Business in Edmonton - March 2024

ENCORE TRUCKING & TRANSPORT

TRIUMPHS OVER THE ODDS

Wolfe Automotive Group Offers New Products and Services in 2024

Over the past 100 years, Wolfe Automotive Group has seen a full transformation from a service station in the heart of Edmonton to operating five award-winning GM dealerships and accompanying businesses across Alberta. It’s all thanks to the four generations of the Wolfe family who have created a tradition of entrepreneurial spirit, sportsmanship, growth and social consciousness.

The Wolfe brand, which is based on trust and integrity, is pleased to announce its new Wolfe Detail & Accessories location. It is the ultimate destination for top-notch automotive detailing and accessory installation.

Services at Wolfe Detail & Accessories include:

PAINT PROTECTIVE FILM

Application of a high-quality clear thermoplastic urethane film on the surface of your vehicle’s paint. Experienced technicians use state-ofthe-art equipment and techniques to ensure that the film is applied evenly and accurately, providing maximum protection against scratches, chips and other types of damage.

DETAILING

A comprehensive and meticulous process that involves cleaning, restoring and protecting your vehicle’s interior and exterior surfaces. Your vehicle will come out looking good as new, in and out, top to bottom.

POLISHING/CERAMIC COATING

This removes surface imperfections, protects the paint with a durable hydrophobic barrier and enhances the vehicle’s appearance. They offer a range of packages to meet your needs and high-quality products and techniques to provide the best results.

CONCIERGE SERVICE

Wolfe Detail & Accessories offers a convenient ride service for customers while their vehicle is being pampered. This service ensures that customers can go about their day without interruption. Wolfe provides a comfortable and safe ride to destinations, whether it’s a nearby coffee shop, office or home.

This added convenience is just one of the ways that Wolfe Detail & Accessories goes above and beyond to provide an exceptional experience for their customers.

Photos by Rebecca Lippiatt

Registry West aims to make your life much easier by offering registry services for your business, property, vehicle and personal needs all under one roof. Customers of Registry West enjoy walk-in, easy access to an inviting, comfortable facility. Corporate clients receive corporate discounts on all searches; it’s economical to become a corporate client if you typically need multiple searches per year.

Visit Registry West to take care of all your:

PERSONAL NEEDS

Registry West will take care of your personal documentation needs such as birth information, death information, legal name change, marriage certificates and much more.

VEHICLE NEEDS

Registry West will handle all your vehicle documentation such as access to motor vehicle information, driver’s abstracts, driver’s licences and paying fines.

CORPORATE NEEDS

Registry West will help you with all your corporate registry needs. Consider a corporate account to save money on searches.

PROPERTY NEEDS

Documents such as land titles can be taken care of at Registry West.

ROAD TESTS

We offer road tests and rentals for the road tests.

PurposeMed

REVOLUTIONIZING HEALTH CARE WITH TECHNOLOGY

by Nerissa McNaughton

PurposeMed is a ground-breaking company that’s redefining what it means to receive and provide medical care. With its roots firmly planted in technology, PurposeMed is making waves in the health care sector, offering a unique approach that improves access to complex care for underserved communities.

PurposeMed empowers those living in rural areas, those without access to family physicians and the LGBTQIA2S+ community to receive compassionate, judgement free, virtual health care within days – instead of months.

The current brands under the PurposeMed banner include:

• Freddie: Canada’s largest and highest-rated sexual health and HIV prevention service.

• Frida: Mental health care with an initial focus on ADHD assessments and care.

• Foria Clinic: Virtual gender-affirming care and hormone therapy for trans, non-binary and gender-diverse Canadians.

The driving principles that guide their patient-first care are building an 11/10 experience for the patient every time, being inclusive for patients and teammates, delivering rapid access to health care and taking ownership of the PurposeMed mission.

“Dr. Husein Moloo, Pete MacLeod and Amaan Banwait founded PurposeMed in late 2019,” says Dr. Caley Shukalek, CMO. “Husein saw how difficult it was for so many people to reliably access health care services while working as a hospitalist physician in Calgary, so he pitched the idea of PurposeMed to Pete, his future brother-in-law who had experience in a tech start up and investment banking, and Amaan, a good friend and experienced entrepreneur in the health care space.”

The initial concept was to create a tech platform that could be used by both providers and patients. Dr. Shukalek was brought in to advise the team in 2020 as the founders refined this concept to create the patient-accessible, specialty services it offers today.

“Tech platforms were a great idea and not nearly as common as they are now, even though that was just 4 years ago,” Dr. Shukalek explains. “However, we quickly realized that while the technology was useful, it was challenging to disseminate,

market and commercialize to health care professionals.” Despite these challenges, the arrival of COVID-19 presented an opportunity for PurposeMed to pivot and serve a critical need.

“With COVID, it was a good platform for that, but our main purpose – and even more so now – is access for rural, remote and underserved patients,” Dr. Shukalek says. “It’s important to note that not every physician is comfortable working with sexual health, the queer population or the other issues we focus on. We offer services that are very much affirming and meet people where they are.”

For example, Freddie offers routine sexually transmitted infection testing as part of its care and acts as a gateway to other health care services.

“We’ve had many patients that access our care say, ‘This is the first time I’ve felt heard and cared for by a health care professional,’” Dr. Shukalek says, demonstrating the profound impact of their work.

PurposeMed’s approach to growth has been both intentional and sustainable. The company is keen on maintaining a balance between expanding its reach and ensuring that it continues to provide high-quality and compassionate care.

“We have been very conscientious of our growth as a company. There is luck but also a lot of hard work and a thoughtful approach,” says Dr. Shukalek. “Everyone contributes to what we build. Our expansion strategy involves both patient-facing services and the internal workings of our company, such as our tech team. We are very conscientious and careful about who we bring in and how we create more impact for patients.”

While PurposeMed has been successful in its growth endeavours, it has not been without challenges. The company operates in a competitive tech space where giants like Google and Shopify have established a strong foothold on talent.

“We are limited by geography and those companies have such a bigger operating base compared to smaller entities like us,” says Dr. Shukalek.

Despite these hurdles, PurposeMed continues to thrive, attributing much of its success to its dedicated staff.

within the ATB network provide invaluable support, helping us navigate the often tumultuous waters of business growth and development. ATB’s commitment to fostering Alberta’s business ecosystem sets them apart. Their dedication to supporting local businesses, combined with their innovative approach to non-dilutive funding, make them a unique and valuable partner for startups and scale-ups.”

Dr. Shukalek points out that the University of Calgary and its Innovate Calgary program were also helpful for PurposeMed’s launch and growth.

“We have had success and will continue to have success in finding people and launching platforms. We are very grateful to everyone that contributes to our company.”

“For businesses like ours, ATB’s presence has been a gamechanger,” Dr. Shukalek explains, “Access to funding through ATB has provided a sense of relief, ensuring we have the capital to delve into when needed for significant growth investments or expansion into new markets.”

“While there are numerous ways to raise funds in a startup or scale-up environment, our journey has been somewhat unique. We’ve managed to accomplish what we have with the support of a few close investors, without having to resort to venture capital fundraising. This approach has allowed us to retain control over our direction, a luxury not all companies can afford. ATB’s provision of non-dilutive funding enables us to grow in the continuous, controlled manner we desire, without the pressure of external influences.”

He adds, “ATB’s support extends beyond financial backing. The recognition we’ve received through awards from ATB has significantly raised our profile. Their belief in what we’re doing, coupled with their promotion of us as an Alberta-based business, has undoubtedly helped elevate our status.”

When asked if ATB differs from other entities in the world of corporate banking, the answer is a resounding yes.

“The interest ATB shows in Alberta-based enterprises is a real benefit to companies like ours. Their advisors and connections

“The early funding received from the university, along with the invaluable advice and mentorship from investors associated with the Innovate Calgary program, have been crucial in kicking things off and sustaining growth,” he notes.

Looking ahead, the company is focused on mindful growth. With a myriad of potential services and offerings on the horizon, the team at PurposeMed continues to innovate, aiming to create a high-quality array of services for people who struggle with health care access.

Reflecting on the company’s journey so far, it’s clear that the sky’s the limit for PurposeMed. With a strong team at all levels, the company is well-positioned to expand its offerings and reach even more individuals. As the company continues to grow and innovate, it remains committed to its purpose: creating accessible and high-quality health care services.

PurposeMed’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation, partnership and a strong belief in one’s purpose. The company’s growth and success serve as an inspiration for other startups, proving that with the right support and a dedicated team, anything is possible. See where they will innovate next by visiting purposemed.com and following them on Facebook.

ATB is pleased to present a 2024 profile series on the businesses and people who are facing challenges head-on to build a strong Alberta.

TOP: DR. CALEY SHUKALEK, CMO AND FOUNDERS PETE MACLEOD, AMAAN BANWAIT, DR. HUSEIN MOLOO.

BOTTOM: FREDDIE OFFERS ROUTINE SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTION TESTING AS PART OF ITS CARE AND ACTS AS A GATEWAY TO OTHER HEALTHCARE SERVICES.

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COMPANY PROFILES

51 Alberta Custom Metal

55 Optimum Health and Koyla Celebrates 31 Years

59 Junior Achievement

63 St. Michael’s Health Group

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14 All Hands On Deck

How three organizations are addressing Alberta’s labour shortage By

24 BOMA Edmonton News Spring 2024

30 “The Most Affordable City”

Edmonton’s hot draw By

36 Maneuvering Edmonton’s Jobs Crunch

The job search challenge By

40 Empowering Women in Business: A Closer Look at Alberta’s Evolving Landscape

Why it’s important to recognize, support and celebrate female entrepreneurs

43 The Risk of Cyberattacks Crimes of opportunity By

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IControlled Environment Agriculture

BY CATHERINE BROWNLEE, PRESIDENT OF ALBERTA ENTERPRISE GROUP (AEG), CALGARY AND EDMONTON CHAPTERS

ndoor vertical farming, or Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), represents a significant shift from traditional agricultural methods towards more sustainable and efficient practices. This innovative approach to farming leverages vertical space to grow crops indoors under controlled conditions, using artificial lighting and nutrient-rich water.

In Alberta, the importance of exploring alternative agricultural methods like indoor vertical farming has become increasingly apparent. With regions like California experiencing severe water crises, Alberta’s need to secure a reliable supply of leafy greens and lettuce without relying heavily on California imports is critical. However, the journey towards establishing a robust CEA industry in Alberta is not without its hurdles. These operations require a substantial amount of power to maintain artificial lighting, climate control and automated systems, which can lead to high operational costs and sustainability concerns.

Despite challenges, there is a growing recognition of the potential benefits of vertical farming. Educational institutions are beginning to develop specialized programs to cultivate talent within the CEA industry. For instance, the introduction of the Indoor Agriculture Certificate program through Olds College reflects an acknowledgment of the need for skilled professionals capable of navigating the complexities of specialized indoor farming operations.

The industry must also learn from past failures, such as those experienced by companies like Fifth Season and AeroFarms, which highlight the risks associated with focusing too narrowly on specific crops, not addressing power prices and not properly developing people skills. Investing too heavily in proprietary technology and not being more focused on farm operations is also something farmers need to address to be successful.

To thrive, the vertical farming sector must address broader market needs by expanding beyond microgreens and leafy greens to include a wider variety of produce. This diversification, along with managing unit costs, ensuring power reliability and affordability and developing a skilled workforce, are crucial for meeting retailer and consumer demands.

Alberta’s indoor farmers, such as GoodLeaf Farms and NuLeaf Farms, exemplify the potential for success within the province. GoodLeaf Farms is scaling operations to meet increasing retailer demand, while NuLeaf Farms offers more customized and localized solutions, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of vertical farming models.

Shondell Sabad, co-founder of Prairie Vertical Farms, believes that having all industry participants, government and educational institutions working together will make Alberta a CEA industry leader.

As industry leaders like Andrew Lloyd (COO Intelligent Growth Solutions) and academics such as Mark Lefsrud have pointed out, the success of vertical farming hinges not just on technology but on a deep understanding of plant care and the dedication to constant cultivation. This holistic approach, combining technological innovation with agricultural expertise and strategic industry support, will be key to establishing Alberta as a leader in the CEA industry.

AEG member Prairie Vertical Farms is an Alberta based commercial scale vertical farm producer committed to cultivating high-quality leafy greens locally at competitive prices. With a focus on farming expertise and a dedicated technical team, they prioritize cost efficiency and aim to address food security challenges in Alberta.

