October 2014 Business in Edmonton by Business in Edmonton Magazine

October 2014 $3.50 businessinedmonton.com

Perogy Power: Small Product, Big Impact JOE MAKOWECKI OF HERITAGE FROZEN FOODS LTD. TAKES THE HUMBLE PEROGY TO NEW HEIGHTS.

Edmonton: the solid real estate market the average Edmonton home price is $432,458

Small Business Success

EY Entrepreneur Of The Yearâ&#x201E;˘ 2014 Prairies Region

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SECTION CONTENTS TITLE

OCTOBER 2014 | VOL. 03 #10

View our elect ronic issue of this mon th’s mag azin e onlin e at www .busi nessi nedm onto n.com

Regulars

Features

Each and every month

Business in Edmonton celebrates the achievements of entrepreneurs in all industries.

Cover

OFF THE TOP Fresh News Across all Sectors.

PEROGY POWER: SMALL PRODUCT, BIG IMPACT 133 EDMONTON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON WITH COVER PHOTO BY EPIC PHOTOGRAPHY INC.

Joe Makowecki of Heritage Frozen Foods Ltd. takes the humble perogy to new heights.

22 Company Profiles PHOTO: EPIC PHOTOGRAPHY

27 G REENBORO BY

CRYSTAL CREEK HOMES: BUILDING ON A LEGEND BY LISA JOHNSTON

105

COLLINS STEEL: CORE VALUES MAKE A STRONG COMPANY BY MARK KANDBORG

115 J UNIOR ACHIEVEMENT’S NORTHERN ALBERTA & NWT CHAPTER CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

Features

BY FAY FLETCHER

123 ALBERTA’S “CAPITAL” ENGINEERING

BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

127 SORRENTINO’S

RESTAURANT GROUP: THE RECIPE FOR SUCCESS BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

12 SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS BY ARTEM MEDVEDEV

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OFF THE TOP

NEWS FROM THE MONTH

Features

PUBLISHER BUSINESS IN EDMONTON INC.

continued

Business in Edmonton celebrates the achievements of entrepreneurs in all industries.

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Brent Trimming

brent@businessinedmonton.com

EY ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR ™

EDITOR Nerissa McNaughton

2014 Prairies Region

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Nerissa McNaughton

COPY EDITOR Nikki Mullett

ART DIRECTOR Jessi Evetts

jessi@businessinedmonton.com

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Cher Compton

Saluting the Prairies’ gravity-defying entrepreneurs

ADMINISTRATION Nancy Bielecki info@businessinedmonton.com

THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS Nerissa McNaughton Artem Medvedev Fay Fletcher John Hardy James Cumming

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2014

Cover photo by Epic Photography Inc.

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Special supplement published by Business in Calgary and Business in Edmonton magazines.

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18 EDMONTON: THE SOLID REAL ESTATE MARKET | BY JOHN HARDY 131 E DMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | BY JAMES CUMMING

October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

Join us at this year’s highest-flying celebration! Canada’s entrepreneurs elevate our economy — and we’re proud to celebrate their achievements. Join us at the Prairies awards gala on October 16. For tickets and to learn more, contact us at prairieseoy@ca.ey.com. Details: ey.com/ca/EOY Follow us: Twitter @EYCanada Who will inspire us next?

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NEWS FROM THE MONTH

EDUCATION

NSERC CREATE LAND RECLAMATION INTERNATIONAL GRADUATE SCHOOL

Recently a new program became available for graduate students at the University of Alberta (U of A). Since then, graduate administrators have been assessing an increasing number of applications from students all over the world who are interested in enrolling. The program, known as the Land Reclamation International Graduate School (LRIGS), is a graduate level educational program that is innovatively embedded in real world practices. Dr. M. Anne Naeth, the director of LRIGS and the associate dean of research and graduate studies in the Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences at the University of Alberta, describes the inspiration

LRIGS STUDENTS AND COORDINATOR POSE FOR A PICTURE AT THE RECLAIMED RANGE ROAD LANDFILL NORTH OF WHITEHORSE, YUKON TERRITORY.

2015 Leader of the Year Rising Star

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Community Champion Award of Excellence - Team Award of Excellence - Individual Strategic Innovator Distinguished Career

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October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

Do you know an outstanding Human Resources leader? Nominate them today for the 2015 Celebrating Excellence Awards. Pre-Nominations close October 27, 2014.

For more information on the 2015 Celebrating Excellence Awards and how to submit a nomination please visit www.hriaconference.com/nominate

OFF THE TOP

NEWS FROM THE MONTH

With its main focus on land reclamation and ecological restoration, the themes LRIGS will address have significant relevance and impact within the community and within the rest of Canada. As such, it has close ties to professionals in the community of land reclamation throughout industry, government, consulting and academia. behind the program as “an interest in trying to internationalize land reclamation science,” and a way to “provide international contacts for graduates working in the field.” With its main focus on land reclamation and ecological restoration, the themes LRIGS will address have significant relevance and impact within the community and within the rest of Canada. As such, it has close ties to professionals in the community of land reclamation throughout industry, government, consulting and academia.

LRIGS has the potential to position Alberta and Canada at the forefront of research and practice in areas of land reclamation and ecological restoration, but while its focus is both unique and significant in topic and relevance, it is also innovative in practise. The LRIGS program runs in addition to U of A’s regular graduate program for students who are working toward their MSc or PhD degrees. Students register for LRIGS in addition to the regular graduate work they are already doing, then participate in different courses and field

trips along with their regular studies. Participation is also possible for postdoctoral fellows. “What we are trying to do is to give our students and fellows more than a theoretical education,” explains Dr. Naeth. “We want them to get out and step into industry so they can see how business works and what it’s like working with people. It’s a professional approach. One of the things graduate programs don’t always focus on is being a professional.” As Dr. Naeth describes, there is a commonly perceived gap that occurs

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www.businessinedmonton.com | Business In Edmonton Magazine | October 2014

OFF THE TOP Professional Development

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between theoretical and academic study and the practical application that is required to function outside of school in the workplace. This gap includes “things like how to interact with the media, how to interact with people in Aboriginal groups, how to talk to land owners,” explains Dr. Naeth. “How do you belong to and work with a company?” As Dr. Naeth describes, “We think LRIGS makes a bridge between regular programs and job opportunities for students.” In September 2013 they were honoured by the Canadian Land Reclamation Association (CLRA) with the association’s Edward M Watkin award in recognition of innovation and excellence in graduate student education and promotion of land reclamation internationally. This was the first time in the CLRA’s history that the award was presented to an organization rather than an individual. The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada approved LRIGS for six years of funding to the beginning of 2017. LRIGS is actively pursuing funding to continue operations beyond that time. Dr. Naeth and her LRIGS team will be busy for the next few years. Besides seeking funding to extend the life of the program beyond the grant, they will continue to look for collaboration opportunities and ways to engage the community of land reclamation professionals both in Canada and around the world. BIE CONSTRUCTION

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NEWS FROM THE MONTH

NCSG ANNOUNCES NEW INVESTOR GROUP

NCSG Crane and Heavy Haul Services has announced a new investor group, and with this latest transaction scheduled to close by the end of 2014, some promising prospects lie ahead for the north/south energy corridor of Edmonton, Alberta. NCSG announced on June 23, 2014, that an agreement had been signed. While the transaction details of the

October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

TED REDMOND; PRESIDENT AND CEO – NCSG CRANE & HEAVY HAUL SERVICES.

agreement have yet to be disclosed, the announcement has been made by NCSG, NCA (Northwest Capital Appreciation), and TriWest (TriWest Capital Partners) that TriWest, ATRF (Alberta Teachers’ Retirement Fund) and TriWest, the Investor Group will acquire a majority interest in NCSG from its shareholders. The new partnership offers new opportunities for the growth and development of NCSG within the north/south energy corridor. With the aim of building one of the world’s leading global crane and heavy haul services companies, Ted Redmond, president and CEO of NCSG, looks forward to the new partnership and the prospective opportunities it brings, both to the current north/south energy corridor customers as well as to NCSG’s current partners and employees. “We believe the outlook for our business has never been better,” quotes Redmond, “and that the TriWest-led Investor Group will be a great partner for NCSG.” Redmond further emphasizes that the new partnership will provide the “additional capital for [NCSG] to continue to grow [its] business and provide even better service to blue

OFF THE TOP

NEWS FROM THE MONTH

“We believe the outlook for our business has never been better, and that the TriWest-led Investor Group will be a great partner for NCSG.” ~ Ted Redmond chip north/south energy corridor customers.” TriWest’s “long history of working with energy and industrial services,” as Redmond describes, will help NCSG to “expand their geographic coverage and offer additional services.” NCSG was originally founded in 1987 as Northern Crane Services. It was purchased in 2006 by an investor group that was headed by NCA, and since then has completed eight follow-on acquisitions. “NCA is excited to continue to be a significant investor in NCSG,” quotes Brad Creswell, NCA’s managing director. “We are proud to have been part of NCSG’s tremendous success over the last eight years.” Creswell further states that, “with the addition of TriWest, our investor group is even stronger.” Based in Edmonton, and servicing the north/south energy corridor, NCSG currently offers rigging, lifting and heavy haul services. While the main branch is based in Edmonton, the company also has branches in Calgary, Leduc/Nisku, Fort McMurray, Grande Prairie, Wabasca and Bonnyville, Alberta, as well as Regina, Saskatchewan, Prince Rupert, Terrace/Kitimat, Fort St. John and Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, and multiple U.S. locations. With a diverse fleet that contains over 285 cranes that range from 6 to 1,350 tons along with a specialized heavy haul fleet, NCSG services the refining, oil sands, upstream oil and gas, LNG, mining, infrastructure, and wind/utility industries. With an already strong presence throughout many regions of Canada and the U.S., the new partnership promises opportunistic potential for the company’s continued growth and expansion. “This investment will benefit our customers and partners, and provide additional opportunities for our employees,” concludes Redmond. TriWest senior managing director, Cody Church, adds that “TriWest is excited to work with this experienced team with a proven track record of success in the industry.” “We look forward to this new partnership opportunity with the management of NCSG, ATRF and NCA,” states Church. “We believe this group has the experience and resources to build a leading global crane and heavy haul services company.” BIE

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SMALL BUSINESS WEEK SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS

SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS BY ARTEM MEDVEDEV

ith Small Business Week 2014 taking place in the Capital City, Business in Edmonton talks to three small businesses about the challenges they have faced, their goals for the future and any advice they would like to share with fellow entrepreneurs. During October, Edmonton once again hosts Small Business Week (SBW), an event anticipated and highlighted by

many as the epitome of a transformation Alberta is experiencing – the rapid rise of small and medium-sized (SME) businesses with innovative ideas and original approaches in practically every aspect of entrepreneurship. This year’s SBW has John Stanton, CEO and founder of The Running Room and renowned proponent of encouraging and investing in Albertan small business, giving a keynote address.

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October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS

Neesha Desai, Alieo Games: “I had never dreamed of being an entrepreneur or running a company.” Alieo Games is an educational technology company whose first product, Creative Online Writing (COW), is directed towards school students in an effort to use technology to encourage them to write. enjoys what they do. Seeing positive feedback from students and teachers during the COW test run earlier this year has enabled them to make the necessary adjustments and be ready for a wider launch of the product. The concept behind COW is fascinating: in a world where technology is playing an ever-increasing role, the team found a fun and yet meaningful way to use computers to foster literacy, creativity, and a greater understanding of what and how children write. Without interfering with the work of teachers, the platform provides educators with additional information that they can use in their assessments. The concept was recognized by a TEC Venture prize, which the team used to finance most of the project. When asked about difficulties she had faced while setting up the company, Desai first pointed to the task of combining a doctorate program with starting a brand new business project. Interestingly, while the team at Alieo Games seems to have gone through some challenging times during the first few months as they had no one with prior businessbuilding experience on board, Desai noted that “on the other hand, [they] have all learned so much in having to take these pieces on for [themselves].” It is the constant learning

Design

& DÉCOR

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Owning and operating your own business has stopped being the dream of just a few, as growing numbers of people choose self-employment. Statistics shows that Alberta, and Edmonton as its capital, has become a major hub for startups and SMEs, ahead of Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia when it comes to the percentage of the population involved in small business and gross domestic product per SME. This month, we are talking to three local companies that have originated from the current small business boom: Alieo Games, Menutria, and Livi Design. Neesha Desai, Alieo Games: “I had never dreamed of being an entrepreneur or running a company.” Alieo Games is an educational technology company whose first product, Creative Online Writing (COW), is directed towards school students in an effort to use technology to encourage them to write. As company representative Neesha Desai notes, two major factors contributed to Alieo Games’ success: meeting great mentors and advisors along the way, and having a united and dynamic team of people, most of whom are into both computer technology and education. The team at Alieo Games

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SMALL BUSINESS WEEK SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS

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October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

that appears to be the driving force behind this new company. What does the future hold for Alieo Games? While Desai laughingly confessed that her “only hope and dream is that this doesn’t turn into a huge flop,” another founding partner of the company, Nathaniel Rossol, said with optimism that Alieo Games would “make a real, lasting positive impact in the schools.” Given the positive connection the company has already established with educators and students (who seem to be really enjoying the platform, with just under 200,000 words written using it so far), we should all be on the lookout for future products from the Alieo team in the coming years. Kelsie Kozakevich, Menutria: “The enjoyable parts definitely outweigh any difficulties.” Menutria, the company behind a smartphone app that customizes restaurant menus for allergies or to avoid certain kinds of food, is very open about its long-term goal: to see Menutria spread across North-America. The team of friends that started the

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS

Kelsie Kozakevich, Menutria: “The enjoyable parts definitely outweigh any difficulties.”

KELSIE KOZAKEVICH OF MENUTRIA

project came to the idea at a University of Alberta entrepreneurship class and quickly recognized there was great potential. Having gone through a busy period of customer validation and working with their external programmer on the implementation, the Menutria team is enthusiastic for their soft launch this fall. Like Desai, Kozakevich noted time constraints and the fact that “running a small business means that you’re always thinking” as major challenges for young entrepreneurs. The headaches of financing your idea, budgeting, marketing and scheduling also came up in our interview, but Kozakevich underlined that, at the same time, “It is to be great working side by side with people you like and trust, and nothing beats the feeling of seeing your ideas come to life.” Importantly, financing was not as much of an issue for the Menutria team as they were still in school and could benefit from a number of university competitions for their startup capital. When asked to share some advice for other entrepreneurs, Kozakevich pointed to the importance of knowing the details about your day-to-day business expenses, whether they are valid and necessary, and also making use of modern technology for your file organization, team collaboration, and time management processes.

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Menutria, the company behind a smartphone app that customizes restaurant menus for allergies or to avoid certain kinds of food, is very open about its long-term goal: to see Menutria spread across North-America. While the project will feel more like a reality after the soft launch smoothly transitions to a wider launch, more advice from the team includes being realistic about your business goals, setting up your basic day-to-day routine and orienting your marketing efforts to where your potential customers actually are. “If you’re targeting elderly women, online marketing probably won’t be your best bet,” Kozakevich explains. This is certainly solid advice in the era where web marketing may be getting a bit overrated at the expense of other possibilities. Albert Leung, Livi Design: “I am just starting on my journey” Albert Leung is part of a team led by John Andrus, the person behind the Casetop, an innovative device that runs on your smartphone’s memory and processing capabilities. The device, first prototypes of which were built earlier this year at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology,

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www.businessinedmonton.com | Business In Edmonton Magazine | October 2014

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS

Albert Leung, Livi Design: “I am just starting on my journey” Albert Leung is part of a team led by John Andrus, the person behind the Casetop, an innovative device that runs on your smartphone’s memory and processing capabilities. ALBERT LEUNG OF LIVI DESIGN

has already won acclaim from both AVCatalyst and TEC Edmonton as a simple solution to the major technological debacle of having to replace both your computer and your smartphone so frequently. Leung is not from the original core group of the company, but joined at a later stage as a business consultant to help the team realize their dreams through quality business plans. This line of work frequently involves what he likes to call “making 80 per cent of the decisions based on 20 per cent of the information,” but Leung notes that his reward comes from the understanding that he is making the world a better place. When it comes to providing advice to fellow entrepreneurs, Leung urges action instead of over-thinking an idea. Taking small steps towards your dream makes it possible to actually achieve your dream, as these initial steps, first

October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

and foremost, tell you if you can handle starting a small business at all. Asking for advice and help as well as seeking out and listening to knowledgeable mentors are also positive aspects of your small business venture. Small Business Week is about you Every year new people appear on the horizon that have great ideas and motivated people eager to turn their ideas into reality. The three companies featured here today all demonstrate that running a small business is not always easy and presents various challenges that you may not have in the usual nine-to-five job, but the feeling of accomplishing something by yourself or with the help of a close group of partners, as well as making a positive contribution to your community, make this journey enjoyable and meaningful. Small Business Week is about celebrating this exciting and dynamic part of Edmonton’s economy and the people behind it. BIE

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REAL ESTATE EDMONTON: THE SOLID REAL ESTATE MARKET

EDMONTON:

the solid real estate market The average Edmonton home price is $432,458 BY JOHN HARDY

here is a mixed bag of Edmonton real estate and mortgage factors which continue to make home buying and home selling in Edmonton a good news/bad news story. Affordability and choice are constant aspects when it comes to the pendulum of Edmonton real estate and, unlike some other markets – like Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary – there is no panic, no crisis, no bubble effect and no discouraging, dire warnings. Although Edmonton house prices and trends do fluctuate, all things considered, the Edmonton real esGREG STEELE tate market continues to be fairly stable. “Edmonton’s economy is solid and we’re going on all cylinders,” says the positive, upbeat and Edmonton-boosting Greg Steele, president of the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton. “There are cranes everywhere, 15 or 16 just in the downtown area. The biggest driving force of Edmonton’s economy is the $5.2 billion of infrastructure that’s under way, the expanding LRT lines and that we will soon have 100 kilometres of ring road. There are lots of jobs and Edmonton hasn’t really slowed down in more than five years.”

