Stuff Made & Built in Eastern Ontario 2021

MADE Mad e AND and BUILT built IN in EASTERN Eastern ONTARIO Ontario 2020/2021

LOCAL L OCAL HERO H ERO BE B EA

Made and built in Eastern Ontario

THOUSANDS OF LOCAL JOBS IN MANUFACTURING

WHAT COOL STUFF IS BEING MADE?

CAN MANUFACTURING BE A CAREER FOR ME?

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Table of Contents

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Made in Ontario

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Eastern Ontario School Boards

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Eastern Ontario College Consortium

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Making it in Manufacturing & Ottawa Employment Hub

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Manufacturer Profiles

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Manufacturing Directory

New program helps people buy local.

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Be a Local Hero

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35 Coolest Things Made in Eastern Ontario

It’s a great time to consider a career in manufacturing.

The best of what Eastern Ontario manufacturing has to offer is yours to discover.

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Manufacturing to the Rescue

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A Driving Force in the Economy

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Giant Tiger Earns Its Stripes

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How to Manufacture a Career

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A Big Bite of the Economy

Companies in Eastern Ontario answered the call to action.

Transportation and logistics are thriving industries in Eastern Ontario.

How the retailer is keeping products moving and shelves stocked.

So you’ve decided to explore a job in manufacturing; now what?

Eastern Ontario’s food and beverage manufacturers, such as Leclerc, are key players in a robust industry.

Construction Spotlight Kingston’s Third Crossing Bridge

From Farm Tractors to Nuclear Reactors A local machine shop that likes variety.

Pathway to Success – How the SHSM program introduces students and industry partners to possibilities.

Colleges collaborate to provide crucial job training to aluminum and steel industry businesses.

Times may be tough, but many Eastern Ontario manufacturers are hiring.

Get to know some local companies.

Some quick looks at the wide range of manufacturers working in Eastern Ontario.

stuffmadeandbuilt.ca Published by Great River Media Publisher Terry Tyo Head of Content Peter Kovessy Editor Christine LeBlanc Editorial Catherine Donegan Phil Gaudreau Paula Roy Brett Todd Photography Jana Chytilova Rob Mooy

Made in Ontario New program helps people buy local

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BY CATHERINE DONEGAN hen the COVID-19 pandemic shut down all non-essential businesses for the second quarter of 2020, there was a massive toll on Canadian unemployment rates and disruption to manufacturing plants and supply chains. As manufacturing plants limited production and borders became restricted, the necessity and benefit of producing goods locally to fulfill consumer demand became obvious.

Businesses were encouraged to shift production to create personal protection equipment (PPE) and other essential equipment to support the health care industry in crisis. Both the federal and provincial governments provided funding incentives to manufacturers who were able to retool their operations and produce the necessary goods quickly. Manufacturers in Ontario pivoted their businesses and stepped up to meet the critical need. The next phase is reigniting the economy and bringing back jobs, and the first step is consumers supporting local businesses.

To help people identify and choose products from local providers, the Ontario government launched the Ontario Made

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program in April. Funded through the $50 million Ontario Together Fund, this initiative encourages manufacturers to register for the Ontario Made logo to put on their packaging and promotional materials.

Premier Doug Ford stated, “Ontario has always been Canada’s workshop, and our products are recognized as the gold standard across the country and across the world... Promoting locally made products will be essential to building a strong, self-sufficient province and key to our economic recovery.”

The more self-sufficient Ontarians are from a resource creation perspective, the faster the region will experience economic recovery. Consumers understand the importance of paying for local goods to get great quality products, and supporting their own friends and neighbours in their community.

For more information on the Ontario Made program, please visit SupportOntarioMade.ca or sign up for their digital newsletter.

Advertising Wendy Bailey Eric Dupuis Victoria Stewart Creative Direction/Production Regan Van Dusen Loreto Cheyne Annika Cayanga

250 City Centre Ave, Ottawa, ON K1R 6K7 613-238-1818 STUFF Made and Built in Eastern Ontario is published by Great River Media. This publication contains information considered accurate at the time of printing.

However, the publisher is not responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur.

Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Have ideas for 2021-2022 STUFF or feedback on the issue, contact us at: Terry Tyo, 613-238-1818 ext. 268 or terry@greatriver.ca

Be a Local Hero Made and built in Ea

Made and built in Eastern Ontario

stern Ontario

Made and built in Ea

Made and built in Eastern Ontario

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BY CHRISTINE D. LeBLANC 020 will be remembered as the year of the pandemic. COVID-19 changed everything – from where and how we work, to how we go to school and socialize. We started looking more closely at how our society functions, how food and goods get produced and delivered to stores, and how businesses would survive. It was also a time of local heroes – everyday people helping others in their community. In Eastern Ontario, manufacturing companies stepped up to the challenge.

From hand sanitizer to personal protective equipment (PPE), local businesses pivoted and provided. When many people have lost their jobs and most of us are wondering about our futures, it’s a great time to consider manufacturing as a career.

“We want our employees to know how much we appreciate what they’ve done.

They’re unsung heroes – they continue to get the products we need out the door,” says Cathy McCallion, Recruitment Strategist and Community Relations Manager for Ross Video.

To show their appreciation and to help the local economy in Iroquois, where they make video production switching equipment, Ross instituted a $20/hour minimum wage so no employee will make less than that.

When the pandemic hit, Ross hit pause and focused on keeping employees safe.

Now they expect to hire 20 people over the next year in manufacturing alone.

“There’s a lot of growth in manufacturing,” McCallion says. “Many employees might start out on the line then move up to other positions, including management.”

Ottawa is considered a government town, but it has a surprising amount of industry. In fact, according to the 2020 Sector Spotlight on Manufacturing report by the Ottawa Employment Hub, Ottawa’s share of workers in some manufacturing areas is three times greater than the national average.

Canada’s capital has almost 1,250 manufacturing businesses in the city alone, which generated 3,205 online job ads in 2019. Plus, the average

MADE AND Made and BUILT built IN in EASTERN Eastern ONTARIO Ontario

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2019/2020

2020/2021

WHAT IS IT?

LOCAL L OCAL HERO H ERO BE B EA

Made and built in Eastern Ontario

THOUSANDS OF LOCAL JOBS IN MANUFACTURING

WHAT COOL STUFF IS BEING MADE?

WHO MAKES IT?

Made and built in Ea

stern Ontario

BURGUNDY: PMS 195 / 8B1E5F WARM GREY LIGHT: PMS 418 / 748C85 WARM GREY DARK: PMS 425 TEALE: PMS 7719 / 006C67 / 4C4E47 BLUE: PMS 299 / 0678B2 GREEN: PMS 356 / 46B549

CAN MANUFACTURING BE A CAREER FOR ME?

annual salary rose to $66,610, placing manufacturing among Ottawa’s bestpaying sectors.

Making a Difference

To help spread the word about manufacturing in the region, the group Making it in Manufacturing (MIIM) was formed in 2017. Co-chair Lorraine Gignac notes that many sectors were hit hard by the pandemic and may not recover.

“But manufacturing, especially essential services-they kept going.”

Gignac has years of manufacturing experience and now works as Branch Manager at Adecco, where she and her team are able to assist many companies with their recruitment requirements in the manufacturing industry.

“A lot of products made here are instrumental to helping people,” she says. “You’re making something that will make a difference.”

Pride in Your Work

COULD I MAKE A CAREER OF THIS?

There is a wide range of products made in Eastern Ontario. Textiles, plastics and rubber, minerals and metals, computer and electronic products, transportation equipment and furniture are just some examples of materials people can work with.

“It’s rewarding. You can say, ‘we made that.’ You can see your product and

take pride in your work.” says Jennifer Collins, Senior Learning Consultant, Corporate Learning at Algonquin College, which leads the Eastern Ontario College Consortium (EOCC).

The EOCC is a group of five colleges in the region that came together to deliver the Skills Advance Program, sponsored by the province. It enables manufacturers in the steel and aluminum sector to access funding to train new or current employees.

The colleges customize training to fit each company’s needs, often offering specialization or a shorter timeframe.

Collins says even with all the ongoing COVID-19 uncertainty, manufacturers respond with a similar theme. “The health and safety of employees is hands down the number one concern… They care about their employees, they really do.”

She says, “Some organizations flipped on a dime and went in a different direction,” giving examples of regional tool and die or furniture companies suddenly making testing kits, medical devices and dividers for medical spaces.

