined the relationship between the provinces and the federal government. We’ve always had conflict and disagreement, although the issues might change. But Albertans have the strong feeling that politicians in other provinces and in Ottawa don’t care about our industry, our economy or our essential services. Chambers are not going to wait around for Ottawa to fix this mess. We are working as

part of the Canadian Global Cities Council, a coalition of the eight largest urban regional Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade in Canada, to start a Canada-wide discussion of the importance of our natural resource economy. In last month’s edition of Business in Edmonton I told you that we have launched the Canadians for Natural Resources initiative and have delivered an open letter to all Canadians asking them to join the conversation. You can see Canadians from across the country reading this letter at www.ournaturalresources.ca. It’s time for Canadians to have honest conversations about our energy future. We need to plan together to meet our own energy needs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions through innovation, and supply growing global markets. Doing so benefits all Canadians, and we’re working hard to make sure all provincial and federal governments know that. Perhaps if they can understand the importance of the natural resource economy they can understand the importance of Alberta in a strong, united Canada. We would like to hear from you! Do you have concerns or thoughts about Alberta’s place in the Canadian Confederation, or the future of our energy industry? You can contact us by email: policy@edmontonchamber.com

Members in this Issue Travel Alberta and Fort Edmonton Park in Check Out the Benefits of Engaging in Edmonton’s Arts and Culture Scene on page 39 Athabasca University, Careers in Transition and Anderson Career Training Institute in Putting the Skill into Skilled Labor on page 42

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

Aloisio Cosmetics Member Profile Robert (Bob) Aloisio, President www.aloisiocosmetics.ca What’s your story? Our President, Bob Aloisio, is a distinguished entrepreneur who has achieved success at many levels, in various demographics of business. His experience ranges from start up, e-commerce, manufacturing, channel management as well as strategic planning for expedited growth. A former expert for the House of Commons, Bob has vast experience working with larger corporations as well as Local and Federal Governments. Upon completion of his former business, Bob decided to come back to his grassroots in Edmonton, Alberta to spend more time with his son. Their relationship flourished as business was put to the back burner while father and son spent quality time together. “I needed to start a new business that I could manage and be close to home, I wanted the best of both worlds,” stated Mr. Aloisio. It was at that time the concept for Aloisio Cosmetics was conceived. “A good friend of mine knew I was looking to get into something different and was kind enough to introduce me to some natural, AntiAging cosmetics she had been working on and bells went off, this could be the product to fuel Aloisio Cosmetics. We dove into the regulations and looked at the steps to take a product to market like this and I was hooked,” Bob recalled. Three months later, Aloisio Cosmetics was born and proudly launched their first product, Aloisio Anti-Aging serum. Although there were many hurdles working with regulations, Aloisio Cosmetics managed to register with Health Canada and offer a professional product. The serum produced amazing results, however it required refrigeration which was a barrier to market. Looking at the future, Bob decided to take the next steps and manufacture a new product which would not require refrigeration and included more ingredients to help fuel results.

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

Robert (Bob) Aloisio, President, Aloisio Cosmetics

As Mr. Aloisio had extensive experience composing and writing grant proposals, he started looking to see if there was any possible funding available to make his vision a reality. Sure enough, a Products to Market grant was available from the Canadian Agricultural Partnership. As the new vision of the product would be derived from natural, agricultural ingredients he decided to pursue the grant and sent in a very detailed, well explained application. The application was accepted and he now had the funding required to develop his vision, Aloisio Cosmetics Age Definer™. The quest for strategic partners began and it was very important to Bob to support the city he grew up in and called home. “As I travelled the country side with my previous businesses, Edmonton was always known as an oil and gas city. I wanted to show the rest of the country that the City of Champions offers so much more, so the business objective was to try and achieve everything using local ingredients and partners in the Edmonton area.” Bob went aggressively about the business objective and was able to utilize his skills and processes he had learned with his past ventures. “We pulled an incredible team together that are all based in Edmonton,” stated Bob. His major partnership came when he found a professional cosmetics formulator that also called Edmonton home. He was also able to work with Bio Industrial Opportunity Section which is a division of Alberta Government/Agriculture. From there, all major players were selected including marketing, social media, translation services, packaging and manufacturing as they were based in

Memberships that grow your business.

Edmonton. The project was a complete success and the new version of the serum, Age Definer™, was born and ready for market. Aloisio Cosmetics spring boarded into 2019 and launched their new company image and marketing tangibles! Business flourished yet again as Bob was featured on CTV morning live news, the company just keeps picking up steam. Due to release new products such as Age Definer™ cream and toner in 2019, Aloisio Cosmetics is also working with Edmonton Economic Development (EEDC) to assist in exporting these exciting products to global markets.

are amazed that we are able to produce a world class product right here in the City of Edmonton. What has been your biggest challenge in business, and how did you overcome it? The cosmetics industry in general is one of the most competitive businesses that there is. It was very complex trying to figure out how to manufacture a world class product on a limited budget using only Edmonton resources, however it turned out to be our biggest strength as the Edmonton team absolutely exceeded expectations.

It’s what we do.

The goal is to diversify the economic landscape of Edmonton, hoping that others can continue travelling the road that has been paved. Edmonton can and will produce world class cosmetics that are worthy of attention not just nationally, but on the Global stage as well.

What is your favourite thing to do in Edmonton? I love Edmonton sports. Love to watch the Oilers, Eskimos and support organizations such as Prospects baseball and Edmonton FC. My family is very active with Edmonton sports. Also, love the River valley in the summer, a great place to walk and spend the day.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the If you could make one substantial improvement to Edmonton Chamber of Commerce? As meeting a member of Chamber one of the largestand chambers you have Edmonton’s business environment, what would it be? I enjoy other members learningin Canada, More small business support such as seminars, about their expertise experiences. The events are policy access to a wideand range of contacts, resources, representation, networking groups with experts and access to free fantastic andnetworking a great way opportunities, to network. I can’t say enough events, discounts, and brand exposure services. It is extremely difficult getting a small about Amin, Nicole and Erin who have supported me that will help grow your business. business off the ground and resources are valuable to while my company grows. companies. Something that can showcase small Call us today at 780.426.4620 and start leveraging small your membership. business, such as a specific social media account/ What is one thing people are surprised to learn about platform or other free advertising would help small your business? business and entrepreneurs. That we manufacture our products to Healthedmontonchamber.com Canada standards and many times exceed regulations. People

LUNCHES WITH LEADERS SPEAKER SERIES. Presented by:

Innovation in Health Supported by:

Josh Blair - September 10, 2019 Get your tickets at edmontonchamber.com BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

Connecting you to the right people. It’s what we do.