October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

Real estate activity is usually a reliable indicator of an area’s economy. “We’re in an active real estate market, which is balanced and wellbehaved,” he points out. “Better news for sellers than buyers, of course, but the average price for a single family home in Edmonton is near the all time high.” Averaging prices for single family homes is always a difficult and misleading guesstimate because actual market value prices of homes not only varies from location to location, but also house types from bungalow, three-bedroom, four-bedroom and lot sizes to interior and exterior bells and whistles. According to the numbers crunching from the Realtors Association of Edmonton, the mid-year average singlefamily Edmonton detached home price was $432,458, up about three per cent from the same time last year. Duplexes and row houses average at about $331,000. Steele cites examples of hot demand for Edmonton west and southwest homes in the $400,000 to $500,000 range, with some getting multiple offers. There isn’t as much demand for mid-priced and higher-end homes ($500,000 to

Construction Your Way from Start to Finish

By Fay Fletcher

an Adamski is a man that had a dream and passion for carpentry from a very young age. In 2004 he founded Renovations by Dan Inc. In 2011 he rebranded the residential/commercial construction and renovation company as Rencon Industries Inc. “The ability to be versatile, custom, creative and provide a one-stop solution from the design to the final product is what sets us apart,” says Adamski. “Our motto is ‘construction your way from start to finish’. We have multiple ticketed trade managers on staff to ensure quality and we are more than willing to explore new products in the industry to accommodate the ever-changing evolution of construction needs and construction products.” These products include insulated concrete forms, structurally insulated panels and spray foam, which are all environmentally friendly products. Eco-consciousness is very important at Rencon; recycling, sustainability and energy efficiency are part of every project. One of Rencon’s projects was later featured in a Hollywood movie. “I was hired to do a house addition in the Glenora area of Edmonton because the house was over 100 years old and the client wanted to maintain the original look and match the existing craftsmanship of its time,” Adamski explains. “We were one of the few companies at that time willing and able to recreate all of the trim and features that were no longer available. This house ended up being used in a movie filmed in Edmonton – Christmas in Wonderland.” Although one of his favourites, it is not Rencon’s only notable project. As Adamski explains, their services take them to some very interesting – and diverse – projects. “Shortly after the vintage house, we were hired to simply paint and renovate one bathroom in a home in Sherwood Park. This project turned out to be a 1,200 square foot addition that was just under a million dollars with all of the finishes and extras. It included two media rooms, heated floors throughout, heated driveway and sidewalks, along with many upgraded and beautiful features. Currently, Rencon is working on completing a 24,000 square foot powder coating facility in Leduc.” Adamski has sound advice for both residential and commercial clients: “Make sure you have a contract with your contractor. As a guide, check out RenoMark, which is part of the Canadian Home Builder’s Association (CHBA), of which we are a member. Verify your contractor has liabil-

ity insurance and WCB that is in good standing. Don’t just look at bottom price – make sure you are comparing the exact same quotes.” In response to the myriad of renovation shows that depict many sub-trades happily working simultaneously on a three-day full renos, Adamski cautions, “Have realistic expectations. TV is just that – TV.” Always one to stay ahead of the curve in current building trends, Adamski sees a rise in the popularity of different colours of cabinetry, outdoor kitchens, vertical set accent tiles instead of horizontal, and a lot more LED lighting. The point remains, however, that kitchen and bathroom/ ensuite renovations provide the highest return on investment, and mixing wood and stone will always give you a timeless, classic look. Adamski has grown his company from a one man operation to his current staff of 10. He has a large group of loyal subtrades and suppliers. “I want to thank my team members and hardworking staff as well as my subtrades and suppliers whom have helped Rencon grow to what it is today and whom have also referred Rencon to their associates, family, friends and colleagues. Up until three years ago Rencon’s business was built solely on word of mouth, so that says something about the company. We also thank our clients and designers who come to us and trust us to complete their vision and ultimately, their dream space.” Rencon looks forward to expanding in the commercial, industrial, and oil and gas segments while retaining its residential presence. To learn more about Rencon and how they can help you with the construction project of your dreams, visit www.renconindustries.ca.

112 6202 - 29 Avenue Beaumont AB T4X 0H5 • 780-986-2160 • info@renconindustries.ca www.renconindustries.ca

REAL ESTATE EDMONTON: THE SOLID REAL ESTATE MARKET $750,000) so the listings may be on the market a bit longer. He enthusiastically cites another limited but exciting example of how some Edmonton real estate statistics are also indicators of the city’s strong economy. “Our multi-million dollar sales are blowing the top off our market,” he says with enthusiasm and Edmonton pride. “There were 89 homes worth over $1 million each sold in 2012. In 2013 there were 112. Just in the first six months of this year, more than 88 had already sold; some in the $2-$3 million range. Also, a 5,600 square foot, eight DAN EISNER car garage Edmonton home sold for $5.7 million.” Irresistibly low Canadian mortgage rates are an undisputable aspect of home buying activity, but there is speculation that the Canadian housing market is about to cool and interest rates may creep higher, sometime in 2015. The Bank of Canada is widely expected to hold interest rates steady until at least some time next year, perhaps longer, and mortgages will likely remain a bargain. However, some new and stealth mortgage lending rules may have already prompted some Edmonton purchasers to reconsider home buying plans and decisions. “Over the last two years or so, for various reasons, regulations have been introduced to increase hurdles when it comes to getting mortgages,” explains the experienced Dan Eisner, CEO of the Alberta-based True North Mortgage, one of Canada’s leading mortgage brokers. “Stricter, tighter regulations about incomes, reductions in allowable amortization, tightening-up CHMC guidelines and other changes. I doubt if the new rules are temporary. It’s likely the new normal. To a large part, of course, it’s about Canada having learned from the U.S. meltdown. We were also headed down a similar path, but we were three or four years behind them and Canada had the smarts to do something about it.” Eisner adds that despite the usual consumer and real estate industry mood swings, opinions and criticisms about banks, interest rates and mortgages, this time the changes and tighter regulations can’t be blamed on banks. Several federal organizations are responsible for overseeing banks’ activities and for contributing to the stability and efficiency of Canada’s financial system, such as the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI) and others. “Yes, Canadian household debt is at an all-time high, but recent statistics also show that so is average Canadian net worth. Of course! When you offer really low mortgage rates, people borrow and buy houses. That’s the purpose of low lending rates,” he shrugs and chuckles. “Why is it such a revelation all of a sudden for some analysts that debt is high?”

October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

He goes on to note that the mortgage landscape is definitely changing. “The increased requirement for income is the biggest crunch. How much money you have to put down is no longer as important as cash flow and how much money you have coming in.” A random example is an early retired Edmonton purchaser with $500,000 cash to put down on a $600,000 home. He was given a hard time about financing because, despite solid net worth, his actual income didn’t meet the new rules. “Previous ‘equity deals’ have been regulated out of the market,” Eisner points out. “Good credit absolutely matters but, if income doesn’t meet the new regulations, there’s a problem. It seems illogical but income now matters more than savings. As a rule of thumb, a family used to be able afford a home six times the family’s income. With the new formula, it may now only be four or five times. What banks now consider ‘debt’ has also been re-defined. For example, a line of credit – even if you haven’t and don’t use it – it counts as debt. With the new down payment and qualifications rules, the income requirements and other stress test hurdles, the federal regulators have definitely moved the goal posts,” he says. “A lot of formerly A-clients have suddenly become B-clients.” Industry insiders agree that any hike, or even a gradual but upward trend in mortgage rates, will trigger a possible cool down, perhaps in Edmonton prices. Knowledgeable and experienced consultants like Eisner are unanimous. By default or basic logic, mortgage rates will definitely go up. “It’s inevitable,” he warns. “Right now, rates are about 2.75 per cent. How much lower could it possibly go? Under these conditions, a fiveyear fixed mortgage is insurance.” Eisner highlights the current Canadian trend that more than 60 per cent of mortgage borrowers opt for the fiveyear fixed. Less than 35 per cent go variable. “It is so low that up is the only way it can go, but nothing sudden and shocking like the ’80s. Today, even if rates double, and they won’t, it would still be manageable.” The chronic and impossible question is: when? In this, as in so many business speed bumps, it all depends on timing. Mortgage rates are designed to fight inflation. So, analysts suggest the simplified answer that the unofficial start of a possible real estate cool down may happen when the Canadian economy is solidly in recovery mode. Then mortgage rates will start creeping up. Greg Steele remains pumped and revved about Edmonton. “The year 2015 should be a mirror reflection in the Edmonton market and we’re forecasting a steady growth, three to four per cent increase.” BIE

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COVER

PEROGY POWER: SMALL PRODUCT, BIG IMPACT

PEROGY POWER: SMALL PRODUCT, BIG IMPACT Joe Makowecki of Heritage Frozen Foods Ltd. takes the humble perogy to new heights. BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON PHOTO BY EPIC PHOTOGRAPHY INC.

ow big is a perogy? A few inches? How often do you think about perogies? I’m pretty sure they don’t make up the bulk of your thought process for the day. However, in 1972 a man thought a great deal about perogies, and because of that he changed how Canadians came to know and love this savory food. It was the early ’70s and Walter Makowecki, whose grandparents had immigrated to Canada, saw the world changing around him. Women were entering the workforce in large numbers and he thought, since this meant less time at home for both men and women, quick and convenient foods would be a good seller. He figured perogies, a staple item in Ukraine where his family was from, would be a big hit in Canada. There was just one problem. “Dad didn’t have any money, which is a bad start to a business!” laughs Joe Makowecki, Walter’s son and the current president and CEO of Heritage Frozen Foods. “Mom had some money because she had a farm. She sold it and used the money from the sale to start the business. Dad raised capital by selling shares to his family. The company started with less than $20,000 of capital and in a 1,300 square foot strip mall in east Edmonton.” The troubles didn’t end there. “They didn’t know what they were doing,” Makowecki continues. “They spent a

October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

year trying to make a machine work. Dad got some bakers involved to show him how to bake. After a year he had something resembling a perogy coming out of a machine.” Back in those days perogies were something the immigrant community enjoyed. Other than that, Canadians had virtually never heard of them. Walter and his family set about changing that. “There was no question if us kids were going to be in the business or not. We had to work after school and in the summers. We loaded up the car and drove to rodeos and exhibit booths at fairs to sell perogies. But the other side of this is that we were introducing perogies all across the country in places that had never seen or heard of a perogy before.” Makowecki smiles as he recalls his father’s big break. “Dad took his briefcase and went to see Woolworths. They listed the product after giving him a test in what is now the Southgate Safeway. Over a weekend they sold almost a trailer load of perogies, which was really unheard of during those days. The manager said, ‘Walter did you get every Ukrainian in Edmonton to buy these things?’ Then Safeway took note, then IGA, and away we go.” You see, Walter had stuck to the principle he knew would work and it’s a principle that still guides Heritage Frozen Foods today: it has to taste good and it has to be affordable.

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COVER

PEROGY POWER: SMALL PRODUCT, BIG IMPACT

And wow, do they ever taste good! You would be forgiven if you think CHEEMO perogies, Heritage Frozen Foods’ leading brand, is a processed food because it’s frozen and comes out of a box. Today’s perception of anything that isn’t picked and served fresh (with a little dirt still on it and still warm from the outdoor sun) must be full of hydrogenated oils, glucose-fructose, trans fats and buckets of sodium. CHEEMO perogies have none of that. Makowecki points out what makes their perogies so good, and what separates their product from imitators: natural ingredients, local potatoes, and stone milled flour. It’s real food and it’s really nutritious. “At the end of the day it’s pretty darn good for you. It’s not like you are putting something in mouth that you feel guilty about,” he says. This is the life of a CHEEMO perogy. It starts with local, fresh, washed and graded Alberta potatoes. They go into the industrial peeler. As each potato exits the peeler, a camera scans it for defects. Defective potatoes are automatically removed. Next, the potatoes are cooked and mashed. Cheese (real cheese, not cheese powder or cheese-type product), salt and other ingredients, if applicable to the different flavours offered, are added. Now it’s the flour’s turn. Flour is brought in by the truckload. The flour is made from Alberta wheat that is locally milled. Water, salt, egg whites and canola are added to make the dough. Each perogy is assembled, steam cooked (never fried) flash frozen and packaged. The amount of processing is surprisingly minimal. In fact, when you see the real ingredients being prepared, it’s hard to call this a processed food at all. Its good old-fashioned home cooking – with a twist. That twist would be the machinery. Industrial sized mixers, freezers with rotating shelves that stretch up to the ceiling, machines that pack the product, machines that build the boxes to ship the product, machines to wrap the pallets of boxes, machines that weigh the product, and machines that observe the machines that are making all this magic happen are just a few of the machines in the highly-automated facility of Heritage Frozen Foods; and none of the machinery is there by chance. “At one point we had almost 200 people on staff,” says Makowecki. “But I could see, even over a decade ago, that we were going to have a problem with labour. The government wasn’t addressing the immigration issues they should have been dealing with. We decided to pay people higher wages and to automate.” Automation helped drive the productivity and reduced their labour needs, while the labourers they did need were given higher wages, which (along with Heritage Frozen Foods being a great place to work) earned the company employee productively and loyalty. “Typical labour is cheap and intensive. We said higher wages and less people. It is proven that our way is better.” An incredibly delicious food, a state-of-the art facility, a happy and stable work force – who knew perogies had that much power? Hmm...perogy power…why does that sound so familiar? Remember the days when a company’s main advertising medium was the radio? Before you needed a social

October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

FRESH POTATOES READY FOR THE PEELER

.PEROGIES HEADING TO THE FLASH FREEZER

AN EFFICIENT PROCESSION OF TASTY PEROGIES

media manager, search engine optimizer and a PR firm to promote your brand across Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, Instagram, Tumbler, etc., companies sat down with the advertising executives at radio stations, bought up a block of space for their ads and hired someone to write up a jingle. Heritage Frozen Foods was no exception. Makowecki explains. “We would buy advertising from the CBC. We didn’t have much money so we were buying the cheapest slots possible, like during Coronation Street and daytime TV. When you bought enough advertising you’d get free commercial production. The result was definitely

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COVER

PEROGY POWER: SMALL PRODUCT, BIG IMPACT

amateurish, but people would appreciate that because it got more attention than being too slick. We needed a jingle and had a company in Vancouver create one. We took that jingle and put it into the TV commercials.” If you grew up in the ’80s, you know exactly how that jingle ends: “CHEEMO... perogy power!” Over 30 years later people are still humming that cheerful little tune; yet another way the humble perogy has had such a big impact on Canadians. Another impact is the name. Ironically, the name CHEEMO was an existing Canadian word long before Walter adopted it for his brand, but the names perogy and perogies were not. CHEEMO is an Inuit word. When Inuit tribes met each other, they would say “chemo,” which, in one translation, means “hello.” Walter wanted to make perogies identifiable to Canadians, so he called the brand CHEEMO. Perogy, on the other hand was a word that simply didn’t exist. What we know now as perogies are called varenyky in Ukraine. Polish translations for a similar food run the gambit from pierógi to pieroki. Walter couldn’t see Canadians striding up to the stocking clerk demanding to know where the boxes of varenyky or pierozki were, so he created the ear-pleasing, easy-to-say “perogy” for the native-English speaking target demographic. However, perogy, varenyky, pierógi, pierozki, et al are words that are simultaneously singular and plural. In their native language, one would have a plate of perogy and that would refer to the meal whether there was one or six delicious dumplings on the plate. Makowecki didn’t think their Canadian audience would catch on to calling a box of perogies perogy. Although Walter didn’t care for the idea of further changing the word, Makowecki won out and the word perogies was proudly stamped across the packaging. In addition to introducing non-immigrant Canadians to perogies, Walter and his son created two words that are now ingrained in the Canadian language. Perogy power indeed! Clearly, Heritage Frozen Foods was ahead of its time from the get-go, and in many ways it still is. The company introduced an Asian dumpling in the ’90s, which was quickly pulled due to lack of interest. However, with the surge of Asian fusion and many noodle houses quickly populating the Capital City, it’s a flavour that might work well today. The same goes for the unsuccessful attempt to sell a Mexican-style empanada. When it was introduced, nobody knew what empanadas were. Again, this is changing. Remember, when Canadians were introduced to perogies in the ’70s, many had never seen or heard of them. Fast forward to 2013 and Heritage Frozen Foods sold Canadians 750 million perogies last year. The most popular flavour? It’s not pizza perogies, ironically not (the discontinued) sauerkraut perogies (that earned Makowecki hate mail and phone calls when he took it off the market because consumers wanted it back so badly). It’s not even the incredibly delicious and extra-healthy whole wheat perogies. It’s the original recipe – potato and cheddar cheese. Canadians are just crazy for them. Consumers are not the only ones taking notice of the small food with the big impact. EY’s prestigious Entrepre-

October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

neur Of The Year award program took note of Heritage Frozen Foods way back in 2002. The company made it to the finals, but didn’t win. Eleven years later, in 2013, EY asked the company to compete again. This time they won in the manufacturing category. To understand the gravity of win, pause for a moment and open any sales flyer from your local grocery store. What brands to do you see? McCain, Nestlé, Pinnacle Foods Inc., Frito Lay – what do all these brands have in common? None of them are small, local Edmonton brands. They are all multi-national household names with a powerful reach that extends almost daily into your grocery cart. Look again. Who else do you see? CHEEMO. The perogies are right there with the big guys, and would be rubbing shoulders and networking if they were not so busy being naturally delicious and dominating the perogy market. You see, those big brands are not CHEEMO’s competition. When it comes to perogies, CHEEMO is their competition, and a difficult one to beat. Additionally, manufacturing in Canada is dominated by multi-million dollar corporations that drive our energy sector. At EY’s Entrepreneur Of The Year in 2013, the little perogy was going toe to toe with other prairie province manufacturers, such as Absolute Completion Technologies Ltd., who develops and manufactures well completion technologies and specializes in sand control solutions. Perogies triumphed. That’s perogy power. Who thought the little dumpling had so much greatness inside? More than four decades have passed since Walter had the notion that a tasty, affordable, convenient food would be a good seller. The perogies are no longer being peddled from the family car. They are sent all over Canada and a good part of the States by the refrigerated truckload. A recent survey shows that most Canadians think perogies actually originated in Canada. Walter would be proud. Although he passed on at the age of 80, his spirit is alive and well at Heritage Frozen Foods. His Model-T Ford has a place of honour in the warehouse, right beside the new promotional CHEEMO Smart Car. His entrepreneurial drive has carried on into the second generation through his son, and his simple but incredibly powerful principle has never changed. CHEEMO perogies taste good and are affordable. “We have a product that we proved can sell in any market and any demographic,” concludes Makowecki. “In the beginning we were told to sell to Ukrainians because that was the market. We said ‘we sell to Canadians.’ We will continue to build out incrementally in North America and into other markets as Canada creates trade agreements. We will continue to grow. We will stay with the same philosophy that works for us. We will keep it affordable, keep it good and keep the quality up.” With new CHEEMO flavours, such as farm style cream cheese and savory dill, hitting the shelves and the constant crave Canadians have for their beloved CHEEMO perogies, Heritage Frozen Foods will continue to be an Edmonton, and Canadian, success story for many years to come. BIE

Greenboro by Crystal Creek Building on a Legend C

By Lisa Johnston

rystal Creek Homes’ tagline – a reflection of you – eloquently sums up the vision behind this award-winning homebuilder. The commitment to quality and comfort has led to 10 years of success in building distinct homes that seamlessly mirror the personalities and lifestyles of their clients. The next decade promises to be just as exciting and productive as the established Calgary homebuilder expands its reach into Edmonton with the acquisition of Greenboro Homes. Crystal Creek’s story began just over 10 years ago, when an injury sidelined Justin Bobier. Without an income or the ability to work for three months, he decided to change his focus and his future. He had experience as a renovator and cabinet installer and was considering his options when a simple request changed the course of his career – his sister wanted him to build her a home. Bobier and his wife, Michelle, incorporated Crystal Creek Homes in 2004 and began construction on their first house later that year. “My goal from the beginning has always been to build the best possible home for our clients to reflect both their individ-

uality and their lifestyle,” says Bobier. “I felt we could be successful in offering this type of service to the community.” His intuition was correct. One house led to another, and today Bobier sits as president of Crystal Creek Homes, a company that is actively building homes in both Calgary and Edmonton. In 2013, Crystal Creek acquired Greenboro Homes, one of the most renowned homebuilders in Edmonton. During their prime, Greenboro was building close to 500 homes per year, but due to the recession and market conditions, the company was forced into creditor protection in 2012. The next year, Crystal Creek Homes acquired the company and started rebuilding, literally and figuratively. Although Crystal Creek Homes already had ties to Edmonton – Bobier grew up in Edmonton and built his first house in the city before incorporating the company – the transition has taken a great deal of time and dedication. Due to Greenboro’s financial troubles, hundreds of homes had been left incomplete in the Edmonton area with millions of dollars outstanding to

Crystal Creek Homes | 10th Anniversary

Justin and Michelle Bobier

creditors. Within a year of Crystal Creek taking ownership of the company, all the tradespeople were paid and 80 per cent of the homes on hold have now been completed – a huge accomplishment in a short period of time. The dynamic energy of Crystal Creek has revived a once-thriving company, and homebuilding continues at a brisk pace. “Greenboro had a great reputation as an award-winning builder and produced a quality product,” explains Bobier. “With the help of Sterling Bridge Mortgage Corp., we were able to satisfy all the deficiencies and unpaid vendors. We will continue to build on the Greenboro name but under the Crystal Creek Homes brand.” It wasn’t just the homeowners and trades watching Crystal Creek’s every move as they ventured into the Edmonton market, even the media got involved. As Greenboro’s challenges mounted, troubleshooter Julie Matthews from Global News interviewed several disgruntled homeowners. After Crystal Creek Homes stepped in, Bobier invited her to revisit the story and report on the progress. The followup story confirmed that the hard work and dedication of the Crystal Creek team had paid off and was evident by the now completed homes and elated customers. Likewise, the team has received several accolades on the Greenboro by Crystal Creek Homes Facebook page. One satisfied customer posted in August, “I would like to say a big thanks to you and your staff for having completed all the out-

standing work. Everything looks perfect and yes we wish you lots of success.” As is common in any acquisition, changes were part of the takeover. “Moving forward, there was a need for some restructuring. We wanted to ensure we had the best team who supported our policy that customers always come first,” explains Bobier. It is the same mandate that has led to 10 years of success for the homebuilder and will continue to be a top focus as construction continues in the Edmonton area. Contributing to the company culture, in addition to a number of key staff members, is one of the original executive members of Greenboro Homes. Starting as construction manager in 1992, he retired as president in 2007 and was recently encouraged by Bobier to return to his desk. He has become part of the Crystal Creek team in Edmonton, sharing his expertise as the company continues in growth mode. “We entered the Edmonton market just under a year ago,” says Bobier. “As we approach our first anniversary, I am pleased to report it has been a challenging year, but also a very successful one. We have staff members and the community to thank for everything we have achieved.” It’s not surprising that Crystal Creek has enjoyed rapid success in Edmonton. Ever since establishing the company in Calgary in 2004, Crystal Creek Homes has received accolades and

Crystal Creek Homes | 10th Anniversary | Page 2

Practicality awards from both the homebuilding industry and the customers they serve. Crystal Creek’s first show home won Best Estate Home in Alberta in 2007, a huge recognition from industry peers early in the company’s existence. “That was a defining moment for our company. Customer feedback in terms of its

design was amazing, and that home is still being replicated in communities across Alberta due to its uniqueness and appeal,” says Bobier. That award was the first of many. Crystal Creek is honoured to be a repeat winner of annual awards from the Canadian Home

Congratulations to Crystal Creek Homes on their 10th Anniversary! Wishing you continued success.