Despite the COVID-related struggles and changes some companies may be going through right now, the need for skilled workers in the trades remains a constant.

As Gignac says, “You get the right people, they make the right products: that keeps our economy going.”

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35 Coolest Things Made in Eastern Ontario

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BY BRETT TODD

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oup to nuts.”

That’s how Todd Stafford of Northern Cables in Brockville explains the way his team does everything in-house. They handle it all, making their products from the ground up. Why? Because they know they can do it better, right here in Eastern Ontario.

They’re not alone. Many industries are currently plying their trade across the region. We have a wealth of innovative and energetic entrepreneurs running businesses that are creating both world-class products for the marketplace and jobs that power our economy.

And that’s a bit of a problem. Well, for us, anyhow. The sheer number of industries out there made it difficult to choose which ones to feature in this year’s edition of the Coolest Things Made in Eastern Ontario. We endured, though, so you can discover just some of the highlights that make this the coolest region for manufacturing in the province.

You’ll find juice with ingredients sourced from Senegal. Tubes for chili paste. Ice cream for Keto dieters. Millwork to be installed in the world’s most notable universities. A clear mask to battle COVID-19 currently being put through its paces in a wind tunnel. Gadgets that let us interact with the world without actually touching anything (go back a year and try to imagine something like that being a best seller).

Hoops and backboards for professional athletes and school children.

And last, but certainly a long way from least, maybe the best chocolate in the world.

Read on to explore the best of what Eastern Ontario manufacturing has to offer.

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Fairy Sweet Ice Cream, Cornwall

Ketogenic diet aficionados in Cornwall have a hometown option for sugar fixes. The mother-daughter team of Suzanne Martin and Sue-Ann Heitmann at the Fairy Sweet gourmet bakery offers special “Keto That” menu products for those cutting back on carbs, along with traditional chocolate and cake goodies. Keto-friendly delicacies include ice creams with just 2 grams of net carbs and fudgesicles with just 1 gram. The duo hopes to turn their operation into a full manufacturing facility within two years.

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BUSL Cider, Mallorytown

You may have heard of a craft brewery, but how about a craft cidery? The BUSL distillery in historic Mallorytown makes premium cider on their 280-acre estate that includes a 10-acre apple orchard and a processing plant with a boutique tasting room and patio. Flavours are added so you can enjoy unique beverages like Chocolate Cherry, Pumpkin and Peaches N' Cream. BUSL also converted some of its line to hand sanitizer during the pandemic earlier this spring, to do its part to keep the community healthy.

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Beckwith Street Reconstruction, Smiths Falls

Smiths Falls is continuing its renaissance and economic recovery with a reconstruction of Beckwith Street in the downtown core. The first phase of this $8.2 million project began in 2019 and will continue into 2021. Everything from the 19th century sewers to the roadway and sidewalks will be replaced. Work above ground will be more than just cosmetic.

The fully accessible street will feature three travel lanes, angled parking, a cycle lane and new trees intended to make the entire downtown, in the words of Mayor Shawn Pankow, “a new and attractive streetscape that is welcoming… and functions in ways that were not possible prior to this development.”

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Eikon Device, Kingston

From humble beginnings in a garage in 1994, Eikon Device has grown to become one of the largest suppliers of the ever-expanding tattoo industry. Now the company has over 40 employees who design and assemble the majority of the Eikon-branded tattooing hardware like power supplies, machines and cords in a 20,000 square foot facility.

A new product is the ES500, released earlier this year with a range of innovative features to help power the drawing of the next anchor you want emblazoned on your bicep.

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E.T.M. Industries, Renfrew

E.T.M. Industries has come a long way since its beginnings in 1977 as a tool-and-die shop. The company now serves a wide range of industries across the world, manufacturing computer numeric control (CNC) machined and plastic injection components for the aerospace, military, automotive, telecommunication, medical and mining

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industries. Molds are all custom-made, so E.T.M. provides full turn-key service for clients.

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Faye Beverage/Jogo Juice, Ottawa

Enjoy a taste of Africa right in the National Capital thanks to Faye Beverage.