ONE Properties and Vestcor Announce Commencement of Construction at 41 Business Park

Source: ONE Properties & Vestcor

ONE Properties and Vestcor recently announced that construction and leasing has commenced on Phase 1 of 41 Business Park in southeast Edmonton. Phase 1 will add approximately 366,900 square feet to southeast Edmonton’s industrial hub, with convenient access to major thoroughfares including QEII Highway and surrounding amenities. Targeting fourth quarter 2024 occupancy, Building 1 will feature 40-foot high warehouse ceilings. Formerly Ledcor’s Fabrication & Module Yard, the site will also feature approximately 670,000 square feet of industrial space upon completion.

ONE Properties is the developer for 41 Business Park. President and CEO of ONE Properties, Darren Durstling said, “This development marks a continuation of our company’s strategy to expand our industrial footprint across Canada. We are excited to be collaborating with our esteemed partner, Vestcor, to develop this state-of-the-art industrial real estate opportunity.”

“Vestcor’s first acquisition in Edmonton marks a pivotal step in our strategic investment plan, providing access to Edmonton’s diverse market. This partnership brings together our shared vision and expertise, creating opportunities for innovation and long-term growth,” added Dwayne Doolan, head of real estate investments at Vestcor.

Situated on the border of the City of Edmonton and the County of Leduc directly north of Nisku, the interchange

at the intersection of QE II and 41st Avenue provides easy access to Anthony Henday Drive and to Yellowhead Trail/ Trans-Canada Highway. The park’s accessibility and flexible zoning make it attractive for medium- and large-bay tenants from a broad base of industries, including the energy, manufacturing and distribution sectors. Tenants will find unique value in 41 Business Park’s proximity to Edmonton and the surrounding area’s sizeable labour supply, as well as convenient access to major trucking routes and the Edmonton International Airport (EIA).

Phase 1 of 41 Business Park will comprise one building and 366,900 sq. ft. of logistical space, with Phase 2 set to add another 302,200 sq. ft. upon completion. Both buildings will target LEED Silver certification and incorporate highly efficient design and construction practices, including solar PV arrays and electric vehicle charging stations.

For more information on 41 Business Park, visit oneproperties.com/properties/41-business-park/.

ONE Properties is a privately owned, integrated real estate investment firm that develops and manages a range of highquality assets across Canada. Since 1987, ONE has been creating value, empowering businesses and defining communities through its people, partners and properties. ONE leverages its expertise across a range of asset classes — multi-family residential, retail, office, industrial and mixed-use.

Engrity Celebrates Industry Excellence and Marks a Commitment to Philanthropy With $10,000 Donation at the Prestigious GAIA’s Ceremony

Engrity Inspection Services Inc. (Engrity), a distinguished full-service inspection and project management firm, proudly hosted the GAIA’s Ceremony last December. This prestigious event recognized and celebrated operational excellence and outstanding contributions to and within the industry, following the core principles of safety, leadership, excellence and sustainability.

The GAIA’s Ceremony, namely the Golden Awards for Industrial Achievements, was held on December 7, 2023, in South Edmonton. The event witnessed a gathering of industry leaders such as PCL Construction, Backwoods Energy Services, Waiward Industrial, Aecon Group and Kiewit Corporation to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the nominees in a night filled with elegance, camaraderie, a competitive putting game and culinary excellence.

Engrity was delighted to announce the winners of the GAIA Awards in their respective categories:

1. Fabrication Facilities / Modular Fab.: Waiward Industrial

2. General Contractors, Large Capital Projects: PCL Industrial Management

3. General Contractors, Special Projects: MasTec

4. Turnaround & Maintenance Contractors: Strike Group

5. Engrity Choice: Kiewit Corporation

These winners were selected based on their outstanding commitment to safety culture; effective implementation of company values, mission and vision; workforce development; continuous improvement programs; adaptability to new market conditions; promoting local businesses; diversity and inclusion initiatives; cultivating positive economy; and involvement in community programs.

Massi Akrour, head of operations and managing partner at Engrity, expressed, “The gala was a testament to the

resilience and excellence within our industry. We are honoured to recognize these exceptional companies who have set new benchmarks in safety, quality and operational excellence.”

In a special segment of the evening, Engrity also announced a generous donation of $10,000 to Edmonton’s Hope Mission, highlighting their dedication to community commitment and social responsibility. This donation reflects Engrity’s deep-rooted values in supporting and uplifting the local community.

Selva Nadar, founder of Engrity, remarked, “As we celebrate our industry’s achievements tonight, we also underscore our commitment to the community. It’s a privilege to support Edmonton’s Hope Mission with a $10,000 donation, reflecting our value of ‘Commitment to the Community.’ This gesture symbolizes our dedication to not only industrial excellence but also to nurturing a caring, supportive community spirit. Our heartfelt thanks to Hope Mission for their invaluable service.”

ALL HANDS ON DECK

HOW THREE ORGANIZATIONS ARE ADDRESSING ALBERTA’S LABOUR SHORTAGE

BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

The labour shortage. It’s on every employer’s lips, especially in the trades. The Government of Alberta forecasts a shortage of 3,000 workers per occupation across 11 sectors by 2030. Counted among those sectors are “construction trades helpers and labourers; home building and renovation managers and contractors and supervisors; other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers.”

This begs the question, what can be done? Some organizations are taking action, including PCL, one of the largest contracting companies in North America.

Chris Gower, deputy CEO, PCL Construction, says, “Labour shortages in the construction sector can cause project delays, an increased risk of safety incidents due to inexperienced employees and pressure on the already thin margins and tight timelines under which we operate. Without a sufficient supply of skilled labour and considering the post-pandemic boom in infrastructure spending, builders struggle to meet the pent-up demand for critical community infrastructure. Many factors contribute to this skill shortage and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Over the last decade, we have

been proactively investing in building a talent pipeline that attracts individuals to our industry.”

To effectively build the pipeline from high school to a career in construction, PCL engages with industry associations, schools and technical colleges/universities to raise awareness among students that the industry offers rewarding careers.

“Our Careers in Construction presentation teaches children about apprenticeships and the value of getting paid to learn. In partnership with our virtual design and construction department, we’ve created engaging sessions that allow young students to virtually tour our job sites,” Gower says.

“PCL also supports many post-secondary institutions. Employees and leadership sit on advisory boards for numerous college programs and professional associations across Canada, including the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta. We partner with educational institutions by sponsoring scholarships and awards, strengthening the skilled-labour pipeline in our communities. Since 2017, PCL has donated over $1 million to post-secondary institutions across Canada and the United States.”

PHOTO SOURCE: WOMEN BUILDING FUTURES

THOMSON CONCLUDES, “THE TRADES ARE AN INCREDIBLY POWERFUL PLACE FOR WOMEN AND A POWERFUL WAY TO BUILD A CAREER. IF YOU HAVE YOUR JOURNEYPERSON TICKET, THAT NEVER GETS TAKEN AWAY FROM YOU.”

These efforts are paying off. Last year, PCL provides more than 787 interns from 130 colleges and universities in Canada and the United States with real-world experience in the construction industry in their area of study. In 2023, 152 former students joined PCL full-time, filling nearly 50 per cent of the entry-level engineering positions.

Gower speaks to the misconception about trade work that hampers students from embarking on this career path.

“Too often students and their parents harbour misconceptions that construction work is a dead-end, dangerous, boring and outdated career choice. We need to actively tackle these misconceptions by showcasing the advanced technologies used in construction and highlighting the exciting opportunities for growth and advancement in the field.

“The benefits of going into construction include gaining an education without incurring heavy student debt, being well compensated and having the potential for rapid career progression. The construction industry offers a dynamic and innovative work environment where creativity and problem solving are highly valued. Additionally, the sense of achievement in building tangible, impactful projects that shape communities can be a powerful motivator, offering a fulfilling and prosperous career choice.”

PCL will continue to take action and be a leader in advancing the benefits and rewards of trades.

“The construction industry can’t just wait for the skilled labour shortage to resolve itself. Industry and government should work together to build new and creative strategies to address the challenges. We need more action from governments, quickly,” Gower adds.

McKee Homes, a family-run award-winning homebuilder with more than 35 years of creating communities is also invested in bringing youth into trades. For 12

years McKee Homes has administered a program called Building Futures.

Grace McKee, executive vice president, owner, says, “Grade 10 students participate in a unique educational program while attending school on our job site, where they complete their core classes while gaining hands on experience in home building. During the school year, students work alongside our trade partners to construct one to two homes, exposing them to such areas as engineering, design, supply chains, marketing, sales and construction. Our hope with Building Futures is to raise awareness about the exciting and rewarding opportunities in our industry and inspire students to explore many of the potential career paths.”

Ryan Doel, sales and marketing manager, adds, “Students get hands-on experience in various aspects of home construction, including surveying, excavation, framing, plumbing, electrical, finish carpentry and drywall. They also gain insight into the world of lending and mortgages, marketing, sales and design.”

The experience has, for many, launched the students into construction careers thanks to the hands-on experience and exposure to trades professionals at every level.

Another organization tackling the challenge head on is Women Building Futures (WBF) where the main goal is to help women gain economic security. By training, connecting and supporting women to embrace trades, WBF is also tapping into a major labour pool that has infinite benefits for the future of trades in Alberta. The organization was formed by City of Edmonton social workers when it was noted how easy it was to place men into high paying careers, but those same opportunities for women were not available.

Jess Thomson, director of external relations and growth, says, “Currently there is about five per cent women in skilled

ABOVE: JESS THOMSON, WOMEN BUILDING FUTURES, DIRECTOR OF EXTERNAL RELATIONS AND GROWTH.

HEAVY LIFTING

ENCORE TRUCKING & TRANSPORT LTD. TRIUMPHS OVER THE ODDS

BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

Encore Trucking & Transport Ltd. is an Edmontonbased company with over 40 years of experience serving Western Canada. They offer a wide range of services including crane operation, picker trucks and heavy transport. Their certified operators bring extensive lifting, hauling and rigging expertise, specializing in challenging hoist work. The company boasts a fleet of over 65 units, which includes 40 boom trucks ranging from six to 70 tons, along with specialized equipment such as huge knuckle booms, small deck trucks, tractors, long straight booms jack & roll crews and a mini crane rental fleet. Additionally, they have a substantial inventory of open deck trailers to accommodate the transportation of various commodities, from pre-cast concrete and building materials to artwork and electrical equipment.

Don Lucas is the owner and director of Encore Trucking & Transport.

“My father, Frank, was an old tool push,” he smiles as he remembers how it all began. “Frank helped his younger brother Sam buy a one ton truck in 1981. At that time dad was a drilling superintendent working mostly overseas and he knew there was a need for small hot shot units in the oil patch. I was a recently married college kid with a couple of degrees and no job. Dad was probably trying to help me get on my feet because he encouraged Sam to offer me a job.”

Lucas’ journey to what would become today’s Encore Trucking & Transport began with him driving out to Grande Prairie on a job.

“I thought I was going to the end of the world!” he laughs, “But the funny thing was, I kind of liked it and that buzz never went away. I’ve been really lucky in that I’ve been able to do something I like for 40+ years.”

Encore changed, grew and developed several times over. During that time Lucas’ wife, Lois, joined the company and now runs its administrations.

“My brother joined us and his technical savvy helped us grow the fleet. Both he and Sam have moved on, but new team members have joined us and our list of equipment has continued to expand – multiple carry decks, a small fleet of fork lifts, gantry cranes and winch tractors.”

But it wasn’t easy.

“Just switching out of the one-tons, adding trailers, then the progression to five-ton units was a battle,” says Lucas. “We didn’t have much cash and we couldn’t get credit without having cash. It took time to clear debt, only to borrow more and make a huge leap into the pickers. That was the key! Once we realized what the pickers were capable of, we got bigger, better ones. Our cash flow grew and we split the fleet into knuckles and straight booms.”

Being tied to the oilfield, however, was a double-edged sword for the growing company.

“We had a problem that is only apparent when things turn down. The oil patch, when it’s good, is the best but the downtimes were painful. We could sit for days waiting for the market to improve and for drilling to start again. There was an obvious alternative. We realized there was a huge market in the city – urban work, just laying there, waiting for someone to tap it.

So, Encore tapped in.