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Crystal Creek Homes | 10th Anniversary | Page 3

Lifestyle Buildersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association (CHBA) as judged by industry peers. Additionally, some of the finest compliments have come from customers who, two years in succession, have chosen Crystal Creek Homes as their preferred builder. Crystal Creek has earned the

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Crystal Creek Homes | 10th Anniversary | Page 4

This year, Bobier is a finalist in EY’s Entrepreneur Of The Year awards, a fitting recognition for a man who refused to let anything – from an injury to taking on a failing company – hold him back. Entrepreneurs are risk takers and adventurers, qualities that aptly describe the man who decided to build his sister a house, and ultimately established an amazing company. These days the company is not just building homes, it’s building communities. Bobier plans to once again reach the previous peak of building 500 homes a year – and as they are currently active in four communities, that dream is rapidly approaching a reality. In Edmonton, Greenboro by Crystal Creek is building in Allard in Heritage Valley, Walker Lakes Station, Laurel and Maple Crest. Located in south Edmonton, the rapidly expanding Allard in Heritage Valley is a family-friendly community that features an outdoor skating rink, mature trees, landscaping and a new playground. Also located on the south side of Edmonton is Walker Lakes Station. Heralded as a commuter’s dream, being situated just off Anthony Henday Drive and near a future transit station, the community boasts lakes, parks and trails for active residents. Laurel, another south community, also promotes a healthy lifestyle with onsite amenities such as a lake, walking trails, playgrounds and parks.

Development is also taking place in Maple Crest, a community in the city’s wetlands that is redefining natural urban living. River views, a ravine and acres of green space appeal to those who want to experience natural beauty without leaving the city limits. Building options throughout the expanding community consist of executive homes, move-up homes, laned homes and duplexes. Crystal Creek Homes has committed to working with Walton Development and Management, a multinational real estate investment and development firm concentrating on the research, acquisition, management and development of strategically located land in major North American growth corridors. Walton carefully selects the outstanding builders with whom they align. Crystal Creek Homes values this relationship and looks forward to working with Walton in upcoming Edmonton communities. Crystal Creek Homes in Edmonton is more than a homebuilder. It is a place where employees are motivated to build the best possible homes and communities where clients want to live – reflecting both their personalities and their lifestyles. With a plan of revitalization and growth firmly on track, a history of outstanding awards and Bobier’s unshakable attitude, Crystal Creek Homes is well on the way to becoming a household name in Edmonton. To learn more, visit crystalcreekhomes.ca.

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Saluting the Prairies’ gravity-defying entrepreneurs 2014 Special supplement published by Business in Calgary and Business in Edmonton magazines.

“Innovators.” “Risk takers.” “Game changers.” That sounds about right. FirstEnergy Capital congratulates all the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014 nominees.

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Entrepreneurs defy gravity — inspiring awe as they lift their businesses off the ground. At EY Canada, our own growth story started 150 years ago in the same way as this year’s impressive Entrepreneur Of The Year finalists: with one entrepreneur committed to defying the odds. In 1864 — before Canada was even a country — Thomas Clarkson founded the trustee and receivership business which has today evolved into EY. His entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for a firm deeply committed to the success of entrepreneurs that still resonates across our organization today. EY is recognized as the top professional services brand among the entrepreneurial community and we were recently named Professional Services Organization of the Year by Startup Canada. But what really makes us proud is the opportunity, every year, to celebrate the stories and achievements of entrepreneurs through our Entrepreneur Of The Year Program. For the award finalists in these pages, their ambition, innovation and leadership have taken their businesses to new heights. Their success is contributing to a better working world for their communities and right across the Prairies. For many, their vision has taken flight across Canada and beyond borders — building Canada’s presence around the world. What will the next 150 years of bring? New generations of entrepreneurs will continue to defy the odds and what we think is possible. And we’ll be right there by their side. Rob Jolley Prairies Director, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year

Table of Contents Business-to-Consumer Products and Services Roger Newton - The Canadian Brewhouse - page 10 | Joe Sunner, Harry Sunner - Durabuilt Windows & Doors - page 12 | Brent Zettl - Prairie Plant Systems Inc. - page 14

Energy Services Mike Dunn - Enerbuilt Technologies Inc. - page 16 | Quinn Holtby - Katch Kan Limited - page 18 | Alvin Pyke Helical Pier Systems Ltd. - page 20 | Pat Wilson - Camex Equipment Sales & Rentals Inc. – page 22

Manufacturing Mike Fata - Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods - page 24 | Dan Leckelt, Lindsey Leckelt - Silent-Aire Manufacturing Inc. - page 26 | Steve Parsons - Inovata Foods Corp. – page 28

Emerging Entrepreneur James Bachynsky - Calgary Shooting Centre – page 30 | Danielle Bragge - The Headhunters Recruitment Inc. page 32 | Stephen Glanville, Regan Davis, Bailey Epp - STEP Energy Services - page 34 | Heather Murphy, Craig Howes - Go Tire Inc. - page 36

Oil and Gas Wayne King - Grit Industries Inc. - page 38 | Bill McCaffrey - MEG Energy - page 40 | Muthu Palanisamy Metalcare Group Inc. - page 42

Special Citation - Social Entrepreneur Shaun Loney - BUILD and others – page 43

Technology and Communications Elmer Brattberg, Audrey Brattberg, Holly Brattberg, Susan Brattberg - Global eTraining and The Brattberg Group - page 44 | David Beresford, Greg Chudiak - Pandell - page 46 | Wayne Karpoff - Willowglen Systems Inc. - page 48 | Jory Lamb - VistaVu Solutions – page 49

Business-to-Business Products and Services Dave Bischoff, Cal Fairbanks - ComplyWorks - page 50 | Ken Greer - Western Ag Group of Companies - page 52 | Mark Repchinsky - Advance Coating Solutions Inc. - page 54 | Al Side - Side Group of Companies – page 56

Professional and Financial Services Greg Burghardt - Arrow Engineering - page 58 | Laurie Goldberg - People Corporation - page 60 | Marnee Brick, Greg Sutton - TinyEYE Therapy Services – page 62

Real Estate and Construction Justin Bobier - Crystal Creek Homes - page 64 | Radhe Gupta - Rohit Group of Companies - page 66 | Travis Penner, Sjoerd Huese - Bridge Road Construction Ltd. - page 68 | Phil Milroy - Westcorp Inc.- page 70

Published by O.T. Communications | www.otcommunications.com | Canadian publications mail sales product agreement No. 41126516 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to circulation dept. 1025 101 6th Ave. SW, Calgary, AB T2P 3P4 info@businessincalgary.com

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

To judge high-flying talent, you need lots of it. It takes talent to know talent. We couldn’t celebrate the Prairies’ brightest entrepreneurs without the powerful insights of our judges. We’re truly grateful.

Linda Hohol

Kelley Smith

Darryl Levy

Dale Wishewan

Ashif Mawji

Stephanie Yong

Corporate Director, various boards

Corporate Consultant

President & CEO Wynward Insurance Group

CEO NPO Zero Corp.

President & CEO Booster Juice

Director W. Brett Wilson Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Meet our Prairies leadership team Winnipeg Rob Jolley

Craig Roskos

Program Director, Entrepreneur Of The Year

Managing Partner 204 947 6519 craig.m.roskos@ca.ey.com

780 638 6656 rob.m.jolley@ca.ey.com

Louise Hyland

Joe Healey

Program Coordinator, Entrepreneur Of The Year

Office Leader, Entrepreneur Of The Year

403 206 5372 louise.hyland@ca.ey.com

204 954 5568 joe.a.healey@ca.ey.com

Calgary

Saskatoon Kent Kaufield

Evan Shoforost

Managing Partner

403 206 5100 kent.d.kaufield@ca.ey.com

306 934 8000 evan.shoforost@ca.ey.com

Dean Radomsky

Greg Keller

Office Leader, Entrepreneur Of The Year

403 206 5180 dean.w.radomsky@ca.ey.com

306 649 8218 greg.keller@ca.ey.com

Edmonton Ross Haffie Managing Partner 780 423 5811 ross.m.haffie@ca.ey.com

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Business-to-Consumer Products and Services

Roger Newton The Canadian Brewhouse Edmonton

rom the moment Roger Newton, President of The Canadian Brewhouse, began talking, it was clear he was a born leader and entrepreneur. With very little capital and at the young age of 21, he launched the first Brewhouse. His customers were mainly his friends, but through hard work, perseverance and investing all the early profits in the business, Newton grew the company to the beloved establishment it is today. In less than 13 years, The Canadian Brewhouse grew to 11 locations, with more on the way. Are entrepreneurs born or made? I believe they are born. Entrepreneurs need to be decision-makers and risk takers. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? A strong work ethic, the desire to succeed and the ability to advance after a setback. How important have good employees been to your success? They are vital. Employee skills need to be recognized so they can achieve success in their areas of strength. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? To encourage entrepreneurs, we need to start teaching money and life skills in grade school. What was your first job? Delivering newspapers. Let me rephrase that … delivering most of the newspapers assigned to my route! What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I am passionate about my three children – even when they keep me up at night or their antics make me want to hide from them to relax … with a fine Brewhouse product in hand! What book are you reading now? Great books are meant to be read more than once, which is why I’ve been reading Goodnight Moon and Bus Stops to my daughter – about seven times in a row each evening, every evening. What motivates you? Seeing co-workers succeed and guests enjoying what we have created. My advice for entrepreneurs is to keep your plans to yourself. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake, and if you are in need of some creative juices, come visit The Canadian Brewhouse!

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Our house is your house.

WHERE GOOD FRIENDS COME TOGETHER FOR COLD BEER, GREAT FOOD & SPORTS! thecanadianbrewhouse.com @TheCDNBrewhouse

/CanadianBrewhouse

12 LOCATIONS IN ALBERTA Edmonton 9538 Ellerslie Road 10338 - 109 Street 12711 - 97 Street

COMING SOON TO OKOTOKS, AIRDRIE, REGINA AND SASKATOON!

Leduc 5404 Discovery Way Spruce Grove 310, 4 McLeod Avenue

Sherwood Park 200 - 270 Baseline Road

Lloydminster 7703 - 44 Street

Camrose 6608 - 48 Avenue

Grande Prairie 10829 - 104A Avenue

Red Deer 12 Conway Street

Fort McMurray 108 Riverstone Ridge

Calgary 9650 Harvest Hills Blvd

Business-to-Consumer Products and Services

Joe Sunner, Harry Sunner Durabuilt Windows & Doors Edmonton

ather and son duo, CEO Joe Sunner and President Harry Sunner, are committed to family owned business ventures. Their company, Durabuilt Windows & Doors, is one of Western Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest privately owned window and door manufacturers. It supplies the residential, new home construction and commercial industries. This year, Durabuilt celebrates its 25th anniversary. President Harry Sunner responds to the questions on behalf of himself and his co-nominee, CEO Joe Sunner. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? At eight I began to involve myself in my dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s small business, to the point where I would wake up pretending I was too sick for school so I could work in our retail business. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Entrepreneurs are born and are constantly in the making. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Challenging the impossible, personal and professional development, vision, defying the odds, taking risks, and having the discipline to sacrifice personal life to succeed. How important have good employees been to your success? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like asking how important your kidneys are over your heart or how important your vision is over your hearing. Good employees are the blood of any great company. What does being a finalist mean to you? Being a finalist means proof that hardship and determination will merit you one day. The recognition gives me an accolade to show my children and demonstrate that if I can be nominated for relentless hard work, then life is an oyster for them, such feeling of an athlete winning a marathon or ironman!

What did you want to be when you were a kid? I always wanted to be a business owner of a large company that would have national recognition. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would educate myself. I learned many elements of business the hard way. What is your dream vacation? The Maldives for a week and then New York for a week with my wife. My advice for entrepreneurs is to defy the odds. Over the next 10 years, I plan to have a self-running business and thoroughly enjoy life, waking up to do whatever I want! I will also be a mentor to others and to my children. 12

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Celebrating Leadership, Innovation and Commitment EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Regional Finalists, 2014

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The growth we have experienced over the last 25 years can be attributed both to our shared drive to succeed, as well as the immeasurable support of our team, customers, vendors and dealers across Western Canada. The EY Nomination has given us the chance to reflect upon our journey, and look towards the future. We are extremely honoured to be finalists.â&#x20AC;? Harry Sunner (President) and Joe Sunner (CEO). Durabuilt provides custom Windows and Doors across Western Canada. To learn more please call 1.800.544.3815 or visit durabuiltwindows.com

all about you.

Business-to-Consumer Products and Services

Brent Zettl Prairie Plant Systems Inc. Saskatoon

stablished in 1988 by President and CEO Brent Zettl, Prairie Plant Systems is a privately held plant biotechnology company that focuses on research and development. Prairie Plant’s current projects include the growing and processing of medically valuable whole plant components for controlled substances, biosecure production of mutagenized plants for development of unique genetic lines for commercialization, and genetic transformation for tissue specific expression of pharmaceutical biologicals. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I knew very early. Around age 12, my dad started us kids raising chickens. I invested my allowance and moved on to raising pheasants with the money I made. At 18, I brokered a deal with a Saskatchewan company to get their old power poles, which I converted to lumber and sold. C

Are entrepreneurs born or made? M Born – it’s a combination of interest, vision and an appetite for risk that most people Y don’t have. CM

What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Vision, communication skills and tenacity.

CMY

How important have good employees been to your success? K They’re an integral part of the business. We couldn’t do anything without our employees. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Create educational and financial support systems that speak directly to entrepreneurs and their needs. What book are you reading now? Chris Hadfield’s book: An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth. What motivates you? Helping people and helping the environment. Leaving things better than when I arrived. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My father has a passion for business and a compassion for people. He gave up his professional career to form a non-profit organization to assist disabled adults in 1975. Also, former SaskTel president Don Ching understands how businesses work and how to direct our board. My advice to entrepreneurs is not to be discouraged by a lack of resources and support from others who don’t see your vision when you are looking at opportunities. What an entrepreneur sees is not often recognized by anybody else. However, you also need to manage cash flow within the context of your vision. 14

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Safety. Reliability. Effectiveness. It’s in our nature.

I’m honoured to be an EY Entrepreneur Of The Year finalist, and pleased to share this honour with all my staff and management, including those with our subsidiaries. These are most interesting, exciting times as we collectively continue to develop new treatments to better serve a great many customers across Canada, and soon beyond, when conventional medicine isn’t enough.

Brent Zettl

CEO and President

Prairie Plant Systems Inc. #1 Plant Technology Road, Box 19A, RR#5, Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7K 3J8

Phone: (306) 975-1207 Fax: (306) 975-0440 Website: www.prairieplant.com

Energy Services

Mike Dunn Enerbuilt Technologies Inc. Nisku

ike Dunn created Enerbuilt Technologies Inc. in 2007 to provide flameless heating solutions that reduce costs, increase safety and are environmentally friendly. Additional services include 24/7 mobile service, maintenance training and warranty processing. Dunn credits his willingness to work hard, learn what’s important and outstanding staff as factors in Enerbuilt’s success. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? From early on, I wanted to have more of an impact on what was going on around me. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Successful entrepreneurs have traits that anyone can choose to learn. The things you must have internally are courage and a belief in yourself that you can recover if things go wrong. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The ability and willingness to learn. How important have good employees been to your success? To be successful, the main ingredient is good people who adapt when conditions change or you have product issues. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? I was lucky enough to join Entrepreneurs’ Organization, and that was a gamechanger for me. Canada’s support vehicle exists right now through this organization. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would accept help and engage in a mentorship process much earlier in my career. If you weren’t in your current leadership position, what would you be doing? I would catch up on family time, learn to play the guitar and get my MBA. If I was still engaged in the business community but had more time, I would focus on mentorship. Where do you want to be in the next 10 years? I want to be actively engaged in supporting growing businesses. How do you define success? Success is your ability to provide meaningful change in your family, community and business. My dad told me you have only failed if you don’t try. It is important to take risks, learn from mentors and rely on good people. When you succeed, give back by becoming a mentor and encouraging other entrepreneurs.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

“Thank you for your passion and commitment over the past seven years; you have helped us all to reach our current level of success. This recognition is in honour of all your hard work and you should be proud of all that’s been accomplished. I am looking forward to sharing many more successes with you in the future. Thank you for all you have done.” – Mike

Enerbuilt Technologies Inc. aims to be the premier provider of equipment and value-added technologies for the energy industry.

Enerbuilt provides full service flameless heating solutions. Our success with flameless heating has been driven by three main value propositions:

Enerbuilt is committed to developing, distributing and servicing cost effective, environmentally friendly and safe-to-operate equipment and technologies.