Our members not only have access to a massive directory of contacts and discounts, but they’re also connected to a variety of networking and educational opportunities, and part of a strong collective voice to government. It’s the perks of being part of one of the largest chambers in Canada. Call us today at 780.426.4620 and become a member.

edmontonchamber.com AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

Sandler Training Member Profile Chad Banman, President ayon.sandler.com Whatâ€™s your story? I had recently been hired as a branch manager at a local manufacturer when I was told that I was going to go with my team to Sandler Training. We took the training and applied it to our sales process and managed to double our sales and increase our profit margins by 25 per cent in a period of a few years. It was a resounding success and when the opportunity came to purchase the Sandler Training Franchise I jumped at the opportunity. That was nine years ago and since then we have been able to train thousands of sales people in the Edmonton region and help our clients achieve significant growth. Sandler Training has a global reach and works with sales and customer service teams around the world. Sandler Training has repeatedly been recognized as one of the top 20 sales training organizations in the world. What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce? The Edmonton Chamber is a great organization that does a great job of advocating for business. The businesses involved in the chamber are typically growth minded and are looking to make a difference in their market. What is one thing people are surprised to learn about your business? While the word training is in our name we do much more than that. We help our clients get the right staff into place by providing them various assessment tools, and we work with our clients to build structure and repeatability into their sales process. Who is your ideal client? Our ideal client is a business in the Edmonton region who wants to grow and is open to change. They have a good sales team but they want to be great. The leaders are passionate about their mission and values and are open to bringing in an outside organization like us to help create a sales driven organization that out performs the market.

Chad Banman, President, Sandler Training

What has been your biggest challenge in business, and how did you overcome it? There is not one big challenge that stands out over others. The challenge we face is the need to consistently fill our sales funnel especially in down times. There is no silver bullet, it is just keeping the right behaviours every day and trusting that the results will follow. What is your favourite thing to do in Edmonton? We have a race team that races out at the Edmonton International Raceway during the summer. We have a great time going out and competing against other racers.

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

We’ve got room for you and up to 119 guests. It’s what we do.

Situated in the heart of downtown Edmonton, the World Trade Centre offers comfortable and convenient meeting rooms, conference spaces and temporary offices, in a beautiful historical building. Whether it’s a small or large board meeting, a presentation or luncheon, or a temporary workspace, we’ve got you covered. Book today at 780.426.4620 or booking@edmontonchamber.com

edmontonchamber.com AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

KIMBERLEY HOMES CELEBRATING 30 YEARS

PROVIDING HOMEBUILDING EXPERIENCES THAT ARE SECOND-TO-NONE By Nerissa McNaughton

hen homebuyers are looking to build their dream home and see the outstanding craftsmanship, efficient execution, and high quality details that go into a Kimberley home, they sigh and think â€œsomeday.â€? Then, they are elated to learn that they can afford a Kimberley home, since this builder works with every client and their specific needs, providing the same quality and experience for any home, any price point and anywhere they want to build.

The strength and success of Kimberley is evident in strong (organic/non-solicited) reviews from clients, and seven Builder of the Year awards from the Canadian Homebuilders Association, among many other recognitions. Steve Ruggiero knows all too well the pull of this dynamic company. He joined in 2002 and soon discovered a passion for the company, the products, the process and the journey of the Kimberley homebuyer. Today he is the president and CEO.

KIMBERLEY HOMES ~ 30 years 53

SEVEN-TIME BUILDER OF THE YEAR PHOTOGRAPHY BY MERLE PROSOFSKY

“We exist to serve our clients,” Ruggiero says with pride. “We build in some of the most sought after new communities in Edmonton, Sherwood Park and St. Albert as well as infills in mature neighbourhoods and acreages in the surrounding counties. Our greatest successes come when we find our clients first and then cater a build for them, providing a caring, personalized experience based on their needs.” It all started when Dave and Donna Jewett founded Kimberley Homes in 1989. From the beginning Kimberley Homes was on the leading edge of the industry, choosing

Bank Trust Wealth Management

Congratulations to Kimberley Home Builders Group on 30 successful years in business. Your contribution towards building our community exemplifies what makes Edmonton a great place to live, work and play. We are obsessed with your success and can’t wait to help you reach even loftier heights in the years to come.

to start, not follow, industry trends. By 2003 the company was an early adopter of digitization and cloud based construction management. After nearly two decades in business, Kimberley Homes had established an impenetrable reputation and set the bar extremely high when it came to providing a custom homebuilding experience for clients. The company recognized a growing need for low maintenance living and their clients’ desire to have the same quality and experience delivered in smaller homes. This spurred the launch of Kimberley Communities in 2008, Kimberley’s multifamily product that set a new standard for duplexes and townhomes throughout Edmonton, with multiple awardwinning homes and projects. In 2009 Kimberley Homes won its first of seven Home Builder of the Year awards, and during that same year Ruggiero was named by Avenue Magazine as a Top 40 under 40 winner. The next year he became the company’s president. Under Ruggiero’s leadership, Kimberley Homes was twice named a regional finalist in Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies and given the Platinum Award of Distinction in 2011, awarded by the Alberta New Home Warranty Program. In 2013 Ruggiero was named as one of the 20 business Leaders for that year in Edmonton.

CONGRATULATIONS

KIMBERLEY HOME BUILDERS GROUP FOR CELEBRATING 30 YEARS

Edmonton Real Estate Group 12230 Jasper Avenue t. 780.421.5596

A CWB Financial Group company

cwbank.com

2800 Scotia Place, 10060 Jasper Ave Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 3V9

KIMBERLEY HOMES ~ 30 years

Phone: 780.428.6036 www.dcllp.com

During it all, Kimberley Homes remained intent on being engaged socially in the community and launched the Kimberley Golf Classic in 2015, in support of the University Hospital Foundation. The company has also contributed nine grand prize homes to the Alberta Cancer Foundation’s Cash and Cars Lottery. “It simply comes down to this,” Ruggiero stresses adamantly, “we live our core values and mission statement every day to deliver a second-to-none experience of designing and building your home. We strive to make it easy from conception to completion. We focus on building relationships, and we take pride in being known as one of the highest quality home builders in the region. We have a reputation for living and breathing excellence for our clients.”

