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Dan Halyk, President & CEO of Total Energy Services Inc., on Surviving the Loss of Canada’s Energy Position
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Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time. Volume 29 | Number 8
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One Size Does Not Fit All By brad Field
Drew The Stampede, Politics and Andrew Scheer By Frank Atkins
CONTENTS COVER FEATURE
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Just Keep Going
Dan Halyk, President & CEO of Total Energy Services Inc., on Surviving the Loss of Canada’s Energy Position By Melanie Darbyshire
ON OUR COVER: ABOVE: DAN HALYK, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF TOTAL ENERGY SERVICES INC. PHOTO SOURCE: BOOKSTRUCKER PHOTOGRAPHY
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Calgary Chamber of Commerce The Calgary Report Current developments for Calgary Telus Convention Centre, Tourism Calgary, Calgary Economic Development, and Innovate Calgary
Marketing Matters By David Parker
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Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time. Volume 29 | Number 8
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THIS MONTH’S FEATURES
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CONTENTS 30 COMPANY PROFILES
33 65 75 80
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Lignum Interiors Inc.
Celebrates 35 Years
Legacy Kitchens
Celebrates 35 Years
CEL Electric
Celebrates 40 Years
20/20 Seed Labs
Celebrates 30 Years
AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
2 019 Leaders Awards Gala T raining for the Trades How to get a foot in the door By Erlynn Gococo
T echnology Versus Construction Building better, faster and smarter By John Hardy
41 53
C algary Head Offices Head Offices Matter
A Picture Says a Thousand Words Arts advocates praise Calgary’s interest and investment in diversifying By Jamie Zachary
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ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL // BRAD FIELD
One Size Does Not Fit All BY BRAD FIELD
I
t might feel like a distant memory, but there have been times in Calgary’s history where vacancy rates for residential properties have fallen below one per cent.
The current real estate market in Calgary has sparked many desperate conversations. It seems like Calgary real estate and housing are getting it from all angles these days. Research commissioned by the Alberta Real Estate Association (AREA) says 47 per cent of Alberta’s young people have given up on owning a home. Jason Kenney spoke at the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB) 2019 forecast. His point? The federal government has used a “one-size-fitsall” approach to deal with a two-region problem. Federally, measures set out to cool escalating prices in both Toronto and Vancouver have frozen Calgarians out of the market altogether. To add insult to injury, the Government of Canada’s 2019 budget offers a Band-Aid solution, leaving the taxpayer on the hook for loans to Canadians entering the housing market. The Government of Canada keeps trying to use nationwide policies for problems that only exist in two municipalities. Why not encourage and support locals to come up with solutions tailored to the needs in their markets? The thing is, there are local solutions in place. Ones that don’t involve any government intervention. Liberty Home Ownership provides down-payment assistance to Albertans looking to enter the housing market. The model has the potential homebuyer contribute $1,500 to the down payment, and Liberty lends the remainder of the
required five per cent as an equity loan. When the time comes to sell, a portion of the home’s appreciation is paid back to Liberty. This helps to address situations in hot rental markets where rent is higher than mortgage payments for similar properties, and potential buyers struggle to then save for their down payments. This model was introduced to Calgarians through strategic partnerships, including none other than Calgary’s own Truman Homes, which provided units at below market rates to kick-start the program. While operating a similar model, the City of Calgary’s Attainable Homes program found themselves in a deficit scenario given the economic climate and the implementation of the stress test, among other factors. They have recently transitioned from equity loans to straight second loans, and not on just new builds, but existing housing stock as well. The perceived issue with these programs is that many hear “affordable housing” and think low-income housing. This isn’t the case. It’s the transition point between renting and owning. It’s the difference between seeing home ownership as a possibility, and being the 47 per cent who have given up. The reality: the harder it is for someone to make that transition, the more pressure it puts on the rental market, which in turn escalates rental rates. Ottawa trying to solve problems in Calgary won’t cut it. It’s evident in the real estate market; we need local solutions to the uniquely Calgarian problems we have around housing. Finding an innovative solution to getting first-time buyers into their own homes is only one step toward some economic stability, but it’s a hell of a place to start.
BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2019
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DREW THE STAMPEDE, POLITICS AND ANDREW SCHEER // FRANK ATKINS
Drew The Stampede, Politics and Andrew Scheer BY FRANK ATKINS
I
n early July, the usual Stampede routine unfolded. Calgarians let loose for a while and politicians used the event as essentially free publicity. However, there was a curious political (non) event involving Andrew Scheer. Mr. Scheer showed up, did the usual flipping of pancakes and made a few speeches. Like most politicians, Mr. Scheer used a lot of words, dragged out a few political clichés, but said very little of anything important. Sometimes I think he is copying the Justin Trudeau model. The problem is that Mr. Scheer is much sincerer than Mr. Trudeau, so he does not add the false passion. Sincerity is an admirable trait but showing some real passion for the issues he believes in would be beneficial. Meanwhile, Mr. Kenney was doing his own politicking, inviting the premiers from Ontario, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick and the Northwest Territories to join him. What these premiers have in common is a distaste for the polices of the Trudeau government, and a special dislike of the carbon tax. Now it seems to me that this is part of the federal Conservative platform. The problem is that Mr. Scheer seemed to distance himself from these premiers. This is all the more curious, as he actually said in one speech, “I know the people of Alberta know what it’s like when the Conservative movement is divided. You elect governments who are not friendly to the resource sector, are not friendly to the free market.” So, here is Mr. Scheer pleading for Conservative unity, while showing some potential Conservative divisions. Mr. Scheer is on record as saying that if the Conservatives are elected, they will scrap new standards that will force cleaner-burning fuels in addition to eliminating the federal price on carbon. This is exactly what Mr. Kenney and the
THE IMPORTANT QUESTION BECOMES, WHY WASN’T MR. SCHEER THERE WITH THE FIVE PREMIERS, SHOWING CONSERVATIVE UNITY. four other premiers are calling for. The important question becomes, why wasn’t Mr. Scheer there with the five premiers, showing Conservative unity? These five premiers govern a large proportion of the population of Canada, and this would have been a perfect opportunity to show a united Conservative front on a very important issue. A well-connected Conservative friend of mine recently commented that he voted for Mr. Scheer in the race for the Conservative leadership because Mr. Scheer seemed to be young and dynamic, with a lot of good ideas. Now he says that Mr. Scheer is not behaving the way he did previous to being elected Conservative leader. The Conservatives may be (at least at the time of writing this article) ahead in the polls, but it is still close. In order to win the upcoming election, Mr. Scheer is going to have to come out of his protective shell start taking a strong, passionate stance on the issues that matter and stop avoiding the other Conservative leaders. I can see a potential terrible scenario here where, during the pre-election debates, Mr. Trudeau shows his usual non-grasp of the issues with a great deal of fake passion. At the same time, Mr. Scheer shows a grasp of the important issues with no passion whatsoever. If this happens, it will be four more years of the Junior.
Frank Atkins is a Senior Fellow at the Frontier Centre for Public Policy.
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AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
TABLE AMBASSADORS // 2019 LEADERS AWARD GALA
BUSINESS IN CALGARY WOULD LIKE TO THANK TRICO HOMES AND EVANS HUNT FOR SPONSORING OUR TABLE AMBASSADOR PROGRAM FOR THE 2019 LEADERS AWARDS
THANK YOU MAKING THIS EVENT AVAILABLE TO STUDENT OF BOW VALLEY COLLEGE AND MOUNT ROYAL UNIVERSITY
BARRY HOLDER, CLIENT PARTNER OF EVAN HUNT AND STUDENTS FROM MOUNT ROYAL COLLEGE.
DR. SIMON RABY, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN THE BISSETT SCHOOL OF BUSINESS, ALONG WITH MOUNT ROYAL UNIVERSITY STUDENTS GURP BAIDWAU, CALUM BOUER, CARLY HANSEDLMANN, XANDER JENSEN, KYLA MACKIE, KOTEN NELSON, CAMERON SAIK, VLADIMR TAIKOV AND CHELSEA WOLFE.
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HIGHLIGHTS // 2019 LEADERS AWARD GALA
Business in Calgary’s 2019 Leaders Awards Gala
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BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT DR. HASMUKH PATEL FROM AGECARE WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: NADIA FREESE (SERVPRO) TREVOR WINKLER (MNP) DR. HASMUKH PATEL (LEADER) AND DAVID ALLWRIGHT (ATB)
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT SEAN MCARTHUR FROM BOW MARK WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: NADIA FREESE (SERVPRO) TREVOR WINKLER (MNP) SEAN MCARTHUR (LEADER) AND DAVID ALLWRIGHT (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT CON GIANNOULIS FROM CEASAR’S STEAK & SPQR LOUNGE WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: NADIA FREESE (SERVPRO) TREVOR WINKLER (MNP) CON GIANNOULIS (LEADER) AND DAVID ALLWRIGHT (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT KEN KING FROM CALGARY SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: NADIA FREESE (SERVPRO) TREVOR WINKLER (MNP) KEN KING (LEADER) AND DAVID ALLWRIGHT (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT MONICA KRETSCHMER FROM CANADIAN BUSINESS CHICKS, WOMEN OF INSPIRATION AWARD WITH HER BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: NADIA FREESE (SERVPRO) TREVOR WINKLER (MNP) MONICA KRETSCHMER (LEADER) AND DAVID ALLWRIGHT (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT DARCY HULSTON FROM CANOE FINANCIAL WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TREVOR WINKLER (MNP), NADIA FREESE (SERVPRO), DARCY HULSTON (LEADER) AND DAVID ALLWRIGHT (ATB).
AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
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HIGHLIGHTS // 2019 LEADERS AWARD GALA
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BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT RYAN ENGEL FROM CRESTVIEW GROUP WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TREVOR WINKLER (MNP), NADIA FREESE (SERVPRO), RYAN ENGEL (LEADER) AND DAVID ALLWRIGHT (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT VINCE FUNG FROM DEBIAN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TREVOR WINKLER (MNP), NADIA FREESE (SERVPRO), VINCE FUNG (LEADER) AND DAVID ALLWRIGHT (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT JAMES BOETTCHER FROM FIASCO GELATO WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TREVOR WINKLER (MNP), NADIA FREESE (SERVPRO), JAMES BOETTCHER (LEADER) AND DAVID ALLWRIGHT (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT DR. ALAN ULSIFER FROM FYIDOCTORS WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: TREVOR WINKLER (MNP), NADIA FREESE (SERVPRO), DR. ALAN ULSIFER (LEADER) AND DAVID ALLWRIGHT (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT RYAN BESSANT FROM HEAVY INDUSTRIES WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RANDY MOWAT (MNP) CHRISTINE HARLE (SURECALL) RYAN BESSANT (LEADER) AND FAIZEL POONJA (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT KEVIN READ FROM NOMODIC MODULAR STRUCTURES INC WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RANDY MOWAT (MNP) CHRISTINE HARLE (SURECALL) KEVIN READ (LEADER) AND FAIZEL POONJA (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT JAMES DAVID MCMANES FROM MCMANES AUTO MOTIVE GROUP WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RANDY MOWAT (MNP) CHRISTINE HARLE (SURECALL), JAMES MCMANES (LEADER) AND FAIZEL POONJA (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT GLENN AND SHELLY BURGESS FROM MATRIX VIDEO CORPORATION WITH THEIR BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RANDY MOWAT (MNP) CHRISTINE HARLE (SURECALL) SHELLY BURGESS(LEADER), GLENN BURGESS (LEADER) AND FAIZEL POONJA (ATB).
AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
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HIGHLIGHTS // 2019 LEADERS AWARD GALA
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT CHRIS BURYLO FROM PINNACLE ACCOUNTING & FINANCE WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RANDY MOWAT (MNP) CHRISTINE HARLE (SURECALL) CHRIS BURYLO (LEADER) AND FAIZEL POONJA (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT LARA MURPHY AND KAREN RYAN FROM RYAN MURPHY CONSTRUCTION WITH THEIR BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RANDY MOWAT (MNP) CHRISTINE HARLE (SURECALL) KAREN RYAN (LEADER), LARA MURPHY (LEADER) AND FAIZEL POONJA (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT DANNY RITCHIE FROM ULTIMATE HOMES & RENOVATIONS WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RANDY MOWAT (MNP) CHRISTINE HARLE (SURECALL) DANNY RITCHIE (LEADER) AND FAIZEL POONJA (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT BILL MCKENZIE FROM WILD ROSE BREWERY WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RANDY MOWAT (MNP) CHRISTINE HARLE (SURECALL) BILL MCKENZIE(LEADER) AND FAIZEL POONJA (ATB).
BUSINESS IN CALGARY’S LEADERS AWARD SPONSORS PRESENT KYLE MCLAUGHLIN FRIEDMAN FROM ZOOM PAINTING WITH HIS BUSINESS IN CALGARY LEADERS AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: RANDY MOWAT (MNP) CHRISTINE HARLE (SURECALL) , KYLE MCLAUGHLIN FRIEDMAN (LEADER) AND FAIZEL POONJA (ATB).
JAMES ROBERTSON FROM WEST CAMPUS DEVELOPMENT TRUST PRESENTS GERRY WOOD FROM WOOD AUTOMOTIVE GROUP WITH HIS LEGACY LEADER AWARD. LEFT TO RIGHT: GERRY WOOD (LEGACY AWARD WINNER) AND JAMES ROBERTSON (WEST CAMPUS DEVELOPMENT TRUST)
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AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
TRAINING FOR THE TRADES // TRAINING & EDUCATION
TRAINING FOR THE TRADES HOW TO B GET A FOOT IN THE DOOR
BY ERLYNN GOCOCO
y definition, a “trade” is an occupation requiring manual or mechanical skill – a career not suited for everyone. But for those who enjoy manual labour and/or building things, exploring a career in the trades may be a good option. For some, entering the trades was always the plan. For others, it was only after realizing their current career was no longer fulfilling. Either way, training for the trades can provide individuals, looking for a career start or career change, the skills and contacts needed to get a foot in the door. For women, specifically, the thought of entering the trades may be intimidating, mostly because of misconceptions related to the industry. To overcome these barriers, programs such as Manpower’s 15-week emPOWER – Women In Trades help women acquire hands-on work experience, cutting-edge knowledge and high-quality trades training in a state-of-theart lab setting, thanks to its partnership with SAIT.
BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2019
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School of Continuing Learning • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
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Get in touch today and take your career to the next level. Phone: 403-476-2223 Email: study@bowvalleycollege.ca bowvalleycollege.ca
TRAINING FOR THE TRADES // TRAINING & EDUCATION
MANPOWER’S DIRECTOR OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT HEIDI BRANDLEY SAYS, “MANPOWER DEVELOPED THIS PROGRAM IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SAIT BECAUSE WE WANTED TO HELP INDIVIDUALS GET BACK TO WORK AND KNOW THAT WOMEN ARE UNDER-REPRESENTED IN THE TRADES, WHERE THERE IS A HIGH DEMAND FOR SKILLS IN THAT SECTOR.”
The program is a free government-funded pre-apprenticeship training program for women who want to enter the trades. In addition to occupational skills training at SAIT, participants also receive employability preparation training provided by Manpower. Upon completion of the SAIT portion of the program, participants enter a four-week work experience placement with a local employer in the trades to gain practical work experience. Once participants complete the entire program, Manpower continues to provide support and job placement assistance.
of governors for several years, and we have established strong collaborative training programs in other sectors in partnership with SAIT. Manpower, as a global leader in the staffing business, understands what the labour market requires and about matching candidates with the labour market demands. But SAIT is the expert in training of occupational skills and has access to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and instructors. This makes for a perfect partnership in delivering employment-focused training programs to meet current labour market needs.”
Manpower’s director of workforce development Heidi Brandley says, “Manpower developed this program in partnership with SAIT because we wanted to help individuals get back to work and know that women are underrepresented in the trades, where there is a high demand for skills in that sector. There is a challenge in the skilled trades workforce as approximately 219,000 skilled trades workers are expected to retire. But this creates an opportunity for women who are looking to work in this field. At the same time, we know that approximately only five per cent of the workforce in the trades are women.”
SAIT offers four different pathways and technical training in more than 30 trades for both men and women through apprenticeship training, pre-employment programs and full-time studies. From agricultural equipment technician to wire process operator apprentice, SAIT provides the training necessary to pursue a fulfilling career in the trades.