• Reduced overall heating costs • Increased safety and lowered risk • Decreased environmental impact

www.enerbuilt.ca 780-979-9991

Enerbuilt Technologies, Inc. 2808 Fifth Street, Nisku, AB T9E 4A6

Energy Services

Quinn Holtby Katch Kan Limited Edmonton

atch Kan Limited provides proactive solutions for safety and environmental protection in the oil and gas industry through innovative products such as their patented Rig Safety System™ and Zero Spill System™. Founder Quinn Holtby’s adventurous spirit is a key component in Katch Kan’s success. Katch Kan’s facility houses their state-of-the art service rig, drilling rig and wellhead simulators that can be modified and set to different configurations for training purposes. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Life experience, learning from books and others’ experiences all feed into becoming an entrepreneur, but some personalities are more favourable for entrepreneurship than others. How important have good employees been to your success? No one person has all the skills necessary to handle everything themselves. You need other people to work with you, support you, encourage you, and make up for additional skills you don’t have. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Our desire to give back and make a meaningful difference. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Classic cars, supporting community causes and inspiring, helping, coaching and mentoring new entrepreneurs. What book are you reading now? Several, including Think and Grow Rich, A Message to Garcia and The Strangest Secret. Where do you want to be in the next 10 years? Sitting quietly at my cabin surrounded by family while reading stories about how the oil and gas industry has finally realized a zero spill policy and how accidents on rigs have been virtually eliminated. At the same time, I want to see Katch Kan Limited become an employee-owned company serving countless customers around the world. What motivates you? Watching others grow and become the very best they can and the possibility of saving others from accidents. Lifelong learning also motivates me. My advice to entrepreneurs is, “Don’t quit.” Things will go wrong, money can be short, you’ll get tired, there will be failures and twists and turns – choose not to quit. Also, success is influenced by the people with whom you associate and the books that you read.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

“Protecting Lives and the Environment with safety equipment and zero spill solutions” I’m honoured and humbled to be recognized as Kan’s success has been achieved through the our remarkable partners around the world, and of course, our outstanding customers, who, like us, are committed to protecting the lives of their workers and ensuring that our precious planet is safeguarded for generations to come. For over 20 years, Katch Kan has been developing innovative solutions to the upstream oil and gas industry and we are exceptionally proud to be serving customers in over 60 countries around the world. Success is realized when innovative ideas are combined with a relentless desire to gratitude that I thank all those who have helped along the way. Quinn Holtby Founder, President & CEO

www.katchkan.com

Energy Services

Alvin Pyke Helical Pier Systems Ltd. Sherwood Park

ince 1977, Helical Pier Systems Ltd. has provided engineering, manufacturing, installation, distribution and equipment design/creation services for helical piling products. Founder Alvin Pyke focuses on the implementation of technology, sustainability through green practices and investing in employee training. He looks forward to mentoring other entrepreneurs in the future. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? When I was 12. My brother and I opened a neighborhood fruit stand in Stoney Creek, Ontario where we resold fruit purchased from our local farmers. The purpose was to save enough money to buy a motorcycle we saw in a store window one day. Are entrepreneurs born or made? I think they are a combination of genetics and circumstance. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Many skills are required but of all I think the top skills are salesmanship, the vision and forward thinking, and people management. How important have good employees been to your success? It sounds clichĂŠ, but good employees are everything to the success of any business. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? The ability to overcome the logistics of creating an economic network in a vast and mostly unpopulated country. What did you want to be when you were a kid? A nuclear physicist. I was fascinated with Albert Einstein as a very young lad. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Playing competitive sports of many types as a team and an individual. Where do you want to be in the next 10 years? Semi-retired and giving back to my community in a volunteer role. What motivates you? Building things: a business, an oil plant, a gazebo for the backyard, a motorcycle or a car. I consider myself a builder more than anything. My advice for entrepreneurs is to surround yourself with good people in your work and personal life. I am especially grateful for my parents. We came from very humble beginnings. They worked hard. I was taught many life lessons by my father that I still live by today.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

I want to thank all of the employees of HPS for their valuable contribution the success of our company. You are the without question the best group I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I look forward to continued success and many more years of working together. It is with great pleasure I introduce our senior management team, all of whom are equally entitled to this honour. A special thank you to: - Bruce Weaver, COO Canadian Operations and VP Finance - Donna Pyke, VP Health and Safety - Ben Kasprick, VP Operations - Tom Bradka, VP Engineering - Red Schuhmann, VP Sales and Marketing We could not have come this far without all of you. I count you all among the very best of my friends and it is with my gratitude that we celebrate this honour together. When we started a little over 6 years ago we had a similar vision of what we could become and that vision is still the common thread that binds us today. In atmosphere of change fuelled by rapid growth all of you have proven to be innovators in your respective fields of expertise.

~ Alvin Pyke

elical Pier Systems Ltd. (HPS) offers helical pile engineering, manufacturing, installation and load testing services, with a focus on employee safety and superior environmental performance. HPS engineers optimized foundation designs for ever-increasing loads and diverse structure types using a combination of foundation technologies. Our team is committed to providing custom engineered pile foundation systems that meet the performance requirements specified by our customers and our goal is to provide our clients with cost-effective turnkey foundation systems. Project owners, EPCMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, geotechnical firms and construction contractors are increasingly cognizant of the substantial economic benefits to the use of helical pile foundation technologies. They are commonly used as foundations for wellpad equipment, pipelines, skidded buildings, work camps, storage tanks of all sizes, large pipe racks, pump jacks, compressor buildings, etc. Other common applications include foundations for substations, lattice towers, H-frames and monopoles for power transmission and distribution.

1.877.547.1017 | hpier.com

EY_A

Energy Services

Pat Wilson Camex Equipment Sales & Rentals Inc. Nisku

amex is a worldwide supplier of new and used oilfield, mining, pipeline and construction equipment and a manufacturer of custom oilfield trucks and trailers. President Pat Wilson started the company in 1992 with a pickup truck and one employee. Today, Camex has five locations, 90,000 square feet of manufacturing space, over 900 sale and rental units, and over 100 employees. Are entrepreneurs born or made? It’s a combination of both. Circumstance can certainly be a major driver. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The number one skill is the ability to make money with no money. Going broke a couple of times will certainly sharpen one’s skills! How important have good employees been to your success? They are my number one asset. Surrounding yourself with good employees is essential to success. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? The availability of startup capital would go a long way to support entrepreneurial endeavours. What does being a finalist mean to you? Although being a finalist is a great honour, I feel the award more appropriately should read “Team of the Year.” It takes the contributions from all levels of an organization, from management on down to be successful. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would have honed my public speaking skills. As the company develops on the global stage, more and more I am called upon to introduce and sell the company’s product and virtues to diverse audiences and groups. What motivates you? A challenge – doing something that no one else has done before. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My greatest inspiration is Mike Myshak of Myshak Sales & Rentals Ltd. He’s the reason I am here today. My advice for entrepreneurs stems from advice I received from a 75-year-old businessman to, “be a man of your word.” Also, know that strength is gained by going through tough times. My plan over the coming years is to return to the selling side of my business, as selling is my passion. 22

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

EY_Award_ AD_2014_Business in Edmonton Magazine 2014-08-12 1:53 PM Page 1

Although it is truly an honour to be among the finalists, “Entrepreneur Of The Year”, more appropriately should read “Team of the year”... It takes the contributions and dedication of all - from management, support staff, shop floor employees, partners and a loyal customer base to have success. I thank each and every one for the ongoing support and encouragement. Pat Wilson

President & CEO

CAMEX Equipment Sales & Rentals Inc.

1511 Sparrow Drive, Nisku, Alberta, Canada T9E 8H9 Tel: 780.955.2770 Fax: 780.955.3735 www.camex.com BED TRUCKS WINCH TRACTORS PICKER TRUCKS VACUUM TRUCKS WATER TRUCKS FUEL/LUBE TRUCKS HEAVY HAUL TRAILERS CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NEW & USED SALES

RENTALS

SERVICE

PARTS

RIG-UP MANUFACTURING

FINANCING

Manufacturing

Mike Fata Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods Winnipeg

ounded in 1998, Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods manufactures and sells Hemp Hearts, hemp protein powder, hemp oil and Hemp Bliss (beverage). CEO and co-founder Mike Fata helped legalize industrial hemp in Canada. His passion stems from how healthy hemp foods dramatically improved his health.

Are entrepreneurs born or made? They’re born. You either have the entrepreneurial spirit and aptitude or you don’t. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Perseverance, passion, well-developed negotiation skills, the ability to see the big picture and build teams around that vision. How important have good employees been to your success? Without committed and skilled team members, our company would not be what it is today. It takes many different points of view and skill sets to succeed. Not wearing too many hats allows you to lead and innovate. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? As Canadians, we are often quite modest and a bit conventional. To support a stronger Canadian entrepreneurial environment, I think we need to challenge conventional wisdom and break away from the norm. We also need to support innovation at every level within that ecosystem. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? That’s an easy one – I’d dream bigger! What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Hemp foods! I used to be overweight, unhealthy and unhappy. Now I’m passionate about nutrition and the notion that food can heal. Last year I became a certified health coach to give me more tools to help educate others on healthy living. Who has been your greatest inspiration? I was raised by a single mother. She told me very early on that my greatest strength was seeing the larger vision and staying focused on it. My mom inspired me to think bigger. My partner, Autumn, and our two children also inspire me. My advice for entrepreneurs is dream big. Have the courage to challenge traditional wisdom and break from the norm. Don’t take shortcuts. Do something right so there’s a foundation to build upon.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Better doesn’t happen by chance. For 150 years, we’ve been helping Canadian entrepreneurs grow their businesses. Congratulations to the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year finalists! ey.com/ca/entrepreneurs

Manufacturing

Dan Leckelt, Lindsey Leckelt Silent-Aire Manufacturing Inc. Edmonton

ilent-Aire Manufacturing Inc. creates custom, technologicallydriven HVAC solutions for clients worldwide. Co-Presidents and brothers Dan and Lindsey Leckelt credit their parents for teaching them survival skills, strong ethics and dedication. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? Dan: Since we were children; being an entrepreneur is how we were raised. Lindsey: In Grade 7 I declared that I was going to be a mechanical engineer and work in the family business. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Dan: Entrepreneurs can be born, but a lot can be made. Lindsey: It takes influence to create an entrepreneur.

What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Dan: The ability to sell yourself. Lindsey: Guts, creativity, self-reflection and the ability to be your own toughest critic. How important have good employees been to your success? Dan: Employees are one of the keys to the success of our business. Lindsey: Our employees are one of the strongest areas of our company. Quality employees are the lifeblood of our organization. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Dan: Our ability to think outside of the box, our creativity and operational flexibility. Lindsey: Canadian entrepreneurs have a larger sense of realization of the value good employees bring to the business. What does being a finalist mean to you? Dan and Lindsey: It is an honour for our company and staff, and a great way for our team to realize the fruits of our hard work. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Dan: Hockey. After playing competitively for many years, my passion shifted to coaching kids. Lindsey: Spending time with my wife and kids, playing hockey and working in my yard. How do you define success? Dan: Having the ability to make a difference in peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives. Lindsey: Taking care of my family while giving back to my friends and community. Our advice for entrepreneurs is: be flexible, calculate risks, learn from your mistakes, know all aspects of the business, be balanced and stay humble. 26

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

“

We are honoured to be chosen among the finalists for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year. We thank our staff for their hard work, dedication and belief in what we could achieve. We also thank our vendors and most importantly, our clients, for their loyalty, confidence and patronage. – Dan and Lindsey Leckelt

Turning complex heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) challenges into creative solutions since 1994. When you work with Silent-Aire you are more that a customer. We work as your partner, helping you to realize your vision and meet your needs.

7107 - 8th Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6P 1T9 Tel.: 780•456•1061 Fax: 780•456•1286

With our in-house manufacturing team and design-build approach, your HVAC solution is within reach.

www.silent-aire.com

1145 West Gary Avenue, Gilbert, Arizona, USA 85233 Tel.: 480•656•1239 Fax: 480•656•2907

Manufacturing

Steve Parsons Inovata Foods Corp. Edmonton

novata Foods services the retail, club store and food service industry in Canada and the US by creating and supplying innovative and convenient meals to the retail public. Inovata’s research and development team takes a product from concept to production for their own label or for clients’ private labels. Established by Steve Parsons, President and founder, and Lisa Parsons, wife and co-founder, in 1989 as The Pasta Mill Ltd., Inovata has continuously expanded. It now operates from a 45,000-square-foot facility in Edmonton and a 100,000-square-foot facility in Tillsonburg, Ontario. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? From the very early age of around 12 or 13. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Risk taking, creative problem solving, understanding your strengths/weaknesses and effective delegation. How important have good employees been to your success? Good employees have been critical. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? The typical Canadian personality of honesty, integrity and politeness will eventually lead to success in entrepreneurial enterprise. I believe our harsh climate assured Canada was settled by those with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and that is now in our DNA. What was your first job? I have never really had a job outside of being an entrepreneur. From a very young age I have always looked for ways to make money working for myself. I painted fences, picked and sold berries, and started an oilfield painting company when I was 17. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Family, cycling, mountain biking, snowboarding, global humanitarian aid and being innovative with food. If you weren’t in your current leadership position, what would you be doing? I would be more involved with international mission work in developing nations. My advice for other entrepreneurs is to start small but dream big. Starting small allows you to make small mistakes that you will learn from. Additionally, you need to have a can-do attitude. Focus on “can” not “can’t.”

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Voice & Data Cabling Phone Systems Paging Systems Voip Services

Moving or Expanding? We can help. Ask about how we can

save you money on your phone bill!

Bay B - 5815, 36th Street S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2C 2J1 Phone: 403.921.9889 | Fax: 888.341.0565

www.coretelecom.ca

Emerging Entrepreneur

James Bachynsky Calgary Shooting Centre Calgary

s one of the most technologically advanced ranges in North America, Calgary Shooting Centre provides a great experience for individuals and groups, whether they want to try something new, hone existing skills or engage in team building. President James Bachynsky founded the company in 2010 following 21 years of military service and his 2001 retirement. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I have always wanted to do things my own way, and I enjoy a sense of accomplishment in making the deal, finishing a project or building something of my own. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Every skill set can be learned, but some people have an advantage in being born with the required mindset. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Knowledge, willingness to take risks, confidence and determination. How important have good employees been to your success? Hard-working, enthusiastic employees are the core of success. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Canada is a pretty good place to start a business. However, we have developed regulatory bureaucracies that require far too much of a business’ time. Eliminating or simplifying this bureaucracy would make entrepreneurship much easier. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I wish I had started my own business earlier. I started late and therefore have less time to grow, less energy to direct and less time to enjoy success. However, starting late made me more capable of withstanding failure, learning from it and turning it into success. What motivates you? Fear of failure. I have failed enough to know that I don’t enjoy it. How do you define success? Success for me is completeness. I want everything done right, and the closer I get to perfect the more successful I feel. My advice for entrepreneurs is to jump in with both feet. It’s easy to sit on the sidelines watching and worrying. Don’t let failure get you down; learn from it, and use it to make you stronger. Persevere, overcome and conquer!

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

The most technologically advanced shooting range in canada.

“Thank you to my partners John and Markus who have shared the blood, sweat and tears of starting a new business. Thanks to all of our staff who work so hard making our business the success that it is. And thanks to our members and all of the customers whose trust and loyalty has made Calgary Shooting Centre the best business of its type in Canada.”

• James Bachynsky, Owner Calgary Shooting Centre

7130 Fisher Rd SE, Calgary AB

•

theshootingcentre.com

•

403-451-1777

Stocking/Importing high end products:

Join us for: • Shooting sports • Corporate team building • Canada’s only cinema range

Gunsmithing done by our in house master gunsmith!

Emerging Entrepreneur

Danielle Bragge The Headhunters Recruitment Inc. Edmonton

he Headhunters Recruitment Inc. is a recruitment agency that services both jobseekers and employers by creating mutually beneficial scientific matches between candidates and employers. Compatibility is assessed not only on skills, but also attitude, aptitude, communication and organizational culture. Co-founder and Vice President Danielle Bragge credits The Headhunters team for their past and future success, and enjoys that they are fully engaged in helping clients reach their full potential. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? My first business was at eight, selling bush grass to build straw huts to neighbourhood kids (I grew up in Africa). That was a tough sell and didn’t go so well! Being an entrepreneur is in my blood. What would you say the top skills are to be an entrepreneur? Be able to takes risks and be comfortable with the unknown.

How important have good employees been to your success? My partners and I feel very fortunate to have the team we have today. Their commitment and definiteness of purpose is the core of our success. There is no “I” in team! How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? One-on-one with successful entrepreneurs will help new entrepreneurs avoid pitfalls. Give new entrepreneurs access to advisers, finance, marketing, sales and banking. Teach Canadians how to network more effectively. Educate entrepreneurs on the difference between working in the business instead of on the business. Teach them when and who to hire. What did you want to be when you were a kid? A marine biologist. What is your dream vacation? My husband and I (along with our five kids) just got back from our dream vacation. We spent two weeks in Nicaragua travelling across the country and cuddling children at an orphanage in Managua. What motivates you? My family and finding the fit between employer and employee. That’s when the magic happens and when companies and careers grow. My advice to entrepreneurs is to surround yourself with talented people, hire to your weaknesses, allow others a voice and admit when you are wrong.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

EOY

BUILDING BETTER BUSINESSES ONE HIRE AT A TIME “Our company was founded on a genuine passion for bringing together the right businesses with the right people, with the help of scientific tools that identify FIT. We are so thankful to everyone who helps us continue to fulfill that vision every day. Thank you.“

DANIELLE BRAGGE

Co-Founder, The Headhunters Recruitment Inc.

accounting & finance • engineering • operations • sales & marketing • office support

W W W. T H E H E A D H U N T E R S . C A W W W. T E M P S A H E A D. C O M

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EDMONTON 780.486.8377

VANCOUVER 604.682.9999

WINNIPEG 204.515.0800

29/08/2014 12:10:58 PM

Emerging Entrepreneur

Stephen Glanville, Regan Davis, Bailey Epp STEP Energy Services Calgary

TEP Energy Services is a privately-owned, technically-focused oilfield service company that provides specialized coiled tubing units along with pumping and support equipment to the deep horizontal well market in Western Canada. Nominated along with VP Engineering & Technology Bailey Epp and VP Operations & COO Stephen Glanville, President & CEO Regan Davis presents some personal insights and a closer look at what he calls “an amazing company built around a great business strategy and wonderful opportunities.” When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I had a bicycle repair shop in elementary school. Are entrepreneurs born or made? People can be enticed into entrepreneurship, but most have traits that are a core part of their personality.

What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The top skills needed are the ability to anticipate the future, comfort with uncertainty and risk, decisiveness with limited information, gut instinct, and high tolerance for stress. How important have good employees been to your success? They’ve been 100% important to the success of STEP. Our professionals are the backbone of our company. I couldn’t be more proud of our team. What does being a finalist mean to you? It is an endorsement for the great company we have built. Being a finalist allows us to celebrate in our successes as a team. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I truly get joy from being with my family. I love mentoring, inspiring and helping people discover their significance. I’m also passionate about traveling and new experiences, and I enjoy being mediocre at a whole bunch of different sports! How do you define success? The quality of the relationships in my life. Who has been your greatest inspiration? I have had the amazing benefit of being exposed to many different leaders and successful people. I have tried to extract and use the best from them all. My expectation is that 10 years from now we will be an international oilfield service company with a focused offering that defines us as the premier supplier of the services and products we deliver.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Redefining

Emerging Entrepreneur

Heather Murphy, Craig Howes Go Tire Inc. Red Deer

o Tire aims to transform the way Canadians change their tires. Business partners and engaged couple Craig Howes and Heather Murphy created this mobile tire-changing service, enabling on-site changes at home, work or wherever you may be. With over 40,000 locations, the franchise is growing fast. When did you know you wanted to be entrepreneurs? Howes: Early â&#x20AC;&#x201C; my family was very entrepreneurial. They owned a variety of businesses. Murphy: My family was conventional, but I was always an independent thinker, appreciated challenges and the feeling of creating something and seeing it succeed.