“We went in hard,” says Lucas. “AC and heating, roofers, siders, framers, millwrights, sign guys, streetlights, power poles, plumbers, boilers, steel crews, electricians – we knocked on

LEFT: STILL ON THE TRAIL, A JOURNEY OF HORSEPOWER AND DETERMINATION. DON LUCAS, OWNER AND DIRECTOR OF ENCORE TRUCKING & TRANSPORT.

PHOTO SOURCE: PRODUCTION WORLD

every door we could find. It wasn’t easy and when we did find work, we needed longer and stronger cranes.”

By that time Encore knew how to turn challenges into opportunities. When they needed new cranes, they bought them and continued to tap into bigger markets.

“Now, years later, it’s hard to describe Encore,” says Lucas. “We are a trucking outfit with special skills and equipment and also a crane and lifting company that has unique lift and rigging skills. That sounds quite ordinary but our transport division has custom-built trailers to load easier and haul more. Thanks to pushed forward axles, we can turn sharper than other vehicles, which makes our lives easier and our work more efficient.”

He continues, “Our lifting skills are so diverse, we had to split the fleet into long straight booms and knuckle booms. They are very different beasts and extremely useful, if specked right. We can lift 200 feet up and reach 150 feet or poke through doors into rafters and inside buildings. We have custom-built flexible jibs for ultra low profile work. The

city and the working world are a labyrinth of problems and tiny work sites – we need to be ready for all of it!”

Encore also has heavy haul crews to skate loads into place and tough brutish power units set up to push massive vessels and modules into plants.

“We were asked by a larger peer company to develop these units and learn the skill,” Lucas adds. “That kind of trust is something Encore has worked for years to acquire. Our steady work with utilities and long-term companies has allowed us to expand our maintenance shop, hire top notch mechanics and help the cause greatly by building a mechanic truck to service and repair our units in the field, on site.”

He chuckles, “We also have a fleet of mini cranes from 2.9 to five tons. These are magic creatures that can reach 70 feet yet can access your bathroom. We’ve got carry decks, right down to a four-ton midget that some of our operators have to keep their arm out the window to fit. Not to mention forklifts up to 50,000 pounds and a tiny electrical, Mariotti Munchkin that will wheel into your house!

ABOVE: CHRIS KNIGHT, SHOP MANAGER, SUPERVISING THE CREW DOING THE YEARLY SAFETY INSPECTION ON THE TRAILER. LAYING DOWN ON THE JOB: TERI-LYNN (CLOSEST), JESSE AND WYATT.

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“Somehow we have seven winch tractors, three tilt decks, trombone trailers, scissornecks, a 10 axle and a number of five-ton singles with nice little 7.5-ton cranes on them. Small enough for our apprentices to run, but large enough to handle decent work.

“As we got larger and busier, we had to become a more cohesive team. We needed HR to find people and also monitor all the orientations and safety protocols that stacked like pancakes at Denny’s on almost every job. We needed safety to run our programs and keep the team protocols current for each employee, while maintaining individual clients with their own special site requirements. Dispatch has to organize our days, book our work with the appropriate cranes and operators and further ensure the orientations and safety requirements are acted on by our operators or admin staff. These admin staff need to be aware of the job requirements and send any documentation required to site. This can be insurance, WCB clearances, operator credentials… and on and on it goes.

“It takes a team to do this job in the modern industrial world and that is what Encore has evolved into, a well-oiled team of skillful dedicated, working professionals.”

Diversifying the fleet, services and staff has more than paid off, proving that Lucas and his team learned the early lessons of Alberta’s energy boom and bust cycles.

“All this has allowed us to fight the allure of Fort McMurray. We want our hands to become drivers, crane operators – thinking, involved employees. So, we open a door for them and see if they walk through it.”

As he reflects on the growth of the company, Lucas can scarcely believe how far they have come.

“We have faced many challenges – economic, pandemic, fires, deaths, equipment failures, bitter cold and years of stress negotiating the feast and famine of the Alberta work scene. But our largest challenge is, and forever will be, the constant search for steady work. Signing a multi-year contract with an electrical utility was perhaps our greatest moment. That was almost 11 years ago but the reality behind that statement is the 30 years of work, 20 of them in a small way with that utility before we were even allowed

TOP: ENCORE’S NEW INTERNATIONAL 18-TON BOOM TRUCK.

MIDDLE: HARD DRIVING, FAST TALKING, GENERAL MANAGER DOUG MCCASKILL. BOTTOM: ENCORE’S 1956 UNIMOG. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: DON; HIS WIFE LOIS IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT; BARRY THE SAFETY BEAR; JASON; THE ACCOUNTING ADMIN STAFF –LEIGH, ANNE, LISA; DILPRET; AND JEFF – #2 SON, CRANE OPERATOR, MARKETING AND EVERYTHING ELSE – HOLDING CLEO THE EMOTIONAL SUPPORT PUG.

to quote on their contract. Think about that for a moment and understand how hard it can be to succeed in this world. Three years later we snagged another large utility. Unheard of! No one ever got both electrical grids!”

Encore does not just physically build communities. They also support them. Causes Encore invests in include Hope Mission, anti-human trafficking initiatives, Cross Cancer Institute and the Robin Hood Association.

Lucas adds, “However, the majority of our community work is with the women’s shelter A Safe Place in Sherwood Park. We move desks, donate clothes and toys, shovel snow and help fund small projects. Mainly we offer a steady cash flow for families and women in dangerous situations. They have fled their home only to find the shelters are full. These people are desperate. They have nowhere to turn except the street, or worse – return to the place they just fled. We can’t have that, so we pay for any hotel rooms they need. It’s the right thing to do.”

For the future, Encore will continue to innovate and progress, develop new skills, find more work and hire more people.

“My family will continue this journey but then it will become their vision, not mine. Jeff and our GM Doug McCaskill are a very capable experienced pair and our eldest, Tyler, is a very skilled operator. Our people will be fine. I have every confidence in them. I’m not retired but I keep getting these awards and feel like it is mostly, ‘Oh, you’re not dead yet?’ Yeah sorry. Still trucking! And there are grandsons that seem eager to get behind the wheel but at present are still wobbly little walkers.”

He has a great vision of the future of his industry and what it can mean for Alberta.

“I’d like to see the day we can run some of our cranes remotely from the office in a virtual space and be able to send loads to major centers like Calgary and Fort McMurray with semi-independent trucks. I want the province to get to carbon zero but with a world class oil and gas industry and pipelines to each coast.

“I think the future of moving and lifting will change dramatically; that there will come a day when science learns how to control nano-sized creature robots, moving like

ENCORE DOES NOT JUST PHYSICALLY BUILD COMMUNITIES. THEY ALSO SUPPORT THEM. CAUSES ENCORE INVESTS IN INCLUDE HOPE MISSION, ANTI-HUMAN

TRAFFICKING

INITIATIVES, CROSS CANCER INSTITUTE AND THE ROBIN HOOD ASSOCIATION.

a shimmering fog across the ground under anything you want to move, then electronically stimulated change from a flowing stream of tiny plasma into more and more rigid structures that form to the work and with sheer numbers lift, elevate and flow again, down the street, across the room, up the stairs.”

The best way to sum up the history, values, mission, teamwork and future of Encore is seen in a sculpture they erected near its Yellowhead yard.

“It’s from Stonewriter and Roger and Matt Shore are the geniuses behind it. It was an idea I told Roger about after fighting through COVID. It’s a group – a family struggling against the elements on a journey into a dark unknown. The wind is blowing. The lead figure holds a lantern, clutching his hat, his lady following. The wind sweeps her coat as they stride into that force. She leads a massive horse, the children clinging to its back. They are quietly determined, each working on their own, but they are a group and together they feel unstoppable. I hope it reflects this, the greater journey of our lives.”

Like Encore, the sculpture is larger than life. It towers 30 feet in the air and the horse alone is 13 feet high. The weight is 20,000 pounds. Special equipment was required to move and install the piece. It sits as a testament to everything that Encore is, was and will be – a quietly determined team that moves forward, no matter what is on the path ahead.

“When I started there was myself and uncle Sam. We rented a bay and there was a little office up front. Today we have about 70 employees including both my wife and sons. We have four work yards, the largest ringed with trailers and another circled by boom trucks and tractors,” Lucas concludes.

“Is this the stuff of dreams? Yes, but remember, ‘fact follows fiction’. So, dream on.

Suzanne Young, City of Edmonton (photo Fain Cowie Photography).

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Since the initial visioning, the design has evolved with public input from a formal plan to a more natural landscape augmented with a number of amenities.

“There’s lots of pathways, lots of seating and lots of lighting. Our intention with this park was to make it usable through all four seasons. There are basketball courts that could double as a snowbank rink in the wintertime. It has a playground, a sledding hill and a dog off-leash area,” says Young, adding that it is estimated that approximately 50 per cent of the future residents in the surrounding development will own dogs.

Safety and security are also built into Warehouse Park’s design.

Says Young, “The park is designed using CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) principles, ensuring clear sight lines. We’re not putting in landscaping elements that create hidden areas or make it difficult for people to see. We’ve had a lot of discussions on both safety and security within the city but also with the Edmonton Police Service.”

Young notes that the best form of security is human activity. It is anticipated that the towers surrounding Warehouse Park will have ground level commercial space for restaurants, licensed establishments and other retail spaces. Plus, there will be opportunities for programming entertainment in the park such as festivals, food trucks, live music and more.

Going from gravel to green space can have an impact on a number of fronts. In 2023, the University of Waterloo studied the economic value of physical and mental health benefits of the City of

Peterborough’s new Quaker Foods City Square Park. They estimate these benefits to be more than $4M annually. The presence of parks can also increase local property values and in turn, increase municipal tax revenues. A survey by Economics Research Associates in Denver found that 48 per cent of residents would pay more to live in a neighbourhood near a park.

In contrast to downtown’s plazas such as Churchill Square and Ice District, Warehouse Park offers a more community-focused experience.

“Whether residents or office workers,” Young says, “It will provide some respite, rest and relaxation that people need and desire for their mental health. This park is intended as a community park to serve the local community.”

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE’S FUTURE IS BRIGHT THANKS TO THESE YOUNG LEADERS

By BOMA Edmonton

When Edmontonians think of commercial real estate, they might imagine men dressed in slick suits and deals signed in mahogany offices. In reality, the industry is fresh, modern and open to people of all backgrounds, experiences and ages.

BOMA Edmonton’s Emerging Leaders under 40 group are young professionals who promote commercial real estate to young Albertans in secondary and post-secondary education or who are already working. They are ambitious, creative and passionate about the diversity, innovation and opportunity in an industry that is not well known.

The BOMA Edmonton Emerging Leaders’ activities include events, strategic initiatives, campaigns, mentorship programs, working with post-secondary institutions and attracting emerging leaders to BOMA’s committees and board.

Networking and Mentorship

The best way to get into commercial real estate and to advance in your career is to develop your network. BOMA’s Emerging Leaders put on several key events per year that are geared towards connecting younger people to seasoned commercial real estate professionals so they can get a foot in

the door and open new doors. For any younger person looking to establish a career in the industry, mentorship is also an important factor in gaining their career progression.

The BOMA Emerging Leaders work with industry professionals to create valuable mentorship opportunities and are even using artificial intelligence to better match mentors and mentees. The mentorships are voluntary, flexible and offer the chance to learn directly from highly knowledgeable veterans in the field.

Mentees gain critical insights for building their careers and gain valuable feedback on their progress.

“We’ve tried more traditional mentorship programs in the past and they worked fine. We decided this time to augment the experience using an app that will better match mentor and mentees and we are providing dedicated coordination services to enhance the mentorship experience. Anyone interested in participating should contact the BOMA office. It’s going to be a cornerstone of the work BOMA Edmonton does and we are happy that the board sees such value in nurturing future talent in the commercial real estate industry,” says BOMA Edmonton Emerging Leader committee co-chair Keegan Andreas, executive vice president of Seasonal Impact.

BOMA has also created two Board Observer roles for the Emerging Leaders group where the non-voting observers can learn first-hand the issues impacting the commercial real estate industry and help to shape the board’s direction. The Emerging Leaders Board Observers also learn about and participate in BOMA Edmonton’s promotional and advocacy efforts on behalf of members and the industry.

“We need diverse voices at the table. Starbucks is one company that brought a young person just out of university onto their corporate board. They understood the value for the organization and for that person. It’s a win-win situation and we are happy to have Adam Greenough of Canderel and Elaf Khadhair of Ogilvie Law as our first BOMA Edmonton Board Observers,” says BOMA board chair Hilary Lumme, senior director of property management in Alberta for Redstone Group.