Brandley adds that Manpower has a long history and strong relationship with SAIT. “Our CEO sat on the board
Dean of manufacturing, automation and transportation Jim Szautner confirms, “Recently we hosted the emPOWER group for 10 weeks of technical training. The group was an all-female cohort gaining experience in a variety of trades. Through the program, they gained technical knowledge, earned safety certificates and met the requirements to start an apprenticeship. Programs like this open pathways
ABOVE: HEIDI BRANDLEY, DIRECTOR – WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (MANPOWER).
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AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
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for people into valuable trades careers. The group was extremely motivated and performed exceptionally well. Any company will be well served by taking on a person who has completed the emPOWER program.” Szautner also facilitates the dean’s advisory committee, made up of senior leaders from manufacturing who provide industry sector advice. Among the talented pool of committee members from fastgrowing emerging companies, Szautner praises president and CEO of Bigfoot Industrial, Jesse Messom. “Jesse is an excellent member of my advisory committee. He is a SAIT graduate, journeyperson industrial mechanic (millwright) and president of his company. He brings an exceptional perspective, grounded by his
BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2019
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BIGFOOT INDUSTRIAL COO KERRI MCGRATH SAYS THE EMPOWER PROGRAM WAS AN OVERWHELMING SUCCESS AND THEY WERE HONOURED TO BE ONE OF THE FIRST PILOT/HOST SITES, ACCOMMODATING FIVE PARTICIPANTS. experience as an apprentice, tradesperson and executive. He is a role model employer giving back to the program in which he was once an apprentice. Jesse is a prime example of what makes trades and the apprenticeship model of training so successful.” Bigfoot Industrial COO Kerri McGrath says the emPOWER program was an overwhelming success and they were honoured to be one of the first pilot/host sites, accommodating five participants. She explains, “The program provides a significant advantage as it covers the basic fundamentals for a person looking to enter the trades; a ‘general studies’ so to speak covering five different trade disciplines to varying degrees. The on-site practicum and work experience are beneficial for the employer as it provides a prolonged period to assess skills, knowledge and capabilities. For the (potential) employee, it offers them a chance (especially when engaged with a multitrade discipline company like Bigfoot Industrial Services) to really assess which trade focus appeals most to them after being able to apply their curriculum to a real-life setting. They get to effectively ‘try before they buy’ in to their future lifelong career.” It is a unique opportunity that most people don’t have. The emPOWER program currently includes an introduction into five trades: welding, ironworking, heavy equipment technician, carpentry and plumbing/ pipefitting. Brandley says the women also receive safety training and certificates in first aid, WHMIS and CSTS, as well as apprenticeship and industry training exam preparation skills.
ABOVE: KERRI MCGRATH, COO (BIGFOOT INDUSTRIAL).
AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
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Brandley says the program truly empowers women who may not otherwise consider entering the trades due to societal misconceptions. “This program aims to break down those barriers and provide exposure to encourage more women to pursue a career in that sector. These women will be exposed to a variety of different trades so that they can better understand their own preference as well as viable opportunities and a chance to envision themselves working in that field. By breaking down these barriers, we are showing them that yes, you can do this.” Megan Palko, a labourer at Bigfoot Industrial, was a program participant. She says, “I chose the emPOWER program because I felt stuck in an industry I no longer enjoyed, but couldn’t find a way out of it. I had also been looking to find a welding job, but I really didn’t have the hard skills to be hired on, and the program highlighted a chance to develop hard and soft skills pertaining to the trades and how to market yourself successfully.” Palko adds, “Aside from getting a job at Bigfoot Industrial, the biggest takeaway from the emPOWER program for me was getting a better understanding of myself and being able to really grow in such a short period of time.” Amanda Oliver also participated in the program and says it gave her a second chance in her career. “Before I started this journey, I worked in an office setting for 10-plus years. I had lost interest in what I was doing and no longer loved my job. I had thought about getting into a trade for some time, however, was having a hard time ‘getting my foot in the door.’ I knew I loved working with my hands, as I have done it for years. After being let go from a seasonal position, I heard about emPOWER. I was elated thinking this is finally my chance to make a change in my life for the better.” “We have had significant interest from the trades industry in hiring women specifically and have established placement opportunities for participants in some of the key businesses in Calgary,” confirms Brandley.
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ABOVE: DAN HALYK, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF TOTAL ENERGY SERVICES INC. PHOTO SOURCE: BOOKSTRUCKER PHOTOGRAPHY
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JUST KEEP GOING
Dan Halyk, President & CEO of Total Energy Services Inc., on Surviving the Loss of Canada’s Energy Position
I
BY MELANIE DARBYSHIRE
n November of 1996, Daniel Halyk, a 28-year-old securities lawyer at Bennett Jones LLP in Calgary, founded Total Energy Services Inc. (originally named Anorak Capital Corporation). Incorporated as a junior capital pool company on the Alberta Stock Exchange, Total completed its initial public offering in the first quarter of 1997, raising $260,000 at $0.10 per share in a blind pool. At the time, it had exactly zero paid employees. “The original business plan was to establish a presence in northwest Alberta to capitalize on what we thought was going to be a pretty significant uptick in drilling activity with the construction of the Alliance Pipeline,” explains Halyk, who was initially chairman of Total and then became CEO in 2002, from his office in downtown Calgary. “But we wanted to balance the seasonality and cyclicality of drilling with a production-based gas-focused business, namely the compression business. So right from the beginning, we set out to establish a presence in the rental business in northwest Alberta, as well as the gas compression business in Western Canada.” One year after founding Total, Halyk started the private limited partnership Trident Capital Partners with Bruce Pachkowski, the current chairman of Total. Trident provides venture capital and hands-on management assistance
to companies in the energy, real estate and hospitality industries across North America. Halyk and Pachkowski are the only two investors in Trident. With the birth of Trident and the continuing growth of Total, Halyk left Bennett Jones in late 1997 to pursue his businesses full time. Twenty-two years later, Total is a publicly-traded diversified energy services provider, still based in Calgary, with 15 wholly-owned subsidiaries/limited partnerships involved in four separate businesses – contract drilling services, rentals and transportation services, compression and process services, and well servicing – in Canada, the United States and Australia. It employs between 2,000 to 3,000 people (depending on the time of year). Trident, meanwhile, remains privately held and has provided great returns over the years, says Halyk. It has also given him valuable insight as CEO of Total. “It helps me be the CEO of Total which is a public company because I, in essence, sit on the other side of the table at Trident and give people – management teams – capital,” he says. “So, I know what I expect of those management teams, and certainly I expect nothing less of myself, sitting on this side of the table at Total.”
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The stories of both Total and Trident are a testament to the opportunities Calgary, Alberta and Canada have provided for businesses in the energy industry in the past. Their most recent chapters (comprising just the last three-and-a-half years) however, are significantly less rosy on this city, province and country. Total embarked on its growth path in 1997, with the acquisition of two separate companies in the oilfield rentals business, one of which was Total Oilfield Rentals. After changing Anorak’s name to Total, it made its first foray into the compression business in early 1998 with the purchase of Bidell Gas Compression. It then entered the drilling business in early 2000 with the acquisition of three rigs operated by Chinook Drilling. In 2010, it entered into the gas process equipment business as Spectrum Process Systems. “The process business was a logical extension of our gas compression business,” Halyk explains. “Bidell was continuing to grow and a lot of our customers were asking us to build process equipment in addition to compression equipment. While most of our competitors manufacture compression and process equipment under the same name, we chose to pursue the process side as a separate entity, in order to remain focused on being the best at what we do.” In June of 2017, Total acquired the Savanna Energy Services group of companies, a Calgary-based contract drilling, rental services and well-servicing company, dramatically increasing the company’s international exposure which roughly doubled its size. Total (through various subsidiaries) has five manufacturing plants – four in the Calgary area and one in Weirton, West Virginia – which manufacture gas compression and process equipment. It also provides after-sales parts and service support through field branch locations. While Total is the parent, its subsidiaries manage themselves to a large degree. “Every business segment has their own management team and
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financial statements,” Halyk explains. “We evaluate them independently.” For 2018, 49 per cent of Total’s business came from the compression and process division, 24 per cent came from the contract drilling services division, 18 per cent was from the wells servicing division, and nine per cent was from the rental and transportation services division. Revenue by country, in particular the change in this breakdown, tells a greater, ominous tale. “Only four years ago, less than 10 per cent of Total’s revenue came from outside Canada,” Halyk says. “For 2018, 50 per cent of our revenue was from Canada, 30 per cent was from the U.S., and 20 per cent was from Australia. Keeping in mind, a lot of the Canadian revenue was actually equipment sold internationally but manufactured here. But for the first quarter of this year, for the first time ever, a majority of our revenues came from outside Canada.” Indeed, for the first quarter of 2019, only 43 per cent of Total’s revenue was from Canada, while 57 per cent (34 per cent from the U.S. and 23 per cent from Australia) came from outside this country. Halyk has no doubt why: “The destruction of the industry in Canada,” he decries. “It’s frankly pretty sad to watch.” And he has a bird’s-eye view. “Our business in Canada is pretty slow these days, but the U.S. and Australia business
is a lot stronger,” he says. “We definitely see a disparity between Canada and the rest of the world over the last three-and-a-half years. In all of our business lines, we see the continuing recovery in markets outside of Canada, and the continued challenges in Canada.” For instance, he says, year-to-date drilling activity in Canada for 2019 compared to 2018 is off by roughly 30 per cent, whereas in the U.S. it’s flat. “I think the issue is going to get more pronounced,” he warns, “rather than less.” His reasoning? “The current federal government has implemented a number of pieces of legislation and regulation that discourages energy investment in Canada. That’s just a fact. Almost 60 per cent of our revenue came from outside Canada during Q1 this year, during what should be the busiest quarter in Canada. If that trend continues, capital will ultimately go to where the opportunities are.” “We’ve remained profitable throughout 2018 and 2019,” he confirms, “but largely thanks to our international business. In Canada, we’re just hunkering down. That’s not pleasant. You’d rather be growing than cutting costs, but you do what you need to.” Halyk is greatly encouraged by some of the changes that have occurred under the new provincial UCP government, but has little nice to say about the City of Calgary. “It is a very TOP: SPECIALIZING IN FULL PACKAGE SURFACE EQUIPMENT RENTALS FOR DRILLING RIGS, INCLUDING 400BBL TANKS AND PORTABLE FLARE TANKS. PHOTO SOURCE: TOTAL OILFIELD RENTALS
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JUST KEEP GOING // COVER
WHILE HALYK DECLINES TO SPECULATE ABOUT RELOCATING TOTAL’S HEAD OFFICE TO ELSEWHERE, HE NOTES SEVERAL CANADIAN ENERGY AND ENERGY SERVICE COMPANIES THAT ARE NO LONGER CANADIAN HEADQUARTERED. “IT’S NOT HARD TO SEE WHY,” HE SAYS.
difficult place to do business,” he laments. “Try to build a manufacturing plant here. The regulatory red tape, the cost, the taxation. I compare it to opening a factory in Weirton, West Virginia, and it’s night and day.” In Weirton, he says, it took six months to acquire and convert a 100-year-old steel mill site that hadn’t been occupied in 20 years into a manufacturing plant, with the state and city backstopping all the environmental liabilities. “You’d never get that done in Calgary,” Halyk says bluntly. “The building permits and zoning requirements – the city can get away with it when people are making money, but as we’ve increased our international presence it’s been an eye-opener to see how inefficiently we manage and regulate things here. And it’s a challenge because at the end of the day, it adds to the cost and time. We’ve got our work cut out for us in this country to retain our competitive footing.” While Halyk declines to speculate about relocating Total’s head office to elsewhere, he notes several Canadian energy and energy service companies that are no longer Canadian headquartered. “It’s not hard to see why,” he says. Though Total remains in Calgary, many of its employees have moved. “We’ve had layoffs in Canada,” Halyk says. “We’ve also relocated a lot of Canadians, primarily to the U.S., but also to Australia. Higher-level people who we just didn’t have enough work for here. Rather than lose them, we found opportunities for them internationally. Those are one-time relocations and another factor that’s going to haunt the industry in Canada. And it’s not just us. There’s been a pretty significant exodus of senior people and that’s your mind and management leaving the industry. It’s going to make it challenging if and when we get back to busier times.” Rig crews have also been relocated, primarily to Texas.
“Canadian oilfield workers are second to none,” Halyk says proudly. “When we move them down to Texas, they want more of them. It’s their work ethic – the degree of professionalism in Canada that you don’t see in other jurisdictions.” Plant workers have also been relocated to Total’s manufacturing plant in West Virginia. “The quality of our labour force really helps us compete internationally and certainly helps increase productivity when we relocate these people to other jurisdictions.” All in all, Total’s workforce is becoming less Canadian and more international. “It’s getting to the point where our international employees are numbering what we have in Canada, even though our corporate and most of our manufacturing space is in Canada,” Halyk reflects. What’s needed, he continues, is profound change in public policy at all levels of government, notably federal and civic. “Any government that’s more free enterprise would certainly be helpful,” he says. “Bills C-69 and C-48 are disastrous pieces of legislation that will be the death of any future pipelines. And without future pipelines, this basin is going to be constrained for some time.” Total, he reflects, was built in a different time, when the barriers to building pipelines in Canada were much less. “And thankfully, because otherwise we would have been a dud.” In the meantime, Halyk has not given up on Canada. “Our people have done a pretty good job tightening up here and controlling what they can,” he offers. “2016 was the first year in Total’s history that we weren’t profitable, but we’ve now been profitable since the back half of 2017, largely through cost cutting in Canada and improved profitability outside of Canada. I tell people: when you’re going through hell, just keep going.” Hell, one nonetheless hopes, may be eventually overcome.
BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2019
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TECHNOLOGY VERSUS CONSTRUCTION // CONSTRUCTION
TECHNOLOGY
VERSUS
CONSTRUCTION BUILDING BETTER, FASTER AND SMARTER
BY JOHN HARDY
T
echnology continues to impact life!
Few could or would argue. Relationships, lifestyles, industry and the way business is done. There is expert consensus that businesses and specific industry sectors embrace technology in different ways and at different speeds. Some can’t fathom doing business without it. And some have challenges adjusting. A prime example is digital files versus walls of filing cabinets crammed with reams of printed paper documents. Some say it is not old versus new, as much as clunky versus efficient. Is it an explanation (or an excuse) why the construction industry is sluggish about embracing technology? “All industries are embarking on a digital transformation journey. Whether they have chosen to be active participants or passive passengers, this train has left the station!” says Reva Bond Ramsden, dean of SAIT’s School of Construction and chair of Women in Trades and Technology. “How a company manages the digital transformation will be critical to their success over the next five years. “In the construction sector, the digital transformation is going to hurt a little in the short term, and not every construction company is going to be able to survive it. But the positives of this digital disruption will be undeniable.
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“The companies that have figured it out are going to see the benefits of technology and will be able to build better, build faster and build smarter – in ways we have never seen before and using materials we haven’t considered before.” Shannon Lenstra, president of Kon-strux Developments, Calgary’s award-winning renovation contractor, suggests that, for the Calgary construction sector, change may be a lingering challenge. “There is still a lot of past precedence; the tired old saying that ‘it has worked like this for a thousand years, so why change it?’ “But, especially in construction, the times are changing,” she adds. “The newer generation is moving quicker and some of them work smarter. It is all about adapting to the work environment. Being a changemaker or a disrupter is what changes the way our industry works. And change is a positive and it is good!” Most construction industry experts and insiders agree on the puzzling irony that construction has always embraced technology and new ways of doing things. From power tools that eliminated cutting boards and drilling holes by hand to the elevators that impacted the height of buildings, technological advancements have always driven construction forward.