What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Howes: A drive to succeed, a passion for customer service and the willingness to overcome any real or imagined obstacles. Murphy: Long-term thinking, short-term goal setting and a focus on the customer. How important have good employees been to your success? Howes: We are blessed with the best employees anyone could ever ask for. They treat the business as though they own it, and they make great decisions. What does being a finalist mean to you? Howes: I think everyone has heard of EY, but as we have gone through the process we now understand the benefit of having the accolade associated with our brand. Being a finalist is important because if we were to win, we would be recognized as being among the best and brightest in Canada, and our young business would be given the opportunity for expedited growth. What is your dream vacation? Howes: On a beach with my family. Murphy: An adventure and being exposed to different cultures. How many hours do you work a day on average? Howes: From eyes open to eyes closed, about 14-16 hours per day. What motivates you? Howes and Murphy: Our children. We want to show them that with hard work and focus you can achieve great things, and we want to ensure their needs are always met. Our advice for entrepreneurs is be relentless, be passionate, and know your skills and your flaws. Wake every day with an answer on how to grow your business and yourself.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Oil and Gas

Wayne King Grit Industries Inc. Lloydminster

nder the leadership of President Wayne King, Grit Industries provides green, sustainable solutions that address the most pressing issues in the oil and gas industry. From burner systems to natural gas line heaters to the “Grit Hog” (a machine used to clean oil storage tanks, replacing the person who used to do this dangerous job), Grit Industries uses innovation to make the energy industry a safer and more efficient environment. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? All my life. I’m in my 60s and have been starting companies and creating products since the mid-1980s. At seven, I converted mother’s rototiller into a go-cart. She wasn’t impressed by that! Are entrepreneurs born or made? Both – you can be born that way but also choose to live your life that way. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The desire to succeed, change course and direction midstream, be driven to change, and have diverse thinking. How important have good employees been to your success? Good employees are everything. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? We live in a country that focuses on business and the health of the economy. We have an abundance of adventurous people. How can Canada support a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem? Existing government programs support entrepreneurs through flexible lending and supporting people with ideas. What did you want to be when you were a kid? I wanted to be a peace office or an airplane mechanic. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would stay in school. My post-secondary education is from the school of hard knocks! What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I have no passion other than entrepreneurship. I eat, sleep and breathe my work. My goal over the next 10 years is to continue making a difference. My main plan is to continue to work. My dad planted his last crop at 83, and I plan to be just as active. We have several projects in progress, and over the next decade we will fully commercialize what we have started.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Oil and Gas

Bill McCaffrey MEG Energy Calgary

ill McCaffrey is the President and CEO of MEG Energy, a company focused on sustainable and in situ oil sands development in southern Alberta’s Athabasca region. Thanks to a large, high-quality resource base, including interests in two key midstream assets (Access Pipeline and Stonefell Terminal), MEG holds some of the best in situ resources in Alberta. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I come from a family of entrepreneurs; I think it must be in the McCaffrey genes. I was intrigued at the thought of going out on my own and years later, I’m happy with my choice. What are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Understand the business from the bottom up, have patience, develop the right team, think outside the box and maximize opportunities. How important have good employees been to your success? They’ve been extremely important. Our business results are a direct reflection of the talented and innovative teams we have working at MEG. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Canada offers a business landscape that encourages education and supports a can-do entrepreneurial spirit. What motivates you? I feel like MEG is in its first inning as a company, and we have a long way to go, which is part of the fun. I am motivated by the dream of where our team can take MEG. How do you define success? Success is when I hear the passion our people have as they talk about the company to friends and family. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My mom and dad taught me about the entrepreneurial spirit. In the business world, Peter Lougheed was a mentor and friend. He was a board member at MEG, and he always inspired me to be innovative. My advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to follow your dreams, surround yourself with great people and get up every morning excited about the journey. Take a moment to think through obstacles presented to you, as they may in fact become opportunities to advance your business in ways you had not anticipated.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

results innovative

talented

teams “Our business results are a direct reflection of the talented and innovative teams we have working at MEG.” – Bill McCaffrey

520 - 3 Avenue SW

Calgary, Alberta, T2P 0R3

Tel: 403.770.0446

Fax: 403.264.1711

www.megenergy.com/jobs

Oil and Gas

Muthu Palanisamy Metalcare Group Inc. Fort McMurray

etalcare Group Inc. provides consulting and inspection services to the oil sands, oil and gas, petroleum and petrochemical, power generation, and pipeline industries through five divisions: non-destructive testing, geotechnical, geomatics, in-service inspection and project support services. The company slogan, “driven by innovation, powered by people,” is at the heart of their service. CEO Muthu Palanisamy considers the Metalcare team to be the pillar of the company’s success. He is proud of his people for their dedication, hard work and commitment. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Dealing with people around me shaped me into an entrepreneur. Lessons of leadership can be imparted to anyone, but having the intelligence to connect oneself to those lessons is something else all together. It takes seeing through the results, and more importantly, having the ability and passion to implement these lessons. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Have focus, passion, motivation and innovation. It’s also important to welcome challenges, be proactive and connect with people. What does being a finalist mean to you? Being an EOY finalist is a great recognition for our employees’ hard work and dedication. It gives inspiration and excitement to our employees to do more for the team and our clients. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Helping people has always been my passion. Where do you want to be in the next 10 years? Leveraging my experience, contacts and influence to create a much larger visionary organization or foundation for a cause that I believe in. How do you define success? Feeling proud of yourself for what you have accomplished and having a hunger to achieve more. My advice for entrepreneurs is that backup plans help people sleep easier at night and can also create an easy out when times get tough. Personally, I will work a lot harder if my primary plan simply has to work because there is no other option. Total commitment without a safety net will drive me to work harder than I ever imagined possible. As long as I keep working hard and keep learning from my mistakes, I will find a way to succeed.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Special Citation - Social Entrepreneur

Shaun Loney BUILD, Manitoba Green Retrofit, Aki Energy and the Social Enterprise Centre Winnipeg

UILD provides employees with entry-level job skills; Manitoba Green Retrofit (MGR) focuses on aspects of building maintenance; Aki Energy implements geothermal heating into Manitoba First Nations communities; and the Social Enterprise Centre houses all three operations. Overseen by Executive Director Shaun Lawrence Loney, BUILD, MGR, Aki Energy and the Social Enterprise Centre work together to help those facing barriers to employment. Loney’s social entrepreneurship has a significant impact in and around Manitoba’s First Nations communities. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? As a kid sweeping off the sidewalk of my dad’s grocery store, I remember thinking I was going to own the store someday and employ people from the First Nations. Are entrepreneurs born or made? People can learn entrepreneurship, but some people have a knack for it. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? I’m tempted to say to “think outside the box,” but the Elders tell me to “think inside the circle.” Partnerships and relationships are also important. How important have good employees been to your success? My co-workers are heroes. As ex-offenders and people who have grown up dealing with the legacy of the residential school system, I admire them greatly if they can overcome incredible obstacles in their daily lives to do things the rest of us find normal. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? We must move toward supporting economic ventures that solve our social and environmental problems. What is your dream vacation? Canoeing with friends from Winnipeg to Hudson Bay. How do you define success? Success for me is simple – how many Aboriginal people can I employ? Who has been your greatest inspiration? I’m motivated by my co-workers, most of whom are ex-offenders. They are great employees! My best advice for entrepreneurs is to go for it! Do something that makes a difference in the world and your life will be richer. During the next 10 years, BUILD will connect people who most need work with the work that most needs to be done. EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Technology and Communications

Elmer Brattberg, Audrey Brattberg, Holly Brattberg, Susan Brattberg Global eTraining and The Brattberg Group Edmonton

lobal eTraining and the Brattberg Group is a family business run by parents Elmer and Audrey Brattberg and their two daughters, Susan and Holly. Through online delivery, Global eTraining provides ways to learn skills faster, retain knowledge longer and create application-ready real life skills. All companies under the Brattberg Group umbrella (including the Academy of Learning and Digital School) are global education leaders. CEO Susan Brattberg answers questions on behalf of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nominees. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? As early as I could remember. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how we grew up. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Entrepreneurs are born with the drive or born into entrepreneurial families. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Think quickly on your feet, take the time to do proper planning and know when to roll with it. How important have good employees been to your success? Our employees have been absolutely integral to our success. What does being a finalist mean to you? It means being recognized among a high group of achievers. We were finalists last year. Winning this year would mean a lot because we got a glimpse of the high calibre of winners. To be among them is an honour. To win would be the icing on the cake. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? My passions are family, friends and travel. What book are you reading now? The Lean Startup by Eric Ries. I keep this book on me at all times because we are implementing the strategies into our company. What motivates you? Being able to see the success of our products and what we are able to do for our customers; to see the impact and difference that we are making. Global eTraining is on a hyper-accelerated growth curve at the moment, and we have plans to keep that pace and be the leader in online global training. We currently have over 100,000 learners in 140 countries and will have millions of learners within the next 10 years. The impact we are planning to make in helping people learn skills is monumental. 44

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Global eTraining and The Brattberg Group of Companies A Proud Finalist in EY Entrepreneur Of The Year -Technology and Communications -

Defining and Designing 21st Century Training

globaletraining.ca

Home of The Generator, the revolutionary build-it-yourself course development tool. Rotating, Grouping, and Arraying Out of all the other basic modifying tools we could address in this lecture, the Rotate tool is perhaps the most unique. Rotating elements in Revit is not quite the same as in other applications like AutoCAD. Click Let me Try to step

Power Up Your Training MENU

through a simple exercise to explore the various ways of rotating content.

eDemo Click here for a demo video

eTip Click here for helpful hints

Easy as 1-2-3

Let Me Try

1. Develop

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Play! Try it now!

View Image Architectural Annotation

Learn More Content you need to know

2. Publish 3. Deliver

Helpdesk

The Brattberg Group of Companies

academyoflearning.ab.ca

digitalschool.ca

completecorporatetraining.com

globaletraining.ca

Technology and Communications

David Beresford, Greg Chudiak Pandell Calgary

andell delivers industry specialized software to more than 350 organizations in the energy and government sectors across North America. President and CEO Greg Chudiak manages the overall business aspects while David Beresford, Vice President of Research and Development, guides the technology strategies. Under their leadership, the company combines its oil and gas industry expertise, proprietary Lithium web technology and cloud hosting model to deliver affordable back-office applications to its client base.

When did you know you wanted to be entrepreneurs? Chudiak: For David, it was right out of high school when he participated in the start-up of a business in the medical field. For me, it was after working for a couple of great companies to gain valuable experience before venturing out on my own. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Beresford: The ability to listen carefully to what a customer segment is saying and out-of-the-box thinking. How important have good employees been to your success? Chudiak: Critical would be an understatement. We have been privileged to have people join our company who are smart, hardworking and self-motivated to achieve results. This has been one of the primary drivers in the success and growth of Pandell. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Chudiak: Canadians bring humility, quiet confidence and humour. We are easy to work with and are trusted around the world. What did you want to be when you were a kid? Chudiak: I wanted to be a pro hockey player! What motivates you? Beresford: Working alongside smart people to create innovative software is truly rewarding, and when we deliver that software and see our customers smile, I feel an amazing sense of accomplishment. How do you define success? Beresford: A great team, happy customers and giving back to the community. Our best advice for entrepreneurs is that success comes from what you believe, not what others say. There will always be people telling you why something canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be done, but if you are confident, persistent and focused on adding value for your customers, your chances of success go way up.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

As EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Finalists, Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d Just Like to Say...

To Those Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve Helped Us Get Here Our Clients

Our Staff

Our Families

Who inspire us to explore new ideas and create innovative software solutions.

Who are dedicated to delivering exceptional results for our customers.

Who support us through our challenges and contribute to our successes.

Come visit us at www.pandell.com

Technology and Communications

Wayne Karpoff Willowglen Systems Inc. Edmonton

nder President Wayne Karpoff, Willowglen Systems provides turnkey industrial automation solutions to customers around the world. For over 40 years, Willowglen has provided solutions directly or through local providers. Solutions include flow computers, supervisory control and data acquisition host systems, an array of remote terminal units (RTU), ultra-low power RTUs, and communication and instrumentation systems. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Entrepreneurs have a natural drive to create, but being exposed to other successful entrepreneurs creates confidence. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The ability to see needs before others, to turn abstract concepts into concrete actions and the ability to communicate. How important have good employees been to your success? Critical - Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always been a big idea guy, but to make things work takes many talented people. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Since Canada is a healthy multicultural country, it is easier for us to think of new ideas being adopted in a multicultural world. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Canada needs to create a culture of early adopters. Good early adopters engage entrepreneurs at the whiteboard stage, nurture product ideas, are willing prototype evaluators and are the first to buy the finished product. They nurture the relationships created through the collaborative process to ensure the innovation cycle can be repeated. What did you want to be when you were a kid? An architect. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always liked the idea of creating things. What was your first job? My brother and I created a landscape construction company when I was in high school. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I like to create things, so I have a very well-equipped home shop with a CNC machine, woodworking equipment, welding equipment and other metalworking equipment. My best advice for entrepreneurs is to become an expert communicator. Learn to interview would-be customers to understand their needs. Learn to how to sell ideas. Learn the tools of the trade. Learn how to make your passion infectious. Learn how to work with both traditional and social media outlets, and communicate, communicate, communicate!

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Technology and Communications

Jory Lamb VistaVu Solutions Calgary

ed by President Jory Lamb, VistaVu Solutions is a business management software provider with the industry experience, tools and tailored solutions to help companies in the energy services sector streamline their operations and accelerate their growth. This values-based company opened in 1996 and is guided by integrity, growth, service, commitment to excellence and passion. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? My family was a partner in the local Red Rooster food stores in Lloydminster. I’d hang out at their meetings while the other kids played. By 11, I knew I liked business and wanted to run one of my own. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Made – there is an entrepreneurial spirit in everyone, but for some, their risk tolerance exceeds their willingness to win. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Vision, courage and sheer perseverance. How important have good employees been to your success? We are nowhere without them. I’m very appreciative of all the people along the way who have contributed to the past, present and future of VistaVu. What does being a finalist mean to you? At 23, I started my first business. Before I began, I made a collage of what defined business success for me. I had several images of what I wanted to achieve and right in the middle was the EOY logo. This award is something I’ve always held in the highest regard. For me, being a finalist is a great honour.

What book are you reading now? Textbooks because I’m taking my MBA. Microeconomics, financial accounting and case studies on management. What is your dream vacation? The upcoming vacation to Hawaii for three weeks on the beach with my family. The kids are going to have a great time, and I’m going to just chill out and do a whole lot of nothing! What motivates you? The opportunity to create something from nothing and matching people with opportunity. My advice for would-be entrepreneurs is take the first step. Don’t pause for perfection if it’s not the perfect idea or the perfect scenario. It’s amazing how many business ideas refine themselves when you get on the path. For existing entrepreneurs, my advice is focus, focus, focus. EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Business-to-Business Products and Services

Dave Bischoff, Cal Fairbanks ComplyWorks Calgary

resident, CEO and Director Cal Fairbanks and Executive Vice President and Director David Bischoff are at the helm of ComplyWorks Ltd. Founded in 2004, ComplyWorks Ltd. was built in response to the industry’s demand for standardized regulations, certifications and compliance in the energy sector. Now, ComplyWorks is pleased to provide customizable compliance, certification, pre-qualification and orientation management solutions across a broad spectrum of industries that includes over 50,000 contracting companies and over 100,000 individual users.

When did you know you wanted to be entrepreneurs? Fairbanks: Since high school. Bischoff: From a very early age – around eight years old. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Bischoff: It’s a little of both. Having a vision and the drive to pursue it may be a personality trait, but the entrepreneur also needs skills that are learned. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Fairbanks: Self-confidence, communication and listening skills, quick decisionmaking and learning from your mistakes. How important have good employees been to your success? Fairbanks: Critical – we are reliant on our great employees. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Fairbanks: Our well-educated talent pool, risk taking and pro-business attitude. What was your first job? Bischoff: When I was 12, I got a summer job running an ice-cream bike. It was hard work, baking in the sun for little pay! What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Fairbanks: Golf. What motivates you? Fairbanks: I’m a results-driven person, so I’m motivated by helping employees, customers and people accomplish positive results. Bischoff: I’m passionate about solving a problem or creating something new that no one else has built, and I take pride in seeing our people do the same. How do you define success? Fairbanks: Overcoming the challenge you are facing to achieving your desired outcome. Our advice for entrepreneurs is to believe in yourself, eliminate self-doubt and be passionate about what you are trying to achieve. Potential opportunity will always exceed what you can actually produce at any given time. Learn to pick your priorities for the most effective outcome and pursue those with vigour. 50

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Business-to-Business Products and Services

Ken Greer Western Ag Group of Companies Saskatoon

nder Principal Ken Greer, Western Ag Group of Companies are: Western Ag Innovations, researching soil nutrient bioavailability; Western Ag Professional Agronomy, empowering farmers to make wise crop decisions; Western Ag Global, growing business opportunities; and Western Ag Seed Innovations, providing performance seed varieties to farmers through its Professional Agronomy network. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? My first entrepreneurial business began at age 13, when my dad gave me a cow herd of 10 heifers. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Both – an entrepreneur is “one who takes risks.” What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Financial literacy, the ability to hang on and the wisdom to build the right team. How important have good employees been to your success? It is nearly impossible for me to think of anything that is done completely solo at Western Ag! What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Winter! Given the very finite resource of summer and all of the impending work that needs to be completed before winter, Canadians have an intrinsic advantage in the skill of prioritizing. What did you want to be when you were a kid? For the first 10 years of my life, I wanted to be a cowboy. Entrepreneurship is as close to the modern-day cowboy as you can get. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would worry less about trying to make everyone happy. I spent some of my early years searching for compromise. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My parents. They were married at 20 and started farming with one milk cow and a debt of $1,200 in back taxes that my grandpa couldn’t pay in the 1930s. They retired in 2000 with over $2 million net worth, two houses, two vacation properties and six kids who they put through college. Over the next 10 years, we will franchise the Western Ag Professional Agronomy brand in 40 more locations around North America and the world, and we’ll use this base of advisement to advance stewardship of the world’s arable soil resources. 52

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Mission is what draws in and holds the best people. The journey from an idea on the University Lab bench to billions of dollars more food grown by farmers – this kind of noble mission demands the best professionals. The professional staﬀ who: …work to empower farmers with choice …secure and sustain the food supply for the planet, and for everyone on it. To all of you who have been on this journey, I sincerely appreciate your commitment and contribution. From the seemingly smallest detail to the biggest breakthrough, I believe that each and every step has happened for a reason. Together, we have advanced the Plant Root Simulator into a world-class tool that can help to grow an eﬃcient, plentiful and sustainable food supply on the planet. My heartfelt thanks and deep appreciation go to my wife, Karen, and our children, Meghan, Justine and Ian. Only the true Entrepreneur knows that even the biggest Thank You would never be enough to repay the debt owed to family.

Ken Greer, MSc., P.Ag. Chairman and Principal

#104 - 110 Research Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 3R3 306.978.1777 | Toll Free: 1.877.978.1777

westernag.ca

Business-to-Business Products and Services

Mark Repchinsky Advance Coating Solutions Inc. Edmonton

dvance Coating Solutions is a family business run by brothers Mark Repchinsky, Vice President of Operations, and Chris Repchinsky. Mark’s son, Garrett, and Chris’s son, Greg, are also involved in the family business. The abrasive blasting and protective coating company services Alberta’s energy sector, specializing in pipelines, storage tanks and secondary containment liners. Internal research and development ensures that Advance Coating Solutions remains at the leading edge of technological advancements and uses only the best quality products for their industry. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? Growing up in the family business, it was not really a conscious decision to become an entrepreneur, rather than being one from the start. My father always instilled in us to work for yourself, not someone else. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Made – competition, expectations, lifestyle and atmosphere play a role. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? They are resiliency, focus, managerial skills, innovation, adaptability, risk taking and communication skills. How important have good employees been to your success? Very important – we depend on them for continual work and long-term relationships with our customers. What does being a finalist mean to you? Just being an EOY finalist means so much. It allows all the hard work we have done to be recognized by family, friends and peers. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would have more education. If I could have afforded post-secondary education growing up, I would probably be further ahead than where I am now. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? My family is my number one passion, followed by my health. I also have a passion for performance cars. What motivates you? I like the challenges in the business. It’s never the same thing twice. It’s exciting! Our growth plan over the next 10 years is expansion of our shops and our fieldwork. This includes employees, equipment, capacity and placing the right people in the right positions so I can slowly step back and enjoy the company’s success through retirement. 54

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

uilding for the last 44 years, Advance Coating Solutionsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; journey has been a long and exciting one. It is with great sincerity that I extend the thanks to all the hard working men and women who have helped us exceed our goals. Our success is a direct reflection of the quality of staff attracted. It is their ambition, dedication and safe approach to common goals that have helped the business grow, evolve and flourish. Due to their efforts we have emerged as an industry leader in the coating service sector.