While Ruggiero is quick to admit that Kimberley Homes, like every other business, has its fair share of challenges, he chooses to always look to the positives, and genuinely enjoys going to work each day to overcome roadblocks and celebrate victories as a team. “What I love is pulling everyone together to work for a common goal,” he smiles. “We have incredible team alignment; everyone knows what needs to be done to best serve our clients. It’s such an incredible thing that we get to start with a piece of land and grow it into the most important investment, both financially and emotionally, in someone’s life – their home. It’s so humbling to be that client’s choice. It’s quite a responsibility, and we all take that responsibility very seriously.”

Proud Business Supporter of

KIMBERLEY HOMES

Congratulations on 30 years in business!

Sorrell Financial designs custom financial strategies for Canada’s leading business owners, entrepreneurs, and families.

www.sorrell.ca

Edmonton

KIMBERLEY HOMES ~ 30 years

Toronto

Vancouver

When you see a Kimberley Home, learn about the brand’s many awards, witness the passion and drive of the team, or participate in one their non-profit fundraising events, you may get the impression that it’s a large corporation with sprawling headquarters and hundreds of staff. It’s not. A FAMILY BUILT COMPANY THAT CARES! CELEBRATING 40 YEARS

INSULATION | DRYWALL | TAPE | TEXTURE CALL 780-451-0848

Kimberley Homes is proud to be a family business run on family values, and a team of 31. “We are fortunate to have a very strong brand, at times there can be a misconception that we are bigger than what we actually are,” states Ruggiero. The secret to this success, he divulges, is to listen intently to what their clients want.

CONGRATULATIONS ON 30 YEARS KIMBERLEY HOME BUILDERS GROUP

“New home buyers want to build what they want, where they want, and they need to be serviced by someone who will listen and take a genuine interest in their needs,” Ruggiero points out. “For us, trends are not based on the type of flooring or colour of the moment. We prefer a trend of aligning our company to listen to our clients and make the building process easy for them. To do that better than anyone else is our business.” “How do you service people before they realize they are being serviced?” he continues. “You must give your clients the experience they deserve before they even realize what they need. Staying ahead and being the best at this is our greatest challenge.

we are

ALL

Regression is not an option for a company that has enjoyed steady growth and diversification for 30 years. Kimberley Homes intends to keep “making it easy” for clients to build what they want and to work with any budget now, and far into the future. “As a company we are very grateful to Dave and Donna Jewett, Kimberley’s founders, for creating the values that have been instrumental to the growth and development of the company and our team,” Ruggiero concludes. “I am personally thankful for our staff’s ongoing and relentless commitment in giving customers an experience that is second-to-none, and we are extremely grateful to over 1,000+ individuals and families that have chosen Kimberley to build their dream home over the past 30 years.” Learn more about this energetic and agile company at buildwithkimberley.ca online, @buildwithkimberley on Facebook, @kimberleyhomes on Instagram, buildwithkimberley on Pinterest, and Kimberley Homes on YouTube.

All quality. All innovative. All style. We are more than just All Weather Windows. We are all. Scan the code and discover all that we are.

Congratulations Kimberley Homes Group on 30 years of success! allweatherwindows.com

780-900-2766 www.buildwithkimberley.ca

KIMBERLEY HOMES ~ 30 years

Shining the Spotlight on LED Lights Canada HERE’S I HOW t started with a chocolate chip cookie.

THIS LOCAL COMPANY IS LIGHTING UP THE CITY By Nerissa McNaughton Photos by Rebecca Lippiatt

Harvey Hoffman’s business, HomeHandyGuy Inc. saw him renovating residential kitchens in Edmonton. While working on one client’s home, she expressed her frustration about a problem common to kitchens at the time – the heat of the under-cabinet light had melted the bag of chocolate chips in the cupboard so she couldn’t make the cookies she wanted. “This sent me on a search for a better light and I discovered a new world of LED lighting,” says Hoffman, president and founder of LED Lights Canada. Initially he launched as a web business only selling under-cabinet kitchen lights and drivers, but the company is now a thriving full service wholesale and retail LED lighting supplier with a showroom and warehouse on the south side of Edmonton. LED Lights Canada || 15

Harvey Hoffman, president and founder of LED Lights Canada with Sarah Ouwendyk, operations manager and Johanna Calotes, sales.

As a kitchen renovator he relied on his electrician to help source parts and after expressing an interest in finding LED lights, he was pleased when his electrician showed up with some great products. He thought nothing of it until he needed more – and discovered the products came from the trunk of a guy’s car! Now, don’t panic. These were legitimate purchases all around. The problem was, back in the early 2000s, LED lights were not popular in North America. A few very forward-thinking entrepreneurs were interested, including the young man that imported them and drove around selling them from his trunk. At first Harvey was startled to hear about the seemingly clandestine purchases, but later had to laugh as he started selling the products as well – from the bay of a storage facility! The truth was, these guys were ahead of their time. LED lights made the leap from obscurity to wild popularity within a few short years, but it was guys like “John the electrician” and Hoffman that were early to recognize the technology’s potential in Edmonton. In 2008 Hoffman wrapped HomeHandyGuy up so he could focus on LED Lights Canada. He spent two years operating from that storage unit, then moved three times between 2010 and 2018 to accommodate the company’s rapid growth. Today you’ll find him at 4404 97 Street NW with an impressive product list that includes a full range of LED lights and accessories. LED Lights Canada || 15 || 2

That’s not all you’ll get at LED Lights Canada. “Our goal is to work hard and be nice,” describes Hoffman of the workplace culture he and operations manager Sarah Ouwendyk embody along with their team. “Dealing with a constantly changing new technology gives us the opportunity to seek out new products and share the knowledge with our customers. We want to offer more than just a good price. Service and custom-designed lighting is what we are all about. We also offer many products (not seen on our website) for the commercial market and are designing kitchen lights in custom sizes to provide perfect solutions for homeowners.” Hoffman and Ouwendyk are adamant about educating the public about LED lighting, especially since many lights available for direct purchase on giant online retail sites do not always meet Canadian safety standards. “Education is everything,” Hoffman emphasizes. “There is so much misleading information out there about what LED lights can and cannot do. We strive to inform in an accurate way that makes sense to everyone. We want to be thought of as the place to go for LED solutions. If we don’t have what you need, we will help you find it, first from a local competitor and then online. We may not make that sale, but most people appreciate the help and seek us out for their next purchase.”