Senegalese native and University of Ottawa student Marie Pierre Faye has her sights set as high as Coca-Cola as she builds her company around the flagship product Jogo Juice. This traditional drink, made from authentic hibiscus flowers from Senegal, is better known in Africa as bissap and in the Caribbean as sorrel. Called “Jogo” from an amalgam of Faye’s parents’ names, this beverage is now available online and at seven locations in Ottawa.

More new flavours are on the way by the end of 2020.

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Five Mile Lighthouse, 1000 Islands

Kehoe Marine Construction took on the unique engineering challenge of rebuilding the historic Five Mile Lighthouse on the St. Lawrence River, off the shores of Elizabethtown-Kitley Township. After a lightning strike burned the original structure to the ground in 2018, former senator Bob Runciman chaired a group that raised over $200,000 and recruited Kehoe in nearby Lansdowne to take on the project. Kehoe was more than up to the task of recreating the river icon, despite stringent requirements to match the appearance of the original and elevate it due to rising water levels.

The new/old lighthouse was finished this September.

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Ground Soap, Cornwall

From the kitchen to the factory, Ground Soap has come a long way in just under a decade. Partners Angela Youngs and Glenn Forrester jokingly call their organic products “hippie soap,” but they’ve become a retail force in over 200 stores across Canada, the US and Europe.

The full product line includes 10 different lines featuring 15 different essential oils such as invigorating peppermint and spicy cinnamon.

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HFI Pyrotechnics, Domville

One of the Canadian leaders in pyrotechnics expects to double production and add 15 jobs in 2021 thanks to the national Munitions Supply Program (MSP), which qualifies the firm as a trusted supplier to the Canadian military.

HFI Pyrotechnics, located on a 500-acre production and testing facility, will now manufacture military search and rescue markers, like the C8 Smoke Grenade, that help the Canadian military locate people in dangerous situations. It also makes similar products for the US Navy. HFI began as Hands Fireworks, which started lighting up skies in 1873.

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Hovey Industries, Ottawa

Reinvention and innovation have been themes at Hovey since 1979. The custom metalworking manufacturer is doing it again with Tempered Steam. This new product, currently at the prototype stage with plans to go into production in 2021, uses steam to thaw the ground for

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construction projects. Given the Canadian climate, this gear will come in handy over the winter months when breaking ground is a challenge for even the mightiest backhoes. Company president Marco Campagna says the concept goes back 20 years to technology that used steam to de-ice the wings of planes, but was given more of a push when frozen fields at Lansdowne Park needed to be dug up in the winter when the site was redeveloped in 2013-2014.

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Hummingbird Chocolate, Almonte

From Kabul with… chocolate?

Many would say that’s as good as love, and the phrase rings true with Drew and Erica Gilmour, who returned to Almonte from working with agricultural development in Afghanistan and turned an affection for the sweet stuff into Hummingbird Chocolate. The couple certainly is obsessed with making the best chocolate on Earth. The planet has noticed, too, resulting in over 85 international awards including the 2016 Best Chocolate in the World Golden Bean from the Academy of Chocolate. They offer factory tours (COVIDdependent, of course), and you don’t even need a golden ticket to see all this sugary goodness for yourself.

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InnovaTools, Ottawa

InnovaTools is living up to its name. The home construction manufacturer pivoted to PPE innovation and started an InnovaLife brand during the pandemic. When the federal government issued a call for masks to combat COVID-19, founder Alexandre Cloutier and his team responded with a

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clear plastic mask that is reusable, easy to clean and flexible enough to be folded into a shirt pocket. The masks were accepted into the Innovative Solutions Canada program, and as of mid-September the first prototype was being field-tested in a wind tunnel by the RCMP. Work continues on other product lines as well, including a new portable bending brake entering the prototype phase over the coming winter.

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Ketchum Manufacturing, Brockville

When you want to tell the world who you are, talk to the good people at Ketchum. The metal-stamping and printing factory has been making ID tags for all manner of industries going back to its 1913 beginnings in Ottawa. Ketchum can be found everywhere, from the price displays in Farm Boy stores and the tags on your golf bag to the dog licence hanging from your dog’s collar. The company also took on COVID-19 this year by manufacturing custom clear plastic shields for retail store counters.