~ Mark Repchinsky

advanceCoating.com | 1 866 Blast 4 U

Mark and Chris Repchinsky

Business-to-Business Products and Services

Al Side Side Group of Companies Grande Prairie

or over 50 years, Al Side has been the President of the Side Group of Companies. Side Group and affiliates provide industrial and oilfield supplies, supply chain management and logistics, property and land development, vehicle rentals and leasing, rail trans-load, transportation, and financial services. Side Group services the western provinces and territories with an unwavering commitment to the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team, customers and vendors. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Made â&#x20AC;&#x201C; people become good at what they do out of necessity. Your intellect, environment and dedication have much to do with your success. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? A total dedication to your business and a lot of good people around you. How important have good employees been to your success? The people who have helped me are not only our talented employees; I also surround myself with a lot of smart and practical people who act as my sounding board. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Our northern region sets Canada apart, and the determination and innovation of the men and women who go up north to take advantage of the many yet-untapped opportunities in the region make our entrepreneurs truly unique. What did you want to be when you were a kid? Growing up in small-town southern Saskatchewan, it never entered my mind to be a business person let alone to have grown to the magnitude we have built. That changed when we moved to the northern part of Canada. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I owned a fishing lodge in the north, I own a registered trap line, and I ranch a section of land with a herd of bison and a few horses. However, my greatest passion is my wife and family. Canada has a number of products that we can build and export, but we need good transportation infrastructure to get our products to market competitively. Over the next 10 years we will continue to work with the development of promoting Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transportation infrastructure.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Professional and Financial Services

Greg Burghardt Arrow Engineering Edmonton

ed by President and CEO Greg Burghardt, Arrow Engineering provides clients with the full complement of integrated consulting services, including mechanical, electrical, structural and civil engineering for the building construction industry. Working from offices in Edmonton, Calgary and Saskatoon, a skilled team of over 80 people delivers effective, innovative and eco-friendly design solutions across all markets. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? Since my mid-20s, I’ve had the desire to be involved in the growth of great businesses. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Entrepreneurial nature comes from within, though outside influences may help. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Drive, competency, vision, optimism and leadership. How important have good employees been to your success? Our outstanding team is consistently noted as a one of the key differentiators that sets Arrow apart. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Canadians are ethical with a respect for the law. We have a desire to do the right thing, and we try to do business in a win-win situation for all. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? People are my passion. My personal mission is to provide many people with a fulfilling career and to have lasting and enduring relationships with our team. What motivates you? I am self-motivated to be the best person I can be and to build a great company with real substance. How do you define success? Accomplishing what’s important to you, personally. My advice for entrepreneurs is to, “know when to fold them,” as Kenny Rogers sings. I think there are too many experts, speakers and authors out there who talk about never giving up, and I strongly disagree with this. Sometimes a strategy is simply flawed, and you need to cut your losses and move on to something that can be successful. As well, you need to find a sweet spot where you are good at it, you love doing it and people are willing to pay for it.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Professional and Financial Services

Laurie Goldberg People Corporation Winnipeg

eople Corporation is a national provider of group benefits, group retirement and human resource services. As Chairman and CEO, Laurie Goldberg has led the firm to the forefront of consolidation within its industry. Through acquisition of regional companies, People Corporation is now one of the largest and fastest growing national companies in Canada. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I grew up in an entrepreneurial family and started a fence and deck building business at 12, which I grew through high school and college. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Believe in what you are doing, be passionate, have a plan, have strong work ethic and surround yourself with talented people who believe in your vision. C

How important have good employees been to your success? They are the number one factor to our success.

What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Canadian entrepreneurs are balanced in how we start and grow businesses, and as a result, the economy reflects that through steady growth.

CMY

What did you want to be when you were a kid? I wanted to be a carpenter, so I was! What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I replaced my passion for building with cooking. I want to be a pro chef someday. If you weren’t in your current leadership position, what would you be doing? Building – I would love to design and physically build my own house. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My father taught me a lot about business. He instilled in me values of work ethic, generosity, kindness and integrity. He told me, “It’s just as easy to think big as it is to think small, so think big.” Over the next 10 years, our intention is to build the next large-scale benefit, pension and HR consulting firm in Canada. Our vision is to grow to half a billion in revenue. We see a lot of opportunities in the Canadian landscape to consolidate the fragmented marketplace and bring best-in-class advice to the small- to medium-size business market, which we believe is currently underserviced.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

E M P LOY E E B E N E F I T S | P E N S I O N | H R S E R V I C E S

“

People Corporation’s goal is to deliver a customized and superior solution that meets our clients’ employee benefit, pension and HR needs. On behalf of myself, our management team, our consultants and our Board of Directors, I would like to share this honour with all our professional staff at People Corporation across the country and acknowledge their efforts and dedication which has contributed to our success. Thank you for ensuring our clients truly

”

EXPERIENCE THE BENEFITS OF PEOPLE.

Laurie Goldberg Executive Chairman and CEO

With close to 300 professionals in 17 offices across Canada, People Corporation is amongst the fastest growing Employee Benefits, Pension, and HR solutions providers in Canada. WWW.PEOPLECORPORATION.COM

Professional and Financial Services

Marnee Brick, Greg Sutton TinyEYE Therapy Services Saskatoon

inyEYE Therapy Services, co-founded by CEO Greg Sutton and President Marnee Brick, provides speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists to school districts through telepractice. Telepractice is the use of communication technology to provide remote speech-language services. TinyEYE was the first online therapy provider and continues to lead the industry in implementing new innovations. In 2014, TinyEYE added mobility to telepractice, enabling its therapists to connect with schools through telepresent robots. Are entrepreneurs born or made? We believe it is the business that builds or breaks the entrepreneur. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Successful entrepreneurs need passion, humility, discipline and courage. How important have good employees been to your success? Good employees are extremely important. Having the right people is what has driven our success. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Focusing on a culture of entrepreneurship will drive the growth of the Canadian ecosystem.

Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? We would not change a thing. The hard times built our character, having the wrong people made us prove our values, the bad decisions taught us to think, the failed projects taught us discipline, and the naysayers taught us courage. We could not achieve the goals we have set for ourselves in the next five years without character, values, intelligence, discipline and courage. None of these things can be learned in a classroom or from seaching online. You have to live it if you want it and own the bad with the same pride in which you own the good. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Our passions include family time, windsurfing, kayaking and day dreaming. How do you define success? To us, the ultimate success is being at the crossroads of passion, skill, economics and family. Our advice for emerging entrepreneurs is to maintain focus on the culture of your company because this above anything else will determine your ability to succeed. Also, be passionate about helping others succeed and realize their full potential.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Bridge and conquer. Entrepreneurs build the world, one great idea at a time. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s explore how we can help you bring your biggest ideas to life. ey.com/ca

Real Estate and Construction

Justin Bobier Crystal Creek Homes Calgary

ustin Bobier is the President of Crystal Creek Homes where luxury, elegance, distinction, quality and comfort await you on arrival to their custom-designed homes. Building in Edmonton and Calgary, Crystal Creek Homes has been operating since 2004. Crystal Creek communities include Allard in Heritage Valley, Laurel, Maple Crest and Walker Lakes Station in Edmonton; Aspen Woods Estates, Tusslewood Terrace Estates, Currie Barracks, Rock Lake Estates, and various infills in Calgary; and Canals Landing and Cooper’s Crossing in Airdrie. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? When an injury took me out of the workforce and left me without an income for three months, I decided to take charge of my career so I would never be in that situation again. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Born – it’s something that is instilled from a very early age, but unfortunately not everyone gets the opportunity to turn their talent and drive into entrepreneurship. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? A drive to succeed, tolerance for risk and a desire to make life better. How important have good employees been to your success? They are paramount. Without employees supporting you and your vision, you have nothing. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Canadian lenders tend to be a little conservative in dealing with entrepreneurs. Canada should provide more robust support, financially and through mentorships. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? In the beginning, I would have taken more time in the hiring process, ensuring those selected fit our corporate culture. What motivates you? I am very goal oriented. At the start of each year, we make a budget and plans to achieve those budgetary goals. Accomplishing those goals motivates me. How do you define success? Having a happy family and business life. Achieving my goals, be it personal or business. My advice for entrepreneurs is “go for it!” Never take no for an answer. Use that “no” as motivation to prove those people wrong. Reach out to industry professionals for help and rely on your financial institution, accountant and lawyer to guide you. 64

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I would like to share the honour of being recognized as an EY Entrepreneur Of The Year finalist with our entire Crystal Creek team and thank our valued trade partners, clients, developers and lenders in helping us reach our goals and achieve the success we have to date.â&#x20AC;? Justin Bobier Owner/President

a Reflection of You CrystalCreekHomes.ca | 403.254.6499 | Connect@CrystalCreekHomes.ca

Real Estate and Construction

Radhe Gupta Rohit Group of Companies Edmonton

nder the direction of CEO Radhe Gupta, Rohit Group of Companies aims to be the premier real estate group in Western Canada. Founded in 1986, the company grew from a small residential homebuilder to a diversified organization with complementary interests in residential and land development, commercial assets, and real estate lending. Under the Rohit Group umbrella, Rohit Capital provides lending solutions for real estate investors, Rohit Communities builds high-quality residential housing, Rohit Land Development plans and develops entire communities, Rohit Commercial provides complete real estate services for businesses, and Rohit Charities gives back through financial and volunteer contributions. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? My father owned his own business when I was growing up; I have always had an interest in the business world. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Entrepreneurs are born with the drive and will to succeed on their own terms. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Identify opportunities, have realistic ideas and be willing to take risks. How important have good employees been to your success? Creating a strong team with complementary skills sets is critical to the success of our business and one of the main reasons why our company has been able to grow the way it has. What does being a finalist mean to you? Being a finalist means greater credibility and confidence. It is a validation of the goals and standard of excellence I have always set for myself and my company.

How many hours do you work a day on average? Working eight hours a day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; eight very productive and busy hours â&#x20AC;&#x201C; allows me to enjoy work/life balance. The more you work, the more you can achieve, but you must also take time for yourself, family, friends and the hobbies you enjoy, or that success will be hollow and fruitless. How do you define success? I realize success when the largest number of stakeholders are winners. My advice for entrepreneurs is to cover your wickets well. Whatever can go wrong may go wrong in the beginning. Be prepared for every possibility.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

ROHIT

GROUP OF COMPANIES

Your Full Service Real Estate Partner Rohit Capital

Rohit Commercial

Our real estate lending division provides functional capital and intelligent leveraging solutions for its borrowers, while maximizing returns for investors.

Rohit Commercial designs, builds, leases, manages and acquires revenue producing properties throughout Alberta. These properties include office, residential, warehouse, industrial and retail space.

Rohit Communities A leading home builder in Western Canada for over 25 years, Rohit works with our community partners to bring a full range of award winning homes to our neighbourhoods in Edmonton and Fort McMurray.

Rohit Land Development Our land division develops innovative neighbourhoods from niche opportunities to large multi-use projects. Our goal is to develop multi-generational communities, offering a variety of home styles to suit any lifestyle.

A Message from Radhe Gupta It is an honour to be selected as a finalist for this prestigious award. I would like to thank my family and the Rohit team for their support and dedication to our vision. I look forward to our continued success in the future.

RohitGroup.com

Real Estate and Construction

Travis Penner, Sjoerd Huese Bridge Road Construction Ltd. Winkler

ice Presidents Sjoerd Huese and Travis Penner of Bridge Road Construction build adult active lifestyle communities and hotels in Western Canada. Their rural developments in Manitoba and Saskatchewan focus on the needs of the aging population and creating a new vision of aging. When did you know you wanted to be entrepreneurs? Huese: Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, it came as a natural choice for me. Penner: Nobody in my family owned a business. I didn’t know I wanted to an entrepreneur until the last couple of years.

Are entrepreneurs born or made? Huese: Made, as it’s a natural result that comes from leadership. Penner: Made, as it comes from the thrill of leadership. How important have good employees been to your success? Huese: We are very fortunate to have talented, committed and hard-working staff. They believe in and are passionate about, “turning vision into community” and making a difference in the lives of people. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Huese: Take care of rural communities where the government is not keeping an eye on things. The smaller communities tend to fall through the cracks. What did you want to be when you were a kid? Huese: A firefighter. Penner: A hockey player. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Huese: My family and a balanced life including spirituality, family, community and physical well-being. Penner: The same goes for me. I have three young kids with a fourth on the way. Fatherhood is my passion along with camping and sports. How many hours do you work a day on average? Huese: Between 8-10 hours a day. Penner: From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., then its family time (with some emails being answered) and more work time in the evening and early morning hours. It’s between 10-12 hours a day overall. Our plan over the next 10 years is to continue to increase our market share and expand into Alberta. Our market penetration plan includes more rural communities and different housing plans. We would also like to expand our interests in the assisted living market.

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Five reasons entrepreneurs matter most By Colleen McMorrow

We say it time and time again: entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of the Canadian economy. These business leaders operate companies of all shapes and sizes, across a wide spectrum of industries. Their amazing diversity is just one of the reasons we’re proud to celebrate their stories and achievements year after year. In many ways, entrepreneurs matter most — to the communities where they set up their businesses, to the people they employ and to the Canadian economy overall. Through their ability to dream and commitment to win, entrepreneurs:

1. 2.

Drive economic growth. In good times and bad, Canada’s entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy. They see opportunity in adversity and forge ahead to drive growth in all economic conditions. Are true job creators. Job creation remains in the good hands of entrepreneurs. EY’s annual Global job creation survey reveals 76% of entrepreneurs plan to increase the size of their workforce in the year ahead by an average of 19%. What’s more, this year’s Entrepreneur Of The Year finalists in Ontario represent close to 8,000 jobs in Canada. And across the country that number grows to 37,000.

3. 4. 5.

Broaden Canada’s presence on the world stage. Our entrepreneurs are putting Canada on the map: 74% of our 2013 finalists report having an international presence and 39% are prepared to expand into international markets in the next 12-25 months. Innovate at every turn. Innovation is about understanding evolving industry and customer needs and improving on what already exists. Entrepreneurs know this better than anyone, and demonstrate their ability to adapt to new market conditions time and time again. They are powerful agents of change. Strengthen communities. Giving back to the communities where we live and work is an important way we can all build a better working world. Entrepreneurs take this corporate responsibility to new heights. They recognize that real success means creating social value.

The list could go on. There’s no end to the value that entrepreneurs bring to the table. That’s why it’s important we work together to create an entrepreneurial environment that supports them on their path to success. After all, they’re the engine driving this country forward. To learn how we support entrepreneurs, visit us at ey.com/ca/entrepreneurs.

Real Estate and Construction

Phil Milroy Westcorp Inc. Edmonton

nder the leadership of President and CEO Philip J. Milroy, Westcorp has served the real estate industry for over 30 years through acquisition, development, construction, marketing and management of residential, retail, office, hospitality and mixed-use projects. Westcorp retains ownership, either solely or with investment partners, in its incomeproducing properties, providing the company with a stable financial base from which it can develop new opportunities. Westcorp currently presides over a diverse, high-quality portfolio that produces significant returns for the company and its investment partners. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I have known that I wanted to be an entrepreneur for as long as I can remember. Are entrepreneurs born or made? I would say it’s a combination of the two. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? A successful entrepreneur needs vision, determination and persistence. How important have good employees been to your success? Good employees have ensured Westcorp’s success. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Incorporating entrepreneurial activities into the Canadian education system would really help, as well as supporting worthwhile programs such as Junior Achievement. What did you want to be when you were a kid? I wanted to be a rancher when I grew up. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would have started to build a corporate management team with more depth and breadth earlier in my career. What was your first job? Technically, my first job was on the farm, but my first paid job was on the oil rigs as a roughneck. How many hours do you work a day on average? I work an average of 10 hours each workday. Over the next 10 years, we intend to grow significantly as we aim to double our assets, equity and cash flow with a focus on the continued development of large, high-quality assets. Additionally, we will continue to hold fast to our mission to “create, invest in and maintain spaces and places that bring out the best in people” and to our vision “that our stakeholders will be our greatest advocates.” 70

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014

Phil Milroy, President and CEO of Westcorp, is honoured to be chosen as a finalist in the 2014 Prairies Entrepreneur Of The Year program in the Real Estate and Construction category. Thank you to Westcorpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team members, suppliers, customers, and investors for helping us to continually grow our business. Your collective contributions have helped guide our actions and decisions, and with your help we will continue to create great spaces and places for many years to come.

Residential

Commercial

Hotels

Retail

Development

Construction

Westcorp.net 780.431.3300 | mail@westcorp.net | 200, 8215-112 Street, Edmonton, AB

TEC is not for everyone. We expect results and we expect you to work hard to get them. We bring together the best business leader minds to get beyond individual capabilities to achieve more. When you join TEC you can leverage our global membership, enjoy confidential group meetings with peers, one-to-one mentoring, and business thought leadership. Increase your potential with TEC.

TEC-Canada.com

Collins Steel:

Core Values Make a Strong Company By Nerissa McNaughton

This year Collins Steel celebrates their 30th anniversary, and the company credits their core values for making them as strong as the steel they work with.

Congratulations to Collins Steel on your 30th Anniversary!

7107 - 8th Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6P 1T9 Tel.: 780•456•1061 Fax: 780•456•1286

www.silent-aire.com

Jason and Ryan Collins

ollins Steel is a structural and miscellaneous steel fabricator located on the south side of Edmonton. Today, president Jason Collins and vice president Ryan Collins (brothers) guide their 90+ team members while holding firmly to the core values that are at the root of every decision and action the company takes. These values are so integral to the organization that the sum of their beliefs is prominently displayed on the office wall. The biblical verse, “Treat others the same way you want them to treat you, Luke 6:31” is proudly displayed as a large wall decal in the lobby. From this come the values of integrity, teamwork, caring, continuous improvement and reliability. Jason and Ryan saw these values in action long before they transitioned into ownership. These values were mandated by Collins Steel founder, their father Paul. “I come from an entrepreneurial background,” smiles the semi-retired Paul Collins. “I grew up in Newfoundland where my dad had a general store for 45 years. I also had two older brothers in Edmonton that started a steel business in 1958, and two more that started one in 1959. I was a welder by trade. I started Collins Welding in 1978. With the downturn in 1983 we went into financial insolvency, so I started Collins Steel in 1984. I didn’t blame the national energy program for my problems. I was inexperienced and had a partner that didn’t work out.

“It was always my goal to have two or three generations running Collins. We are in the second generation right now. My sons came in and made their careers. They have done a good job. Perhaps the toughest part of the family business is the father/son relationship while carrying on a business as well, but we’ve done well! We are all talking and getting along!” They have done more than well. Even though he is no longer involved in the day-to-day operations, Paul enjoys going to the quarterly meetings and helping his sons with business development. He also attends Canadian Institute of Steel Construction (CISC) functions and keeps active in the volunteer community. “I love the industry,” he smiles. “The Alberta steel industry is unique in that we compete, but we collaborate as well. When Collins has a big project to get out quickly, we work with our industry partners.” Their competitors are also happy to work with them. It comes back to their guiding core values. Since Collins treats everyone, from staff to clients to suppliers, with the same respect and dignity they wanted to receive, anyone dealing with Collins Steel knows they are going to get an honest, fair deal. Vice president Ryan started his career during his school summers and has seen the business grow in size and capability from a very young age. When he looks back over some of

Collins Steel | Page 3 | 30th Anniversary

Founder Paul Collins

the major projects completed over the past three decades, the southeast terminal expansion at the Edmonton International Airport is one that stands out. “It was a very significant project for us,” says Ryan. “It was exciting to be involved in a high-profile steel project at that time in 1999. There was a lot of tonnage and a good amount of complexity. Looking back you could say it was one of those milestones where we took a step forward as an organization and were able to showcase our abilities. We were now to be considered as a significant player in the structural steel market in Edmonton” The EIA terminal wasn’t just a one off. Collins continued to attract large projects. “Weve enjoyed very successful partnerships on large scale projects like the Crossiron Mills mall with Ledcor,” says Ryan. “It was a wonderful steel project for us – around a million square footprint.” CrossIron Mills changed the outer Calgary landscape and is a major shopping destination in Alberta. Collins Steel is helping to change the skyline here in Edmonton as well. “We are excited again to have the opportunity to partner with Ledcor to help build the new Royal Alberta Museum,” confirms Ryan. “Its going to be a great looking building and am major part of our downtown revitilazation. One of the many great projects going forward that will really enhance our already great city.” Collins Steel | Page 4 | 30th Anniversary

Collins manufacturing shop

Collins Steel has a front row seat as they help to make Edmonton that world class city, but their projects also take them all over Alberta. From time to time they venture into British Columbia, depending on the project, but for a wellestablished company it’s not always about the bottom line.