Still in its infancy, LiFi will enable strong and reliable internet signals in places where radio waves cannot be used. It is the next generation of wireless technology. It’s been a whirlwind since Hoffman observed a bag of melted chocolate chips and went on the hunt for a viable lighting solution. Thanks to his tenacity, he was one of the hardworking entrepreneurs to help bring the LED light market to Edmonton. Now, he and Ouwendyk continue to service a rapidly growing company that not only provides outstanding products and remains on the forefront of LED technology, they also ensure Edmontonians get the information they need for the safest, most reliable, and efficient lighting. Authorized Dealer for the Original Lotus Flat Panel Light.

LED lights are still evolving, and LED Lights Canada keeps pace with the rapid turnover in technology. Ouwendyk explains, “LED grow lights will most likely become the way much of our food is grown since vertical farming is very popular in other countries, and also now in Edmonton. Grow lights are used for much more than growing cannabis. Also, studies have been done using LED lights to combat jet lag; and, using LED lights, our current WiFi will become LiFi. This shift offers greater bandwidth to handle today’s changing online world.”

Congratulations LED Lights Canada!

Hoffman and Ouwendyk thank their customers and suppliers for their years of support. Hoffman further thanks his wife for her unwavering commitment in supporting him as an entrepreneur, and for her encouragement over the years. “Being low key, we don’t make a big deal about what we do,” Hoffman concludes with a smile. “Our recognition comes from the results our customers receive, for staying in business for 15 years, and continuing to grow the company.” Learn more at www.ledlightscanada.com online and @LedLightsCanada on Facebook and Instagram.

Lotus LED Lights CONGRATULATIONS LED Lights Canada

14019 128 Avenue NW Edmonton, Alberta T5L 3H3 Phone: (780) 454-8652 • gemcabinets.com gem cabinets: final identity

on 15 years of business excellence! www.lotusledlights.com

suggested color scheme

LED Lights Canada || 15 || 3

Thank you to all of our electrical contractors and builders for your continued support. We would not be here after 15 years without all of you. CONGRATS LED Lights Canada 10536 106th Street NW Edmonton, Alberta 780.441.4255 • www.urbisdevelopments.ca

Congratulations

CONGRATULATIONS LED Lights Canada! 15 Alpine Blvd, St. Albert, AB 780.265.5057 | www.mmielectrical.com

Congratulations LED Lights Canada!

LED Lights Canada on your 15th Anniversary!

13939 156 St NW, Edmonton, AB (780) 809-2929 | info@meselectrical.ca

meselectrical.ca

9691 45 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB • 780 809 2926 • tetraelectricalsolutions.ca

Congratulations

LED Lights Canada on 15 Years!

#124, 2257 Premier Way Sherwood Park, AB (780) 570-5300 | info@fourelementsinc.ca

www.fourelementsinc.ca

11646 – 145 Street Edmonton, AB (780) 218-5486 www.crewelectrical.ca

CONGRATS

LED Lights Canada on 15 Years! Clarmak Electrical Services

P.O Box 3916 Stn Main Leduc 780-504-2453 • service@clarmak.ca • clarmak.ca

CONGRATS LED Lights Canada

CONGRATULATIONS LED LIGHTS CANADA! CONGRATULATIONS LED Lights Canada on 15 years of business excellence! 5720 103A St NW, Edmonton, AB (780) 444-4404 | www.jbinc.org

11212 178 St NW Edmonton, AB (780) 487-9458 info@cmnelectrical.com www.cmnelectrical.com CONGRATULATIONS LED Lights Canada! LED Lights Canada || 15 || 4

CONGRATULATIONS LED Lights Canada

5405 76 Ave NW Edmonton, AB m: (780) 239-5613 www.livewiregroup.ca

CONGRATS

LED Lights Canada on 15 Years! 780.818.5723 | info@paxelectrical.ca

www.paxelectrical.ca

A LONG HISTORY AND AN EXCITING FUTURE The Workun Garrick Partnership Looks Back while Moving Ahead By Nerissa McNaughton

THE WORKUN GARRICK PARTNERSHIP â€¢ 65TH ANNIVERSARY

he Workun Garrick Partnership, Architecture and Interior Design Inc., an Edmonton-based firm providing service in architecture, programming and interior design, is celebrating 66 years.

“We have always been highly responsive to our clients’ needs,” says Macgregor, “and we have always strived to be leaders and innovators in building. Our many design awards speak to this.”

THE HISTORY

“We have loyal staff and loyal clients,” Hawryluk adds. “A lot of our clients over the years have become close personal friends.”

It was 1953 when John (Scotty) MacIntosh opened an architecture firm under his own name. He helmed the company alone until 1967 when he was joined by Morley Workun and George Chernenko. The trio celebrated a major milestone in 1990 when a merger with Garrick Sivertson Architects took place. Three years later MacIntosh, Sivertson and Cherneko retired, and the firm rebranded as Workun Garrick Architects and Associates, with Morley Workun and Paul Garrick as directors. Garrick and Workun retired in the early 2000s and the firm was renamed The Workun Garrick Partnership Architecture and Interior Design Inc. to celebrate its founders and history. Dave MacGregor and Robert Rabinovitch, who became directors in 1999 and 1997 respectively, fondly remember working with Morley Workun and Paul Garrick. With the addition of a new partner, Tristan Hawryluk, in 2018, the current generation of directors are continuing the legacy that began nearly 70 years ago.

THE PRESENT Responsive. Dedicated. Innovative. Loyal. Those are the words the partners use to describe the firm.

The commitment to clients means a partner is with each project from initial conception to the final completion. Even when the project takes years, the client has one point of contact – and that point is a partner. Additionally, the firm routinely connects with the same contractors, subtrades and consultants, bringing stability and familiarity to their clients’ projects. It is this customer focus that has seen Workun Garrick grow from a partnership of two to a thriving company with a staff of 25. Workun Garrick has a reputation – and it’s a good one. They are fondly known across Alberta as “the school builders.” Although the company has diversified and provides services in many sectors such as recreational, commercial, First Nations, sustainable facilities and housing, the 2,000+ school projects across the province have had an undeniable impact in the communities they serve, and on the builders too. “With our experience, we have a complete and thorough understanding of what it takes to build a school,” says MacGregor. “We know the issues that can crop up, from asbestos to structural implications. We also understand phasing while working on a building occupied by students.” Building a school is far more than putting up walls.

Congratulations to Workun Garrick on 65 years of business excellence!