TECHNOLOGY VERSUS CONSTRUCTION // CONSTRUCTION
WHILE EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY IS A CHALLENGE FOR THE So why are some construction companies slow to adopt the new level of new tech? Innovation like connected equipment and tools, telematics, mobile apps, autonomous heavy equipment, drones, robots, augmented and virtual reality, and 3D printed buildings? Technology is proving to build stronger, taller and more energy-efficient structures. Technology in construction is also making construction sites safer and workers more efficient, while boosting productivity, improving collaboration and tackling more complex projects. On the practical side of the technology transformation is an unavoidable reality check from Bill Black, president and COO of the Calgary Construction Association. “Change, and especially making technology changes, costs money. Of course there are tremendous new technologies and technology systems, particularly for the construction sector. But there’s also a huge cost of adoption, not only with expensive software, hardware, equipment and techniques but billable hours that must be devoted to training and also the potential of possible mistakes. “A big challenge is that the industry is not really geared up for research and development. The blunt business reality is that it’s tougher to incorporate the added costs in a tougher economy. Many smaller construction companies are reluctant to take on the extra costs when they’re stretching to pay their workers.” Some (usually outsiders) say the Calgary construction sector is slow to embrace technology. “Everything is relative,” Bond Ramsden shrugs and smiles. “Industry research shows that the speed of technology doubles every 18 months. So, every day you wait to embrace digital technology, you are exponentially further behind. “Despite a high dependence on oil and gas, Alberta is still a thriving economy compared to other provinces,” she says. “And although the Calgary construction market isn’t necessarily slower about embracing technology than other areas, perhaps it would be smart to be a faster follower during this digital transformation period.” Black points out the construction industry has been forward-looking, resilient and consistently good at adapting
INDUSTRY, BLACK WARNS ABOUT THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY’S SHRINKING WORKFORCE. HE CITES BUILDFORCE CANADA STATS DEMONSTRATING THAT IN THE NEXT DECADE, THERE WILL BE A 300,000 DEFICIT OF CONSTRUCTION WORKERS. to all kinds of changes. “A lot of the things we deal with are outside forces, like weather and the economy, and cities and code authorities are often slow to change.” While embracing technology is a challenge for the industry, Black warns about the construction industry’s shrinking workforce. He cites BuildForce Canada stats demonstrating that in the next decade, there will be a 300,000 deficit of construction workers. “Although the drop will mostly be generational due to retirement,” he says, “we need a tech-savvy workforce that can work with the skill sets that are already revolutionizing the industry: BIM and virtual design (3D models), autonomous vehicles, watching sites by remote, software that tracks compliance with safety regulations, and project management and estimating systems.” A key aspect of technology revolutionizing construction can be seen in software and mobile solutions to help manage every aspect of a project. From pre-construction to scheduling, project management and field reporting to managing the back office, software helps streamline processes and improves productivity. Black points to prefabricated construction as another example of technology’s impact. “Building components are built off site and then assembled or installed once they have been transported to the site. Prefab building components cover everything from framing, internal and external wall panels, door and window assemblies, floor systems, and multi-trade racks of panels with all the duct work, wiring and plumbing packaged together.”
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TECHNOLOGY VERSUS CONSTRUCTION // CONSTRUCTION
Construction sector experts emphasize that every construction site is different and presents its own unique set of challenges and risks, which makes it difficult to apply technology to streamline processes and increase productivity the way industries like manufacturing and retail have been able to do. “There’s no doubt about it,” Black adds with enthusiasm. “Technology is coming at us like a bullet train.”
“Especially in the past five years or so, the impact of technology on construction has been huge,” Lenstra points out. “There are better construction platforms for builders and tool and material improvements. But sometimes it’s difficult for the Calgary construction sector to attract technosavvy workers. Our industry gets a lot of engineers, oilpatch workers and tech workers who cross over every time there is a market depression or an economic flux in Calgary.”
Effectively dealing with “the new construction” is a key aspect of Kon-strux Developments’ expertise. However, the reno-construction sector continues to be impacted by the government, the public’s attitude about the stifled economy, finding good trades and, most of all, a shortage of skilled and qualified labour.
“Doing it well requires a lot of trial and error and a culture that can accept failure as a learning opportunity to keep pushing forward,” SAIT’s Reva Bond Ramsden adds. “Not many construction companies have those kind of resources. We need to work together, put ego aside and leverage the progress that a handful of organizations have made – and be a fast follower.”
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The Next Generation of Lignum Interiors
by Rennay Craats
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T
he definition of “Lignum” can be summarized as a hard, durable wood containing resin that can be used to treat anything from coughs to arthritis. This combination of dependability and physical benefit makes it a well-suited namesake for Lignum Interiors, a construction management and general contracting firm that puts people first.
For 35 years, Lignum Interiors has specialized in the construction of corporate and commercial interior spaces in Calgary. When Peter Gatzsch started the company in 1984, he built it on a foundation of quality product and service, and while the industry and economic climate have changed since then, Lignum’s dedication to clients has
Congratulations on your 35th anniversary Lignum Interiors Inc., it has been a pleasure to work with you over the years and we look forward to the next 35 years.
Complete Mechanical Installations Plumbing and Heating Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication Hvac Duct design and Installation Electrical Data and Security 5799 3 Street SE Calgary, AB T2H 1K1 403 255 7535 | trotterandmorton.com
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“We provide a helping hand with our clients’ real estate and construction needs. We holistically view spaces as more than square footage and cubicles. We create workspaces where the skeleton crews of Calgary can be supercharged to carry us forward to a more prosperous future,” says Bruce Gatzsch, VP of Lignum Interiors. “We give clients the most realistic information so they can make the best possible decision. It’s a bit of the Cinderella factor – getting that shoe to fit properly but not forcing it.” A proper fit is critical, especially in these challenging economic times. Clients are more discerning than ever before and want a space that perfectly meets their needs at an affordable price. On top of that, they count on Lignum to deliver top value that’s on time, on budget and on par with its high standards. The company remains steadfast in its commitment to exceeding expectations in all areas, from the product delivered to service during the project and throughout the life cycle of the space. The firm has a stellar network of trusted trade partners and suppliers of everything from carpet to glazing, allowing the team to meet increasingly short deadlines without sacrificing quality. Lignum prides itself on providing the extra touches that ensure clients are excited about experiencing their new environment.
never wavered. Today, the baton has passed to the second generation, and son Bruce Gatzsch is proud to implement the high standards of his father while leading the company through the evolution of the modern marketplace.
“We’ve had clients who, in nine days, have gone from being nearly on the street to renovated and moved in. And then
Congratulations Lignum Interiors Inc. “Great to see an amazing team last 35 years, a testament to quality and excellence!”
HVAC | Plumbing | Electrical | Sheet Metal | Preventative Maintenance COR certified and contractor check approved 403-287-2540 | 4550 35 Street SE, Calgary AB, T2B 3S4 For prompt response (8:00am – 4:30pm M-F) email dispatch@reggin.ca For all non-service inquiries email admin@reggin.ca
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absorb noise and echo to enhance focus, and clean air systems to prevent sickness, especially given concerns about pollution as well as smoke and ash from forest fires. It also looks at the needs of individual employees and departments so it can design access to amenities in the space efficiently. All of these elements contribute to productive workspaces that are geared toward maximizing employee potential and satisfaction.
we exceed their expectations by moving them in a day early. You couldn’t do that five years ago,” he says. The industry is rapidly changing and Lignum is embracing the new way of doing business along with the new trends emerging from it. Gatzsch is excited about the trend toward humanizing spaces in order to not only attract elite talent, but to keep staff happy and healthy at work. To achieve this, Lignum looks closely at a client’s needs and how they operate to determine what will work best for the individuals who will use the space. The team addresses what employees need physically, cognitively and emotionally. For example, an open concept is great for businesses with employees who often break off into teams and require close proximity to allow the energy and ideas to flow back and forth; it is less suited to employees focusing on individual tasks who often resort to noise-cancelling headphones to block out distractions. Yesterday’s trends don’t always work in today’s workplace, and Lignum incorporates new philosophies along with cutting-edge technology in its projects to avoid that disconnect.
“The most expensive thing on the floor are your people; you spend $3-4 per square foot on utilities, $30-40 on rent, but
Bruce, congrats to you and Peter on 35 years!
These design elements can address issues around lighting, air and noise that are adversely affecting productivity. The firm ensures spaces have good lighting to keep employees energized and alert, quality acoustics that
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Congratulations Lignum Interiors Ltd. on your 35th Anniversary!
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you spend $300-400 a square foot on your people. If you get 10 per cent more out of your people, your real estate is free. Is it really that hard to be 10 per cent more effective?” he says. Lignum helps employers implement strategies to take care of staff, and this investment pays off. Companies see fewer sick days and higher employee engagement in these environments, which is a win for both sides. And Calgary’s business community could certainly use a win. With the recession dragging on, there is an atmosphere of doom and gloom in many sectors, but Bruce Gatzsch refuses to give in to it. Instead, he remains resolutely positive of Calgary’s future and the future of commercial construction. After all, Lignum has recently worked on spaces for companies that are innovating, growing and thriving and he’s confident this will continue as companies begin to invest in the city again. Calgary may be a resource town but it and Lignum have diversified and support new endeavours to help the city rebound.
Proud to be associated with Lignum Interiors Inc. Congratulations on 35 years. May you continue to prosper.
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“We have a very fertile ground in Calgary for businesses. We have low real estate costs, a hard-working population, excellent accommodations, the most sunny days in Canada, and a beautiful place to work. I think slowly but surely a
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Congratulations to Lignum Interiors Inc. for reaching 35 years in business! We wish you many years of continued success.
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lot of companies in Canada and North America, the nextgeneration companies, will move to Calgary,” he says.
IMPERIAL OIL
Bruce Gatzsch is so confident in Calgary’s economic tenacity and innovative potential that he made an investment of his own to grow in this tough marketplace. Lignum Interiors bought a building on 11 Avenue SW, renovated it to fit the company to a T, and moved in a few months ago. After 35 years in business, employees could celebrate the milestone with a fresh start in a re-energized, tailored space as Lignum moves forward. Accommodating a staff of 20 skilled employees, the firm’s new space and size allows Lignum to keep overhead low while continually improving the product and value for clients. Adopting a conscious management style Lignum has cultivated a culture of “can do,” empowering its people to manage and build its many projects.
Congratulations Lignum Interiors Inc. on 35 Years! Canem is proud to be a partner. * ELECTRICAL * FIRE ALARM * SECURITY * MECHANICAL * DATA CABLING & COMMUNICATIONS CALGARY, EDMONTON, RED DEER, LETHBRIDGE, SASKATOON, VANCOUVER, VICTORIA, WINNIPEG, CAMBRIDGE
“The young, fresh location reflects the next generation of Lignum. We still retain the key ingredients of knowledge, expertise and deep caring among our technical managers. Back to our roots, we are growing the next generation of builders, training, teaching and instilling in them the importance of our purpose – to help our clients build amazing spaces to supercharge their businesses,” Gatzsch says. From the top down, Lignum Interiors is excited to be part of the new Calgary and the growth that is on the horizon. Bruce Gatzsch and his team approach their business with passion, a deep knowledge base and a desire to not just adapt to the environment but to evolve it. And as the recession lifts, this next-generation Lignum Interiors is poised to take the industry by storm.
Congratulations to Lignum Interiors Inc. on 35 years of business excellence! We wish you many more years of continued success.
202-1608 17 Ave SW Calgary, AB (403) 229-3144 lignuminteriors.com
Address: #14, 2305 52nd Ave. S.E. Phone: 403-244-3283 • Fax: 403-228-5215
bennettglass.com
7
HEAD OFFICES MATTER // HEAD OFFICES
HEAD OFFICES MATTER
BUSINESS STRENGTH AND CLOUT
D
espite lingering and tired tales of the downturn, combined with a wait-and-see attitude about Alberta’s new government and the realities of Calgary’s new economy, there is positive momentum and trending when it comes to the recovery – Calgary continues as a globally-respected business hub with the second-largest head office concentration in Canada. “The significance of a head office says a lot about a company’s pedigree, history and about company culture,” notes Rick Urbanczyk, executive vice president of JLL Calgary Office Leasing, the entrepreneurial world leader in real estate services. “The location of a head office used to partially be a matter of business prestige. In contemporary business, it is a matter of necessity and market relevance. Head office is where the industry relevance and the talent is. “Our market is tied in to the energy sector and Calgary business – the law firms, the IT firms, the oilfield service
operations and the accounting and engineering firms – is tremendously impacted by the energy market.” Calgary business leaders and insiders agree on a key aspect about head offices: times have changed and they continue to change. Part of the Calgary recovery is embracing change in the many business ways of doing things. “Calgary is known for its grit and determination,” says Sandip Lalli, Calgary Chamber president and CEO. “We know that businesses in Calgary want to grow. Creating the catalyst for this growth, we need to open up access to new markets and embrace technological innovations – and Calgary will continue to be an economic hub.” Urbanczyk is enthusiastic about the many business community changes and the solid Calgary edge for dynamic head offices. “There are many positives and favourable Calgary factors. Our office space market is at lower costs. And it’s no secret that, for business in general and particularly for head offices, rent is the second-largest line item, behind staff.
BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2019
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HEAD OFFICES MATTER // HEAD OFFICES
“Of course, a key head office aspect is staffing, and the Calgary employment pool has broadened. We now have a larger and more qualified staff pool than ever,” he adds. “Calgary is such a dynamic city with unique networking opportunities. You’re one connection away from someone in another company. And the perfect demographics. The Calgary lifestyle, including the opportunity to be outside 365 days a year, definitely attracts a younger talent pool.”
Although Urbanczyk’s JLL expertise focuses on the volume of available Calgary commercial office space, he highlights some relevant key factors about head office space. “Every company’s needs and priorities are different and every company culture is different. Contemporary office space is for new efficiencies – specifics like boardrooms, meeting rooms and call rooms, and hot-desking with an assigned floor for certain functions but different desk space each day.
Lalli acknowledges that Calgary businesses, as well as its head offices, are continually evolving. She notes that expanded communications infrastructure and artificial intelligence innovations are creating opportunities for businesses to operate much differently than before, particularly with new options for working remotely.
“Technology is impacting commercial real estate and helps companies be more connected and efficient [while giving] staff better places to work,” he points out. The Calgary Chamber underscores the dynamics of Calgary’s new business climate. “Head offices will always have a vital role to play in Calgary’s business community,” Lalli adds.
THE CALGARY HEAD OFFICE FEATURE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY JLL AND MNP
Financial Post 500 rankings provided by Financial Post Magazine, published nine times a year by The National Post, and Infomart, a full-service content strategy group providing media monitoring and analytics services, research, executive summaries, content solutions and corporate data to organizations across Canada.
Enbridge Inc.
E
Al Monaco
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
8
46,378,000,000
42
S
nbridge has become a leader in the safe and reliable delivery of energy in North America and is proud to be recognized as one of the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World. They transport energy, operating the world’s longest, most sophisticated crude oil and liquids transportation system, with a significant and growing presence in the natural gas transmission and midstream businesses, and an increasing involvement in power transmission.
REVENUE
$
Suncor Energy Inc.
Mark Little
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
11
uncor Energy is Canada’s leading integrated energy company. Suncor’s operations include oil sands development and upgrading, offshore oil and gas production, petroleum refining, and product marketing under the Petro-Canada brand. A member of Dow Jones Sustainability indexes, FTSE4Good and CDP, Suncor is working to responsibly develop petroleum resources while also growing a renewable energy portfolio. Suncor is listed on the UN Global Compact 100 stock index.