“The most important thing is who you are getting into business with,” Ryan says firmly, pointing out that they only take on projects that allow them to stay true to their core values. His brother Jason agrees, with a caveat. “An important aspect of the business is the ability to work within a highly functioning

Congratulations Collins Steel!

We wish you many more years of continued success! 9114 34A Avenue • P: 780.430.0005 • F: 780.437.3998 www.fillmoreconstruction.com Collins Steel | Page 5 | 30th Anniversary

Steel ready for one of Collins’ many projects

team. This is the foundation of any business, not just our business. We make sure all of our people work together effectively and we all focus on what is most important to us within our identity as a company. We have a lot of amazing people working here that are truly reliable and care about their teammates and the quality of the work that we produce. We are blessed with the most dedicated, hardworking, young team in town. It’s 100 per cent our people that make the difference.” Like his brother, going into the family business was always part of the plan. Jason, however, took a little detour first to play semi-professional hockey and came very close to joining the Canadian National Team, but decided to get into business instead. “Working during the summers gave me good exposure to all aspects of the business,” says Jason. “That is really important because now I understand the struggles and perspectives of the people we employ. I’m not an expert to their level, but I can better understand and help them work through their challenges.” The focus on the team is evident in the low turnover – something that can be high in the manufacturing industry. It certainly helps that management is always ready and willing to listen to the concerns of the team. For example, about 10 years ago their installers expressed interest in working on a contract basis. “They started their own companies and we Collins Steel | Page 6 | 30th Anniversary

Collins Steel workspace

subcontract to them. It’s worked out very well,” Jason smiles. Turnover is so low and employee loyalty so high that longterm members are the norm, not the exception. Nowhere is this more apt than in the case of Kim Luong. Luong started his career when he was hired by Paul as a

welder for Collins Welding. Ryan explains, “He started out welding and became a very skilled fabricator. He could do anything out there, but what he focuses on now is producing parts in our detail department. He overlooks the production of several small parts that get welded onto the main com-

Congratulations Collins Steel on 30 great years. We are proud to have been a part of your success right from the start! 1-300 King St, Spruce Grove, AB T7X 2C6 780-962-0700 Collins Steel | Page 7 | 30th Anniversary

Work in progess.

ponents. He’s an amazingly skilled, loyal and hardworking guy. He’s approaching retirement soon. We’ve been blessed to have him for 30 years.” The brothers have witnessed not only the evolution of the scale of projects they could accept, but the very tools they use to do them. When Paul started the company, drafting was completed with paper and pencil. Now drafting is done in 3D. Building information modeling (BIM) allows for all the trades working on a project to collaborate. “The ability to put it all together in that model to work out any kinks before you build it is a real time saver and has advantages such as clash detection. You can’t put this brace here because there is a window or door here, for example. You realize that early on and can fix it easily and affordably, whereas on site it’s more costly, time consuming and you don’t look too good either,” Ryan points out. BIM software is just one of the technologically-forward tools used by Collins Steel. The state-of-the-art equipment in the shop is fed information electronically by the drafting department. “Does it make it easier?” laughs Ryan. “It does, but you have to be careful when you are investing in that technology. It looks good and it’s the sexy way of doing things, but we have to prioritize and ensure that we are focusing on keeping a good flow of production, opposed to overproducing in certain areas and creating inefficient bottlenecks.” The torch of ownership has passed, as planned, from the first generation to the next, but those last 30 years are just the foundation for the company’s far-reaching future.

“We are growing as a team,” says Ryan. We acquired a machine shop and a shear and form company that supports what we do here. It’s exciting and it makes sense because we have a lot of talent at Collins that can be involved in those businesses.” No matter where the future takes them or how they’ve grown and changed in the past, one thing will always remain the same. Those core values. “I think the verse on the wall keeps our perspective on people,” Jason points out. Many people manage the business by the numbers, but that is not what matters. The people matter because they are producing the numbers. You need to observe how people feel within your environment and your culture. The wall decal is a constant reminder that it’s the most important thing.” The brothers thank their parents for the hard work and sacrifices they made into growing the business and establishing a good reputation for them to carry on. They also thank their team, families, suppliers and clients, all of whom contribute daily to the company’s success.

Collins Steel | Page 8 | 30th Anniversary

3740 73 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T6B 2Z2 (780) 440-1414 www.collins-industries-ltd.com

1-888-852-9664 • www.dymin-steel.com

Congratulations on 30 years of success! Hardy-Colborne Insurance Brokers Ltd.

Congratulations to Collins Steel on 30 years!

Phone (780) 352-6500 • 1-888-313-2639 Fax (780) 352-0232 • www.hcibrokers.com

Congratulations to Collins Steel on celebrating your 30th anniversary!

Congratulations! MNP proudly congratulates our client, Collins Steel on 30 years of success.

Eight Edmonton & area locations to serve you. cwbank.com

Contact Ian Meier, CA at 780.453.5355 or ian.meier@mnp.ca

Congratulations Collins Steel on your 30th Anniversary! We are proud to be a part of your success!

Best wishes for continued growth and success in the years ahead.

Congratulations to the Collins Industries team to the Collins Steel team on anniversary. on this this landmark landmark anniversary.

4436 – 90 Avenue SE Phone: 403-279-6060 • Fax: 403-279-2054 www.tsesteel.com

Collins Steel | Page 9 | 30th Anniversary

Congratulations to Collins Steel for 30 successful years in business! Kemway is proud to partner with companies who share our values.

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Junior Achievement’s Northern Alberta & NWT Chapter Celebrates 50 Years By Fay Fletcher “JA inspires us all to reach for the stars. The sky is the limit for our potential.” This is just one of the hundreds of quotes written on the Wall of Evidence in the Junior Achievement (JA) centre. Other alumni’s (also known as Achievers) quotes include how empowered several Achievers felt after the program, despite unfortunate home situations or social alienation at school. The Wall of Evidence is rapidly running out of space – but that’s not a bad thing. It’s because up to 400 students come to the JA centre in Edmonton’s World Trade Centre each week to learn skills that dramatically change their careers and futures. “The Junior Chamber and JA have a storied history,” explains Chris Curtola, national vice president - JCI Canada. “It was actually Junior Chamber members who helped found Junior Achievement Northern Alberta & Northwest Territories (NWT) back in 1964. Since then, the young entrepreneurs and business people who are members of Junior Chamber Edmonton have volunteered to teach

classes, sponsored JA and have served on its board and its staff. We are so proud to see JA grow to what it is today from the humble beginnings when it was started back in 1964.” Junior Achievement was founded in 1919 by Theodore Vail, president of American Telephone & Telegraph; Horace Moses, president of Strathmore Paper Co.; and Senator Murray Crane of Massachusetts. The first program, the JA Company Program, was offered to high school students on an after-school basis. In 1964, Stanley Milner and Stan Melton were instrumental in bringing a JA chapter to Edmonton. Like any great organization dedicated to building future leaders, there are many rolls to fill. Donors and sponsors provide sustainable funding. Volunteers, who deliver all of JA’s programs, have allowed the Northern Alberta & NWT chapter to double in size between 2010 and 2014. Teachers share and support the mission, which allows for JA to reach thousands of young minds each year. The last

Junior Achievement Northern Alberta & NWT Chapter | 50 Years

piece of the puzzle are the students, whom open themselves up to experiencing enterprise, understanding business and economics and striving hard to develop the skills necessary to succeed in the business world. To date, over 300,000 students have participated in the program. Nicole Janssen is just one of many notable JA alumni. She is the president and co-founder of Stratus Holdings Inc., a private real estate investment firm. She is also a principal at Janalta Interactive Inc., an online publisher. “I participated in the Junior Achievement Company Program in the 1996/1997 and 1997/1998 school years,” says Janssen. “The experience was invaluable for my future. I learned great business lessons, like the importance of teamwork and how hard, at times, teamwork can be to achieve among a diverse group. I learned about the importance of an initial business plan, but also the importance of constantly revisiting and revising that plan. I learned about networking and how much farther ahead you can end up just because you have established a network of contacts. Today I am a serial entrepreneur married to a serial entrepreneur. I attribute my career choices in large part to my early entrepreneurial experiences in JA.”

Bank Trust Insurance Wealth Management

Investing in our future. Canadian Western Bank is proud to partner with Junior Achievement through the Economics for Success program. Congratulations to JA on 50 years of bringing financial literacy and entrepreneurship to the future generations of leaders in Northern Alberta & Northwest Territories.

cwbank.com A CWB Group Company

Achievers express their gratitude for the program on the Wall of Evidence Ian McDonald, a partner at Grant Thornton LLP, is another JA alumni success story. “The only difference between a student’s business and mine is a few zeroes,” McDonald explains of the classroom program where JA students are presented with real-life case studies in which they solve problems, balance budgets, design marketing programs and more. McDonald considered careers in law and politics until he entered the JA program in high school. Once introduced to a varied group of committed business-minded people, he found his mind and eyes open to a wealth of business opportunities. He completed a degree in commerce at the University of Alberta and since 1988 has been a dedicated JA volunteer. Other notable Achievers include Harold Roozen, CEO of CCI Thermal Technologies Inc.; Mark Cuban, founder of broadcast. com and owner of the Dallas Mavericks and even music icon Gene Simmons. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Junior Achievement chapter in Northern Alberta & NWT. To celebrate, JA will recognize eight supporters that have had a great impact on the program over the years. JA will also gather stories from alumni and share their words in the community stories section of the JA website. There will be plenty of stories to tell; JA has touched many young lives and contributed significantly to North America’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Junior Achievement Northern Alberta & NWT Chapter | 50 Years | Page 2

This anniversary, however, is not the first notable milestone JA has celebrated. In 1980, The Junior Achievement Alberta Business Hall of Fame was unveiled to identify and chronicle the lives of great Albertan men and women whose business leadership and community stewardship shaped the ways that people live, work and interact. JA was also instrumental in the women’s movement. “In the late ’60s young women were really coming to the forefront of JA,” says chairman of the board, Dennis Horrigan. “In 1966, 55 per cent of the students who joined JA were female. There was quite a big influx of young women who were developing an interest in business, as by this time more females than ever were entering the paid workforce. The female students who joined JA were ready to pursue the same levels of success as their male peers and knew that the skills they would learn in JA would help them along the way. In 1967, Bonnie Christie was the first female student to win best president and best achiever of the year.” JA is still growing. The Northern Alberta & NWT program aims to reach 40,000 students annually by the 2016/2017 school year. There is a good chance the program will exceed this goal as

they reached approximately 27,000 students this past school year and aim for 32,000 during the 2014/2015 season. JA also looks forward to adding two new high school programs in 2014/2015. These programs are Be Entrepreneurial and Success Skills. Be

We are proud to invest in the Junior Achievement program.

Congratulations to Junior Achievement of Northern Alberta for providing 50 years of inspiration to youth.

Junior Achievement Northern Alberta & NWT Chapter | 50 Years | Page 3

How the JA Northern Alberta and NWT program breaks down by grade level. GRADE 3

Our Community: Needs, Jobs, and Tools. Students explore how their needs and wants are met through various jobs in the community, as well as learning about important tools used in various occupations.

GRADE 4

Our Country: Technology and Innovation. This segment explains the impact technology and Canadian inventors have on business and societies around the world and explores industrial changes due to technology along with what might be in store for the future.

GRADE 5

Our Business World. Introduces the business world by focusing on the basic free enterprise conceptions of operations, management, manufacturing and marketing. Our Business World gives elementary students experience in making big decisions in different areas of a small operation.

GRADE 6

A Business of Our Own. Building on previous learning and concepts, the opportunity is now in the hands of the students to operate their own retail business. Students create, organize and run their own business for a day and see what challenges and successes come from working as a group towards a common goal.

GRADE 7

GRADE 9

Economics for Success. Students answer the question ‘What is success to me?’ and how they can achieve it by staying in school. The economic costs of dropping out of school are questioned when groups budget with paychecks, evaluate their skills and determine which career path is best for them.

GRADE 9

Investment Strategies. An in-class and e-learning opportunity, Investment Strategies introduces youth to the stock market. Students learn about various investment strategies and the ethics and philanthropy that are often associated with a global market.

GRADE 10 – 12

Success Skills. This multisession program has students examining what different skills sets are required in the workforce, why collaboration and interpersonal skills are essential and the benefits of life-long learning.

GRADE 10 – 12

Be Entrepreneurial. Students will be able to recognize characteristics and practices of successful entrepreneurs and demonstrate business planning skills for venture start-up, including marketing, financing and management decision making.

GRADE 9 – 12

Company Program. The cornerstone of Junior Achievement, the JA Company Program is an afterschool program that has groups of students working together to operate their own business venture for 18 weeks. Divided into three segments: start-up, operations, and liquidation, the program allows students to take ownership of their success by giving them the resources necessary to run their business.

Diversity in Action. Designed to prepare our youth for the workforce, students explore how the diversity within their class and their community benefits, poses challenges, and ultimately enriches our lives and workplaces.

GRADE 8

Dollars with Sense. A basic introduction into personal finance and what information is important for financial success. Students work on budgeting, personal investments and money management. This financial literacy program is supported by Servus Credit Union.

Junior Achievement Northern Alberta & NWT Chapter | 50 Years | Page 4

Who banks on Alberta’s future? We do. Congratulations to Junior Achievement Northern Alberta for bringing entrepreneurship and financial literacy to students for 50 years. atb.com Proud sponsor of a successful Alberta

SAVING І BORROWING І INVESTING І KNOW-HOW ™ Trademarks of Alberta Treasury Branches.

Congratulations Junior Achievement of Northern Alberta on 50 years! Wishing you many more years of success to come. Raywalt Construction Co. Ltd. #506, 53016 HWY 60 Acheson, Alberta T7X-5A7 Phone: (780) 962-0030 | Email: mainoffice@raywalt.ca www.raywalt.ca

Junior Achievement Northern Alberta & NWT Chapter | 50 Years | Page 5

Entrepreneurial focuses on helping students recognize characteristics and practices of successful entrepreneurs while demonstrating business planning skills. Success Skills asks students to examine what different skill sets are required in the workforce. For example, why collaboration and interpersonal skills are essential and the benefits of life-long learning. JA uses technology to reach as many students as possible. “This past year we experimented with delivering programs via web-conference in an attempt to increase our efficiency,” says Horrigan. “In the future we will continue to implement new technological practices to improve our procedures.” Junior Achievement thanks everyone that has kept Theodore Vail’s dream alive for these many years. “Thank you to the countless individuals, corporations, foundation and government donors who, for the past 50 years, have supported JA,” concludes Horrigan on behalf of many grateful administrators and participants. “Your generous donations made it possible for us to deliver financial and business literacy programs to hundreds of thousands of young Albertans. We are looking forward to your continued involvement for the years to come.”

Lincolnberg Master Builder is proud to Support Junior Achievement! www.lincolnberg.com

9990 Jasper Ave NWn Edmonton, AB T5J 1P7 (780) 428-1421 • www.janorthalberta.org

Junior Achievement Northern Alberta & NWT Chapter | 50 Years | Page 6

CONGRATULATIONS

To your continued success

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT

50 YEARS

Congratulations Junior Achievement of Northern Alberta on 50 years of business in Edmonton.

We also congratulate

LARRY POLLOCK TM

® /™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. 30075 (01/2011)

88784 AD_30075_4C_Daniels.indd 1

14-08-19 12:50 PM

Congratulations on 50 years of support in our community. Thank you for inspiring and educating the leaders of tomorrow.

Lincolnberg Master Builder is proud 2008 Junior Achievement to Support Junior Achievement! Alberta Business Hall of Fame www.lincolnberg.com

2015 Alberta School of Business Canadian Business Leader Award Recipient

SAVE THE DATE:

MARCH 5, 2015 Canadian Business Leader Award Dinner For more information visit: www.business.ualberta.ca

LEADERS FROM ALBERTA FOR THE WORLD

www.runningroom.com

Junior Achievement Northern Alberta & NWT Chapter | 50 Years | Page 7

JUNIOR ACHIEVERS TODAY. POTENTIAL STORE OWNERS OR CORPORATE LEADERS OF TOMORROW. [ FOUNTAIN TIRE IS PROUD TO SUPPORT JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT – HELPING YOUNG PEOPLE PREPARE FOR A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE. ]

fountaintire.com

C ALBERTA’S “CAPITAL” ENGINEERING

By Nerissa McNaughton

apital Engineering is an Alberta-owned professional services firm based in Edmonton, which provides multi-discipline consulting engineering and procurement services. Founded by managing partner Rod Derworiz, along with partners Scott Martin and Oliver Zarowny, Capital is very proud to provide clients with complete engineering solutions. Their doors opened in April 2004 with a handful of employees and a short term lease, which Derworiz refers to as the “trial period.” Clearly it was a very successful venture. By the end of the lease, staff numbers had increased to 20, requiring a move to a larger location. Throughout the past 10 years they have continually proven themselves within the industry. As their client list expanded, so did their staffing and office requirements. Two years ago, Capital relocated to an impressive new office located in the west end of Edmonton. The staff of 85 has ample space to continue their steady, managed growth as business continues to flourish. The impressive growth of Capital is a testament to their delivery of superior and quality performance. Since 2004, Capital has supported Western Canada’s energy and resource sectors by providing technical expertise and progressive thinking.

Capital Engineering | 10 Years | 1

Oliver Zarowny, Rod Derworiz and Scott Martin

“I grew up in Fort McMurray and have been around the oil sands all my life” says Derworiz. In addition to industry exposure, he has an engineering degree from the University of Alberta and a lot of industry contacts. Starting in the early 1990s, he spent over a decade working for oil sands operations in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. By the early 2000s, global energy companies were focused on the Alberta oil sands as oil prices were moving up to record levels. This created a great entry point for Capital, allowing the staff to be part of exciting projects as many new operations started up and others expanded. Among the many memorable projects Capital has completed to date, Derworiz looks back fondly on their first large project – a new Sulphur Recovery Unit plant consisting of 18 large process modules designed for one of the newer operating facilities. “This project was challenging for a newer company like ours, but the three to four years spent supporting it was instrumental in helping establish Capital as a player in this marketplace,” says Derworiz. Another notable project was a new cooling plant located at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. The plant was required to help the University manage water demands as the campus expanded to include many new buildings. From 3D modelling to construction management, Capital has it covered. Most projects require a range of expertise and technology; Capital can provide a wide variety of engineering and design services. Capital’s proficiency and experience in consulting engineering, plant operations and technology application provides their clients with innovative and diversified solutions. “Over 80 per cent of our work resides here in Alberta,” Derworiz points out. “The Alberta oil sands have been our primary focus, but we do support projects in British Columbia’s coal industry and Saskatchewan’s potash field. We have diversified our operations to include metals, fertilizer and utilities industries.”

2 | Capital Engineering | 10 Years

The Staff Enjoy a Cheerful Eating Area

Staff Perk - A Fun Game Room

Gym and Locker Room for the Staff to use

CPOC – University of Alberta Project

Green Space Just Outside the Staff Lunchroom

Capital Engineering’s focus goes beyond outstanding service for clients. The company is equally invested in their staff. This is apparent in their custom-designed modern office, which includes Herman Miller furniture in the offices and workstations, a welcoming front entrance, well lit conference and meeting rooms, a spacious kitchen, games room, gym facility and free parking.