Food Facilities Planning Specialists Suite 311 – 316 Windermere Blvd. Edmonton, AB T: (780) 414-6116 F: (780) 414-6117 www.burnstadconsulting.com

THE WORKUN GARRICK PARTNERSHIP • 65TH ANNIVERSARY • 2

“Workun Garrick is committed to the quality of the learning space,” Rabinovitch stresses. “It’s important to provide spaces that function now, and well into the future for the ever-changing school environment.” Hawryluk adds, “Schools are never one-size-fits-all. We listen to the client’s needs and come up with unique solutions for every project.”

THE WORKUN GARRICK PARTNERSHIP • 65TH ANNIVERSARY • 3

Since Workun Garrick builds in remote areas as well as urban centres, the partners know that the schools they build are often the lifeblood of the community. In rural regions the school is where weddings are held, town meetings take place, and the local sports team plays. It’s a social place, a place of learning, and a facility that keeps a community together. It is not uncommon for the graduation

rates to rise in areas where Workun Garrick builds a school, and the partners treasure the letters they receive from students after a successful project. However, schools are just part of the company’s massive portfolio. “We have been involved in sustainable development since the early 2000s and have several people on our staff that are experts in this field, says MacGregor. Examples can be seen in a diverse array of facilities, from the City of Edmonton’s Capilano Fire Hall No. 1 to the Bob Clark Public Library in Carstairs.

11432 Winterburn Road Edmonton, Alberta T5S 2Y3 | Phone: 780-452-2740 | Fax: 780-451-1355 estimating@binderconstruction.com | www.binderconstruction.com

CONGRATULATIONS WORKUN GARRICK ON 65 YEARS!

BOX 3209, 110 Yellowhead Rd Spruce Grove, AB T7X 3A5 Phone: 780-962-3515 Fax: 780-962-2952 E-mail: info@marshall-lee.ca

“First Nations make up a significant number of clients, with projects completed for 36 of the 45 First Nations in Alberta,” MacGregor continues. “We understand cultural differences with our clients, and we are willing to learn and respond to their individual needs.” Despite being 66 years old, the company has never stagnated. In a physical demonstration of this, the firm has recently moved after operating from the same location for 30 years.

Congratulations on 65 years of making our world a more beautiful place.

Committed to the Highest Standards in Construction Excellence GENERAL CONTRACTING CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT PROJECT MANAGEMENT

We’re proud of our partnership and our friendship with Workun Garrick.

Congratulations Workun Garrick on an impressive 65 years of continued success. MARSHALL-LEE CONSTRUCTION CORP.

mowbreygil.com THE WORKUN GARRICK PARTNERSHIP • 65TH ANNIVERSARY • 4

“The move was a sign of going forward, remaining strong and our commitment to the staff,” Rabinovitch explains. “It was such a significant moment signifying that we are not only moving forward with projects, we are moving forward as a strong and united team.”

ConGratulations to worKun GarriCK on your 65th anniversary! Krawford ConstruCtion has been proud to

partner with you on our many projeCts toGether, and we looK forward to many more!

Krawford ConstruCtion General ContraCtors

www.Krawford.Com

THE WORKUN GARRICK PARTNERSHIP • 65TH ANNIVERSARY • 5

Each partner counts every project and every moment of the journey as memorable, but there are a few moments that stand out. For Rabinovitch, it was the move. He had worked from the previous location for 25 years. He is also thrilled with the student feedback the firm receives, particularly from First Nations communities, when

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR 65TH ANNIVERSARY!

children tell him they are excited and proud to attend their classes. MacGregor also cherishes the letters from students, and the reminders that many places in Alberta remain traditional and remote. When working on a school for a First Nations community outside of Nordegg, 30 students came to the Workun Garrick office to learn more about the firm. As none of them had ridden an elevator before, the first hour of the meeting was spent riding the lift. It’s these kinds of moments that routinely make his day. For Hawryluk, it was sitting in a sports complex in Calgary that Workun Garrick helped build. As he witnessed the first old-timers game in the new space, he was struck by the joy and laughter in the stands, and was very proud to have a hand in bringing that joy to life.

Heres to many more years of partnership & continued success!

Congratulations on your 65th Year Workun Garrick! We wish you many more years of success.

There are plenty of smiles to be had as projects change communities and lives, but there are challenges too. “Fees are getting lower but the demand for services are rising,” admits MacGregor. “We are in a marketplace right now where everyone is driving costs down to compete. However, we have a very talented team and always push ourselves to do better on each project, despite market conditions.” “Technology is always changing too,” Hawryluk points out. “How we did our drawings just five years ago has changed.” Workun Garrick rises to meet every challenge, and this grit and determination enables them to compete successfully against firms four times their size.

-JO ENGINEERING INC. 18162 - 102 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5S 1S7 Tel: 780.486.4478 Fax: 780.483.0197 Email: joeeng@caisnet.com

“Sometimes size doesn’t matter!” the partners say cheekily, pointing out that the history, trustworthiness and reputation of Workun Garrick solidifies their place in the market.

PROLOGIC CONSTRUCTION LTD. 100-18134 105 Ave Edmonton, Alberta, T5S 2T4 780-406-3445 www.prologicconstruction.ca

CONGRATULATIONS WORKUN GARRICK ON 65 YEARS. • CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT • DESIGN BUILD • STIPULATED PRICE (LUMP SUM)

Another place the firm is pleased to be known is among the many non-profit organizations in Alberta. Workun Garrick is happy to support the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada and JDRF Edmonton, along with numerous local sports teams, Rotary Clubs, rodeos and tournaments in the communities in which they do business. The firm also supports the Edmonton Oil Kings, purchasing a block of seats each year and donating them to school boards so that underserved children can have fun at a game. Despite winning numerous awards and garnering many recognitions for their work, including several A4LE School Awards (formerly CEFPI), the partners say it is the collective input and creativity of their team and their clients that have helped earn those awards.

THE WORKUN GARRICK PARTNERSHIP • 65TH ANNIVERSARY • 6

“A win is like a pat on the back that reaffirms you are doing good work,” agrees Hawryluk. “It’s not the awards that drive us,” adds Rabinovitch, “but they are a huge bonus to us and to our clients.”

“There are so many great firms out there. When we win an award, it means we are doing something that exceeds expectations in customer experience and quality,” says MacGregor.