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Kingcord Hammocks, Lansdowne

Nothing says summer in Canada as properly as a hammock. Kingcord Hammocks makes instant relaxation in the village of Lansdowne just a stone’s throw away from the 1000 Islands. Deluxe soft-spun cord hammocks in traditional and colourful Mayan styles are crafted by hand in the company’s workshop, in both original rope and fabric. Many options comfortably host two or even three people, perfect for cooler nights when you need to cuddle up.

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King’s Lock Craft Distillery and Windmill Brewery, Johnstown

Fine organic spirits and beers can be found along the shores of the St. Lawrence River. The family operation has won 14 medals in the Canadian Artisan Spirits and San Francisco World Spirits Competitions in just the past three years, including gold for its Whiskyjack Rye and silver for its 1000 Islands Moonshine.

Beer on offer includes the 1838 Pilsner and the Barracks Black Lager. A history lesson is free of charge as you imbibe, as most product names evoke local history like the Battle of the Windmill, the site of which is just moments away.

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Li-Cycle, Kingston

Making electric vehicles (EV) even more green is the mission of Li-Cycle. The innovative company developed a hydrometallurgy technology that recycles lithium-ion batteries powering everything from EV cars to smartphones. A pilot workshop was established in 2019 to recycle batteries that would have otherwise wound up in landfills. They recover a previously unheard of 80 to 100 per cent of the cobalt, lithium, nickel and other substances and prepare the batteries for reuse.

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LINC Contactless Tool, Ottawa

COVID-19 turned out to be the mother of invention for machine shop operations manager Troy Crosby.

Inspired by a desire to help during the lockdown, Crosby designed the contact-free LINC tool to open doors and navigate shared spaces. In short order, he developed a prototype with a 3D printer and began work on the final product. LINC hit its Kickstarter goal in September within 16 minutes. Full production is now underway, so you’ll soon be able to buy your own LINC on the official website and Amazon.

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Mirmil Products, Trenton

Casinos in Atlantic City and universities like Harvard and Yale have a little bit of Trenton in them, thanks to Mirmil Products, which designs and manufactures custom architectural millwork for nightclubs, lounges, lecture halls, libraries and more. Some of the company’s other major clients include Woodbine Racetrack and St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, the Hard Rock Casino in Florida, and the MGM Casino in Massachusetts.

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Montebello Packaging, Hawkesbury

From chili paste in a tube to foot powder in an aerosol can, Montebello Packaging does it all.

Chances are good that you’ve used some of their aluminum and laminate tubes, cans, bottles and other packaging, because they house huge brands like L’Oréal & Arm and Hammer. Montebello has you covered whether you’ve got a craving for something spicy, need relief for your feet, or are Chris Hadfield grabbing a snack in orbit (yes, even Canada’s most famous astronaut has eaten out of a tube made in Eastern Ontario).

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Northern Cables, Brockville

Soup to nuts. That’s how Todd Stafford of Northern Cables describes the inner workings of the company he co-owns, which manufactures industrial cables from raw plastic, aluminum and copper. A $5 million expansion has started, adding three new buildings, including a 50,000 square foot warehouse and massive silos to house plastic. Hiring is already underway, and at least 20 new jobs will be created for the new buildings and the millions of dollars of new production machinery they will house.

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Octane Medical Group, Kingston

Bioreactors, regenerative bioprocesses, cell therapy automation and more are the domain of Octane. This medical tech company has one foot firmly planted in the future, due largely to its work on bioactive implants to accelerate healing. As one example of how it works, these implants can be placed in an injured foot in need of orthopedic repair to rev up a bioactive process that creates natural tissue. Patients experience faster healing that reduces or eliminates the need for artificial metal or polymer implants.

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Parmalat Canada, Winchester

Winchester’s signature summer festival is a cowcentric Dairyfest, but you may still be surprised at just how much is manufactured at the Parmalat Canada facility (known as Ault Foods for many decades). Milk, cheese, butter, cream and more are made for leading brands like Balderson, Beatrice and Lactantia. They also craft high-end delicacies like award-winning extra-old cheese.

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PowerStick, Ottawa

PowerStick is an award-winning firm that designs and assembles many of its products in its facility in the national capital. One of the hottest products is the Forte, a combination wireless charger and speaker able to pump up the volume for a whopping 15 hours.