Education

Commercial real estate offers an array of opportunities for people with a wide range of skills. In Edmonton, MacEwan University offers Canada’s first property management minor within their school of business and the University of Alberta includes a premier real estate certificate at its school of business. NAIT has important programs, such as power engineering and Norquest and other schools offer key administrative and other certifications or one-time courses in building services and maintenance.

Of course, the most well-known certification and designation training in the industry for property,

asset, facility and sustainability management is through BOMA’s own international and national program called BOMI and BOMI Canada. Also, BOMA Edmonton continuing education is a major benefit to members and non-members of the organization who want to gain credits towards their designation and stay abreast of the latest trends.

Representatives from BOMA Edmonton’s Emerging Leaders are often found at campus job fairs and other events promoting the commercial real estate industry to current and prospective students. Most often, the response they get is surprise and interest in the variety of career paths in the industry, from business and finance to law, engineering, operations, management, sustainability, marketing and more.

“You will hear time and time again from people in the industry that they fell into it. Our role as emerging leaders is to help people be more intentional about choosing a career in commercial real estate and to advance once they do. The opportunities are endless,” says Kylee Riehl, a BOMA Edmonton Emerging Leader committee member and property manager at ONE Properties.

Edmonton is a demographically young and rapidly changing city with growing diversity. The Emerging Leaders are creating awareness among their peers of an industry of which many are not aware. They are also showing how the issues that impact younger Albertans such as housing, sustainability, climate change and changing work-life patterns have solutions in the commercial real estate industry.

“It’s an exciting time to be in the industry. If you’re looking for a career, you should learn more about commercial real estate,” adds Riehl.

BOMA Edmonton thanks all the members of its Emerging Leaders Committee: Adam Greenough, Julian Mannella, Kylee Riehl, Keegan Andreas, Elaf Khadhair, Danica Kennedy, Dan Hein, Scott Laing, Anthony Patenaude, Melaniee Smith, Cody Wilson, and Ana Danie.

To learn more, visit www.bomaedm.ca

SerVantage Edmonton,

Emerging Leaders Event

“THE MOST AFFORDABLE CITY”

BY JOHN HARDY

Well into Q1 of 2024, Edmonton is still benefiting from the recent bragging right! Last year, the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) declared Edmonton as Canada’s most affordable city. It is a hard-earned rank and credential, both in business terms and community excellence terms.

“The CHBA study looked at three elements that determine housing affordability, based on municipal protocols:” explains Aziz Bootwala, board chair of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, “getting housing approved, expediency of approval and government charges carried by renters or buyers. Edmonton also ranked number one for planning features.”

He points out one of the big reasons why housing costs are lower in Edmonton than in other Canadian markets. Alberta does not have a provincial sales tax (PST) or harmonized sales tax (HST), “So, homebuyers keep more money in their pocket to spend on rent or purchasing a home. Also, Alberta does not have a land transfer tax like some provinces, making home ownership more affordable and saving homebuyers thousands of dollars. Housing cost is largely tied to supply and demand and historically, Edmonton is known to be a balanced market with no major negative or positive increase in housing cost year over year. Residential developers in Edmonton have focused on building great products for the public including access to amenities.”

EDMONTON’S HOT DRAW

The CHBA ranking also credited the streamlined and efficient bureaucracy of Edmonton’s development contributing to affordability. Edmonton provides clear and predictable regulations and quick timelines to home builders and developers.

“The initial cost of land and land development in Edmonton, the City’s permit approval process, access to building materials and construction crews are all factors that play into maintaining a balanced real estate market,” Bootwala says.

When it comes to housing and community growth, affordability is a key factor. According to Alberta government stats, Edmontonians spend a smaller share of income on home ownership costs; 31 per cent in Edmonton versus the Canadian average of 63 per cent.

Melanie Boles, chair of REALTORS® Association of Edmonton (RAE), notes, “One key factor is availability of inventory. Edmonton has more inventory available than other Canadian markets, and Edmonton’s lower population (less than 2 million) puts less pressure on the market and prices. Edmonton also has lower rental market prices and people aren’t as motivated to buy if rent remains affordable.

“Average income levels and industries are also important,” she notes. “Alberta’s average income level is much higher than other provinces, which creates migration to the province, affecting inventory and affordability. Edmonton is

Edmonton’s 2024 Housing Forecast Holds Opportunity for Growth

As we step into 2024, Edmonton’s real estate landscape appears poised for a flourishing year, according to the latest REALTORS® Housing Forecast. The city’s housing market is set to ride the waves of high interprovincial migration, buoyed by economic investment activities and the anticipation of lowering interest rates. These market conditions are predicted to manifest as moderate increases to the number of sales, inventory and home prices as compared to last year.

Put forth by the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton (RAE) each year, the forecast is bolstered by Alberta’s continued economic growth, influenced by a more stable energy sector and new investment in several major projects. While the Conference Board of Canada

predicts a marginal dip in migration in 2024, the influx of people from the previous two years will give the housing market enough demand to contend with.

“The trend with migration is that stimulus to the housing market generally follows one or two years behind,” states RAE’s 2024 board chair, Melanie Boles. “People are moving to Alberta for various reasons, housing affordability being among them. We know at least one thing – these folks will need somewhere to live.”

Indeed, though Edmonton’s home prices didn’t experience the surges seen in Calgary in 2023, experts are warning that Edmonton’s market could be next. As one of the last major urban centres in Canada where hous-

RAE Chair Melanie Boles reveals Edmonton’s 2024 Housing Forecast predictions.

ing is still attainable, the 20-year high interest rates have barely put a dent in the interest from buyers moving here from B.C. and Ontario.

“Our market here in the Greater Edmonton Area (GEA) has been growing steadily higher than last year,” Boles remarks. “Just in January, we saw 46.8 per cent more activity in unit sales year-over-year for all property types and total residential average prices were up 7.6 per cent.”

Boles predicted that the timing of The Bank of Canada’s potential interest rate reductions later in the year will be the biggest factor affecting Alberta’s market, as investors and prospective buyers that have been riding out the storm of higher rates enter the market. The RAE’s forecast has tentatively predicted a 1.2 per cent increase in the average residential sale price, but Boles says it could easily be higher.

“It will really come down to how fast interest rates are reduced, since we know there are buyers waiting in the wings, eager to get into the market before it explodes,” Boles explains. “With Calgary’s Real Estate Board predicting an average price growth of 6 per cent or higher, Edmonton may be looking even better to first-time home buyers and those with smaller budgets.”

The other mitigating factor in the RAE forecast is how many new listings will hit the market. The relative abundance of inventory in the Edmonton market is what has kept the city’s average home price affordable thus far. In 2023, Edmonton had just over 36,000 new listings, while Calgary had just under 34,000, fueling a more competitive market. This year, an increase of 4.6 per cent more listings is expected, ranging from 6.7 per cent more detached homes and 9.2 per cent more semi-detached homes entering the market, to the more modest 2 per cent increase for row/townhouses and apartment condominium listings.

“There will be a range for all buyers,” Boles elaborates. “We’re going to see a lot of sales this year, particularly in detached homes and condos, where we hope to see 5 per cent and 4.4 per cent more sales, respectively. It’s exciting!”

Despite the nuances to the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton’s forecast, the prediction envisioned is one of stability with a particular focus on growth and speculation will be heavy on the Bank of Canada this year as buyers and sellers alike wait to see what they’ll do come spring.

realtorsofedmonton.com

Melanie Boles

RAE Chair-Elect Darlene Reid presents the Association’s 2023 Year in Review.

going to see some big long-term net-zero projects start up in the region during 2024 and beyond, which will bring more people for employment and add pressure to the market.

“Compared to Calgary, Edmonton has a younger workforce and more ‘blue-collar’ opportunities.” She adds that Edmonton’s affordability is also a potent draw due to mortgage rates. When interest rates are high, people are priced out of more expensive markets like Vancouver, Toronto and even Calgary.

According to Taylor Pardy, CMHC’s lead economist for the Prairies and Territories, when looking at affordability, comparables are a reliable source.

“When looking at large cities in Canada with over one million residents, Edmonton certainly has an affordability advantage at the moment. The specific stats are quite telling. Looking at pricing for existing homes, as of November 2023, the average home price in Edmonton is significantly lower than many other regions of the country.” (See chart below.)

The trending confirms that affordability is a key factor for migration.

“It is definitely a selling point for the Chamber when selling Edmonton to the rest of the country to attract businesses here,” Bootwala admits. “Affordable housing definitely impacts how many people move to Alberta and Edmonton. Housing affordability is a top, if not the top, issue facing Canadians today.

When it comes to the migration momentum of the Edmonton region, he also credits the dynamic “Alberta is Calling” promotional campaign, especially in overheated Canadian markets. The bold and blunt recruitment initiative from the Alberta government touted lots of job opportunities and housing affordability, particularly compared to Toronto and Vancouver housing prices.

“Post pandemic, migration to Alberta is high and that is based on a number of factors such as economic and quality of life, including housing affordability. The fact that Alberta doesn’t have a provincial sales tax also helps. Our economy is growing again and that helps attract people and businesses to our city,” he says. “In fact, the city’s real GDP is expected to grow by two per cent this year and by 1.9 per cent per year for the next five years. It is very promising when people look at moving to Edmonton.”

Nationally, trends show young adults aged 25-44 are leaving cities like Vancouver and Toronto due to a combination of unaffordable, unsuitable or insufficient housing options and thousands are landing in Alberta – and, for various reasons, particularly the Edmonton region.

Pardy crunches the CMHC numbers and echoes the credential of Edmonton being “the most affordable city.” Between the second half of 2022 and the first half of 2023, Alberta gained 168,807 people through both international and interprovincial migration. Net international migration totaled 112,562 people, while net interprovincial migration totaled 56,245 people.

ACCORDING TO TAYLOR PARDY, CMHC’S LEAD ECONOMIST FOR THE PRAIRIES AND TERRITORIES, WHEN LOOKING AT AFFORDABILITY, COMPARABLES ARE A RELIABLE SOURCE.

“This represents a record pace of overall migration into Alberta with the majority ending up in either Edmonton or Calgary. As a result, demand for housing across all segments of the market is quite high at the moment and we have seen existing home inventories and new home inventories being drawn down. Vacancy rates in the rental market are also expected to come down in the near term.”

Boles is positive and enthusiastic about the residual impact of Edmonton being acknowledged as “the most affordable.” She notes that it is good for business and good for the region because it is good for growth.

“Alberta’s population is expected to grow to five million by 2025. Larger urban areas in our region will see higher growth and become more concentrated, especially along the Edmonton-to-Calgary Corridor.

“Edmonton’s affordability attracts investors and people who want to afford homes, grow a family and get more for their money. This is due to several factors including a strong energy sector and investment activity as well as good employment numbers and new projects to support them. According to numbers, projections and trending, the affordability momentum is already happening and 81 per cent of Albertans are expected to live in the Edmonton region by 2051.”

For the Edmonton Chamber, the affordability ranking is just a cherry on top.

“The diverse, rich and vibrant culture of Edmonton, along with access to post secondary education, healthcare and a growing innovation market has enabled Edmonton to not only attract new immigrants but sustain an over 85 per cent retention of new immigrants after one year of moving to Edmonton,” Bootwala concludes.

LEFT: TAYLOR PARDY, CMHC’S LEAD ECONOMIST FOR THE PRAIRIES AND TERRITORIES.

THE JOB SEARCH CHALLENGE

MANEUVERING EDMONTON’S JOBS CRUNCH

BY JOHN HARDY

Added to recent business warnings and concerns about a skilled trade shortage, Edmonton businesses, the provincial government and career professionals are dealing with an Edmonton non-trade jobs crunch.

“Today’s labour market presents significant challenges for job seekers in non-trade and non-healthcare jobs,” says the plugged-in Alison Reaves, academic program manager, with the Work-Integrated Learning and Career Education Centre at Edmonton’s NorQuest College. “For those working in trades or healthcare, employers can’t keep up with their hiring demands, and job-seekers have more choice than ever before.

“But for job seekers looking for other types of work, Edmonton’s current job market is disheartening and increasingly difficult to navigate.”

StatsCan labour market numbers crunchers and Edmonton HR professionals agree. Most of 2023 was tough for Edmonton job hunters, and although there are hopes and signs for improvement, so far, 2024 isn’t much better.