100-9620 266 Street Acheson, AB T7X 6H6 Phone: 780-963-6523 | Fax: 780-963-0264 jen-col.com

CONGRATULATIONS Workun Garrick on your 65th Anniversary!

t Schoo

Hillcres

1960’s ity Activ NAIT ntre Ce

1980’s

In the 1960’s, John McIntosh Architects, took a chance on a new company giving Vinto Engineering its ﬁrst ever design project. 6 decades, 976 projects and multiple name changes later, our two companies are still designing high quality Leg islat ive buildings together. MCW Hemisphere Ltd. congratulates The Gro und Workun Garrick Partnership on 65 years of architectural s excellence.

197

0’s

Composite St. Joseph zation HS Moderni

1990’s

ld Dona p Mac n o h is Archb dernizatio Mo

2000’s

Capilan

o Fire H

all

’s

2010

THE WORKUN GARRICK PARTNERSHIP • 65TH ANNIVERSARY • 7

New E

noch K 12 Schoo l

Toda y

The Workun Garrick Partnership expresses deep and heartfelt thanks to its staff. “Having 25 people here and competing with bigger companies means you must have a staff with incredible efficiency, dedication, talent and focus. We look at our staff as a family. We have people here that have been with us for more than 10-15 years. We really look at our staff as being key to our success.”

CONGRATULATIONS Workun Garrick on 65 years!

THE FUTURE www.protostatix.com 500, 10410 -102 Avenue | Edmonton, Alberta | Ph: (780) 423-5855

CONGRATULATIONS WORKUN GARRICK

Benefits Consulting • Wealth Advisory www.belay.ca

#244-2301 Premier Way Sherwood Park, Alberta T8H 2K8 P: 780.449.5825 • www.amanbuilders.ca

CONGRATULATIONS ON 65 YEARS WORKUN GARRICK

It’s easy to look back when you have more than 60 years of history behind you, but Workun Garrick has always been a firm that has looked to the future. What does that future look like? “More of the same!” they laugh in unison. More of creating trust with clients. More of the personal service for which they are known. More of taking a project efficiently from conception to completion. More schools. More sustainable facilities. More recreational and social spaces. There will be more of building communities, urban and rural, and providing facilities designed for the people that live, work, play and learn there. Workun Garrick has been part of the fabric of Alberta for decades, and with a succession plan in place the legacy is set to continue well into the future.

Suite 1300, 10117 Jasper Avenue Edmonton, AB T5J 1W8 780 428 1575 • mail@workungarrick.com workungarrick.com

THE WORKUN GARRICK PARTNERSHIP • 65TH ANNIVERSARY • 8

SCHNEIDER HOMELINE LOADCENTRES FAST INSTALLATION. SUPERIOR PROTECTION.

� Main breaker or main lug

� Shielded interior bus

� Positioning hole for fast,

� Painted appliance white

� Plug-on neutral for fast,

� 10 year warranty

in a range of circuit capacities single-person installation

for safety

for a clean look

clean install of CAFI breakers

IN STOCK AT EWEL - A PROUD PARTNER OF SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC.

NORTH EWEL

SOUTH EWEL

SHERWOOD Park

14830 124 Avenue Edmonton, AB | T5L 3B3

4248 99 Street Edmonton, AB | T6L 5B3

#104, 2833 Broadmoor Blvd. Sherwood Pk., AB | T8H 2H3

780.451.2311

780.432.2400

780.417.9770

GOING FURTHER AFIELD: 20/20 Seed Labs Celebrates 30 Years Here’s how Sarah Foster grew the business By Nerissa McNaughton with photos by Rebecca Lippiatt

hen is the last time you thought about a seed?

Seeds are small but incredibly significant, representing 90 per cent of the world’s global food supply. Without understanding, improving, analyzing and preserving our seed supply, our agriculture sector would collapse, and humanity along with it. For Sarah Foster, president and senior seed analyst at 20/20 Seed Labs Inc., tiny seeds are a big passion. Foster launched 20/20 Seed Labs in 1989. It is Canada’s first fully accredited, independently owned seed testing laboratory. “In 1989 the government that was offering seed testing services decided to privatize. I saw an opportunity to start my own company,” she explains. “I was very excited, but as any entrepreneur will tell you, the first year is full of worries. Things were different 30 years ago. To get the company name out there, I wrote lots of letters and drove around northern and southern Alberta to meet with clients and promote 20/20.” As an outstanding businesswoman with an incredible work ethic, Foster’s hard work paid off. Today 20/20 Seed Labs completes tests for farmers around the world, thanks to

20/20 Seed Labs Inc. • 30

being internationally accredited. The company is also proud to achieve recognition such as the Canadian Seed Trade Association award for Outstanding Achievement (2013), an award from the Alberta Seed Processors Association in 2018, and becoming a Leaders nominee in 2019. “We are very much a part of the agricultural fabric,” Foster notes. “One of the reasons we have been so successful is that we always meet the needs of our clients. We are always very transparent about everything we do and have demonstrated that our protocols are followed in a standard manner and the results are meaningful. We have never had a complaint about a crop not performing the way our data shows. We are very, very invested in the success of our clients and work with them to make sure they get the best out of their crop.” Part of 20/20’s mission is to envision the future of agriculture. “We are always planning for what happens next year and the next five years with testing services available for things in terms of crop quality. It’s not only about climate change; we need to have seeds that are frost tolerant, disease tolerant, etc. Our laboratory must be able to test for specific crop diseases that are becoming more problematic in Canada.”

Foster has recently returned from a science and agriculture trade mission in Brazil, an experience she calls “fantastic.” “I don’t know that I’ve ever been in a country where they are so focused on agriculture, from the breeding and the science to the seeding and production of food. I came back with a ton of ideas of what we can incorporate in Canada. The mission was to see if there was something Brazil and Canada could partner with. On the trip we met another Canadian company that had developed a system for early monitoring for diseases in the field. We ended up working with them.” For Foster, educating clients and the public about where their food comes from is very important to dispel the misinformation that is prevalent in our society. “There is a mistrust about where people’s food comes from,” she points out. “We have joined up with other organizations that promote agriculture and the benefits of good systems to prove that what you are eating in terms of where it starts is safe. People have put a lot of fear into the public about practices like GMO by saying they are dangerous and chemical laden, but that is not necessarily true. The food chain is a trail and we explain the trail that brings the food to you.” Foster continues, “When clients come in for a tour, they are often surprised by what goes on behind the scenes and how much regulation and administration is involved in what we do.”