The Oil Sands Room

Reception Area

Capital’s focus goes beyond outstanding service for clients. The company is equally invested in their staff. “We have worked hard to develop a core culture which is a relaxed yet professional environment that fosters mutual respect, independence, teamwork and growth,” notes Derworiz. This is apparent in their custom-designed modern office, which includes Herman Miller furniture in the offices and workstations, a welcoming front entrance, well lit conference and meeting rooms, a spacious kitchen, games room, gym facility and free parking. Capital’s partners are true believers in work/ life balance, and take time out to have fun with company barbeques and potlucks, treat Fridays, a yearly golf tournament, Christmas party, ski trips and participation in the Edmonton and area Corporate Challenge. Combined with their flexible work schedule (including 13 consecutive long weekends during the summer months), training opportunities, a health benefits plan that is 100 per cent paid by the company, RRSP matching and employee anniversary recognition, this dynamic atmopshere has attracted top talent from all over the province and country.

Capital Engineering | 10 Years | 3

The generous spirit of the company is evident. “We are always looking for ways to give back to the community,” says Derworiz. Their annual Fill the Truck Campaign is a staff favourite. In 2013, they raised a record breaking 3,000 pounds of food for the Edmonton Food Bank. They also contribute to other worthy causes such as: Hope Mission, Canadian Diabetes Association, Santa’s Anonymous and the Winnifred Stewart Society. Since Capital’s inception, they have proudly sustained an exceptional safety record of zero lost time incidents. Derworiz proudly states, “Our unwavering commitment to safety is crucial to our business performance and success. We are exceptionally proud of our safety statistics, considering the many staff who travel and work at client operations on a regular basis, some full-time.” Their philosophy on health, safety and the environment is quite simple: “We won’t cut corners.” It’s very evident why Capital was recognized as one of Canada’s Top 50 Best Workplaces in both 2012 and 2013. This dynamic company may only be 10 years old, but it has already established a solid history of providing exceptional engineering services, being one of the best places in Canada to work and supporting the local community. With a solid plan for future growth and continued support from both employees and clients, Capital Engineering is excited about the years to come.

#101, 17187 – 114 Avenue Phone: 780.488.2504 • Fax: 780.488.2460 • www.capitaleng.ca

providing engineering information solutions to owner/operators • Engineering Information and Asset Management • Design Tool Administration and Support • Commissioning and Data Integration • Standards, Procedures and Work Process Development • Software Selection and Evaluation

Congratulations Capital EnginEEring on 10 years of success! BrownfieldSolutions.ca

Congratulations Capital Engineering. It’s been a pleasure serving you! www.strivefinancial.ca Getting your project right because the details really do matter. We would like to congratulate Capital Engineering for ten years of successful growth and being one of Canada’s Top 50 Employers. We are honored and grateful to have been part of Capital Engineering’s recent new state of the art work environment. ~ Paul and Shauna Nielsen

info@brownfieldsolutions.ca 780-640-9898 • pnielsenconsultants.com

4 | Capital Engineering | 10 Years

SORRENTINO’S RESTAURANT GROUP:

The Recipe for Success W

By Nerissa McNaughton

hat makes the perfect dish of pasta? The sum of all the ingredients combined. Each individual ingredient must be carefully prepared so the combination results in an unforgettable dining experience. How the flour is milled for the pasta, how the tomatoes are grown before they go into the sauce, even the timing of when the salt is added to the boiling water affects the outcome of the dish. Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group knows how to create unforgettable dining experiences because they, like their many perfected recipes, are the sum of many individual experiences that when combined, create the perfect recipe for success. Carmelo Rago didn’t set out to be a restaurateur. He was a social studies teacher when he went for pizza in Castle Downs with his uncle and his father-in-law, Maurizio Saccomanno. The pizza restaurant was going to close and the family smelled

more than delicious pies. They smelled an opportunity. In 1979 when interest rates were rising and the economy was falling, Rago, who didn’t know the first thing about restaurant management, fell in love with the business and decided to continue the course when the other partners wanted to sell. The family thought he was making a huge mistake. They kept asking, “Are you sure about this? You’re just a teacher!” Rago said yes, so his father-in-law, Maurizio said, “Okay, I’ll help you.” “It was one of those moments when you look back; I had no business making that decision,” reflects Rago of founding what would later become the powerful Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group (SRG) alongside his father-in-law. “But I was intrigued by it. I was so naïve. If I knew then what I know now, I wouldn’t do such a thing!”

Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group | 35 years | Page 1

SINCE 1979 Unlike the Hollywood version of success (have a dream and success falls into your lap), Rago’s decision had far reaching personal and professional outcomes. “The concern from the people that loved me was that I was shy and a teacher. Why get involved in the restaurant business?” Rago remembers their apprehension. “When I got involved I became so obsessed. I spent all my time in the restaurant, which resulted at the price of my family. Yet I needed that passion, otherwise I would have no chance in making it. It gave me a chance to get involved with people, talk to my guests and learn the business. In the end, my lack of knowledge worked for me because it forced me to talk directly to the guests, suppliers and staff.” His training as a teacher was beneficial. “As a teacher I taught teenagers. In the restaurant I try to apply the same teaching techniques with my co-workers. Not much difference,” smiles Rago. But one person saw a very big difference. “I married a guy that was supposed to be home at 3 p.m., not 3 a.m.,” his wife, Stella told him as she tired of his long hours away and constantly waiting on him to come home to attend weddings and other events. “We were late for a lot of weddings,” Rago smiles sheepishly of those early days. But that work ethic, which Rago didn’t even know he had, had long roots. His father, Pasquale, owned a flour mill in Italy and he remembers his father sleeping at the mill to accommodate the out-of-town farmers that would come in at 2 a.m. to buy flour. In 1953 his father went to Canada to visit his brother for three months. Those three months stretched into six. Those six months stretched into 12. His father planned to bring the family to Canada, then changed his mind. Months, then years dragged on. Rago didn’t see his father for eight years. “It sounds bad, but you have to look at the whole story,” shrugs Rago. “Why did he stay so long in Canada working at Fabric Care Cleaners when he was a well-respected mill owner in Italy? Freedom. My grandfather was very dominant. Whatever my dad did, even as a married man, he had to talk to grandpa first. In Canada he saw freedom for himself and opportunity for his family.” The rest of the family joined senior Rago in Canada in 1961. Rago was 11 at the time.

Caffè Sorrentino

Sorrentino’s Downtown

Fast forward several years and Rago is lying in the snow with pizzas spilled around him. As the sauce bleeds into the white landscape, he looks up at the heavens and wonders what on earth he got himself into. His driver didn’t show up so he’s de-

CONGRATS! Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group 35

Congratulations Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group on your 35th Anniversary!

YEARS OF SERVICE

Happy Anniversary

from your partners at:

Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group | 35 years | Page 2

SINCE 1979 ued to open locations and expand the brand. Today, the Restaurant Group has cooked up over 17 prestigious awards, has four restaurant brands and is expanding beyond the city. His four boys, Maurizio, Carmelo Jr., Pasquale and Antonio, are all involved in the business as is his wife Stella, who in a twist of fate, now keeps him waiting as she passionately enjoys her career.

Maurizio Saccomanno

Pasquale Rago Senior

livering the pizzas. After going to several wrong addresses, he sees the house he needs to be at across the street, but he trips and the pizzas go flying. It’s not a success story. At least, not yet. “I said to myself, ‘What am I doing? That’s it. Tomorrow I will go and talk to my father-in-law’,” remembers Rago. But he didn’t. In the morning he got up and went right back to work. “We were brought up not to give up and not to disappoint people.” Success was hard won, but it wasn’t elusive. Growth was slow but steady. Then it took off. With his father-in-law Rago contin-

Congratulations! MNP proudly congratulates our client, Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group on 35 years of success. Contact Brian J. Alexander, CA at 780.451.4406 or brian.alexander@mnp.ca

We love birthdays. EspEcially for grEat partnErs likE sorrEntino’s. Congratulations on 35 amazing years.

Edmonton international airport flyeia.com

Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group | 35 years | Page 3

SINCE 1979 Things came full circle in the ’90s. Again, a driver didn’t show up, so the company owner delivered the pizzas. This time Rago did it in a Jaguar – a car he saw when he was 18 and told himself he would buy when he was successful. However, to Rago success isn’t fancy cars and multiple restaurants. It’s seeing his family make sacrifices to survive those tough early years together. It’s being able to find the courage and strength to carry on after the untimely death of his beloved father-in-law and business partner, Maurizio in 1991. It’s having his brother-in-laws step up to help fill the void Maurizio left, in particular Frank, who is now the controller of SRG. It’s having his sons happily enter the business. It’s being able to sponsor Sorrentino’s Compassion House (a home built for women with breast cancer visiting Edmonton while undergoing diagnosis and treatment) and giving back generously to the community. It’s the talent and loyalty of his team members, some who have been with SRG for over 20 years. It’s the friendships that develop by meeting so many wonderful people. It’s the smiles on the faces of the diners that come to the restaurants day after day for high-quality, mouth-watering meals. So you see, the story behind Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group isn’t an easy, or sometimes even happy one; but just like how you must mill flour to get the best result, those experiences made the end result far richer. You cannot have pasta unless you

Sorrentino’s Compassion House Expansion 2014

boil it. Likewise, the Group had to make some hard decisions and go through some hot waters to get to where they are today. This year Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group celebrates their 35th anniversary. Is there a plan in place to ring in this milestone? “Not really. Not yet,” smiles the ever-humble Rago who credits his team, family, suppliers and patrons for the Group’s success. For Rago, 35 years later he is content to do what he has passionately done for over three decades. Supply Edmonton and area with that perfect dish of pasta. Perfect because of the sum of the ingredients combined.

www.sorrentinos.com

Congrats on 35 years!

We are proud to be a part of your success.

Congrats on 35 years, we are glad to be of service for such a fine company! 10557-172 Street • 780-487-0807 • www.temprite.ca

Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group | 35 years | Page 4

WWW.EDMONTONCHAMBER.COM

MAKING A DIFFERENCE BY JAMES CUMMING, PRESIDENT AND CEO, EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

JAMES CUMMING

he Edmonton Chamber of Commerce has a long history of advocating for business and ensuring that all levels of government create policies and frameworks that support a healthy, competitive business environment. The 2014 Edmonton Chamber board of directors selected the following strategic policy priorities to guide our organization’s direction: • Northern Relations – To build strong relationships with northern partners and stakeholders to create a business environment that facilitates efficient and responsible government in the resource rich northern Canadian region. • Great Northern City – To enhance Edmonton’s role and image as a world-class city with a unique northern character and to encourage investments, actions and communications that personify and build a sense of pride about the Alberta capital as a great northern city. • Development of Our Workforce – To create and enable opportunities for our members to have the labour supply needed to meet current demand and anticipated growth. • Strengthening Our Region – To lead the implementation process of collaborative regional efforts designed to ensure cohesive economic growth and development of greater Edmonton as a city-region of global significance. • Expanding Our Markets – To be an influential leader, advocate and catalyst for diversifying the Edmonton economy through new products, new industries and valueadded expansions of the existing resource base and new markets, with a focus on enhanced intraregional, interregional and international trade. With input from our membership, from surveys and from those volunteering on our committees, we develop work plans that focus on policy development and advocacy that support these strategic policy priorities. The Edmonton Chamber is often challenged with developing policies that provide balance between short-term and long-term issues. You will often hear us speak in a reactive fashion on issues that have an immediate impact on the business community. Examples of these efforts would be commenting on budgets, spending priorities, reducing red tape, road improvements, pedways, downtown development and

temporary foreign workers, as well as giving opinions and recommendations on new policies. Equally important is ensuring that we make all levels of government aware of the needs of business and the importance of policies that support a healthy business environment and long-term global competitiveness. Examples of areas we work on where foresight is a necessity are government tax policies, simplifying tax systems, expanding market access, eliminating trade barriers, labour development, regional cooperation and transportation utility corridors. The business community may not see immediate results from our efforts, but it is still critical that we ensure all levels of government are focused on the long-term picture in the reality of four-year election cycles. This is why we are so passionate about the importance of creating dialogue and debate on the issues that will have a direct impact on our economy and will support a competitive business environment. As a trading nation, imagine what our economy might look like if we lack the ability to get our products to market. Imagine not being able to find skilled and unskilled workers to grow a business. Imagine a tax regimen that forces business to reduce growth as they become uncompetitive – essential services that become a burden rather than a benefit. Our volunteers recognize the importance of all of these issues and are working hard on behalf of our members to ensure their voice is heard. We are currently reviewing our strategic policy priorities to ensure they reflect the needs of the business community. Your input is welcome. We take this work extremely seriously and want to confirm we are focused on the right issues from both a long and shortterm perspective. Feel free to drop us a line about what is important to you now and in the future. In the meantime, we will continue to advocate on your behalf and be the voice of business in Edmonton. Our voice needs your voice. If you are not an Edmonton Chamber member or are not providing input for our policy development, you should become involved, as your thoughts and insights are important to create the best environment for business. www.businessinedmonton.com | Business In Edmonton Magazine | October 2014

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EVENTS

Small Business Week After Business

Mixer & Tradeshow Monday, October 20, 2014 Muttart Conservatory

Vibrant, colorful and inspirational, the Muttart Conservatory is the ideal venue to celebrate the vision and dedication of Edmonton’s small business during Small Business Week. Recognize and congratulate small business professionals while making new connections and showcasing your personal brand.

9626 - 96A Street NW 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Members: $15.00 + GST Non-Members: $25.00 + GST

Join the small business celebration with veteran and emerging industry professionals!

Exhibitor Display Table: Members: $150.00 + GST Non-Members: $275.00 + GST

Hosts

Food by

Event Rental by

Small Business, Big Vision

Luncheon

featuring John Stanton

Join John Stanton, CEO of Running Room, as he shares the culture and core values of his organization. Hear about Running Room’s road to success and the organization’s three main focus areas – the community, the customer and the company. Find out why he believes Edmonton is a unique city for small business and growth. Learn how you can apply his insights to your organization.

Tuesday, October 21, 2014 Fairmont Hotel Macdonald

After 30 years of hard work and dedication, Running Room is one of North America’s most recognized names in running and walking. Stanton has participated in more than 60 marathons, hundreds of road races and numerous triathlons, is a nationally recognized fitness figure and is the best-selling Canadian author of 10 books on running and walking.

10065 - 100 Street NW CMY

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Members: $49.95 + GST Non-Members: $69.95 + GST

Tables of 8 available

John Stanton CEO, Running Room

Selling to Government & The Public Sector

Seminar

Here’s your chance to learn more about public tendering, the federal government’s electronic tendering system (GETS) and Alberta Purchasing Connection (APC) online tender websites, trade agreements, methods of making contacts and other helpful hints that can help your organization be successful. Experienced presenters from the Government of Canada, Government of Alberta, City of Edmonton and NAIT will deliver valuable insights throughout the day.

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 World Trade Centre Edmonton 6th Floor, 9990 Jasper Avenue

If your business wants to provide goods and services to these large organizations, you need to be present at this event! There is limited seating available.

8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Members: $99.00 + GST Non-Members: $135.00 + GST Lunch is included

Presenters

Small Business Week Sponsors SBW Gold Sponsor

SBW Bronze Sponsors

SBW In-Kind Sponsor

BDC Small Business Week is a trademark of the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)

ORDER YOUR TICKETS TODAY. VISIT EDMONTONCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS

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October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

EDMONTON.COM

THE WORLD IN EDMONTON

he end of summer 2014 catapulted Edmonton into autumn with several high energy events, and Edmonton Economic Development was right in the middle of the action to help kick things off. For the first time ever, the Edmonton Marathon began and ended at the Shaw Conference Centre. Beyond taking advantage of the river valley views and the Shaw Conference Centre’s facilities, the new route inspired the vice president and general manager of the Shaw Conference Centre, Cliff Higuchi, to muse in his blog about the potential of the Edmonton Marathon to become an even bigger, grander event, maybe even to become the marquee marathon event in Canada. An ambitious goal, to be sure, but one that fits perfectly into our natural assets, athletic enthusiasm and volunteer spirit. With the Edmonton Marathon set to return to the Shaw Conference Centre next year, we’re looking forward to helping build the event with the community. The TransCanada World Triathlon Grand Final took over Edmonton August 26 - September 1 with over 3,000 athletes finding their way around our city. Competing with the world’s best, athletes ran, swam and cycled in and around our very own Hawrelak Park. To kick things off, ITU organized a challenge in Churchill Square where teams from City Council, MLAs and Edmonton Economic Development faced off in a mini triathlon. Team

members racked up the kilometres by swimming in an endless pool, biking on a stationary bike and running on a treadmill. EEDC’s team of swimmer James McCurdy, Edmonton Tourism consumer marketing specialist; cyclist Chris Gusen, Make Something Edmonton marketing specialist; and runner Cliff Higuchi, vice president and general manager of the Shaw Conference Centre, emerged from the friendly competition as the winner, but it was definitely no cakewalk! The event was an eyeopener to the dedication and strength of these athletes. The Tour of Alberta and some of the world’s best cyclists whirled through the region, riding into the Edmonton Garrison for stage three, departing from Northlands and making it through Canadian pavé to finish in Sherwood Park for stage four, and ending the tour in stage five with an intense circuit through Edmonton’s downtown starting and ending at Churchill Square. www.businessinedmonton.com | Business In Edmonton Magazine | October 2014

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EDMONTON.COM

Edmonton also hosted the Canadian Country Music Awards for the second year in a row during September 4-7. The Shaw Conference Centre got in on the excitement by holding a pancake breakfast to celebrate Country Music Week. More than 300 pancakes were served to 250 people including three city councillors, five country singers and three TV camera crews. The event raised $500 in do-

nations for the Unison Benevolent Fund in support of the Canadian music community. Just because winter is here doesn’t mean that the sporting excitement stops. Stay tuned for details about Red Bull Crashed Ice, an extreme winter sporting event coming to Edmonton in 2015!

EDMONTON’S COMMONWEALTH GAMES BID FOR 2022

n Tuesday, September 2, the Canadian Commonwealth Games bid team outlined its vision to create more opportunity and competition for all 71 member countries at what we think will be the best Games ever, should Edmonton be successful in its bid to host. The Commonwealth Games is a multi-sport event held every four years that features 10 core sports such as athletics and aquatics. Host cities can then choose up to seven additional sports to round out the program. Edmonton has history with this event, having hosted the 1978 Commonwealth Games, which transformed our city and left a legacy of sporting excellence and infrastructure that have shaped the development of our community. The year 2022 is the perfect opportunity to show the world the global, progressive city we have become.

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October 2014 | Business In Edmonton Magazine | www.businessinedmonton.com

The pressure is on to demonstrate our ability to put on a fantastic Commonwealth Games. The submission of Edmonton’s bid is due in March 2015, the Commonwealth Games Federation will make a technical site visit in April, all 71 voting delegates will visit over the summer and decision day will be on September 2, 2015, in Auckland, New Zealand. We need your support to make this happen! An important part of the bid process is to ensure that there is strong support locally, provincially and nationally for the bid. Edmonton has a strong case, and that is partly due to the tremendous community and volunteer support we have behind every single event in Edmonton. Visit www. edmonton2022.com to find out more about how you can help Canada win the bid.

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line, as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO® is so important. Just go to servpro.com on your mobile phone or call 1-800-SERVPRO to get the team that’s faster to any-sized disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst, with the very best. Your trusted, local SERVPRO® professional. SERVicES in canada PROVidEd bY indEPEndEnTlY OWnEd & OPERaTEd fRanchiSES Of SERVPRO inTERnaTiOnal, llc.

Winning the cash flow game

Wade Sparks | Owner, Rileys | Team Coach | Serial Entrepreneur

Meet Wade. Like the 75% of Alberta business owners intentionally growing their business*, he had a goal. When his cash flow left his business in a crunch, Wade didn’t quit. Instead, he changed his game by teaming up with the financial pros at ATB, who provided all-star advice and tools to help him bring home the win. Today, Wade’s business has expanded across Alberta—and beyond. And we couldn’t be happier to cheer him on through all his successes. Learn more about Wade at atb.com/WeGrowAlberta

Who helps bring your business to victory? We do. BUSINESS ACCOUNTS І CASH FLOW І FINANCING І KNOW-HOW *This statistic can be found in Volume 3 of the ATB Business Beat. ™ Trademarks of Alberta Treasury Branches