According to recent StatsCanada numbers and trending, there is good news and bad news.

Data shows job vacancies declined at the end of 2023, but the drop is a double-edged sword. Jobs being filled is good news, but job creation is failing to keep up with population, and Canada’s job market saw a notable erosion in opportunity as fewer job openings were advertised. In Alberta, there were 89,380 vacant positions (down by four per cent from the year before).

“BUT FOR JOB SEEKERS LOOKING FOR OTHER TYPES OF WORK, EDMONTON’S CURRENT JOB MARKET IS DISHEARTENING AND INCREASINGLY DIFFICULT TO NAVIGATE,” SAYS REAVES.

By the end of last year, there were more than 31,475 Edmonton job vacancies, accounting for about a third of the total job vacancies in Alberta.

The StatsCan trending shows that, in the Edmonton region, full-time job losses happened in agriculture, natural resources, construction, the financial sector, business and

ABOVE: ALISON REAVES, ACADEMIC PROGRAM MANAGER, WITH THE WORK-INTEGRATED LEARNING AND CAREER EDUCATION CENTRE AT NORQUEST COLLEGE.

building services, healthcare, accommodation and food services, and public administration.

“Over the past two to three years, Canada has witnessed a notable surge in job vacancies across various sectors,” explains Chris Ball, executive director of Career Professionals of Canada (CPC), the uniquely Canadian not-for-profit national association for career practitioners. “It is a trend attributed to several factors. One significant driver has been the country’s robust economic growth, spurred by increased consumer spending, business investments, and government stimulus measures.

In Edmonton, and in most Canadian business areas, various labour market factors cause a noticeable uptick in job vacancies. Ball points out that demographic shifts, such as an aging population and retirements create vacancies that need to be filled. Technological advancements also play a part, creating new industries and roles that fuel a growing demand for skilled workers.

“The world of work is changing,” Reaves points out. “Automation, AI, opportunities for remote work, and technological gains continue to change the way people work, which is changing the job market. These changes provide opportunity for job seekers to upskill their competencies with short and accessible education to then return to the market in either the same industry or new and different fields.”

With Edmonton expertise, she adds that “extensive opportunities exist in healthcare roles such as practical nurse, healthcare aid, and pharmacy technician; in the childcare sector for childcare professionals at all levels; and in the social services sector such as justice and child and youth care. Areas that seem to be have fewer opportunities recently include administration, human resources, and entry-level accounting.”

The frustrations of Edmonton job hunters parallel the trends and details about unemployed hopefuls and job opportunities, but there are pros and cons about the Edmonton job search process.

“The pros include a lot of opportunity,” she explains. “Just like job seekers are struggling to find jobs, employers are struggling to find great talent. This disconnect in the market means there are great jobs available for job seekers

“OVER THE PAST TWO TO THREE YEARS, CANADA HAS WITNESSED A NOTABLE SURGE IN JOB VACANCIES ACROSS VARIOUS SECTORS,” EXPLAINS BALL.

who are actively looking and who can demonstrate their competencies to employers.

“The cons? There’s no doubt about it. Navigating Edmonton’s job market is tough and it can be disheartening. Today’s job market is particularly tough for newcomers to Canada. Newcomers bring amazingly diverse and robust experiences to the Canadian job market, but employers often disregard work experience gained outside of Canada.”

CPC’s Chris Ball emphasizes the key to an effective job search is a multifaceted approach encompassing traditional and modern strategies. “First and foremost, clarity in defining a person’s career goals and identifying preferred industries. It is crucial. Tailoring résumés and cover letters to highlight relevant skills and experiences for each application significantly improves the chances of success.”

ABOVE:

CHRIS BALL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF CAREER PROFESSIONALS OF CANADA (CPC).

Some things never change. The reasons for being out of work and looking for a job are many---and individual. Pandemicrelated layoffs, a hiring slowdown and a transforming workplace dealing with work-from-remote and downsizing job factors are all job-hunting reality checks and speedbumps.

Although there is some encouraging Edmonton momentum about job opportunities, the technology of digital job searching is efficient but also compounding the discouraging frustration. Ironically, for similar but different reasons, Edmonton job hunters and Edmonton employers are frustrated by quirks of today’s job search process.

For applicants, the search and application process have tremendous reach. The downside? They also blur the chances of being noticed, connecting and getting to second base.

For employers looking for talent and viable potential are often blitzed by a buckshot of mis-focused, mis-targeted and irrelevant email resumes and cover letters.

With years of experience in Edmonton’s career counselling and job market, NorQuest’s Alison Reaves emphasizes the importance of developing job search tools. “The resume, the cover letter, and interview skills. They are the job hunter’s brand. And no doubt about it. It is a numbers game! Today’s job applicant will likely apply for 50-100 jobs to get 3-4 interviews. It’s tough to stay motivated but----it’s not personal!

“It’s all about finding a good fit for the applicant and for the employer. The blunt reality is, if someone is applying for 50100 jobs and not getting a call for an interview, it’s time to take a look at the resume and the cover letter and do an update.”

The experts agree. Technology is invaluable but the slick efficiency of digital job searching comes with a price. “While digital platforms have undoubtedly revolutionized the job search process, offering efficiency and accessibility,” Ball points out, “they also introduce challenges and frustrations for job seekers. The sheer volume of online job postings can overwhelm individuals, making navigating and identifying suitable opportunities difficult.

“On the employer side, automated applicant tracking systems often filter out candidates based on algorithms or a lack of specific keywords in résumés, potentially overlooking qualified applicants and exacerbating feelings of frustration.”

She adds that the impersonal nature of digital communication can hinder meaningful connections between job seekers and employers, leading to feelings of isolation in the job search process.”

StatsCan numbers, career search specialists and the Edmonton labour market and job search trending agrees. It’s not easy.

Another unavoidable factor which makes Edmonton job hunting rough ride is the impact of an otherwise Edmonton positive. Migration! For job hunters, the Edmonton-positive translates into an Edmonton job search challenge. A strong economy, talented workforce and business-friendly policies continue to attract Edmonton job creators and investment from around the world. But more people, means more and more job searchers, and more competition for Edmonton jobs.

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN BUSINESS:

A CLOSER LOOK AT ALBERTA’S EVOLVING LANDSCAPE

Why it’s important to recognize, support and celebrate female entrepreneurs

IBY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

n today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the role of women entrepreneurs and leaders is more critical than ever. Women tend to prioritize social responsibility, community involvement, and diversity in their businesses, contributing to a more equitable and sustainable business ecosystem. Recognizing, supporting and celebrating women in business not only fosters an environment of diversity and inclusion but also drives economic growth and societal change. Additionally, celebrating women in business is not only good for the individual and the company but also beneficial for the broader community. It enhances the company’s attractiveness to job seekers while aiding in employee retention.

In Alberta, the statistics reinforce the significance of women-led businesses. According to the Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), 38 per cent of small and mediumsized enterprises in Alberta are owned by women. This not only signifies the increasing presence of women in the business sector but also highlights their pivotal role in the province’s economic development.

Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada (WEOC) is one such organization that supports, recognizes and celebrates women in business. Alberta Women Entrepreneurs is (AWE) a local organization in the WEOC network.

“WEOC supports organizations across Canada that are working directly with women entrepreneurs, like AWE,” shares Alison Kirkland, CEO. “We provide our members with professional development and peer networking opportunities so that they have the resources at hand to support the women entrepreneurs in their region. We also administer the WEOC National Loan Program, which offers loans in any amount up to $50,000. AWE is one of our partners, delivering training, advising and mentorship to women entrepreneurs who are applying for loans. Together we are working to ensure that Alberta women have access to different sources of gender-specific capital.”

She notes that it is often more difficult for women to get business funding.

“Lower credit scores or lack of collateral may impact a woman’s ability to access financing,” says Kirkland. “Many women are in service businesses that don’t have assets to secure a loan. The WEOC loan is more flexible in terms of requirements and may be used for a variety of costs, including website development, marketing materials, inventory and leasehold improvements.”

She continues, “Women do business differently. They have different goals for their businesses and different requirements

RIGHT: KATIE PHILLIPS, TRICON SOLUTIONS, MANAGING DIRECTOR, OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE.

on their time. They are, for the most part, primary caregivers. Some have smaller networks or resume gaps because of this. Our support recognizes that there is no one-sizefits-all solution. It’s important to meet women where they are in their entrepreneurial journeys.”

She adds, “Women are also very generous in giving back to their communities. Having healthy women-owned businesses helps create healthy local economies.”

Kirkland describes why it’s important to not only support but also celebrate female entrepreneurs.

“To show others that it can be done! Women business leaders are role models and contribute to the national economy. We need to show the breadth of possibilities and range of businesses.”

One such woman who is an excellent role model and example is Katie Phillips, managing director, operational excellence at Tricon Solutions.

“Tricon is a community that values diverse minds, backgrounds and experiences. As a womenowned company, we bring a fresh, relationship-based perspective to the traditional industry,” says Phillips. “Established in 2005, Tricon emerged in an industry marred by two significant voids: the absence of a comprehensive project delivery solution and the lack of a supportive community for project experts to thrive collectively. In those early days, consultants faced short contracts,

“TRICON IS A COMMUNITY THAT VALUES DIVERSE MINDS, BACKGROUNDS, AND EXPERIENCES. AS A WOMEN-OWNED COMPANY, WE BRING A FRESH, RELATIONSHIP-BASED PERSPECTIVE TO THE TRADITIONAL INDUSTRY,” SAYS PHILLIPS.

leaving them isolated and restarting with each project – a lonely, inefficient and challenging cycle. Our journey began with the ground breaking ‘PMO In-A-Box’ concept, laying the foundation for a vibrant community. The evolution into staff augmentation swiftly became our most engaging expertise.

Phillips’ journey with Tricon has been incredibly rewarding.

“I’ve learned that building meaningful connections, coupled with hard work and self-trust, is the key to success. Joining Tricon at its startup phase opened doors for me, providing an early entry and the chance to collaborate with inspiring women entrepreneurs, igniting my passion for leadership.

“Throughout my time with Tricon, I have actively pursued every opportunity for advancement, consistently proving my worth as a trusted team member. A defining moment arose when I boldly approached the owner of Tricon, expressing my desire to become an owner and contribute significantly to the company’s succession plan. This decision has granted me the immensely rewarding opportunity to fulfill my lifelong dream of owning a business.”

She describes her leadership style, “It is no different than who I am at my core. I embody qualities of quiet, calm and transparency in my communication, coupled with a profound care of the people and the work to which I am committed. As a leader, I consider these traits to be strengths. My reserved nature commands attention when I do speak, offering a comforting presence amid chaos and fostering open conversations. I thrive in one-on-one interactions, gradually sharing personal details as relationships deepen. While I may not bring the loudest personality to the leadership table, I’ve invested effort in understanding myself, recognizing my strengths and perpetually evolving to be authentic in my leadership journey.”

What are her thoughts on women entrepreneurship? She is happy to share the roadblocks and how to overcome them.

“Statistically, women are often overlooked for promotions, paid less, have less access to capital and lack financial confidence in their business. I think women also are hard on

TO ASPIRING WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS, PHILLIPS SAYS, “ALWAYS TRUST YOURSELF. MAKE BOLD MOVES TOWARD YOUR GOALS AND BEYOND THAT, CREATE A SPACE FOR YOURSELF THAT IS SUPPORTIVE.

themselves, suffer from imposter syndrome and go for or apply for fewer positions of power. It is empowering that we are talking about these things, that there are statistics out there on women entrepreneurs and the roadblocks we face. It’s now up to women entrepreneurs and leaders to break through the roadblocks, find ways to build ourselves up, build each other up and start making a difference for future generations. I believe we can do that every day by supporting women-led businesses, mentoring up-and-coming leaders, joining peer mentoring groups and finding ways to share the business knowledge we have to help the women in our network succeed.”

To aspiring women entrepreneurs, she says, “Always trust yourself. Make bold moves toward your goals and beyond that, create a space for yourself that is supportive. We live in a world where women are at a disadvantage in business but there are so many opportunities for you to change that. Surround yourself with women or allies that promote you, promote your business, who can share their learnings from having gone through hard things, their connections and who are willing to share in the loneliness at the top. Once you have that, you’ll be unstoppable!”