REVENUE
www.enbridge.com
AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
38,684,000,000
$
www.suncor.com
HEAD OFFICES MATTER // HEAD OFFICES
FAST FACTS 2018
COMPANY NAME
CITY, PROVINCE
INDUSTRY
REVENUE ($000S)
8 ENBRIDGE INC. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 46,378,000 11 SUNCOR ENERGY INC. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 38,684,000 12 IMPERIAL OIL LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 34,964,000 23 HUSKY ENERGY INC. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 22,252,000 25 CANADIAN NATURAL RESOURCES LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 21,027,000 26 CENOVUS ENERGY INC. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 20,844,000 35 PARKLAND FUEL CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 14,442,000 42 TRANSCANADA CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 13,679,000 71 ENCANA CORP.* CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 7,696,944 76 PEMBINA PIPELINE CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 7,351,000 77 CANADIAN PACIFIC RAILWAY LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA TRANSPORT 7,316,000 82 GIBSON ENERGY INC. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 6,846,589 94 NOVA CHEMICALS CORP.* CALGARY ALBERTA CHEMICAL 5,786,640 102 SHAW COMMUNICATIONS INC. CALGARY ALBERTA MEDIA 5,239,000 108 ATCO LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA UTILITY 4,888,000 112 WESTJET AIRLINES LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA TRANSPORT 4,733,462 115 KEYERA CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 4,465,211 119 ALTAGAS LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 4,256,700 140 CRESCENT POINT ENERGY CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 3,500,100 154 SEVEN GENERATIONS ENERGY LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 3,166,000 163 SECURE ENERGY SERVICES INC. CALGARY ALBERTA OIL FIELD 2,937,453 171 MEG ENERGY CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 2,732,704 178 CONOCOPHILLIPS CANADA RESOURCES CORP.* CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 2,623,104 179 INTER PIPELINE LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 2,592,900 194 ENMAX CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA UTILITY 2,378,800 200 CALFRAC WELL SERVICES LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA OIL FIELD 2,256,426 201 TRANSALTA CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA UTILITY 2,249,000 204 GRAHAM MANAGEMENT SERVICES LP CALGARY ALBERTA ENGINEER 2,216,995 214 TOURMALINE OIL CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 2,045,473 217 TERVITA CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA OIL FIELD 1,974,000 229 UNITED FARMERS OF ALBERTA CO-OPERATIVE LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA WHOLE 1,817,492 236 ENERFLEX LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA OIL FIELD 1,703,273 254 PRECISION DRILLING CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA OIL FIELD 1,541,189 255 VERMILION ENERGY INC. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 1,525,950 259 ARC RESOURCES LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 1,484,300 281 ENERPLUS CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 1,380,968 288 CERVUS EQUIPMENT CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA WHOLE 1,350,037 290 WHITECAP RESOURCES INC. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 1,315,690 293 CALGARY CO-OPERATIVE ASSOCIATION LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA FOOD SELL 1,302,039 297 CES ENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA OIL FIELD 1,271,051 299 MULLEN GROUP LTD. OKOTOKS ALBERTA OIL FIELD 1,260,798 318 ENSIGN ENERGY SERVICES INC. CALGARY ALBERTA OIL FIELD 1,156,357 325 BAYTEX ENERGY CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 1,115,116 327 JACOBS CANADA INC.* CALGARY ALBERTA ENGINEER 1,107,910 332 PAREX RESOURCES INC.* CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 1,078,522 334 ROCKY MOUNTAIN DEALERSHIPS INC. CALGARY ALBERTA WHOLE 1,051,088 349 ALTALINK, L.P. CALGARY ALBERTA UTILITY 968,814 351 STUART OLSON INC. CALGARY ALBERTA ENGINEER 966,408 357 PARAMOUNT RESOURCES LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 903,317 359 TRICAN WELL SERVICE LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA OIL FIELD 900,592 368 TOTAL ENERGY SERVICES INC. CALGARY ALBERTA OIL FIELD 851,809 372 SINOPEC DAYLIGHT ENERGY LTD.* CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 830,736 375 MNP LLP CALGARY ALBERTA ACCOUNT 817,000 382 GRAN TIERRA ENERGY INC.* CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 795,006 385 STEP ENERGY SERVICES LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA OIL FIELD 781,763 389 ATHABASCA OIL CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 759,091 398 BALANCING POOL CALGARY ALBERTA UTILITY 728,305 417 PEYTO EXPLORATION & DEVELOPMENT CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 632,284 418 BIRCHCLIFF ENERGY LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 631,566 422 BADGER DAYLIGHTING LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA ENGINEER 615,442 426 NUVISTA ENERGY LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 594,636 440 MURPHY OIL CO. LTD.* CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 568,296 449 BONAVISTA ENERGY CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 539,704 466 WEATHERFORD CANADA LTD.* CALGARY ALBERTA OIL FIELD 495,072 476 PENGROWTH ENERGY CORP. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 476,100 481 FLUOR CANADA LTD.* CALGARY ALBERTA ENGINEER 468,633 492 TORC OIL & GAS LTD. CALGARY ALBERTA ENERGY 443,104 498 BOARDWALK REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST CALGARY ALBERTA REIT 434,616
BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2019
43
HEAD OFFICES MATTER // HEAD OFFICES
Imperial Oil Ltd.
A
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
12
Husky Energy Inc.
H
fter more than a century, Imperial continues to be an industry leader in applying technology and innovation to responsibly develop Canada’s energy resources. As Canada’s largest petroleum refiner, a major producer of crude oil and natural gas, a key petrochemical producer and a leading fuels marketer from coast to coast, our company remains committed to the highest standards across all areas of our business.
Rich Kruger
Asim Ghosh
REVENUE
34,964,000,000
$
Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.
C
Tim McKay
www.imperialoil.ca Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
25
REVENUE
21,027,000,000
Parkland Fuel Corp.
22,252,000,000
$
Cenovus Energy Inc.
www.cnrl.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
35
REVENUE
14,442,000,000
Encana Corp.*
E
Alex Pourbaix
20,844,000,000
TransCanada Corp.
www.cenovus.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
T
Russell K. Girling
42
C Energy Corporation and its affiliates deliver the energy millions of people rely on every day to power their lives and fuel industry. Guided by core values of safety, responsibility, collaboration and integrity, our more than 7,000 people are committed to sustainably developing and operating pipelines, power generation and energy storage facilities across Canada, the United States and Mexico. We trade on the Toronto (TSX) and New York (NYSE) stock exchanges under the symbol TRP. Visit TCEnergy. com and connect with us on social media to learn more.
REVENUE
www.parkland.ca Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
71
13,679,000,000
$
Pembina Pipeline Corp.
P
www.transcanada.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
76
embina Pipeline Corporation is a reliable and growing energy transportation and service provider with an exciting future. Their integrated businesses and quality assets combine with prudent financial management to form the foundation of its strategic plan. They believe in carefully managed, responsible growth that exceeds the expectations of their stakeholders.
Douglas J. Suttles
Michael H. Dilger
REVENUE
7,696,944,000
$
Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd.
C
REVENUE
www.encana.com Rank: Transport Cdn (out of 800)
77
7,351,000,000
$
Gibson Energy Inc.
G
anadian Pacific is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to major ports on the west and east coasts. CP provides North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of CP. Keith Creel
A. Stewart Hanlon
REVENUE
7,316,000,000
44
26
enovus Energy Inc. is a Canadian integrated oil and natural gas company. It is committed to maximizing value by responsibly developing its assets in a safe, innovative and efficient way. Operations include oil sands projects in northern Alberta, which use specialized methods to drill and pump the oil to the surface, and established natural gas and oil production in Alberta and British Columbia. The company also has 50% ownership in two U.S. refineries. Cenovus shares trade under the symbol CVE, and are listed on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges.
$
ncana is a leading North American energy producer that is focused on growing its strong portfolio of diverse resource plays producing natural gas, oil and natural gas liquids. By partnering with employees, community organizations and other businesses, Encana contributes to the strength and sustainability of the communities where it operates.
$
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
C
arkland Fuel Corporation is one of North America’s fastest growing independent marketers of fuel and petroleum products. We deliver gasoline, diesel, propane, lubricants, heating oil and other high-quality petroleum products to motorists, businesses, households and wholesale customers in Canada and the United States. Our mission is to be the partner of choice for our customers and suppliers, and we do this by building lasting relationships through outstanding service, reliability, safety and professionalism.
$
www.huskyenergy.ca
REVENUE
P
Robert B Espey
23
usky Energy is one of Canada’s largest integrated energy companies. The company operates worldwide with upstream, midstream and downstream business segments. A combination of technological innovation, prudent investment, sound project management and responsible resource development allows Husky to deliver strong returns to shareholders. The company has a well-defined and growth-oriented business plan, a stable foundation.
REVENUE
anadian Natural is one of the largest independent crude oil and natural gas producers in the world. The company continually targets cost effective alternatives to develop our portfolio of projects and to deliver our defined growth plan, thereby creating value for shareholders. A balanced mix of natural gas, light oil, heavy oil, in situ oilsands production, oilsands mining and associated upgrading facilities, represents one of the strongest and most diverse asset portfolios of any energy producer in the world.
$
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
www.pembina.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
82
ibsons is a Canadian-based midstream energy company with operations in most of the key hydrocarbon-rich basins in North America. For over 60 years, Gibsons has delivered integrated midstream solutions to customers in the oil and gas industry. With headquarters in Calgary, Alberta, the Company’s operations include the storage, blending, processing, transportation, marketing and distribution of crude oil, natural gas liquids and refined products. The Company also provides oilfield waste and water management services.
REVENUE
www.cpr.ca
AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
6,846,589,000
$
www.gibsons.com
reimagine
Our vision is to the world of real estate. We’re here to create rewarding opportunities and amazing spaces where your people, investments and ideas can thrive. jll.ca
FIND INVEST DESIGN MANAGE REAL ESTATE
HEAD OFFICES MATTER // HEAD OFFICES
NOVA Chemicals Corp.*
Rank: Chemical Cdn (out of 800)
N
Todd D. Karran
94
5,786,640,000
$
ATCO Ltd.
www.novachem.com
W
108
REVENUE
5,239,000,000
WestJet Airlines Ltd.
T
Edward Sims
www.atco.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
115
REVENUE
4,465,211,000
4,733,462,000
AltaGas Ltd.
A
www.keyera.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
140
119
4,256,700,000
$
Seven Generations Energy Ltd.
S
www.altagas.ca Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
154
even Generations Energy is an independent, publicly-traded energy company that has grown to be one of the ten largest producers in Canada, with production in the range of 200,000 boe/d. The company is committed to responsible hydrocarbon development, with one of the lowest GHGe intensities in industry and a commitment to the community through safe, responsible, innovating and efficient development. Marty L. Proctor REVENUE
www.crescentpointenergy.com
Find & lease space jll.ca
46
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
Randy Crawford
Craig Bryksa REVENUE
3,500,100,000
www.westjet.com
ltaGas is an energy infrastructure company with a focus on regulated utilities and midstream. AltaGas creates value by growing and optimizing its energy infrastructure and providing our customers with premier, integrated solutions including global market access. For more information visit: www.altagas.ca.
rescent Point is a leading North American light and medium oil producer that seeks to maximize shareholder return through its total return strategy of long-term growth plus dividend income. The Calgarybased company is a conventional oil producer with high-quality assets across western Canada and the United States.
$
112
REVENUE
$
C
Rank: Transport Cdn (out of 800)
ogether with WestJet’s regional airline, WestJet Encore, we offer scheduled service to more than 100 destinations in North America, Central America, the Caribbean and Europe and to more than 175 destinations in over 20 countries through our airline partnerships. WestJet is proud to be recognized as Best Airline in Canada and Travellers’ Choice winner – North America for 2017 and 2018 in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards for Airlines.
$
eyera is one of the largest independent midstream operators in Canada. Its operating businesses provide a range of gathering, processing, fractionation, storage, transportation and marketing services to the oil and gas industry. Keyera’s natural gas liquid (NGL) and crude oil infrastructure includes pipelines, terminals, and processing and storage facilities in the Edmonton and Fort Saskatchewan area, a major North American NGL hub.
Crescent Point Energy Corp.
www.shaw.ca
REVENUE
4,888,000,000
K
haw is a diversified communications and media company, providing consumers with broadband cable television, High-Speed Internet, Home Phone, telecommunications services (through Shaw Business), satellite direct-to-home services (through Shaw Direct) and engaging programming content (through Shaw Media). Shaw serves 3.3 million customers, through a reliable and extensive fibre network. Shaw Media operates one of the largest conventional television networks in Canada, Global Television, and 19 specialty networks.
$
ith approximately 7,000 employees and assets of $22 billion, ATCO is a diversified global corporation delivering service excellence and innovative business solutions in Structures & Logistics (workforce housing, innovative modular facilities, construction, site support services, and logistics and operations management); Electricity (electricity generation, transmission, and distribution); Pipelines & Liquids (natural gas transmission, distribution and infrastructure development, energy storage, and industrial water solutions); and Retail Energy (electricity and natural gas retail sales). More information can be found at www.ATCO.com.
$
David G. Smith
Bradley S. Shaw
102
REVENUE
Rank: Utility Cdn (out of 800)
Keyera Corp.
Rank: Media Cdn (out of 800)
S
OVA Chemicals develops and manufactures chemicals, plastic resins and end-products that make everyday life healthier, easier and safer. Their employees work to ensure health, safety, security and environmental stewardship through our commitment to sustainability and Responsible Care¬ to ensure effective health, safety, security and environmental stewardship. NOVA Chemicals and its employees practise a culture of dignity, respect, openness and honesty with one another and in the communities where we live and work.
REVENUE
Nancy C. Southern
Shaw Communications Inc.
AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
3,166,000,000
$
www.7genergy.com
HEAD OFFICES MATTER // HEAD OFFICES
Secure Energy Services Inc.
S
Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
163
MEG Energy Corp.
M
ECURE is a leading North American energy services company providing safe and environmentally responsible fluids and solids solutions to upstream oil and natural gas companies operating in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin, North Dakota and Colorado.
Rene Amirault
2,937,453,000
$
ConocoPhillips Canada Resources Corp.*
C
EG Energy Corp. (MEG) is a Canadian oilsands company focused on sustainable in situ development and production in the southern Athabasca oil sands region of Alberta. MEG has acquired a large, high quality resource base - which along with a well-formulated strategic growth plan, positions them to be a strong oilsands player for many years to come. REVENUE
www.secure-energy.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
178
2,732,704,000
$
Inter Pipeline Ltd.
I
PC’s story in Canada began over 100 years ago and continues today with a team of nearly 2,750 full-time employees and contractors. Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, ConocoPhillips Canada is a top-three producer of natural gas in the country, with a world-class portfolio, including assets in Western Canada and the Arctic. With interests near Fort McMurray, Alberta, they are well positioned to become a leading in-situ producer in the oil sands.
REVENUE
2,623,104,000
$
ENMAX Corp.
E
Gianna Manes
Rank: Utility Cdn (out of 800)
194
TransAlta Corp.
T
179
nter Pipeline Ltd’s petroleum transportation, processing and storage assets play an important role in connecting energy and petrochemical producers to markets. As one of the largest energy infrastructure businesses in Canada, Inter Pipeline has a strong track record that has produced increasing and reliable monthly cash dividends for their shareholders. Christian P. Bayle
2,592,900,000
$
Calfrac Well Services Ltd.
C
www.interpipeline.com Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
200
alfrac is an innovative pressure pumping services provider focused on North America’s premier unconventional natural gas and light oil plays plus strategic international markets. With state-of-the-art equipment _ inhouse R&D, a diversified customer base, an expert team of employees, experienced management and record annual revenues in 2011, Calfrac is strongly positioned for continued growth. Jose Fernando Aguilar
www.enmax.com Rank: Utility Cdn (out of 800)
201
2,256,426,000
$
Graham Management Services LP
F
ransAlta is Canada’s largest publicly traded generator and marketer of electricity. With ongoing investment in renewable and cleaner power generation, TransAlta is producing more electricity with less environmental impact. As Canada’s largest wind producer and Alberta’s largest generator of renewable energy, TransAlta takes pride in reliably meeting our customers’ needs with environmentally responsible, low-cost power.
www.calfrac.com Rank: Engineer Cdn (out of 800)
204
rom the beginning, P. W. Graham & Sons Construction was built on values and a vision. With a steadfast belief in commitment, integrity and reliability, we’ve grown steadily to be one of the leading, fully-integrated construction companies in North America
Dawn L. Farrell
Grant Beck
REVENUE
2,249,000,000
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
REVENUE
REVENUE
2,378,800,000
www.megenergy.com
REVENUE
www.conocophillips.ca
NMAX, through its subsidiaries, makes, moves and sells electricity to residential, small business and large commercial customers and is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, with offices in Edmonton. ENMAX Power Corporation owns and operates transmission and distribution infrastructure in Calgary and ENMAX Energy Corporation owns diverse electricity generation facilities throughout the province. Since 2007, ENMAX has been named one of Alberta’s Top Employers.
$
$
171
William J. McCaffrey
REVENUE
Ken Lueers
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
REVENUE
www.transalta.com
2,216,995,000
$
www.grahambuilds.com
Invest in real estate jll.ca BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2019
47
HEAD OFFICES MATTER // HEAD OFFICES
Tourmaline Oil Corp.
T
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
214
Tervita Corp.
T
ourmaline is focused on long-term growth through an aggressive exploration, development, production and acquisition program in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin. Their business strategy is to maximize shareholder value by increasing reserves, production and cash flows through the exploitation and development of a continually growing asset base. Michael L. Rose
John Cooper
REVENUE
2,045,473,000
$
United Farmers of Alberta Co-operative Ltd.
www.tourmalineoil.com Rank: Whole Cdn (out of 800)
229
REVENUE
1,817,492,000
Precision Drilling Corp.
P
1,974,000,000
Enerflex Ltd.