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Pure Ingenuity, Kingston

Making the better beer may be the job of the craft brewery, but making the better brewery is the job of Pure Ingenuity. The Kingston firm is actually moving beyond just breweries, as well, with custom designs and equipment for the food, pharmaceutical and medical industries. If you have a process that uses stainless steel, you may want to talk to Pure Ingenuity. Artists can reach out too — the company helped fabricate and install Bill Lishman’s massive stainless steel iceberg sculpture at the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa back in 2015.

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Quinte Canvas Manufacturing, Westbrook

Bimini tops for summer and canvas covers for winter storage are just two of the products stitched up for boaters at Quinte Canvas Manufacturing in Westbrook, just north of Kingston.

Custom upholstery and canvas work is another focus in the shop, which prides itself on solutions for all nautical problems. Winter protection is a major focus, thanks to proprietary Arctic Guard canvas material designed in-house to protect your summer home from the worst that a Canadian winter can throw at it.

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Reid’s Dairy, Belleville

Just look for the fairytale tower. A Belleville tradition since 1910, and home of an iconic medieval castle, Reid’s Dairy is not only the place to get ice cream and chocolate milk, it’s also a 50,000 square foot operation that supplies milk across

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Ontario. Reid’s is the largest indie milk producer in the province, working with dairy farmers all over Eastern Ontario.

Tours are offered so you can check out the plant, the castle and outdoor play area in person (check first, due to COVID restrictions). Don’t forget to grab a Loonie Shake or three from the shop.

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Ridgewood, Cornwall

Move over, Ikea. The locals at Ridgewood have quietly become one of the top 10 producers of ready-to-assemble furniture in North America. More than 350 employees in the 550,000 square foot factory make items in the home office, kitchen, entertainment and storage product lines for brands like Ameriwood and Costco.

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SnapCab, Kingston

Innovation and simplification are the hallmarks of SnapCab, which has turned over 30 years of making elevators into creating modular workspaces at its Kingston factory. The company’s patented interlocking panel system, along with heavy aluminum structural supports, allows clients to quickly set up pods in offices. The end result looks like a sleek and elegant take on a futuristic phone booth that provides instant privacy amidst open-concept office spaces.

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Spearhead Brewing Company, Kingston

The Spearhead Brewing Company is a little bit world-class brewery, a little bit science experiment.

A partnership with Pure Ingenuity, another Kingston company, has led to the company using cutting-edge beer gear like multi-chambered filtration and crash-cooling fermentation tanks that, according to president Josh Hayter, “gives us everything the big brewers have, just shrunken down and efficient.” Spearhead also gives back to the community by donating spent grain to farmers, recycling can tabs for wheelchairs, and making regular donations to Hospice Kingston and Loving Spoonful. So when in the Spearhead taproom, you can enjoy a fine IPA and do a good deed.

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SportSystems, Almonte

Almonte may be famous as the birthplace of basketball inventor James Naismith, but SportSystems is giving the guy with the peach baskets a run for his money. The company designs, manufactures and installs custom equipment for just about anything in a gymnasium. This includes basketball hoops and backboards, tennis posts and nets, soccer goals, gym divider curtains, floor padding, and bleachers for spectators. SportSystems installs can be found everywhere, from Inuvik to Barbados and the US Virgin Islands.

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Tazarmc Constructability Solutions, Trenton

Many buildings across Ontario got their start in the metal fabrication facility of Tazarmc Constructability Solutions. Their steel division can crank out 320 tonnes of structural steel per month, making the beams and columns to support builds like a health centre in Sudbury and a water treatment plant in Mississauga.

Tazarmc also fabricates other metals for hand rails, catwalks and more, offering solutions for all things alloy.

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SRB Technologies, Pembroke

Looking for the exit? Look no further than Pembroke’s SRB Technologies, world leader in selfpowered emergency lighting and exit signs. Luminexit and Betalux-E models light the way out of hotels, theatres and other public buildings all over the world. SRB is keeping us safe during the pandemic as well, with the production of up to 10,000 Health Canada-licensed face shields per week. The company has shipped face shields to over 115 institutions across Canada.