The increasing presence of women in Alberta’s business landscape is a testament to resilience, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that the barriers faced by women entrepreneurs are addressed and dismantled. As we continue to appreciate and celebrate women’s contributions to the business world, it is crucial to create an ecosystem that supports and nurtures their growth. By doing so, we can look forward to a future where gender parity in business is not just an ideal, but a reality. Let us remember that when we support women in business, we are investing in a more inclusive, diverse and prosperous Alberta.

THE RISK OF CYBERATTACKS

CRIMES OF OPPORTUNITY

BY JOHN HARDY

Technology is a spectacular convenience, an infinite source of information and a social game changer. In business, technology is like breathing, blood flow, heartbeats and nerve endings. The critical fact of doing business is also an unavoidable irony; occasionally organizations have challenges working with it but accept the reality that they can’t work without it.

Savvy business leaders acknowledge that, just like technology is an indispensable tool for efficient operations, cybersecurity is business’ vital risk management.

There is business world consensus that while technology is mind-bogglingly efficient, so are the risks and the must have of cyber security. As more and more Edmonton businesses are finding out the hard way, the exciting and limitless possibilities of technology are constantly threatened by hacks, malware, ransomware and other cyber attacks.

“In the Edmonton area, there has been a noticeable increase in ransomware attacks over the past five years,” notes Balaji Selvaraj, director of IT with Edmonton’s Sunco Communication and Installation. “The evolving landscape of cyber threats, as well as the ever-present risks in the digital world, have contributed to this surge.”

SELVARAJ MENTIONS A RECENT CTV REPORT WHICH SHOWED 1.4 MILLION ALBERTANS HAVING FALLEN VICTIM TO CYBER ATTACKS, WITH THE NUMBERS STEADILY RISING. “IT’S KIND OF SCARY, BECAUSE MANY ATTACKS GO UNREPORTED.”

He mentions a recent CTV report which showed 1.4 million Albertans having fallen victim to cyber attacks, with the numbers steadily rising. “It’s kind of scary, because many attacks go unreported.”

John Zabiuk, chair of NAIT’s cybersecurity program emphasizes that, “Although information specific to Edmonton is not readily available, globally the number of ransomware attacks has increased 13 per cent over the past few years, according to a recent report by Verizon. By 2031, it is estimated that a ransomware attack will occur every two seconds. Globally, it is frightening, with 73 per cent of businesses have reported being attacked by ransomware over the past two years.”

While hacks are familiar but dreaded facts of technology life with menacing invasions of privacy and identity theft, business cyber attacks are more often malware breaches which steal delicate and confidential company information.

Ransomware essentially locks up a company’s operating system until a ransom is paid to unlock it.

“The most common way ransomware infects a device is through phishing emails containing malicious attachments,” he says. “Such emails are designed to trick the user into trying to open the attachment and unwittingly installing the ransomware.”

Cyberattacks. Hacks. Malware. Ransomware. For some businesses, technology is vital but sometimes baffling techspeak that IT people are supposed to deal with. Unfortunately, but understandably, media reports are usually about big-time cyberattacks happening to big-time corporate victims like Suncor, Sobeys, Marriott, Yahoo and Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children, while independent, small and midsize businesses opt for the false sense of security that they are too small for a malware or ransomware cyber attack. Big myth.

“Small and midsize businesses (SMBs) face heightened susceptibility to ransomware due to limited resources, inadequate cybersecurity measures and a lack of employee training,” Selvaraj warns. “Their vulnerability is compounded by insufficient backup systems and the misconception that they are unlikely targets. To address these risks, SMBs should prioritize cybersecurity investments, enhance employee training and establish comprehensive incident response and backup strategies.”

Vince Phillips, president and CEO of Edmonton’s Foresight for IT underscores the caution. “In the past five years or so in the Edmonton area, the risk of ransomware attacks has increased but ransomware attacks can be 100 per cent be prevented. What makes Edmonton SMBs susceptible? Innocent ignorance! Most cyber attacks on SMBs are crimes of opportunity. Hackers target the low hanging fruit.

“Small businesses often think that hackers wouldn’t be interested in them because they are small or they believe that just because they have never experienced a cyber crime event, they never will. So, the business chooses to do nothing.”

Selvaraj explains that, while ransomware attacks can occur suddenly without notice, organizations often observe warning signs including unusual network activity, unexpected system behavior, increased phishing attempts

ABOVE: BALAJI SELVARAJ, DIRECTOR OF IT WITH EDMONTON’S SUNCO COMMUNICATION.

and the presence of unknown or unauthorized files.

“By definition, ransomware is a hack,” Phillips says, “but it’s arguably a lazy hack with a high return on investment for the bad guys. Ransomware often takes advantage of a known vulnerability and through automation takes advantage of that vulnerability on a poorly maintained system.”

Zabiuk points out several warning signs that can indicate ransomware is happening or has happened. “Being unable to open files or that an app no longer recognizes the files. The business’ computer may become very slow or unresponsive. A frequent and obvious sign is a popup message that warns about files being encrypted and providing instructions about how to pay the ransom to unlock the system.”

In addition to how and why cyber attacks happen and what and how to effectively react and do something about it, experts strongly emphasize two key aspects about businesses managing cyber security: people and the business’ reputation.

As pointed out, there are several reasons why ransomware attacks are increasing, including the advent of cryptocurrencies making it easier for attackers to receive ransoms anonymously and without the typical transactional traceability present in traditional banking. Cybercriminals are also becoming more and more sophisticated and making use of new attack

“MORE IMPORTANTLY TO A BUSINESS, A CYBER SECURITY EVENT WILL IMPACT OPERATIONS AND THAT HAS AN IMMEDIATE NEGATIVE IMPACT ON REVENUE. THE LONG-TERM IMPACT ON REVENUE WILL BE REPUTATION,” ZABIUK ADDS.

platforms. Experts stress the importance of educating staff, especially work-from-remote employees.

“Remote workers typically do not have the same level of security on their home network and systems that would exist in the corporate IT environment. Also, they may have other non-work-related software installed on their computer. Both factors can make it easier for a hacker to launch an attack,” says Zabiuk. “Since people working from home behave differently than in an office environment, they feel much more casual and relaxed, letting their guard down about risks and computer security.”

Understandably, most businesses who have been victims of malware or ransomware opt to lay low and minimize damage to the company’s reputation. Especially in today’s digital landscape, a company’s reputation is closely tied to its ability to maintain confidentiality and protect sensitive company and customer information.

Prioritizing cybersecurity measures is critical for businesses to maintain customer trust, avoid negative publicity and minimize the potential reputational damage that can result from a cyberattack. By investing in robust, multi-layered security systems and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness, companies can mitigate the risk of cyberattacks but, as with any business risks, there are no guarantees.

“If a business lost information due to a preventable hack, it could significantly erode client and vendor trust, as well as potentially employee trust. More importantly to a business, a cyber security event will impact operations and that has an immediate negative impact on revenue. The long-term impact on revenue will be reputation,” Zabiuk adds.

A key aspect of risk management is prevention. Selvaraj recommends a proactive approach – preventive measures followed by a structured reaction plan. “Preventive measures include regular employee training on cybersecurity awareness, timely software and system updates and a multilayered security approach.”

Phillips emphasizes that effective prevention starts with awareness and preparation. “Planning for an attack, just like we’ve all planned for fires, is the first step in reacting. The reaction should be planned in a security incidence response of which everyone in the organization is aware, just like a fire escape plan.”

ABOVE: JOHN ZABIUK, CHAIR OF NAIT’S CYBERSECURITY PROGRAM.

2024 Board of Directors

Board Executive

Doug Griffiths President and CEO

Chair: Aziz Bootwala

Managing Principal, Edmonton, Vice President, Business Development, Kasian Architecture Interior Design and Planning Ltd.

Vice-Chair: Annemarie Petrov President and CEO, Francis Winspear Centre for Music

Secretary-Treasurer: Jason Pincock CEO, DynaLIFE Medical Labs

Jonathan

Sandy Jacobson Vice President, Richardson Executive Search

Sam Kemble Chief Operating Officer, Workforce Delivery Inc.

Amir Shami President and CEO, Rotaflow

Randy Allaire Chief Risk Officer, Servus Credit Union

Edmonton Chamber Executive

Heather Thomson, Vice President, Strategy, Research and Engagement

Akanksha Bhatnagar, Director, Communications and Marketing

Amin Samji Director, Member Services

Drew Sveinson Director, Finance and Operations

Contact Edmonton Chamber of Commerce

#600 World Trade Centre 9990 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5J 1P7 T: 780.426.4620 | F: 780.424.7946 edmontonchamber.com

Brand Community and Community Brand: How to Promote Our City

Doug Griffiths, President & CEO

n 1988, Edmonton branded itself City of Champions, an acknowledgement of the city’s resilience after the devastating 1987 tornado but also coincidentally to celebrate the Stanley Cup-winning Oilers and Grey Cup-winning Eskimos.

In 2015, after much debate, City Council scrapped the brand. Two years later, after much thought, the city came up with a temporary brand name that wasn’t a slogan or tagline but simply EDMONTON in capital letters punctuated with a small maple

Right now, there is no official slogan. I’m not here to promote a particular brand name but to talk about the importance of branding to a city’s reputation and to

Branding is most often associated with corporations. Mention the word “apple” in any other context than the fruit and odds are people immediately think of computers and smartphones. In 1997, the company unveiled its now-iconic slogan, Think Different that brilliantly conveyed the company’s narrative. It is a trillion-

Adding to Apple’s success is something called “brand community” that, in its simplest terms, means creating an emotional connection between the consumer and the company. Another word is loyalty.

Flip the term on its head and you get “community brand” that goes to the heart of how a city promotes itself. As a 2018 Forbes’ article entitled, “Branding Is The New Economic Development,” pointed out, “Effective branding isn’t smoke and mirrors or fabricating something out of nothing. It’s about discovering what truly makes an area unique – even if it currently just lies in potential – and then building a platform and strategy around it that nurtures that brand and attracts others who share that value and vision.”

As for labels, Edmonton is often referred to as Canada’s Festival City that speaks to our outstanding summer celebrations including the International Fringe Festival that is, incredibly and wonderfully, the second-largest event of its kind in the world – and one we could do much more to publicize and find partnerships with among local businesses.

We’re also called the Winter City that celebrates the many ways in which we can thrive, not just survive, our coldest months – again, something which we need to do more to promote.

A city’s brand needs to be unique, memorable and authentic. Most importantly, it tells a story. I am not advocating any particular slogan or branding for Edmonton. And I’m certainly not suggesting coming up with an effective brand solves all issues.

But we do need to give it more thought.

Share your thoughts on business issues with the Edmonton Chamber at policy@edmontonchamber.com

Partners for Growth Advisory Services Inc.

Member Profile

Rita Kim, CEO

www.partnersforgrowth.ca

What’s your story?

Partners for Growth, a seasoned management consulting firm, leverages over 25 years of entrepreneurial and finance expertise. We specialize in crafting growth and financing strategies for a diverse range of companies.

Why were we founded?

• Problem: A gap exists between entrepreneurs and access to capital.

• Solution: PFG steps in to reset foundations, craft growth, finance strategies and adopt a comprehensive approach to capital.

Why us?

• Entrepreneurial backgrounds: Firsthand experience navigating entrepreneurship’s challenges.

• Ex-lenders with extensive experience: Collaborated with over 10,000 companies, achieving a 100 per cent success rate in securing capital for those seeking funds.

• Multilingual expertise: Decoding diverse business languages (accounting, investor, lender, legal, entrepreneur-ese), acting as translators across various facets.

• Obligation to give back: Founded to support and protect entrepreneurs.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce?

We deeply value the connections and the vibrant community spirit that being part of the Chamber brings. The team’s unwavering commitment to continuous learning, steadfast support and collective growth within the community is genuinely inspiring. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Chamber, especially to individuals like Ken Gee and Amin Samji whose support has been invaluable to us.

What is one surprising aspect of your business?

What often surprises people about our business is that, while we act as the ‘ghost CEO’ for many well-known companies, we uphold complete confidentiality regarding our clients, valuing and safeguarding the trust they place in us.

Rita Kim, CEO, Partners for Growth Advisory Services Inc. (PFG)

Who is your ideal client?

• Strong character, unique business solution, passion for impact, and commitment to supporting local businesses.

• Typically in business for at least a year, seeking support in growth, scaling, accessing capital or implementing effective finance strategies.

What has been your biggest success so far?