E
Marc Rossiter
Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
254
1,703,273,000
Vermilion Energy Inc.
V
Anthony Marino
ARC Resources Ltd.
A
www.precisiondrilling.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
259
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
255
1,525,950,000
Enerplus Corp.
E
Ian C. Dundas
www.vermilionenergy.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
281
nerplus is a North American energy producer with a portfolio of high quality oil and gas assets in resource plays that offer significant organic growth potential. We are focused on creating value for our investors through the execution of a disciplined capital investment strategy that supports the successful development of our properties, and a monthly dividend to shareholders. We are a responsible developer of resources that strives to provide investors with a competitive return comprised of both growth and income.
REVENUE
www.arcresources.com
Design & deliver projects jll.ca
48
www.enerflex.com
ermilion is an international energy producer that seeks to create value through the acquisition, exploration, development and optimization of producing properties in North America, Europe and Australia. Our business model emphasizes organic production growth augmented with value-adding acquisitions, along with providing reliable and increasing dividends to investors. Vermilion trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol VET.
$
Myron M. Stadnyk REVENUE
1,484,300,000
236
REVENUE
RC is one of Canada’s leading conventional oil and gas companies. Their operations are focused in five core areas across Western Canada, and provide them with an extensive resource base of high quality oil and natural gas development opportunities.
$
Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
nerflex is a single source supplier of natural gas compression, oil and gas processing, refrigeration systems, and electric power generation equipment _ plus related engineering and mechanical service expertise. The Company’s broad in-house resources provide the capability to engineer, design, manufacture, construct, commission, and service hydrocarbon handling systems. Headquartered in Calgary, Canada, Enerflex has over 50 locations and 2,400 employees worldwide.
$
Kevin A. Neveu REVENUE
1,541,189,000
http://www.tervita.com/
REVENUE
www.ufa.com
recision Drilling Corporation is Canada’s largest oilfield services company, one of the largest in the United States, with a growing international presence. Precision provides high performance contract drilling, directional drilling, completions and production, and strategic support services to customers. The company’s focus on safety, efficiency and the best equipment delivers value for Precision’s customers and investors.
$
ervita is a leading waste management and environmental solutions provider offering waste processing, treating, recycling, and disposal services to customers in the oil and gas, mining, and industrial sectors. We serve our customers onsite and through a network of facilities in Canada and the United States. For 40 years, Tervita has been focused on delivering safe and efficient solutions through all phases of a project while minimizing impact, maximizing returns™.
$
FA Co-operative Limited (UFA) is an Alberta-based agricultural cooperative providing products, services and agricultural solutions to farmers, ranchers, members and commercial customers. Founded in 1909, UFA’s extensive network includes 35 Farm & Ranch Supply stores and more than 110 bulk fuel and cardlock Petroleum locations in rural Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. For more information about UFA, visit UFA.com or for more information about UFA locations, visit m.UFA.com.
$
217
REVENUE
U Carol Kitchen
Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
1,380,968,000
$
www.enerplus.com
HEAD OFFICES MATTER // HEAD OFFICES
Cervus Equipment Corp.
C
Graham Drake
Rank: Whole Cdn (out of 800)
288
ervus is in the business of acquiring and operating authorized agricultural, industrial and commercial equipment dealerships by facilitating dealership succession. The company proudly owns the largest group of John Deere agricultural equipment dealers in Canada and has a significant presence in the commercial and industrial and equipment sectors through their Bobcat, JCB, JLG, AR Williams and Peterbilt dealerships across the west.
REVENUE
1,350,037,000
$
Calgary Co-operative Association Ltd.
W
www.cervuscorp.com Rank: Food Sell Cdn (out of 800)
293
REVENUE
1,302,039,000
Mullen Group Ltd.
M
Grant B. Fagerheim
1,315,690,000
$
CES Energy Solutions Corp.
Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
Thomas J. Simons
297
ES is a North American leading provider of technically advanced consumable chemical solutions throughout the life-cycle of the oilfield. CES has evolved into an industry leader with operations in all major oil and gas basins in the United States and Canada through a combination of organic growth initiatives and strategic acquisitions since its initial public offering in March 2006. CES trades on the TSX under the symbol CEU and is quoted in the United States on the OTC Nasdaq International under the symbol CESDF.
REVENUE
www.calgarycoop.com Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
299
1,271,051,000
$
Ensign Energy Services Inc.
E
www.cesenergysolutions.com Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
318
nsign Energy Services Inc. is an industry leader in the delivery of oilfield services in Canada, the United States and internationally. They are one of the world’s leading land-based drilling and well servicing contractors serving crude oil, natural gas and geothermal operators. Additional services include directional drilling, rental equipment, managed pressure drilling, oilfield manufacturing and production flow back units.
Murray K. Mullen
Robert H. Geddes
REVENUE
1,260,798,000
$
Baytex Energy Corp.
B
REVENUE
www.mullen-group.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
325
1,156,357,000
$
Jacobs Canada Inc.*
J
aytex Energy Corp. is an oil and gas corporation based in Calgary, Alberta. The company is engaged in the acquisition, development and production of crude oil and natural gas in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin and in the Eagle Ford in the United States. Approximately 80% of Baytex’s production is weighted toward crude oil and natural gas liquids. Baytex’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol BTE.
REVENUE
1,115,116,000
$
www.wcap.ca
C
ullen Group Ltd. (Mullen or the Mullen Group) is a publicly-traded company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol MTL. Mullen Group is headquartered in Okotoks, Alberta operating across Canada and the United States.
Edward D. LaFehr
290
hitecap Resources Inc. is an oil-weighted growth company that pays a sustainable monthly cash dividend to its shareholders. Our company is focused on profitable per share growth from our existing assets enhanced by opportunistic and accretive acquisitions with future growth potential. Whitecap’s common shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol WCP.
wned by our members, Calgary Co-op is one of the largest retail cooperatives in North America. With over 440,000 members, 3,900 employees, assets of $519 million and annual sales over $1.2 billion, Calgary Co-op is committed to lead in food; petroleum; home health care; pharmacy; wine, spirits, beer and travel. In 2014, through the Co-op Community Foundation and community initiatives, Calgary Co-op invested over $4.2 million into local youth programs, education, environment, preventative health and poverty relief. For more information please visit www.calgarycoop.com
$
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
REVENUE
O Ken Keelor
Whitecap Resources Inc.
Chip Mitchell
www.ensignenergy.com Rank: Engineer Cdn (out of 800)
327
acobs Engineering Group Inc. is one of the world’s largest and most diverse providers of technical, professional and construction services, including all aspects of architecture, engineering and construction, operations and maintenance, as well as scientific and specialty consulting. They serve a broad range of companies and organizations, including industrial, commercial, and government clients across multiple markets and geographies.
REVENUE
www.baytexenergy.com
1,107,910,000
$
www.jacobs.com
Manage property & portfolio jll.ca BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2019
49
HEAD OFFICES MATTER // HEAD OFFICES
Parex Resources Inc.*
P
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
332
Rocky Mountain Dealerships Inc.
R
arex Resources Inc. is a Colombian focused, international oil and gas exploration and development company, headquartered in Calgary, Canada and publically listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:PXT). The Company holds interest in several blocks in the prolific Llanos Basin and the Magdalena Basins of Colombia. Dave Taylor
1,078,522,000
$
AltaLink, L.P.
REVENUE
www.parexresources.com Rank: Utility Cdn (out of 800)
A
349
1,051,088,000
$
Stuart Olson Inc.
968,814,000
$
Paramount Resources Ltd.
P
www.altalink.ca Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
357
James H. T. Riddell
David J. LeMay
351
$1 billion organization, Stuart Olson has been empowering Canadian business since 1911. Their rich history demonstrates their reach and diversity as a full service construction and industrial services company that provides comprehensive and innovative solutions to Canada’s public, private and industrial infrastructure markets. With clients in commercial development, oil and gas, mining, health care and education, to name just a few, the 4,000 dedicated people of Stuart Olson have a positive and lasting impact on businesses and communities across Canada.
966,408,000
$
Trican Well Service Ltd.
T
www.stuartolson.com Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
359
rican is an oilfield service company that provides specialized service and technology to customers involved in the exploration and development of oil & natural gas reserves. Now marking 20 years, Trican’s services are used throughout a well’s life cycle and include multistage fracturing, coiled tubing, cementing, reservoir characterization, acidizing & production enhancement, and industrial & pipeline services. Dale M. Dusterhoft
REVENUE
903,317,000
$
Total Energy Services Inc.
T
REVENUE
www.paramountres.com Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
368
900,592,000
$
Sinopec Daylight Energy Ltd.*
S
otal Energy Services Inc. (Total) is a growth oriented energy services company based in Calgary. Through various operating subsidiaries and indigenous partnerships, Total is involved in four businesses: contract drilling services (Savanna Drilling), well servicing (Savanna Well Servicing), rentals and transportation services (Total Oilfield Rentals) and compression and process equipment manufacturing and service (Bidell Gas Compression and Spectrum Process Services).
REVENUE
851,809,000
Brian Tuffs
www.trican.ca Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
372
inopec Canada is a diversified unconventional oil and natural gas company, focused on developing our asset base in Alberta and north east British Columbia. The Company has a balanced mix of crude oil, liquidsrich natural gas and resource play natural gas and is a 9.03% partner in the Syncrude Oilsands Joint Venture. Sinopec Canada is a business unit of Sinopec International Petroleum Exploration and Production Corporation (SIPC) and is indirectly owned by China Petrochemical Corporation (Sinopec Group), one of the world’s largest enterprises.
REVENUE
www.totalenergy.ca
830,736,000
$
Wherever business takes you.
50
Rank: Engineer Cdn (out of 800)
REVENUE
aramount Resources Ltd. is an independent, intermediate Canadian energy company. The Company explores for, develops, produces, and markets natural gas, crude oil, and natural gas liquids in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories. The Company also holds securities of public and private entities. The Company holds its heavy oil assets in a 100% owned subsidiary, Cavalier Resources Inc..
$
www.rockymtn.com
A
ltaLink is Alberta’s largest regulated electricity transmission company. Our transmission system is the essential link that connects homes, farms, businesses and industries to the electricity generated across Alberta. Our more than 800 employees are committed to maintaining top quality and reliable electrical transmission services for Albertans, and to providing innovative technical and financial solutions to enable Alberta’s growing electricity market. On December 1, 2014, Berkshire Hathaway Energy purchased 100 per cent of the equity ownership in AltaLink L.P. (AltaLink)
REVENUE
Daniel Halyk
334
ocky Mountain Dealerships Inc. is one of Canada’s largest agriculture and industrial equipment dealership networks with branches located throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Through its network of Rocky Mountain Equipment locations, Rocky sells, rents, and leases new and used agriculture and industrial equipment and offers product support and finance to its customers.
Garrett A. W. Ganden
REVENUE
Scott W. Thon
Rank: Whole Cdn (out of 800)
AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
www.sinopecdaylight.com
HEAD OFFICES MATTER // HEAD OFFICES
MNP LLP
M
Rank: Account Cdn (out of 800)
375
Gran Tierra Energy Inc.*
G
NP is a leading national accounting, tax and business consulting firm in Canada. With more than 60 offices strategically located in urban and rural centres throughout Canada and through partner-led engagements, MNP provides a collaborative, cost-effective approach to doing business and personalized strategies to help organizations succeed across the country and around the world. Jason Tuffs
Gary S. Guidry
REVENUE
817,000,000
$
STEP Energy Services Ltd.
S
Regan Davis
www.mnp.ca Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
385
REVENUE
781,763,000
Balancing Pool
T
795,006,000
$
Athabasca Oil Corp.
A
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
389
Rob Broen, P.Eng. REVENUE
http://www.stepenergyservices.com/
Rank: Utility Cdn (out of 800)
398
759,091,000
$
Peyto Exploration & Development Corp.
P
www.atha.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
417
eyto Exploration & Development Corp. is a natural gas weighted explorer and producer that is committed to building value through the exploration and development of high quality gas properties.
Benjamin Chappell
Darren Gee
REVENUE
728,305,000
$
Birchcliff Energy Ltd.
B
REVENUE
www.balancingpool.ca Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
418
632,284,000
$
Badger Daylighting Ltd.
B
irchcliff Energy Ltd. is a focussed, low cost intermediate oil and gas upstream producer with operations concentrated in the Peace River Arch area of Alberta, where the company primarily targets the prolific Montney/Doig Resource Play. Birchcliff owns and controls its infrastructure, has a large land base and is committed to an environmentally sustainable future. Birchcliff’s production is 78% natural gas. Birchcliff’s common shares are listed on the TSX under the symbol BIR.
REVENUE
631,566,000
$
www.grantierra.com
thabasca Oil Corporation is a Canadian energy company with a focused strategy on the development of thermal and light oil assets. Situated in Alberta’s Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin, the Company has amassed a significant land base of extensive, high quality resources. Athabasca’s common shares trade on the TSX under the symbol “ATH”.
he Balancing Pool believes strongly in the fair, efficient, and openly competitive electricity market in Alberta and we are committed to continue to manage the remaining PPAs in a commercial manner. As with any commercial entity, our strategies must be regularly evaluated in response to changing market conditions and we must maintain the operational flexibility to adapt quickly and efficiently.
A. Jeffery Tonken
382
ran Tierra Energy Inc. is an international oil and gas exploration and production company headquartered in Calgary incorporated and traded in the United States and operating in South America. The company currently holds interests in producing and prospective properties in Colombia, Argentina, Peru and Brazil. Gran Tierra’s strategy is focused on establishing a portfolio of drilling opportunities to exploit undeveloped reserves to grow production, as well as undertaking exploration drilling to grow future reserves.
REVENUE
TEP Energy Services is a technically focused, oilfield service company providing specialized coiled tubing and associated pumping and support equipment to service the deep horizontal well market in Western Canada, south Texas and Louisiana. In response to client needs, STEP added hydraulic fracturing services to its Canadian asset base. STEP has built its team of fracturing professionals and business strategy with the same attention to execution, preventative maintenance.
$
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
www.peyto.com Rank: Engineer Cdn (out of 800)
422
adger Daylighting Ltd. (Badger) is North America’s leading provider of non-destructive hydrovac excavation services. Badger traditionally works for contractors, engineers, and facility owners in the oil and gas, power, municipal, transportation, industrial, and commercial construction industries. Paul Vanderberg REVENUE
www.birchcliffenergy.com
615,442,000
$
www.badgerinc.com
Finding the right answer starts here.
BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2019
51
HEAD OFFICES MATTER // HEAD OFFICES
NuVista Energy Ltd.
N
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
426
Murphy Oil Co. Ltd.*
M
uVista is an condensate and natural gas company actively engaged in the exploration for, and the development and production of, condensate and natural gas reserves in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin. Our primary focus is on the scalable and repeatable condensaterich Montney formation in the Alberta Deep Basin (Wapiti Montney). Jason K. Smith
594,636,000
$
Bonavista Energy Corp.
B
REVENUE
www.nuvistaenergy.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
449
568,296,000
$
Weatherford Canada Ltd.*
W
onavista Energy Corporation is a Calgary-based oil and gas company with a proven track record of value creation. Since inception in 1997, Bonavista has consistently added shareholder value by pursuing a disciplined and effective strategy that focuses on long term profitability. Today, Bonavista is one of Canada’s largest dividend paying energy companies, with a market capitalization of approximately $3.1 billion CDN.
Rank: Oil Field Cdn (out of 800)
466
David J Butter
539,704,000
$
Pengrowth Energy Corp.
REVENUE
www.bonavistaenergy.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
P
476
engrowth Energy Corporation is a Canadian intermediate energy company focused on the sustainable development and production of oil and natural gas in Western Canada from its Lindbergh thermal oil property and its Groundbirch Montney gas property. The Company is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and has been operating in the Western Canadian Sedimentary basin for over 28 years. The Company’s shares trade on both the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol PGF and on the OTCQX Best Market under the symbol PGHEF.
REVENUE
476,100,000
$
TORC Oil & Gas Ltd.
T
495,072,000
$
Fluor Canada Ltd.*
F
Rank: Engineer Cdn (out of 800)
481
Simon Nottingham REVENUE
www.pengrowth.com Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
492
468,633,000
$
Boardwalk Real Estate Investment Trust
B
Brett Herman
Sam Kolias
REVENUE
443,104,000
www.weatherford.com
luor is an industry leader in engineering, procurement, fabrication and construction (EPFC). With more than a century of global experience and 65 years in Canada, Fluor is the industry benchmark in building the most challenging and complex capital projects safely, on schedule and budget while building rewarding careers and stronger communities.