In addition to supporting agriculture on a global scale, 20/20 Seed Labs is involved in very important causes here at home. The lab is a big supporter of the Leduc & District Food Bank and is also active in a variety of farm safety programs. It’s been 30 years since Foster created a private company that was the first of its kind in Canada, and she is very grateful to the people, staff, associations and organizations that have mentored her along the way. “When I started, the late David Ingledew was working with Prairie Seeds. I was only 27 at the time, but he believed in my ability and my ideas were important to him. Rene Victoor, a seed grower in Villeneuve, Alberta was also a huge supporter. I would go crop scouting with him. He helped me get off the ground with real-time input. Rick Rutherford (Rutherford Farms Ltd.) from Grosse Isle, Manitoba is one of the most forward-thinking seed growers I know and one of the first to leverage the technology available to farmers. What he does helps us all to be ready for what will happen in agriculture over the next few years. As for our many clients, thank you for allowing us the opportunity to work with you and provide services that will benefit your farm and your business.” Agriculture is one of the world’s oldest industries and companies like 20/20 Seed Labs stand between the changing landscape and our food supply. This is a post held by the lab for 30 years and as Foster is happy to inform, “We are still growing.” Learn more about 20/20 Seed Labs at 2020seedlabs.ca online and @2020SeedLabs on Twitter.

Congratulations on 30 years of success!

507 – 11 Avenue Nisku, AB T9E 7N5 Toll Free: 1-877-420-2099 Fax Toll Free: 1-888-900-1810 2020seedlabs.ca

Algar Petryk, Chartered Professional Accountants

Suite 202, 16814 114 Avenue, Edmonton, AB Phone: 780-489-8388 • www.algarpetryk.com 20/20 Seed Labs Inc. • 30

24 HOUR ONSITE SECURITY QUOTE HIGH DEFINITION SEE EVERYTHING

EASY TO USE SOFTWARE

Cameras

Access

Alarm

Intercom

EXPERIENCED & SAFETY CERTIFIED

(403) 288-6468

sales@survshop.com

www.survshop.com

BIANCO Restaurant

NOVESTA CELEBRATES THE FIRST FIVE YEARS

oung, agile and proactive. Those words can be used to describe both Novesta as a company, and Mark Martel and Danny Pereira, the company’s partners. With a business model that focuses on client solutions, Novesta provides real estate development, construction management and design builds for residential and commercial clients in Alberta. “We both have a passion for our developments and construction management,” says Pereira of his and Martel’s reason for partnering and creating the company. “We like leaving our mark on the city.” Pereira and Martel are seated in the boardroom which, along with the rest of the office, is a tidy reflection of the company’s compass. Novesta’s offices are bright and airy with a contemporary feel. There is a hint of excitement that you feel as soon as you walk through the doors; it must be the energy of the people there that come to work with progressive ideas, new concepts, and a love of what they do. Although the partnership is five years young, both Pereira and Martel have decades between them in construction management and real estate development experience. Pereira has more than 25 years of construction industry experience that includes project management, estimating, sustainable development and real estate investing. Martel is known for his rapport among the trades, his investor knowledge, and his hands-on experience that includes building a Manhattan-style condo project in downtown Edmonton.

THE YOUNG COMPANY IS MAKING WAVES AS ONE OF EDMONTON’S NEWEST DEVELOPER AND BUILDER BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

Since opening the doors, the company has consistently grown. Pereira explains, “Novesta Construction and Novesta Homes are two separate companies. One NOVESTA • 5 YEARS

1 73

Photo by Rebecca Lippiatt

Danny Pereira and Mark Martel

is residential and the other is commercial. We believe in diversification and thankfully, things have been very busy on both fronts. We have several infills on the go as well as about a dozen commercial projects that range from fitting out a business to large restaurant projects and everything in between.” He continues, explaining a key aspect of how Novesta operates. “We are developers and builders, so we understand both worlds. We are not just building a house. We buy the land, build on it and complete

the sale. This type of integration means we are involved in and cost conscious with every aspect of the project and the development. We are involved with our oversight and experience every step of the way. The end result is transparency and outstanding communication with everyone involved, along with seamless transitions as the project progresses from conception to completion.” Standout projects for Novesta Construction include Bianco, an upscale yet approachable Italian restaurant on Rice Howard Way; the contemporary styling you’ll find at Sleep Therapeutics; the sleek offices of Draw Design; and beautiful functional spaces for physiotherapy offices and daycares. Novesta Construction has also been steadily making a name for itself in the restaurant industry by completing projects and retrofits for C-Lovers, Tiffin India’s Fresh Kitchen, Phobulous and several franchise restaurants. On the residential side, you can see Novesta Home’s signature work in McDougall Lofts as well as infills in the Glenora, Parkview, Grovenor, Ritchie and Strathearn neighbourhoods. “We love what we do! We love developing and building,” smiles Pereira. “Our work is all about the client and we enjoy dealing directly with the owners. We are very hands on and will do what it takes to build a positive relationship with the client before, during and after the project.”

CONGRATULATIONS Novesta on your 5th Anniversary!

GRASS ROOTS MILLWORK LTD.

PROVIDING MILLWORK SERVICES SINCE 1987

14520 – 116 Avenue Edmonton AB T5M 3V9 Phone: 780-414-1700 www.nearctic.com

We are proud to be a part of your success and wish you many more years of business excellence.

~ COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL ~ BARS | RESTAURANTS | RADIUS RECEPTION DESKS | CUSTOM RESIDENTAL CABINETRY CUSTOM BUILDS

GLEN WRIGHT PHONE: 587.879.7080 E-MAIL: gwright1103@gmail.com

CONGRATULATIONS TO NOVESTA ON FIVE YEARS OF CONTINUED SUCCESS. 2

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR 5TH ANNIVERSARY NOVESTA

DERKS FORMALS AND MENSWEAR Call us at 780.433.6614 www.derksformals.com

5 YEARS • NOVESTA

The partners hold being client-focused as a company value, and community-focused in the same high regard. Novesta supports a variety of non-profit initiatives including animal welfare, the arts and underserved local groups. You’ll also find them robustly supporting local retailers; as coffee lovers they are both happy to tell you the best coffee shops in town. Novesta doesn’t count its success with awards and recognitions. For Martel and Pereira, their greatest reward is being active in Edmonton and Alberta’s developer and builder community, working with great staff and clients, and seeing their homes and commercial projects come to life. Their joy is in watching people enjoy the spaces they create, knowing that many happy memories will be made within those walls. With five years in and many more ahead, the partners and their team thank their clients, suppliers and trades.