Our most notable success has been building strong relationships within the entrepreneurial community. Our thriving approach is rooted in shared values such as giving back, mutual care, collaboration and celebrating growth and success together. At Partners for Growth, we extend this success to every client by helping them forge healthy, strategic, and lasting partnerships.

We believe in playing to strengths and bringing in the right partners for everything else. Through our extensive network of proven experts, we empower clients to achieve their goals with strength, speed, and excellence. At Partners for Growth, we are committed to delivering tangible results efficiently and effectively.

By joining us, you contribute not only to the success of your venture but also to the broader impact on our entire entrepreneurial community, ecosystem, suppliers and customers. Together, we can build a stronger economy. Join us and let’s grow together for prosperity!

CHAMPIONS LUNCHEON

CELEBRATING MEN’S AND WOMEN’S OLYMPIC HOCKEY

Featuring US Olympian Jeremy Roenick and 4x Women’s Olympian Meghan Agosta with Special Guests

Luncheon Hot Stove hosted by 4x Stanley Cup winner and 17 year NHL veteran, Craig MacTavish

FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2024

Edmonton Convention Centre Hall A (9797 Jasper Avenue)

11:30 a.m. doors | Program from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

a luncheon table, visit:

CRAFTSMANSHIP STILL

MATTER WHERE QUALITY &

Alberta Custom Metal Fabricators celebrates 25 years

By Nerissa McNaughton | Published by Brent Trimming

Custom is the key word for Alberta Custom Metal Fabricators Ltd. This agile company is celebrating 25 years of serving residential and commercial customers with outstanding metalworks across a variety of disciplines. From commemorative statues to decorative railings, from metal stairs to unique signage, Edmonton, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and northern Canada are brimming with Alberta Custom Metal Fabricators’ art.

The company was founded in September 1999 by Rob Lysons.

“I was born and raised in Vermilion, Alberta where my father owned Martin Plumbing and Heating,” says Lysons. “Having been raised around the sheet metal industry, my interest from a young age has always been in metal.”

Photos on this page by Rebecca

Lippiatt

Alberta Custom Metal Fabricators • 25 years

After graduating in 1986, Lysons moved to Edmonton and did four years of apprenticeship in sheet metal at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT). This led to a year of work in an HVAC shop, followed by 13 years at McKinley and Taylor – the latter of which was a pivotal move in the young man’s career.

“It was at McKinley and Taylor where I became a shop foreman at 23 years old and found my passion for custom metal work,” explains Lysons.

“Starting in 1994, I began fabricating snowmobile parts out of my garage for Mountain Magic. Early in 1999 I was approached by Neil Goodkey of Special Event Rentals to build custom rental products, including barbeques and chair dollies. That is when my dream became a reality and in September of 1999, Alberta Custom Metal Fabricators Ltd. was officially open for business.”

The company grew quickly from day one. They started with two employees but needed to hire and expand within four months. By the one year mark, they had seven employees. Just a few short years later, Lysons moved the business and his team into a larger 7,500 square foot shop. By 2005 they were out of space again, so he expanded the shop by an additional 2,500 square feet. Today there are 11 staff working out of the larger facility. Between five of the senior employees alone there is 120 years of experience.

“A change of ownership occurred in 2016 when my family and I moved to Wainwright and Brent Siermachesky, one of my first employees, purchased Alberta Custom Metal Fabricators,” Lysons adds. “Upon moving to Wainwright, I set up a custom metal shop where I continued to have a great working relationship with my first company.”

Change was in the wind, however, and that change led Lysons right back to his original company.

“During COVID I closed the doors to our Wainwright shop and moved back to Edmonton where I began working for Alberta Custom Metal Fabricators, this time as an employee. In 2022, I took back ownership from Brent. He is still an instrumental component to the success of the company.”

Lysons believes that the greatest contributing factor to the success of Alberta Custom Metal Fabricators is their artistic abilities. You can see their creativity on many projects, including the Pillar of Strength Police Memorial and the Oilers’ Door.

The Oilers’ door at Rogers Place features the hockey team’s iconic logo in a larger-than-life display. Meanwhile, the Pillar of Strength – a police and peace officer memorial at the Alberta Legislature Grounds – is a stunning artwork with lifelike birds floating up the pillar and a basin of fire crowning the top.

Other notable projects include designer Randal Fraser’s World Games 2001 opening ceremony props for Commonwealth Stadium, the Cross Cancer Institute memorial, stainless steel details in the interior and exterior of EPCOR Tower and the new Henry Singer store downtown.

Alberta Custom Metal Fabricators • 25 years •

Cross Cancer Monument

Pillar of Strength Police Memorial

Polar Aurora

All projects pictured below were designed and photographed by Wei Yew.

Outside of the capital city, Alberta Custom Metal Fabricator’s work can be seen in Chilliwack, B.C.’s Molson Brewery (in collaboration with Whitemud Ironworks); the welcome sign for Inuvik, N.W.T. and the Polar Aurora art piece (designed by Wei Yew) in Cambridge Bay, Nunavut. See all this and more online at acmetal.com/special-projects and acmetal.com/gallery-of-metal.

“One of the most rewarding things for myself, personally, is having our products highly visible and enjoyed by others,” smiles Lysons. “If I were to tell clients just one thing it would be, ‘If you can dream it, we can build it.’”

Lysons is pleased to be beautifying Canada’s cities with Edmonton as the home base.

“One of the things I love about Edmonton as a business community is that despite there being a number of custom shops in the city, we have all found our niche and, for the most part, are not working against each other.”

He thanks, “Wei of Wei Yew & Co who has been an integral component in pushing our artistic abilities to the maximum. We are thankful for many extremely rewarding projects that have come our ‘Wei’ from him. Additionally, I would like to recognize Ty Lysons who joined our team in the spring of 2021. He is our shop foreman and is one the most talented custom metal fabricators I have ever seen.”

Lysons is also grateful to his family, the team, the many clients over the years and everyone that has helped Alberta Custom Metal Fabricators go from a two-person operation to the success it is today 25 years later.

What comes next for this artistic company?

“I can say that we are ready and capable for the next challenge and look forward to seeing what’s ahead!” concludes Lysons.

Alife-threatening car crash changed John Biggs’ life. During the course of a fouryear recovery involving 17 surgeries, he investigated countless natural solutions to minimize the pain and speed his recovery. What he discovered allowed him to heal physically and mentally, inspired him to study nutrition in university and start a company so he could share his findings with others.

“I recovered completely largely thanks to nutrition and herbs,” says John. “I went on to earn a degree specializing in nutrition because I wanted to share with the world what could be accomplished with these modalities from a credible, scientific approach and perspective.”

In 1993, John graduated with his BSc specializing in foods and nutrition and started consulting. In 1994, he founded Optimum Health Vitamins as president and CEO.

In 1993, Nicola began her studies in aromatherapy and herbalism. Before her path would cross with

anthropology and cultural medicine. They met in 1997 in Optimum Health’s south Edmonton location (inside Debaji’s Fresh Market). In 1999, John and Nicola married and continued to grow the family-run business.

After becoming aware of skincare products that claimed to be natural but actually weren’t, Nicola discovered the Dr. Hauschka line of skincare, which was truly organic and biodynamically grown. She was excited by how the products not only transformed her skin but also by the realization that she could use her education and skills to teach customers about skincare that works with the body’s natural rhythms and physiology. With that, Kolya Naturals was born.

“We founded Kolya based on a passion for herbs, flowers, oils and the pleasure of using and creating with them,” says Nicola. “We are committed to skincare and beauty products that are not only pure, wholesome and healthful but also truly effective in treating and caring for the skin. We believe in nourishing the body and skin

Optimum Health and Kolya • 31 years •

Kolya started as an independent spa and skincare boutique on Edmonton’s Whyte Avenue, but today Optimum Health & Kolya operate together under the same banner.

With three locations, Optimum Health & Kolya carries over 15,000 natural health products including eco-luxury skincare and makeup, low-waste personal and household items, DIY ingredients for making one’s own skincare and cleaning products and an eco-refill station.

In addition, following his passion for helping people heal, John, with his designations of

BSc, NCP and OHP, still consults and is one of two Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) practitioners listed in the Edmonton area.

“Health from the outside in and beauty from the inside out is what motivates us,” says John. “When people talk about a holistic approach, they often either focus on one or the other when in fact, what you put on your skin goes in and what you take into your body shows up on the outside. Health in this regard provides a vital launch pad for ever-higher levels of mental, spiritual and physical wellness.

“Beyond this, we as humans have evolved with plants, bacteria and everything in the natural world. So, to think that these natural compounds are not capable of producing massive changes in our physiology and biochemistry is absolutely nonsensical. An excellent argument can be made for the premise that our nutrition and what we eat has been a bigger driver of our evolution as a species than any other single factor.”

John continues, “We are driven by a reverence for nature and complete awe for what can be accomplished with its healing power when applied correctly. This has been endlessly reinforced over the last 35 years of seeing people

Congratulations Optimum Health on celebrating 31 years providing healthy options and exceptional customer service.

John Biggs

Nicola Biggs

peoples’ lives, I am always excited and passionate to continue delving deeper into further cuttingedge ways to help people.”

John and Nicola are also passionate about supporting the local community.

“With our focus on community, what we choose to use first is in our own backyard, so to speak,” says Nicola. “If we can, we use Canadian-sourced ingredients.”

In addition to providing high quality products, John and Nicola ensure outstanding service in all their locations.

“We go beyond the extra mile for our customers!” says John. “We are always doing our absolute best to create a win-win-win relationship with our staff, customers and community. We have a genuine commitment to making a positive impact in our customers’ lives, not just selling them products. The most rewarding aspect for us is when someone who has been dealing with a health challenge comes back and reports exceptional results with what has been suggested to help them.”

John adds for those that have yet to discover Optimum Health & Kolya, “Please take the time to explore the depth and understanding involved in our product offerings. Our innovation is our own line of extremely effective, high-quality supplements (over 80 to date) and Kolya’s line of food grade herbs and essential oils called Earth’s Aromatique. They are based on decades of

Community is very important to John, Nicola and their team. Giving back includes supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities Alberta, Edmonton Humane Society, Ryan’s Well Foundation, and volunteering for local initiatives.

John and Nicola thank and praise their team of committed, like-minded staff who take such great care of their beloved customers.

“We never lose sight of the fact that without either, we wouldn’t exist.”

The future is bright as Optimum Health and Kolya will soon unveil a wholesale line of branded supplements.

South Edmonton

7115 - 109 Street NW, Edmonton, T6G 1B9

780.432.5464

Downtown Edmonton

11810 - 104 Ave NW, Edmonton, T5K 2T8 780.452.5705

Sherwood Park

110 - 101 Granada Blvd Sherwood Park, T8A 4W2 780.467.6650

www.optimumhealthvitamins.ca

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF CREATING ENTREPRENEURS

Written By Nerissa McNaughton | Published by Brent Trimming

Junior Achievement (JA) has been launching careers and helping youth understand the vast world of business in our region for 60 years. To say that this exciting organization has made a life-changing impact on thousands of students is an understatement. It’s not just the students either – JA leaves an impression on everyone it touches, from the mentors that go to the schools to the team members that keep the organization running. Now, as JA celebrates 60 years, it seems an appropriate time to look back at this organization’s beginnings and highlight how business mentors are poised to support young entrepreneurs in northern Alberta into the next era.

Cheryll Watson, president and CEO, loves how the seeds of the organization took root in, and remain with, the business community.

“That is one of the most compelling points about JA in general. It was not only founded but funded by the business community,” she says. “These leaders saw a need, did something about it and continue to be actively involved. I see the business community as being the engine of JA right from the start, which continues to power our mission today.”

The local JA chapter has not only achieved a milestone anniversary of 60 years, this year is also the 44th anniversary of JA’s Northern Alberta Business Hall of Fame, an annual event that brings together the business community to honour our region’s most esteemed leaders for their life achievements and service to the economy, community and our future.

“JA is a future changer,” she continues. “It positively alters the career trajectory of hundreds of thousands of

Junior Achievement of Northern Alberta • 60 Years

Cheryll Watson, president & CEO. Photo by Rebecca Lippiatt.

students in northern Alberta. Our role for decades has been to cultivate the next generation of business leaders; this is important as we are seeing an ever-changing, turbulent environment that has led to a sharp decline in entrepreneurship.”

Watson shares a particularly striking statistic.

CONGRATULATIONS

on 60 years of service to our community. REMARKABLE!