ORC Oil & Gas Ltd. is a Calgary based company with a sustainable, light oil-weighted growth platform.The Company has low-decline, light oil operations in southeast Saskatchewan, low-risk Cardium development in central Alberta, and exposure to the light oil Torquay/Three Forks resource play in southeast Saskatchewan.
www.fluor.com/canada Rank: REIT Cdn (out of 800)
498
oardwalk REIT strives to be Canada’s friendliest landlord and currently owns and operates more than 220 communities with over 33,000 residential units totaling approximately 29 million net rentable square feet. Boardwalk’s principal objectives are to provide its Residents with the best quality communities and superior customer service, while providing Unitholders with sustainable monthly cash distributions, and increase the value of its trust units through selective acquisitions, dispositions, development, and effective management of its residential multi-family communities.
REVENUE
torcoil.com
434,616,000
$
Business solutions that work for you.
52
www.murphyoilcorp.com
eatherford delivers innovative technologies and services designed to meet the world’s current and future energy needs in a safe, ethical, and sustainable manner. Grounded by our core values and inspired by our world-class people, we are committed to being a trusted business partner to those we serve.
Jason E. Skehar REVENUE
$
440
urphy Oil Corporation is a global independent oil and natural gas exploration and production company. Murphy’s diverse resource base includes production from North America onshore plays in the Eagle Ford Shale, Kaybob Duvernay, Tupper Montney and Placid Montney, as well as offshore Gulf of Mexico, Canada and Southeast Asia. Additional information is available on the company’s website at www.murphyoilcorp.com.
Jonathan A. Wright REVENUE
Randy Steele
Rank: Energy Cdn (out of 800)
AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
www.boardwalkreit.com
A PICTURE SAYS A THOUSAND WORDS // ARTS & CULTURE
A PICTURE SAYS A THOUSAND WORDS ARTS ADVOCATES PRAISE CALGARY’S INTEREST AND INVESTMENT IN DIVERSIFYING BY JAMIE ZACHARY
M
urals, revamped spaces and even a newly-branded arts university – Calgary’s bustling arts scene represents a positive step forward for the city as it looks for better ways to connect communities while also attempting to reshape its image, say industry advocates. “We are an arts city,” says Calgary Arts Development president and CEO Patti Pon, whose organization allocated municipal funding to 159 organizations in 2018 – resulting in more than 24,000 events that attracted 2.3 million attendees. “Ninety-two per cent of Calgarians have told us they engage with the arts, largely because we have tremendous work here undertaken by local artists and arts organizations.” Pon adds that interest – and investment – in the arts makes sense in a city that is not only one of the youngest
and most ethnically diverse in Canada, but also one going through an economic metamorphosis due to downturns in the energy sector. “We are undergoing a systemic transformation, not only from an economic perspective, but also in terms of our identity. We’re maturing as a city,” she says, noting the arts sector generated $125 million in direct economic output in 2018. Peter Schryvers, director of public art for the Beltline Neighbourhoods Association, says art can also help connect communities within a city that, by last count, was set to surpass 1.3 million. He points to the two-year-old Beltline Urban Murals Project (BUMP) as an example of art sparking conversations and making people proud of where they live.
ABOVE: CONTEMPORARY CALGARY HAS ALREADY STARTED RENOVATIONS THAT WILL TRANSFORM THE FORMER PLANETARIUM BUILDING INTO A WORLD-CLASS DESTINATION FOR MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY ART. PHOTO SOURCE: CONTEMPORARY CALGARY
BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2019
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A B STRACT ARTIST ZOH A R WA LLAC H CA PTURES N AT URE ON CA NVAS R E N N AY C R A AT S
T
here’s no fighting destiny. Zohar Wallach would know. For years she insisted she wasn’t an artist but rather just a person who liked to create. After all, Wallach comes from a long line of artists who never pursued their art professionally. Growing up in Israel, her family encouraged her creative outlet but urged her to find a career in a more conventional place. “My grandfather used to joke that it’s good to be artistic, but you need to be rational as well, so I always knew I would have to be practical with my life choices and study an occupation that could support me as well as feed my brain. Art simply wasn’t an option,” Zohar Wallach says. Even as she sold her first piece at 15 years old, she didn’t consider herself a professional or take it too seriously. She went to university, became a graphologist, a handwriting analysis expert who specialized in recruiting, and created art on the side. It was only once she and her husband, David, moved their three small children to Canada in 1998 that the artist inside her started banging insistently at the door. As she explored their new surroundings, Wallach was spellbound. The colours and landscapes were dramatic and strong, and they compelled her to create. “It blew my mind. I was absolutely enchanted by the richness of nature, and it opened something up in me,” she says. “I never chose to be an artist, but art definitely won over.”
Her early art was in a naive style, created with traditional oils, pastels and acrylic paint. Then almost a dozen years ago, Wallach developed a sensitivity to these materials and her doctor urged her to stop painting in order to heal. While she was frustrated, she couldn’t continue with the painful rashes and unbearable sickness. She gave up her art for six months and recovered. But the artist inside wouldn’t let her go. “I really missed it. So, I thought, what can I do to improve it? How can I change? How can I create but use an organic-natural form that will be safe for me as well as for the environment? And then slowly I started developing a new method working with dry pigments and water-based paint, water, sand and house primer, and it’s still my practice today,” she says. Her naive style gave way to an abstract expression of what Wallach saw around her in nature, and the new mixed media allowed her to create spectacular canvases. She starts with little more than a colour palette and lets the rest evolve, layer by layer. She combines her pigments and other materials and begins layering them onto the surface with her hands. The pigment colours are rich and beautiful, infusing depth in her paintings. Just before each layer of substance dries, she distresses it and peels deposits away only to reapply another layer and another pigment. For an average of two months, Wallach works with her pieces to uncover the natural elements that slowly form within the layers.
“I never know how it’s going to turn out. As soon as the layers start to form, after several weeks, only then can I start seeing the structure unfolding. It tells me where to go and guides me,” she says.
just like that Zohar Wallach became a renowned international professional artist, and she hasn’t looked back.
Her original pieces have guided her to produce award-winning art, most recently ATIM’s Top 60 Masters of Contemporary Art Award in 2018, presented at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York, and the Award of Excellence from Artavita, Santa Barbara, in 2017, 2018 and 2019. While the accolades are gratifying, Wallach is more concerned with producing art than chasing recognition.
museums in New York, Italy, Singapore, South Korea and Monaco and whether it’s a pop-up exhibition in Calgary, the art expo in San Diego or a show in Florence, Wallach is excited to showcase her talent worldwide. Her artwork is also featured in corporate boardrooms and lobbies as well as proudly displayed in great rooms and dens of private collections.
“I’m not a typical artist,” she says. “I don’t care so much about awards. I care about my work, and I work because I enjoy it. I always prefer my art to shine and become the centrepiece.” Her art shines so brightly that her first Instagram post showcasing her new abstract technique got the immediate attention of a New York art agent, and
The attention is well deserved. Each unique piece engages viewers, drawing them into the details and sense of movement within the nature-inspired canvases. Her work can be found in galleries and
Zohar Wallach’s immersive artwork embodies an energy and richness, a reverence for nature and elemental forces, that mirrors the artist herself. Her spirit is infused in the pigments and paints on every original piece and she passes along her passion for art and nature with every painting she sells. Large or small works, commissioned or spontaneously created, Zohar Wallach’s beautiful abstract pieces are increasingly becoming the pride of any collection.
www.zoharwallach.com 403-813-3076
A PICTURE SAYS A THOUSAND WORDS // ARTS & CULTURE
“We believe art has a powerful role in creating that connection, whether that is by telling a story or by letting the public interpret their own story from a more abstract or surreal piece,” he says. Schryvers helped launch BUMP in 2017 to showcase art, promote tourism and build community spirit in Calgary. The initiative is responsible for 15 murals in the beltline so far, with 15 more coming this year. “The arts community has also been very supportive,” says Schryvers. “We are lucky to have so many artists in this city we can draw from for the project.” Calgary’s arts scene received another boost earlier this year when the Alberta College of Art + Design became Alberta University of the Arts – and with it, set the stage for future growth as the only post-secondary institution in the province devoted exclusively to art, craft and design education.
“THERE’S BEEN A RECOGNITION, AT THE LOCAL LEVEL AT LEAST, THAT THE WAY BUSINESS HAS BEEN DONE FOR THE PAST 20 OR 30 YEARS IS NOT COMING BACK. AND BY REALIZING THAT THE PARADIGM IS SHIFTING, CALGARY IS LOOKING MORE AT INDUSTRIES OF THE FUTURE. WE ARE REALIZING WE NEED TO BETTER INVEST IN THE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES.”
“It’s an impetus for our continued evolution, as well as reaffirmation of work we’ve already been doing for a couple decades – that is, being a degree-granting institution,” says AUArts president and CEO Daniel Doz of changes at the school which just wrapped up its 93rd year. “And it equalized the field, especially since we were the only stand-alone arts school in Canada that was not a university.” Being situated within a city going through a modern-day arts revival is not lost on Doz, either. “There’s been a recognition, at the local level at least, that the way business has been done for the past 20 or 30 years is not coming back. And by realizing that the paradigm is shifting, Calgary is looking more at industries of the future. We are realizing we need to better invest in the creative industries.” From the classroom to the gallery, Contemporary Calgary is giving a major facelift to an iconic landmark in the city’s West Village. The arts organization began renovations this summer on the former planetarium building at Seventh Avenue and 11th Street SW with the goal to turn it into a world-class destination for modern and contemporary art. The first two phases are already complete, including renovations that will bring the building up to current codes, as well as transform the former Creative Kids Museum ABOVE: ALBERTA UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS PRESIDENT AND CEO DANIEL DOZ. PHOTO SOURCE: ALBERTA UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS
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AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
It’s not just what you’ll see. It’s how you’ll feel. Welcome to Calgary’s art museum. At Glenbow, we are committed to being approachable, inclusive, and authentic. We know that memorable encounters with art, culture and history can change lives and inspire amazing things. That’s why we’re providing vibrant art experiences that invite new perspectives, spark creativity and move our community forward.
ArtBringsUsTogetherAtGlenbow glenbow.org
A PICTURE SAYS A THOUSAND WORDS // ARTS & CULTURE
into an exhibition area. Subsequent phases will convert the larger area into additional gallery space, as well as an education centre for public programming and a community hub. The final phase involves the construction of a class-A space adjacent to the planetarium site that will include 3,000- and 10,000-square-foot galleries and a galleria public area exposing views of the Bow River. “Calgary is the only North American city with a population of our scale without a dedicated, major gallery of modern and contemporary art,” says Contemporary Calgary chief executive officer David Leinster. “The new gallery will become a catalyst for the West Village, a source of pride for the community and a destination for all Calgarians and visitors. It will support creative and cultural activities and help attract people and their supporters to our city.” Leinster adds large art galleries and museums further drive an “attachment to place” that has been found to be a clear driver of economic growth. “In today’s challenging economic climate, communities are seeking new ways to attract and retain people, develop prosperous economies, add intellectual capital and create jobs – and arts are often an underrated sector that contributes enormously to these matters,” he says. ABOVE: THE BELTLINE URBAN MURALS PROJECT HAS INSTALLED 15 MURALS SO FAR, WITH PLANS FOR ANOTHER 15 THIS YEAR. PHOTO SOURCE: BELTLINE NEIGHBOURHOODS ASSOCIATION
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AUGUST 2019 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM
The Calgary Chamber is the voice of the business community. We double down on commerce and work with businesses to create catalysts for growth.
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For Calgarians, August is the month of rejuvenation after a busy spring and Stampede. We also love to take the time to visit some of Alberta’s incredible mountains and lakes and look ahead to coming back to the office in the fall, ready to hit the ground running. For many of us, this includes beginning our 2020 business planning. In this month’s issue of Business in Calgary, the editors focused on the many head offices we have in our city. As technology advances however, the options for how a company builds its workforce is expanding. More satellite and home offices are being opened and businesses are utilizing artificial intelligence to streamline some services that may have previously been staffed from a physical office space. These changes are just beginning. Advances in communications technology, AI and cloud-based systems mean it is just as easy to work collaboratively with someone on the other side of the world as it is with someone in the cubicle next to us. As a business community, we need to continue to prepare for changes in our workforce model in the future. The relationship between business, education and government is an essential one to nurture as we work to ensure the skills that are needed in the business world are being taught to our next generation of workers. This is one of the key pillars in our soon-to-be-released federal election platform, which has been developed jointly between the Calgary and Edmonton Chambers of Commerce. Through many hours of conversations with businesses in both cities, we have built five key pillars that we are advocating to be adopted by all federal parties. These pillars are not partisan. They are basic foundations that must be listened to and adopted by the next federal government if we want Canada to be a competitive player in the global market. But it is not just the federal government that needs to engage more comprehensively with the business community. All levels of government must set aside the divisive politics that have been monopolizing conversations and instead begin to work together to prioritize strong policies and legislation that supports Canada’s economic, environmental and social future. An example of how the Calgary Chamber is working to endorse rational conversations is our nationwide collaborative “Canadians for Natural Resources” campaign. Launched in June, this campaign has now reached hundreds of thousands of viewers and is sparking many discussions about how we need to have more “and” conversations. For this campaign, the “and” conversation is about how Canada can be a global leader in both energy production and addressing climate change. Recently, I travelled to Rio de Janeiro to speak at the World Chambers Congress about this topic. The feedback I received was overwhelmingly positive. This isn’t a problem just Canada is facing. Countries and communities around the world are currently working to balance their own relationships between the energy economy and the environment. It’s not a problem that has a quick or easy solution, but by getting informed and making long-term plans, it is one that Canada can be a leader in. For more information about this campaign and our upcoming federal election platform, make sure you sign up to our e-newsletters and read our regular blog post at www.calgarychamber.com.
Sandip Lalli President & CEO Calgary Chamber
Canadians for Natural Resources
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ur natural resource economy impacts Canadian families from coast to coast and has positively impacted Canadians for generations. Whether it is oil and gas, hydro, nuclear, wind or solar, our natural resources are a foundational piece of Canada’s economic fabric. Missing, however, is a full appreciation and understanding of the vital, and direct, relationship between Canadian energy and the well-being of households and communities, not only in Canada but around the world. For too long, we have made the distinction that the energy sector is split between oil and gas and renewable energy. Across the country, all forms of energy generate direct and indirect wealth and are at the forefront of innovation that allows us to adopt as well as create new and increasingly efficient technologies. These technologies, in turn, allow Canada to remain a leader in responsibly-produced energy that is seeing an increase in demand worldwide. We currently have the opportunity to be a world leader in energy innovation and natural resource development. Yet, we are struggling to realize our potential. We continue to have divisive conversations about our future, which in trying economic times, does not move anyone forward. Instead, we must start having “and” conversations that bring together business leaders and citizens alike. Conversations
that look at the Canadian energy industry and the potential it holds to fight climate change locally and globally. That’s why, starting at the end of May and leading up to the federal election in the fall, the Canadian Global Cities Council (CGCC), a group consisting of Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade from eight of the largest urban centres across the country, are working together to bring a pan-Canadian focus to Canada’s energy industry. The Canadians for Natural Resources campaign has one goal: to be a unifying voice in all regions of Canada, highlighting that we can be world leaders in both resource extraction and renewable energy. Canada’s natural resource economy impacts Canadian families from coast to coast by providing more than 1.82 million direct and indirect jobs. However, in many cases, we have become our own worst enemy in speaking about the benefits that the energy industry currently brings to our economy and the potential it offers for a clean energy future around the world. Whether it is advocating against policy that creates barriers to growth or seeking resolution to cross-provincial tensions delaying the construction of major energy projects, as Canadians we haven’t done a good job speaking to one another about the vital relationship we have with energy. Our
natural resources between provinces strengthens Canada’s claim to be a global leader in all sources of renewable and traditional energy. It gives us a unique opportunity to look holistically at our entire energy sector and devote the country’s efforts in developing an increasingly diverse energy mix. While this would clearly provide positive economic benefits, it also presents an opportunity to meaningfully reduce global emissions. With proper regulations and infrastructure and a united voice, Canada can lead the responsible development of energy to meet growing global demand, while continuing to develop and adopt new and innovative technologies to further reduce GHG emissions at home and abroad. Industry groups representing businesses operating in Canada’s natural resource sector have shared similar ideas and are unified in promoting our country’s economic prosperity.
inability to have frank and direct “kitchen table” discussions about our energy future puts jobs and healthy communities at risk. The goal of our campaign is to change that. We are aiming to provide information to Canadians so that we can all have informed conversations about our energy industry. The approval of the Trans Mountain expansion project is a step in the right direction in achieving both. Canada’s natural resources sector already holds itself to some of the highest standards in the world when it comes to environmental stewardship. This has resulted in continued reduction of emissions intensity as resources are extracted in Canada. By exporting Canadian technology and natural resources globally, we can offset higher-emitting fuel sources such as coal and increase the impact we have on global GHG emissions. However, effective legislation and approval of projects that increase access to global markets must remain a priority for all levels of government. But this conversation with Canadians goes well beyond the importance of our natural resource economy. It also speaks directly to how this country’s diverse energy mix and its technological and environmental prowess can be a global game-changer. Canada is quickly becoming a world leader in wind, solar and hydro energy. Harnessing the existing markets and the variance in inherent resource-based capacities across the country will allow Canada to maintain its role as a global leader in the emerging renewable energy sector. Diversity in
This balance of getting world prices for our natural resources and a concrete path towards a lower-carbon economy domestically is what we want all Canadians to vote for when this campaign concludes. This crucial “and” conversation will not only help the Canadian economy grow, but also amplify the impact that responsibly-produced Canadian energy can have on reducing GHG emissions globally.