Novesta may be just five years old but the experience and dedication behind the brand is evident in everything this company does.

“We’re still growing,” says Pereira. “We moved to this location two years ago after outgrowing our other space. There are so many possibilities on the horizon, including a possible partnership opportunity in Vancouver. We are also exploring possible projects in America as the economy out there is ramping up, and we are looking at opportunities across North America with a variety of investors.”

11621 - 145 Street, Edmonton AB T5M 1V9 780.244.1144 | info@novesta.ca | www.novesta.ca

BEYOND THE BASICS. 4303 55 Avenue NW Edmonton, AB T6B 3S8 | P: 780 438 1579 | www.acqbuilt.com

Congratulations

Novesta on your 5th Anniversary!

NOVESTA • 5 YEARS

The ACQBUILT SYSTEM goes beyond basic framing. Our comprehensive service allows you to go from capping to lockup in 3-5 days. Our full service offering includes: • All eng permit documents • Procurement of materials • 3D visual of extract house construction, with virtual walkthrough • Wall panels • Floor panels • Finished decks • Roof framing system (trusses, sheathed and more) • Stairs • Windows and doors installed (framed, leveled and sealed) 3

C o m p l e t e Fa m i l y D e n t a l C a r e Teeth Whitening • Orthodontic Treatment • Dentures

• General Dentists • Dental Laboratory & Registered Dental Technician on site • Prosthodontists (Specialists in Dentures, Implants & Crowns) • Emergency Dental Care & Denture Repairs

Open 8 A.M. Monday to Friday Evenings Monday to Thursday & Saturdays by Appointment

Complimentary parking: 10126-118 Street

780-482-4000 | empiredentists.com

THE WORLD NEEDS MORE EDMONTON // EEDC

THE WORLD NEEDS MORE EDMONTON

very startup, every business, every entrepreneur everywhere has one goal: growth. Growing your business, your revenue, your reach, your customer base—whatever the specific objectives, the desired outcome is the same: always be growing.

and be more boastful and assertive. There’s a misconception that because you have a Canadian product you might not be wanted around the world—but it’s the exact opposite. There are certain markets where Canada is seen as exotic.

But how? Be innovative! Be unique! Be creative, collaborative, cutting-edge! Yes, yes. But how? That’s the ever-present, all-consuming question occupying every business person’s mind. Enter Edmonton Economic Development (EEDC). We can help with that fundamental need for growth. We are here to provide the practical support you need to grow your business. Our team works to create significant economic impact for our city. One of the ways we do so is by providing the guidance, expertise, data, programs, and connections essential to success. EEDC wants to see local companies thrive and assisting them as they explore new and global markets beyond our municipal borders is paramount to that goal. We may not always realize it, but there is significant global interest in what we create. Edmonton, Alberta, and Canada all have great reputations for how we do business, the products we make and the safety of them. It’s time to capitalize on that

Take the Leap from Local to Global Why go global? Because companies who export increase their resiliency, enhance the life cycle of their product, and increase their customer base – substantially so. Through Canada’s many trade agreements, our businesses have access to over 1.5 billion potential global customers. Companies looking to maximize their growth potential need to take advantage of the massive trade opportunities available to them to avoid unnecessary stagnation. If you have never thought about expanding into foreign markets before, that can sound like a daunting and complicated endeavour. Actually acting, taking those first baby steps towards implementation, is monumental. There is unfamiliarity inherent to almost every aspect of international business: new regulations, legal requirements, shipping costs and logistics issues, not to mention unfamiliar cultures, languages, customs, customer expectations, and much more. That is a lot of uncertainty, and uncertainty breeds inaction.

BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // AUGUST 2019

THE WORLD NEEDS MORE EDMONTON // EEDC

Maybe you can recognize the opportunity in export but have decided you’re just not yet ready, or there is too much of a risk, or you don’t even know where to begin. You may be right. We can help you figure that process out. More often than not we find that companies that embrace an attitude of export are more successful than those that do not. Our services and programs are here to support you through it all.

TAP Into Export One of the most important, immersive ways that we provide that support for exporters, beginning or experienced, is through the Trade Accelerator Program (TAP). A series of four workshop days over the course of six weeks, TAP provides participants unparalleled access to the export authorities, experts, and resources—all in one place— needed to successfully develop and execute entry into a new market. Companies receive one-to-one level coaching with our experts as they coach them through any questions they have from legal to sales, to marketing to logistics. At the end of the program, each company graduates with an actionable market entry plan that has been vetted and developed through one-to-one consultations with our experienced export mentors and industry experts.

relevant contacts, or by profiling and sharing local success stories on our digital platform. Additionally, if you are looking to make more informed business decisions, our market intelligence team will provide you with the data and knowledge you need. Doing it on your own is a difficult, unnecessary thing. We are here to share our expertise and where we can’t help, we’ll find someone who can. Along with our divisional partners, we work alongside numerous other partners in the region who are also keen to ensure success for businesses in Edmonton, and we can provide the introductions necessary for what you need.

A national program started in Toronto and now running in major cities all over Canada, TAP Edmonton is run by EEDC in conjunction with the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. It has been a fast-growing success. Since 2018 we have facilitated four cohort sessions for 44 ambitious companies, enabling them to accelerate their export journeys and access their full growth potential.

Growth requires being proactive in everything you do. Challenge yourself and your company to step outside of your normal routine, to embrace risk, to encourage a global growth mindset, or to ask for help. That is going to be tricky, but you don’t have to go it alone. The CEO of Token Naturals, Keenan Pascal, can attest to that: “It was a pleasure working with Edmonton Economic Development. As a new company, the support and mentorship that was provided through various programs was critical to pushing our team outside our comfort zones and challenging us to do more.”

Shape Your Future

Get In Touch

If you are not yet ready to go global, that is ok! No matter your key growth stage, we can provide support to you. Our team is constantly working in the community, whether by hosting events and networking opportunities to foster connections among companies, stakeholders and other

Reach out to our team. We’d love to discuss how we can help you succeed because the world needs more Edmonton. The world needs you.

AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN EDMONTON // BUSINESSINEDMONTON.COM

Edmonton.com/global-growth

“I can always count on ATB going that extra mile. I wouldn’t consider them a service provider, I would consider them a friend or part of our family.” Northland Forest Products Limited is a family run sawmill located a few minutes north of Fort McMurray, Alberta. See his story at atb.com/howie

Howie, Northland Forest Products