We are very proud to be a long time supporter of Junior Achievement and the message they deliver

In October 2023, Pierre Cléroux, chief economist at the Business Development Bank of Canada said, ‘Twenty years ago, there were three Canadians in 1,000 every year becoming an entrepreneur. Now we’re down to about one for every 1,000 people.’”

Watson continues, “This shows that youth are not seeing entrepreneurship as a viable path. It also highlights the need for JA. Seventy-one per cent of JA alumni in an entrepreneurship program say it’s highly likely they’ll own their own business within a year. To reverse the declining trend in entrepreneurship, JA is the answer.”

In 2023, 30,000 students registered for JA Northern Alberta programs. In addition to learning about entrepreneurship, the students learn lifelong skills such as saving, budgeting and investing.

“Yet,” Watson points out, “Even with those strong enrollment numbers, we are only reaching 13 per cent of the eligible Edmonton population. More people need to know about our valuable connection with the business community. Not only does this help inspire the students by seeing the types of jobs they may

Junior Achievement of Northern Alberta

Photo by Rebecca Lippiatt.

JA Company Program students at the Big Pitch Competition.

and Tim Melton remains involved to this day.

Stanley Melton was instrumental in starting the local JA charter, following the model used in the States. Stanley with other business professionals, would visit classrooms, sharing their business knowledge.

Tim Melton’s introduction to JA happened unexpectedly when he heard his father discussing with colleagues a unique concept called Junior Achievement. Intrigued, Tim asked what it was all about. He learned that JA was an organization founded in the United States with a mission to promote business and entrepreneurship. Its goal was to demonstrate how these elements could bring prosperity, jobs and higher living standards to society. Further, JA aimed to teach young people the importance of business and foster a new generation of entrepreneurs.

As a young adult Melton travelled awhile, experiencing the cultures of different cities before returning to Edmonton in 1973 to build a life and his business. At that time he began to focus more on JA, attending events and becoming a supporter and dedicated volunteer.

“JA is an invaluable organization that delivers an essential message to young people about the fundamental importance of entrepreneurship for a prosperous society,” Melton says. “I applaud the Edmonton community for its continued support. The local business community has embraced the cause, providing funding, promotion and mentorship. It’s an organization that delivers an important message to young people that is still viable today; it is so fundamentally important that if we want a society with a high standard of living, we must all perpetuate entrepreneurship.”

Imagine. Believe. Achieve.

Congratulations Junior Achievement of Northern Alberta on your 60th anniversary. Fountain Tire is proud to be a long term partner and supporter of Junior Achievement.

Junior Achievement of Northern Alberta

JA Laureates at Wall of Fame

Cheryll Watson and JA Board of Governors Chair Lyle Best awarding 2023 Business Hall of Fame Inductee Yasmin Jivraj.

Both Tim Melton and his father have been inducted into the Northern Alberta Business Hall of Fame, a recognition of their dedication and contribution to the province’s business landscape and their work with JA.

Another businessperson with a long history of entrepreneurship and affiliation with JA is Lyle Best. As the current chair of the board of governors, he has been closely involved with JA for nearly four decades.

“The irony is, kids in schools don’t get very much business education. In fairness to the teachers, they are not businesspeople either,” Best points out. “I joined JA because I saw there was a real need. For me, it is making sure kids get

Empowering the leaders of tomorrow, both in and out of the classroom.

EMPOWERING YOUNG LEADERS

Stan Melton of Melcor and founder of Junior Achievement, understood the importance of investing in future generations.

Our continued support of JA proudly continues to empower the bright leaders of tomorrow.

a clearer perspective of what business is all about. Even if they are not going to go into business, it teaches them about personal finances and other important skills.”

Best continues, “Small business and entrepreneurship drive the economy. If you look at the people behind it, especially the people in the Business Hall of Fame, you see how they built up the city and region. JA has a vital message to share and is inspiring the next generation.”

For Shad Smereka, Board Chair and VP, People & Customer Experience at Fountain Tire, the role JA plays has never been more relevant.

“JA’s mission is to provide youth with experiential, hands-on programs focused on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and work readiness. JA programs expose students to essential concepts like the value of money, thoughtful spending and credit, smart saving and investing. JA students engage with skilled mentors, get their first taste of entrepreneurship and lay the groundwork to be the next generation of job creators. As a result of their JA experiences, alumni save more money, hold less debt and are less likely to spend more than they earn. They also start more companies, hire more employees and produce significantly larger annual sales than ventures led by non-alumni.”

Supporting JA is important. Individuals and organizations of all sizes are encouraged to get involved.

“The reality is, we need sustainable funding to deliver programs,” confirms Watson. “Donors that make three- and fiveyear commitments allow us to build out our programs with certainty. It is very important to our students that we are able to commit to their participation.”

Other options for those looking to support JA are to volunteer as a business mentor, promote the program to schools as a parent or teacher and attend JA events.

Watson profusely thanks to all JA supporters from the past and present, including the organization’s founding families, the board of governors, the board of directors and the volunteers. They have all played a role in the growth and evolution of JA.

Junior Achievement has played an integral role in shaping the business landscape of the region over the past six decades. Through its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and providing essential business education, JA has equipped countless young people with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. The organization’s impact extends beyond the classroom, influencing the economy and society at large. As we look to the future, the continued success of JA Northern Alberta will undoubtedly remain a testament to the enduring power of entrepreneurship and the potential of the next generation.

Mel Snihurowych, SMHG Board Chair and John Kopeck, SMHG President & CEO.

Photo by Rebecca Lippiatt.

St. Michael’s Health Group (SMHG), a registered charity and a contracted faith-based not-for-profit operator in the health care system, provides long-term care for seniors. Communities include St. Michael’s Grove Manor, Vegreville Manor, St. Michael’s Long-Term Care Centre and Millennium Pavilion. SMHG also manages four seniors’ apartments in Edmonton. Supportive projects and business ventures include Baba’s Own Ukrainian Foods (available in retail stores and online), the Family Health Centre (where doctors provide care to the community in NE Edmonton), Mobile X-Ray (available to book as needed) and rentable venue Heritage Hall. All proceeds go back into quality-of-life programs for residents and clients.

SMHG recently opened and is celebrating its newest community, Fenwyck Heights in Spruce Grove.

“SMHG was started by a small group of individuals within the Ukrainian community, led by Dr. Melety Snihurowych, with a vision to build a nursing home for seniors that provides holistic and quality care,” says, John Kopeck, president and CEO. “The goal was to provide care addressing physical, spiritual, cultural, emotional and intellectual needs. We are proud of our unwavering commitment of providing exceptional care tailored to meet the unique needs of our residents and ensure their well-being. Whether it is daily care, quality meals

to support a healthy diet, education, information or recreational programming, we look at all aspects of how we can care for residents and support their families.”

The land was donated by the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy and funds were raised to build the first facility (St. Michael’s Long Term Care Centre). Their legacy continues as the Eparchy remains an integral supporter of St. Michael’s. Today Dr. Snihurowych’s son, Mel, is chair of the board of directors of St. Michael’s.

Fenwyck Heights, photos submitted by S2 Architecture.

Mel Snihurowych shares, “SMHG has grown significantly since it was established, marked by the introduction of long-term care services in 1983, followed by the independent living sites in Edmonton, Spruce Grove and Vegreville over the next 20 years. The recent opening of Fenwyck Heights in Spruce Grove is a milestone and foundational to the next phase of our growth.”

“Fenwyck Heights, which is now welcoming residents, is the largest development in the history of SMHG,” says Kopeck of the 170-suite residence and $50+ million project, that provides much-needed housing and support services to the seniors of Spruce Grove and the surrounding area.

“We are incredibly proud of this project, acknowledging it would not have been possible without the support of the community and our valued partners. This project is also the beginning of a larger vision for senior care in Spruce Grove and the Parkland Region. Given this region has a tremendous need for a higher level of care, SMHG has invested in ensuring we can offer this care in an affordable and efficient manner. A Phase II of this project has been identified and we look forward to continuing to build our relationship with and in this community along with the support of our important partners like Synergy and S2 Architecture.”

Spruce Grove Mayor Jeff Acker is happy to note, “Its been a pleasure to collaborate with SMHG on this important

development project for our community. The housing options and services offered in Fenwyck Heights are greatly needed in Spruce Grove and throughout the TriMunicipal Region. These services provide our seniors with the dignity, respect, support and care they deserve as they age. This investment is not just a development project but a commitment to building a community that embodies the very essence of home.”

The care provided through SMHG is exceptional.

Photo by Rebecca Lippiatt.

Photo submitted by St. Michael’s Health Group.

Kopeck is proud to say, “SMHG is proud of our strong guidelines, which we refer to as we care for seniors. Our culture is collaborative and is guided by teamwork, inclusivity, caring and faith. We firmly believe in community, excellence, integrity, accountability and engagement. These important terms and values define our organization.”

Snihurowych adds, “Knowing those who choose St. Michael’s are receiving the care they need and deserve is very rewarding and encourages the entire board to continue doing their important governance work.”

Ken Weisenburger can attest to this high level of care. He applied to Fenwyck Heights in March 2022 and moved in November 1, 2023.

Weisenburger was initially hesitant about the decision but now calls it “one of the best things I’ve done.”

“I am a very outgoing man and to come here I had to leave a population of 3,600 – and I knew about 3,500 of them!” says Weisenburger. I was active in the community and did a lot of charity work but my boy had been after me for 10 years to move into a care home.”

After finally making the move, Weisenburger couldn’t be happier.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ST. MICHAEL’S HEALTH GROUP!

Synergy Projects is proud to have partnered with St. Michael’s Health Group on construction of their new Fenwyck Heights seniors’ residence, offering accessible living and support services for seniors in Spruce Grove and the Alberta Capital Region. We are thrilled to have helped bring this significant community project to life!

Fenwyck Heights. Photos by Rebecca Lippiatt.

“There are about 60 people living here so far,” he continues, “and I know almost all of them. The staff is incredibly helpful. The food is excellent! The serving staff come around asking if you got enough to eat and they are happy to give you more. The front-end staff is very knowledgeable. You can talk to them anytime.”

Weisenburger’s social life is as active as ever.

WELCOME

too. Fenwyck Heights recently brought on an activity coordinator and the list of activities for the month looks really good. I also exercise in the gym.”

He admits, “Since Fenwyck Heights just opened there are some ups and downs; it’s a learning process and that is to be expected. However, it is one of the best moves I’ve made in a long time. That is quite a feat for me to say as I had to leave being surrounded by acquaintances, family and friends.”

Take Comfort, Not Cover.

For seniors considering making the move, Weisenburger says, “Come see Fenwyck Heights. Do a tour, meet the staff and learn what is going on. We are a friendly group and we will say hello and welcome!”

SMHG aims to provide this experience for all seniors and as Alberta’s population ages, Kopeck knows there is a growing need for compassionate elder care.

“Safe, compassionate elder care is vital not only in Edmonton but everywhere. The well-being and security of our elderly population is paramount. Providing a safe environment ensures seniors can age with dignity and with peace of mind. Compassionate care contributes to the emotional and mental health of our seniors. It fosters a sense of belonging and understanding, addressing not only their physical needs but also their emotional and social well-being. As an organization, St. Michael’s believes that in preserving community values, elder care fosters a culture

High performance windows and doors perfected over 40-years.

Fenwyck Heights. Photo by Rebecca Lippiatt.

“Receiving Accreditation with Commendation means a care home has not only met the essential standards in quality and safety but they have also demonstrated excellence and noteworthy achievements in areas such as patient care, leadership, and governance,” says Snihurowych. “This recognition reflects our commitment to providing highquality care and a dedication to continuous improvement. It also serves as a valuable guide for individuals and families seeking assurance of quality when choosing senior care for their loved ones.”

Additionally, staff members have been recognized by the Alberta Continuing Care Association as Care Provider of the Year for providing exemplary care and volunteers have received Minister and community awards for their commitment and service.

Snihurowych says, “We thank the Friends of St. Michael’s Society of Edmonton (FOSMSOE) who have been integral to our growth, quality of care provided and financial stability. They provide volunteer support at our sites and raise funds for much needed equipment, new care technology, recreational outings and much more. We also thank our group of almost 300 dedicated volunteers.”

Kopeck concludes, “We are planning to continue growing while still providing the kind of care we take pride in.”

Learn more at smhg.ca, smhg.ca/senior-care/fenwyckheights and fenwyckheights.ca

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