Small Business Awards Gala
E
very year, the Calgary Chamber celebrates small businesses in Calgary at the Small Business Calgary Awards Show and Gala. This year, eight awards will be given out, covering a variety of categories: •Small Business of the Year •BDC Emerging Growth Award
ners include: Rosso, Spolumbo’s, Fiasco Gelato and Tool Shed Brewing. The Small Business Awards Gala is a chance for local entrepreneurs and small business owners to take a night off, connect with other business owners and reflect on the hard work they have done.
•Social Entrepreneurship Award
Join us on Oct. 25, 2019 as we roll out the red carpet and highlight the local small businesses that make a BIG contribution to Calgary’s economy. The celebration kicks off at 5:30 p.m. Purchase your tickets at sbwyyc.com.
•KPMG People’s Choice Award
October 25, 2019, 5:30 p.m., The Westin Calgary
•Better Business Bureau Ethical Business Award
Thank you to our award partners:
•TD Inclusion and Diversity Award
BDC, Servus, CPA, BBB, KPMG, TD, Pride In Business, About Staffing.
•Innovation Award •Company Culture Award
These awards elevate businesses in Calgary and create the household brands we know and love. Previous win-
Photo by Riverwood Photography
Leaving a Legacy with Legacy Kitchens by Rennay Craats
Legacy Kitchens | 35 Years
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Photo by Riverwood Photography
W
hen John Buller moved to Calgary in 1977, he was excited to be part of this emerging economic centre. His brother’s Winnipegbased company Kitchen Craft was expanding west and John was overseeing the new operation. “We opened a store called the Kitchen Craft Connection in Calgary in 1978. We developed a concept of retail kitchen stores, which was sort of an unknown thing in Canada in those days,” says John Buller, past CEO and board chair for Legacy Kitchens. Kitchen Craft Connection stores were opened in Edmonton, Red Deer, Vancouver and Winnipeg. Alberta was booming until the national energy program all but brought the province’s economy to a halt. The downturn greatly impacted the construction industry, and many big-name homebuilder clients went out of business. Despite the economic situation, John and the sales manager at the time, Russel Dyck, were given the option
to buy the Alberta locations from Kitchen Craft in 1984, and the duo jumped at the chance. “We were young and excited about the opportunities, even though it was the worst time to start something like that. But we managed to survive and prosper,” he says. Red Deer, however, couldn’t sustain a store through 1984 and it was soon closed while Edmonton struggled and the partners sold it back to Kitchen Craft in the late 1980s. John and Russel focused their attention on Calgary and grew the business exponentially over the years. Kitchen Craft Connection was renamed Legacy Kitchens in 1999 and the business has seen great expansion since it set up shop. In 1994, it entered the U.S. market with a Kitchen Craft Arizona branch (which later became Affinity Kitchens) in Phoenix, and in 2010, added a Cabinet Solutions USA store in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Legacy Kitchens | 35 Years | 2
Congratulations
to our friends at Legacy Kitchens on celebrating 35 years. Here’s to many more years of continued success!
kitchencraft.com
Another Affinity location is opening in Tucson next month. The U.S. operations have been headed up since their opening by transplanted Calgarian and business partner Stephen Klassen. North of the border, Legacy has three corporate brands that accommodate any budget. Cabinet Solutions is a doit-yourself and small contractor store offering a similar experience to Ikea or Home Depot but with dedicated design professionals and in-stock cabinets: Bellasera Kitchen Design Studio is a high-end boutique and Legacy Kitchens caters to individual homeowners, large builders and renovators in the mid-range to high-end market. There is also a small boutique store in Kelowna that opened last year and a shared-space location with a small display in Canmore where they have been operating since 2002. “Just prior to the latest recession in 2015, we bought out my partner and then I turned over day-to-day operations to my sons. Stephen was already CEO and Andrew became director of operations in 2018,” he says. Legacy has become a thriving business despite the industry challenges. The company has grown to around 150 team members, many of them long term, and the management team strives to keep employees engaged, happy and invested in the success of the company.
“WE’RE ONE OF THE LARGER SUPPLIERS TO THE BUILDERS IN CALGARY AND HAVE BEEN FOR A LONG TIME. WE’RE A MAJOR PLAYER IN THE BUILDING INDUSTRY WITH A NUMBER OF BLUE-CHIP ACCOUNTS,” JOHN SAYS. Employees are proud to create well-designed kitchens for homeowners who are renovating their space and homebuilders who are creating a space from scratch. Of the company’s total sales, 40 per cent comes from production builders while the remainder is from retail, custom builders and renovations. “We’re one of the larger suppliers to the builders in Calgary and have been for a long time. We’re a major player in the building industry with a number of bluechip accounts,” John says. Large or small, every account is treated like a bluechip account. This explains why nearly 75 per cent of the company’s retail business comes from referrals or repeat customers. Just as the leadership is second generation, so is some of their clientele. The team at
Happy 35th Anniversary Legacy Kitchens! HGBStone thanks you for being part of our corporate journey, and we wish you continued success. Best Regards, Hoa Tran and the staff at HGBStone HBGStone Showroom 342 40 Ave NE Calgary, AB T2E 2M7 phone: 403.273.8668 | e-mail: info@hgbstone.ca www.hgbstone.ca
Legacy Kitchens | 35 Years | 4
The Signature of Luxury Homes Since 1970
“ Legacy is thrilled when someone comes to them for a kitchen design because their parents loved the job Legacy did 20 years earlier. Since the beginning, Legacy Kitchens’ team has been dedicated to making the process of designing a new kitchen as stress-free as possible. Their first step is to meet with clients and figure out how they see themselves using the space. “Our designers spend a lot of time trying to understand what a customer wants to achieve with their renovation,” says Stephen Buller, CEO of Legacy Kitchens. “And they want to get a good idea of what clients want it to look like when it’s finished. It’s a very involved process.” The designers then take careful measurements before sitting down to design a dream space. Legacy pairs them with an appropriate supplier to provide the cabinets and finishings for the kitchen they want. Decor Legacy Kitchens | 35 Years | 5
”
1700A Varsity Estates Dr NW Calgary, AB T3B 2W9 Head Office: 403.239.9699 www.lupihomes.com
Congratulations to
Cabinets, Cabico Custom Cabinetry and of course Kitchen Craft have been longtime partners and ensure clients have an incredible selection that fits their tastes and budget. The talented team takes care of all the details, from ordering products to the delivery schedule, installation and trades. A field supervisor inspects every project to ensure the installation and products meet the company’s high standards.
for their
“Our supervisors and inspectors make sure the install quality is what it needs to be and if there are any deficiencies, we take care of it. We never walk away from problems. We work with customers to find a solution that works for them. Sometimes that hurts our profitability but it’s the right thing to do and it’s part of our values as a company,” says Andrew Buller, director of operations at Legacy Kitchens. The company’s three core values are important to the family and have been part of Legacy’s culture since its inception. The first is understanding; the team strives to get to know clients to understand what they want and expect in order to deliver the best possible product. Legacy hires a third-party company to conduct Legacy Kitchens | 35 Years | 6
Happy Anniversary
Congratulations on 35 years of creating quality kitchens for Albertans
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THE TALENTED TEAM TAKES CARE OF ALL THE DETAILS, FROM ORDERING PRODUCTS TO THE DELIVERY SCHEDULE, INSTALLATION AND TRADES. A FIELD SUPERVISOR INSPECTS EVERY PROJECT TO ENSURE THE INSTALLATION AND PRODUCTS MEET THE COMPANY’S HIGH STANDARDS. interviews with most clients after completion to measure customer satisfaction so they can see how the team is doing and identify any issues. “We’re committed to doing excellent work and having happy customers at the end,” says Stephen. “We learn if things aren’t going very well and we’re able to adjust and bring in improvements and tweak the process.” The second core value is relationships. The company’s focus on its relationships with suppliers, clients and staff is evident in their longevity and repeat nature.
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CURRIE GREEN DEVELOPMENT www.curriegreen.ca
Statesman would like to congratulate Legacy Kitchens on 35 years of continued success. We look forward to working with you on our new Development at Currie Green.
Statesman Group of Companies Alberta Office 7370 Sierra Morena Blvd SW Calgary, AB T3H 4H9 403.256.4151
Legacy Kitchens | 35 Years | 7
403.256.6100
LANGUAGE REVIEW:
BDO PROUDLY SERVES LOCAL BUSINESSES BDO is proud to join Legacy Kitchens in celebration of their 35th anniversary! Assurance | Accounting | Tax | Advisory People who know, know BDO.SM 620 – 903 8th Ave SW Calgary AB 403-266-5608 www.bdo.ca
Happy 35th anniversary!
cabico.com
Congratulations Legacy Kitchens on 35 great years! 877.FLOFORM | FLOFORM.COM
THE TRANSFORMATION OF PEOPLE IS A BIT MORE COMPLICATED BUT NO LESS IMPORTANT TO THE BULLERS. THEY WANT TO IMPACT AND HELP TRANSFORM THE PEOPLE THEY WORK FOR AND WORK WITH, AND BE TRANSFORMED BY THEM AS WELL. The third value is hospitality. Every member of the team strives to treat suppliers, clients and each other with respect. When customers visit the office, the team makes them feel welcome and when they visit or work in a client’s home, they are honoured to be invited and respect their space. Along with these established core values is the overriding purpose statement under which they operate: “Legacy exists to facilitate the transformation of people and spaces.” The spaces component is straightforward. The team takes something that is dated or unattractive and creates something that is beautiful, well designed and functional. They transform clients’ kitchens into a
Legacy Kitchens | 35 Years | 8
CONGRATULATIONS LEGACY KITCHENS ON YOUR 35 YEAR MILESTONE!
Fueled by ideas, expertise and passion across borders and beyond service lines, our Cushman & Wakefield professionals create real estate solutions to prepare our clients for what’s next.
cushwakecalgary.com | 403 261 1111
Congratulations on your 35th Anniversary Legacy Kitchens; we appreciate our Partnership! NEW WEST LUXURY HOMES 403.984.9430
contact@newwestcalgary.com
space where they can build and nurture relationships with their family and friends. The transformation of people is a bit more complicated but no less important to the Bullers. They want to impact and help transform the people they work for and work with, and be transformed by them as well. “We want employees to be better people through their experience working with us. And it’s a symbiotic relationship. Through what they’re doing and learning, they are growing and we want to provide an environment where that can happen. In the same ways, the employees are helping us become a better company,” says Stephen. Legacy Kitchens further achieves this transformation element through their charitable giving. The family supports organizations that are all involved in transformation, whether it’s a local organization like the Calgary Dream Centre, Habitat for Humanity, Children’s Cottage Society or Inn from the Cold helping those suffering with addiction and homelessness or a global organization like Opportunity International, which is the world’s largest faith-based microfinance organization.
1135-17 Avenue S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2T 0B6 Phone: 403-245-1177 www.toolepeet.com
Opportunity International Canada (OIC) is especially dear to the Bullers. The organization provides small business loans, savings, insurance and training to people in the developing world to help them lift themselves out of poverty. Legacy is directly involved in the work being done in Colombia and supports the organization’s efforts through their Legacy Charitable Foundation and with their time. The Investing Hope Foundation, a partner of Opportunity International with John as board chair, helps low-income youth and adults in Colombia battle poverty by increasing their financial awareness, providing savings programs and through experiential entrepreneurship training.
Legacy Kitchens | 35 Years | 9
“THROUGH OIC PROGRAMS SUCH AS BUSINESS LOANS, SMALL RENOVATION LOANS TO PUT IN CONCRETE FLOORS AND ROOFS THAT DON’T LEAK OR KITCHENS AND TOILETS IN THE HOMES OF FAMILIES, TRAINING OF YOUTH IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND TEACHING PEOPLE HOW TO SAVE, WE CAN BRING ACTUAL CHANGE TO COMMUNITIES AND A COUNTRY,” SAYS JOHN. “Through OIC programs such as business loans, small renovation loans to put in concrete floors and roofs that don’t leak or kitchens and toilets in the homes of families, training of youth in entrepreneurship and teaching people how to save, we can bring actual change to communities and a country,” says John. While the Legacy team works at transforming the people and spaces around them today, they are always looking ahead at how they can improve. They continue to diversify their products and markets. Legacy is currently adding closets to its offerings and commercializing the software program they developed to guide designers and clients through the process of building a quality kitchen. With the help of the six-person executive team and the advisory board headed by John, the company is on the path to continued success and growth in the Calgary market and beyond.
“Over the last decade alone, as a family company we have installed about 30,000 kitchens across all locations. So we’re leaving a bit of a legacy out there,” says Stephen. For 35 years, Legacy Kitchens has built on the foundations established by John Buller and Russel Dyck, and Stephen and Andrew are proud to carry on the impressive legacy of Legacy Kitchens.
2980 Sunridge Way NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 7H9 (403) 291-6868 • www.legacykitchens.com
A WELL DESERVED CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FRIENDS AT LEGACY KITCHENS ON 35 YEARS!
Calgary South 7265 11 Street SE Calgary North 11752 Sarcee Trail NW Invermere 4B 492 Arrow Road
Your Floors, Our Passion
www.cdlflooring.ca Legacy Kitchens | 35 Years | 10
CEL ELECTRIC TURNS 40 Re n n ay C r a at s When Willie Unger started his electrical contracting company in Hague, Saskatchewan, in 1979, he had big dreams and small resources. With little more than a few partners, a dirt-floor shop and a strong drive to succeed, he built the firm from the ground up. As Community Electric grew quickly, Unger and his team seized opportunities, building a reputation for integrity and quality that hasn’t wavered despite the company’s incredible growth. Over the past 40 years, Community Electric expanded across the Prairies, giving rise to CEL Electric. Today, CEL has nine locations across Canada, operating with a staff of more than 150 in Calgary, Camrose, Grande Prairie, Regina, Saskatoon, Brandon, Winnipeg, and most recently London, Ontario, and Vancouver. “Our expansion results from our clients asking us to be in these places and our desire to better service our national clients.
“There’s no place too far,” says Dallas Smith, chief operating officer at CEL Electric. “We like to say we do inconvenient work in inconvenient places.” CEL’s clients include some of the biggest names in agriculture, including Cargill, Nutrien, PotashCorp and Richardson International, and the electrical contractor has
W I L L I E UN G E R
enjoyed relationships with many of these massive multinational corporations for more than 25 years. These enduring relationships are important at CEL so the team pursues them, preferring to get involved with projects that are collaborative and likely to develop long-term relationships. They don’t want to do one project with any company; CEL Electric is in it for the long haul. CEL provides top-notch electrical services in everything from grain storage and expansion to plant-based protein processing. It is also expanding and diversifying its offerings, using existing proficiencies and processes and applying them to new areas including waste-water treatment, fertilizer and chemical processing, and soft and hard rock mining. CEL has expertise in a variety of areas ranging from elevator expansions to instrument calibration to electrical distribution and control system installations. It builds clients’ assets and maintains them for life. CEL 40TH | PAGE 1 75
While the company hasn’t traditionally focused on oil and gas work, this area has grown organically for CEL as process engineers in the food or fertilizer industries changed jobs and took the firm along with them to the new sector. The transition is seamless as the firm’s industrial process technical expertise transcends sectors. Clients appreciate the excellent service and quality product and want to continue to work with the CEL team.
that’s what we’re known best for. And we can manage everything from initial engineering conception all the way through commissioning and start up,” Smith says.
Whether it’s a small or large job, building new or performing predictive preventative maintenance, CEL is dedicated to delivering the best product on time and on budget to minimize downtime while maximizing productivity. CEL offers turnkey design build services that provide engineering, automation and manufacturing capabilities on top of the traditional electrical and instrumentation installations. This makes CEL Electric a convenient and valuable one-stop shop for clients.
One such start-to-finish project is the Fraser Grain Terminal. This massive new grain-handling port facility in Surrey is a full design build and one of the largest CEL project to date. The firm also completed a full design build for Verdient Foods in Vanscoy, Saskatchewan, to create the largest organic pea protein fractionation facility in North America and has completed a new port facility in Hamilton, Ontario for G3 as well as several projects for mining company Graymont with such innovations as robotic bag handling.
“We’ve been able to mimic our technical process skill sets to accommodate all of the major industries that are driving this country. We aren’t just agriculture guys even though
In Calgary, CEL Electric is proud to be partnering with the City of Calgary and PCL Construction to do the electrical work on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network stations.
CEL 40TH | PAGE 2
The company’s diverse projects require a highly-skilled team, and CEL Electric employs the best in the business – and it strives to protect them. CEL invested heavily in developing a safety culture that allows staff to work safely in high-risk situations, adhering to the Mission Zero pledge that aims for zero incidents, accidents and lost time.
in every way. Each team is familiar with the client’s history and has a personal investment in the success of their projects. The business is large enough to be competitive and leverage resources across the branches to better service clients while being small enough to provide those important personal touches.
CEL invests in its staff, and the talented employees give back just as much. The employees reflect the founder’s high-quality standards and service levels, and their positive attitudes and work ethic have helped solidify CEL’s reputation in the industry. CEL’s management fosters incredible relationships with staff and this translates to incredible relationships with clients. Both sides of the coin are happy, and this had led to long-term staff and clients alike.
“We have a big-company presence with a small-company handshake, and we are always trying to find a way to grow and be able to do any sized project anywhere in the country while still knowing everybody’s names and having these teams that work well together. That’s what separates us from most of our competitors. It’s one of our values to maintain that,” he says.
Many employees have been with the company for 25 years and are dedicated to clients
CEL 40TH | PAGE 3
Another value engrained in the corporate culture is the importance of giving back to the community. CEL Electric has a charitable mandate that sees every branch donating time and money to various organizations. Branches can support those organizations and causes that are important to the staff provided they align with CEL’s core values. The company’s focus on family, community and education initiatives has led staff to such organizations as the Calgary Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity and the Louise Dean Centre as well as classroom outreach sessions teaching children about where their food comes from. Giving back is as important today as it was four decades ago when the company started. After 40 years of business, Willie Unger and his team are proud of all they have achieved through steady, organic growth and hard work, all the while looking ahead at what is still to come. “It’s been a great opportunity to reflect as well as to map out our future. Our growth and our youth and retention is going to set CEL up well for the next 40 years,” says Dallas Smith.
CEL ELECTRICAL CALGARY OFFICE #309-4615 112th Ave SE Calgary, AB Ph: (403) 234-7448 | Fx: (888) 865-1959 www.celelectric.com
CONGRATULATIONS
4467 - 104 Avenue SE, Calgary | 10975 - 124 Street NW, Edmonton www.wowlighting.com
CEL 40TH | PAGE 4
CONGRATULATIONS
4467 - 104 Avenue SE, Calgary | 10975 - 124 Street NW, Edmonton www.wowlighting.com
Beyond the Paycheque T
he exciting, and sometimes intimidating, fact of modern life is that most things – from relationships, technology and health to business, workplaces and perspectives – are not only continually evolving, but evolving at warp speed. For even the most plugged-in and innovative employers, keeping up (and staying ahead) of employee wants, needs, options, desires and must-haves can be challenging. Savvy employers must juggle the wants and needs of retiring boomers, the millennial “echo boomers,” gen-Xers, gen Y and the latest, gen Z. Some basics are constant. Competitive pay and good benefits will forever be a factor but there are many priorities more important than a paycheque, including working with a purpose. Many employees would be willing to give up fancy nap pods or office game rooms in exchange for fulfilling work. Work-life balance and morale are also crucial factors. “Staff morale is perhaps the most important facet of a healthyrun business,” says Kevin Wilhelm, president of POD Marketing and an EO Calgary member. “Hiring the right people, retaining the great ones and keeping them all motivated and aligned are the largest issues most businesses face. Morale doesn’t necessarily mean they are 100 per cent satisfied, but rather it means that they are bought in, aligned and rowing the boat the same direction as leadership. Great morale means they are happy to do so and believe in the direction of the boat.” For Jason Hardy, founder and president at Chatterson Drive and an EO Calgary member, “The quality of the customer experience we deliver is a direct reflection of how we trust, treat and respect our team. Maintaining high staff morale comes from taking care of your people and empowering them to do the best job they can do.”
“Staff morale is very important in our organization,” emphasizes Brian Salzgeber, president of Canmore Woodcrafters and an EO Calgary member. “Morale is not just created by having staff happy at work. It’s also important that their home life is fulfilling and positive. It’s what creates the overall vibe of our business.” Most business leaders and HR types caution that today’s 24-7 lifestyle makes disconnecting and positive morale tricky. “We encourage our staff to leave work at work,” Hardy adds. “Of course there are times where we need to put in that extra effort to deliver an exceptional experience for our customers but working ‘round the clock’ cannot become the norm. “At Chatterson, we want the best out of our people each and every day, and that means providing staff with the time and space, away from the office, to disconnect, recharge and recalibrate for the day ahead. Nobody performs at their best on an empty battery.” Wilhelm explains that, when it comes to relaxing and disconnecting, employers must lead by example. “If the boss works 24-7 and is sending urgent emails at all hours of the night, a certain level of expectation is thrown onto the employees to replicate the same behaviour. “Some employees love working late at night or on weekends, and some are far more productive during those hours, but not all. It’s important to remember that employees need to live a fulfilled life outside of the office in order to be productive at the office. “The obligation of working long hours and being available at all times can be a drain.”
Contributing Members:
Kevin Wilhelm
Brian Salzgeber
Jason Hardy
president of POD Marketing
president of Canmore Woodcrafters
founder and president at Chatterson Drive
The international Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) is the respected, world-wide business networking group — with more than 10,000 members in 35 countries — where business leaders meet informally to brainstorm, compare notes, learn and share relevant discussions about business. EO has 122 chapters around the world, including the Calgary chapter which is the fifth largest and one of the most active EO chapters in the world.
www.eocalgary.com
|
For membership inquiries: membership@eocalgary.com
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
W
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.
507 – 11 Avenue Nisku, AB T9E 7N5 Toll Free: 1-877-420-2099 Fax Toll Free: 1-888-900-1810 2020seedlabs.ca 20/20 Seed Labs Inc. • 30
“Open for Business” the Theme of Stampede Investment Forum 2019
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ower taxes, less red tape and more opportunities for companies to grow reinforced the “Open for Business” message to global investors at Stampede Investment Forum 2019. The three-day forum focused on how innovative companies in Calgary and across Alberta are feeding, moving, powering and healing the world and how investment opportunities are emerging in the transformation of our major industrial sectors – agribusiness, transportation and logistics, energy, and health and life sciences. Alberta Premier Jason Kenney delivered one of his first major speeches to an investment audience since the United Conservative Party was elected as the Alberta government this spring and spoke at length about the pro-business agenda. There was record participation with close to 100 delegates at the seventh-annual forum that is held in conjunction with the Calgary Stampede. Delegates get direct access to industry leaders and senior government officials as well as insight into investment opportunities. They also get to experience firsthand the rich indigenous culture of our region and Calgary’s world-famous western hospitality at the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. This year’s investment forum was co-hosted by Calgary Economic Development, the Government of Alberta, Edmonton Global and Alberta’s Industrial Heartland Association. Omar Alghabra, the parliamentary secretary to the federal minister of international trade diversification, announced additional funding for the CanExport programs and lauded the work of provincial and municipal economic development agencies and local businesses in strengthening Canada’s economy. “There are incredible opportunities for this city and this province in the transformation of business worldwide and
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a commitment by all orders of government to create a business-friendly environment is a vital message that we must be able to send to the global investment community,” says Mary Moran, president and chief executive officer for Calgary Economic Development. The forum agenda aligns with the economic strategy Calgary in the New Economy and the vision that Calgary is the city of choice in Canada for entrepreneurs to embrace innovation to produce cleaner energy, safe and secure food, better health solutions and safer transport of people and goods. The competitive business environment Premier Kenney promoted is also a key element of the economic strategy for Calgary. It is a sign of the times that the forum kicked off with a panel devoted specifically to the digital transformation disrupting all industries. Other sessions examined the future of bellwether industries including energy and agribusiness as they embrace innovation and the rapid growth in sub-sectors such as cannabis and hemp, and autonomous systems. Calgary Economic Development released a study this spring that forecasts spending on digital transformation of industry in Alberta will be more than $18.4 billion through 2022 and will be spread across all sectors of the economy. Digital transformation is disrupting industry and creating business opportunities with the adoption of technology and innovation. The future for companies in every sector will be driven in large measure by their adoption of new technologies including machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented and virtual augmented reality (AR/VR), Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain. In the new world order of economic disruption, Calgary is a city open to new ideas, open to doing things better on a global scale and open for business.
Sport and Cultural Events Stimulate the Economy and Build Calgary’s Shareable Experiences CALGARY SET TO HOST THE PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS SHAW CHARITY CLASSIC, 2019 CANADIAN COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS AND COUNTRY MUSIC WEEK
BY BRIDGETTE SLATER
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s Ultimate Hosts, Tourism Calgary proudly supports 89 sport, culture and major events annually, which contribute over $108 million in economic impact. These events build Calgary’s brand, enrich the city’s vibrancy, stimulate the economy, support hosting infrastructure and attract visitors. In the coming weeks, Tourism Calgary looks forward to seeing how events like the PGA TOUR Champions Shaw Charity Classic (taking place Aug. 28 to Sept. 1) and the 2019 Canadian Country Music Awards and Country Music Week (taking place Sept. 5-8) intensify our city’s vibrancy. For the past six years, the PGA TOUR Champions Shaw Charity Classic has drawn some of the greatest names in golf to Calgary and set records for charitable giving with over $34 million raised for Alberta-based charities. This year’s event will feature 78 players – including representatives from Fiji, Sweden, Paraguay, Mexico, South Africa and the United States – and is expected to attract 40,000 spectators and generate over $11.4 million in economic impact for Calgary. This annual PGA TOUR Champions stop is not only a huge draw for visitors, it’s a unique opportunity to showcase Calgary’s offerings to a potential 330 million households in 190 countries and territories through complete broadcast coverage on networks like the Golf Channel. As an official partner, Tourism Calgary is proud to support the Shaw Charity Classic through financial contributions, visitor information services and event marketing. This year, Tourism Calgary will also host five media professionals from the Golf Journalists Association of Canada at the event so they can curate stories that tell Calgary’s destination golf story.
The Canadian Country Music Awards and Country Music Week will return to Calgary for the ninth time, earning Calgary the title of the show’s most frequent host city. Featuring events like the Legends Show, Songwriters’ Series and the 2019 CCMA Awards Show, this four-day event is expected to attract over 6,000 out-of-town visitors and generate over $9 million in economic impact for the city. Alberta’s Tenille Townes and three-time Academy of Country Music Award winner Old Dominion will be among the stars performing at the 2019 Awards Show. Visitors and Calgarians alike will also have a unique opportunity to celebrate Canadian country music through concerts and activities hosted at the CCMA Fan Village. From working with Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, to develop the winning bid for this event, through to promoting and activating all the events slated for Country Music Week, Tourism Calgary has proudly supported this event throughout the entire process. Visitors and Calgarians will have even more opportunities to experience the city’s offerings and celebrate Canadian excellence when Calgary hosts the 2019 Grey Cup championship and festival from Nov. 20-24. These signature events not only contribute to Calgary’s growing reputation as the Ultimate Host City, they boost civic pride and leave legacies that enhance quality of life for Calgarians. To learn more about upcoming sport, culture and major events in Calgary, see visitcalgary.com.
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Envision the potential to enhance innovation. Engaging an audience requires a space to feel innovative, and no one knows this better than us. At the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre, we create space for your corporate innovation, and the success that follows.
calgary-convention.com
CREATING SPACE FOR INNOVATION It’s more than just a great location for hosting a meeting or holding an event; it’s about enhancing that location with the services needed to foster creativity, collaboration and to provide breakthrough results.
How do you create success?
The answers to this question are likely as diverse as the definition of success itself. Perseverance, dedication, luck, perfect-timing—these are all viable answers. One of the most common elements leveraged to create success is the leveraged and effective use of innovation. “Without change there is no As a major contributor to overall success, innovation is one of the most sought–after traits of today’s leading organizations. It’s the feature of sustainable prosperity and it’s a focused deliverable of the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre.
innovation, creativity, or incentive for improvement. Those who initiate change will have a better opportunity to manage the change that is inevitable.”
At the Centre, we create innovative space for our own team to serve our guests, and we create space for innovating those who step through our doors.
– William Pollard
Our spaces have been designed to help our guests create experiences that enhance the sharing of ideas. From open rooms with natural lighting to private boardrooms equipped with modern collaborative technology. Our personalized guest services and gourmet catering enhance our guest’s experience to create the space needed for enhancing innovative minds.
For those seeking to create the right space for innovation, we’re proud to be a critical partner in creating the space needed for enhancing corporate innovation. calgary-convention.com
MARKETING MATTERS // DAVID PARKER
Marketing Matters BY DAVID PARKER
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tremendous amount of work is necessary to ensure our Stampede runs smoothly, and attracts the crowds. It has a busy marketing team that are well supported by the crew at C&B Advertising who were busy with 12 different programs promoting new things in the park. C&B also worked to place those YAHOO art installations in each quadrant of the city and at major entrance points, where the “Os” in yahoo were replaced with bales of hay. Another exciting tourism-related campaign was to let Calgarians know that the S.S. Moyie paddle wheeler is taking passengers on rides around the reservoir again. More entertainment in collaboration with ATCO Energy was an outdoor, theatre, digital and print campaign promoting “Feel the Freedom” – developing an on-site activation contest at Spruce Meadows by building an actual half-pipe where pro-athletes performed.
The stories behind company logos always interest me and I was fascinated to learn the reason behind the Worthington PR & Story logo that is a simple W with a yellow arrow through it. The arrow is a reminder of Paula Worthington’s walk over a portion of the 790-kilometre pilgrimage route across northern Spain to Camino de Santiago where yellow arrows mark the right direction along the trail. And it serves as her offering to her clients as a clear and thoughtful counsel, guiding them in the direction they want to go without ever losing momentum. In the time since she launched her own company in 2018, Worthington has been able to be nimble and active,
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guiding a growing number of clients through the changing PR landscape. Her experience with Brookline PR, North Strategic, WestJet and Resorts of the Canadian Rockies helped secure projects for a number of fine local brands such as Calgary Co-op, ATB, Tourism Calgary, Parks Foundation Calgary and West Campus Development Trust. Another arrow in her life is Noble Arrow, the designation for her not-for-profit and charitable clients which include Paul Brandt’s #NotinMyCity, Women in Need Society (WINS) and Quinterra Legacy Garden. Worthington is also an active member of the TRICO Changemakers Studio at Mount Royal University, working with groups there and hiring interns for MRU’s PR program. And in her spare time, she files travel stories for a number of traditional and online publications, journeys that recently took her to Jordan, Northern Ireland, Denmark and Germany.
Jamie Leong-Huxley has been working in the field and teaching public relations in this city for many years. Now she had taken that experience to the Alberta University of the Arts as interim vice president of advancement, leading a team of hard-working AUArts professionals in communications, marketing, fund development and alumni/ government/community relations.
Parker’s Pick Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra 2019/2020 program; a well-designed keeper.
“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