Weatherhaven, Brockville

One of the world leaders in manufacturing deployable shelter systems for military, medical and commercial purposes is now located in Eastern Ontario. Their structures, made with ultra-modern materials, which can be set up and taken down quickly, are designed to withstand the toughest environments. Weatherhaven products have been deployed to over 95 counties on every continent. Headquartered in Coquitlam, BC, since the company’s beginnings in 1981, the new facility opened in the west end of Brockville in 2019 when a deal with the Canadian military required a location close to Ottawa.

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Wirecraft International, Renfrew

Gardeners across North America are hanging their plants on trellises made in Renfrew. Wirecraft International’s 100,000-square-foot factory makes just about everything in metal for plant lovers, including trellises, garden hooks, planters and baskets.

Their products are sold at major retailers like Home Depot and Walmart, so they are available to any Canuck with a green thumb.

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Wood Duck Manufacturing, Renfrew

Quality Canadian-made furniture is the specialty of Wood Duck Manufacturing in Renfrew. What started with custom fireplace mantels over 25 years ago evolved into custom furniture in 2003, and now the Wood Duck team crafts cabinets, tables, wall units and more to customer specification.

Fireplace mantels remain the company’s core business, though. If you’re looking for traditional, modern or something inbetween for just about anything in your home that burns wood or gas, Wood Duck makes it.

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Manufacturing to the Rescue C

BY BRETT TODD ompanies in Eastern Ontario answered the call to action.

Regional industries picked up the gauntlet thrown down by Premier Doug Ford earlier this year to make the province more self-sufficient in the age of COVID-19. When the pandemic underlined how vulnerable Ontario was to shortages of the vital personal protective equipment (PPE) needed to help keep frontline workers safe, the business community responded with both specialized gear like N95 masks and basics like hand sanitizer.

These innovative industrial moves are both safeguarding public health and helping with the economic recovery.

While the focus has been on flattening the curve, many businesses are moving into new product lines that are keeping people employed during challenging times.

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3M in Brockville is leading the way, producing up to 100 million N95 masks annually. Matching $23.3 million contributions from the federal and provincial governments resulted in a five-year contract for mask production that will power a plant expansion and job creation.

“From the moment that Premier Ford announced that Ontario would never again have to look outside the country for vital supplies of PPE, I knew that 3M in our own community of Brockville could play a big part in making this into a reality,” said provincial Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark, who helped spearhead this initiative as the local MPP. “Producing these N95 masks here at home right in Eastern Ontario improves the health and safety of the entire province, and of course it is also a serious economic driver that is leading to the creation of 30 jobs.”

The urgency needed to respond to the pandemic was evident by the speed of the N95 move. While Premier Ford, Minister Clark and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced this project at the Brockville 3M location on August 21, ground was broken for the plant expansion right after Labour Day.

Masks, Mobile Medical Units and More Other PPE products are also in the works.

InnovaTools, an Ottawa-based home construction manufacturer, started a new InnovaLife brand that includes a reusable and foldable clear plastic mask currently in trials to assess its use for the RCMP. SRB Technologies in Pembroke pivoted from building exit signage to producing Health Canada-approved face shields. They can now make up to 10,000 of the units each week.

And Brockville’s Ketchum Industries added shields for retail counters to its core business of signs and ID tags for industries ranging from agriculture to tourism.

When health facilities needed to expand to allow for COVID-19 testing and treatment, Kingston construction firm Feris Build Tech stepped up, using its energy-efficient Harmonic Advanced Building Envelope Technology to create mobile medical units for patient assessment and quarantine.

With the tremendous number of people now working remotely forcing a focus on the home office, the company is forecasting more demand for its smaller, net-zero builds.

Community Spirits

Finally, you can’t forget about booze.

Several of the craft brewers and distillers that have sprung up across Eastern Ontario over the past decade quickly shifted their operations to meet the surge in demand for alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Big Rig in Ottawa switched their production line, as did BUSL Cider in

Back in March, we began hearing about demand for sanitizer from local organizations like Ottawa hospitals and even people with National Defence."

OMID MCDONALD FOUNDER/CEO OF DAIRY DISTILLERY

Mallorytown, King’s Lock Craft Distillery near Prescott, O’Kenny Craft Spirits in Renfrew County, Top Shelf Distillers in Perth, and many more throughout the region.

Dairy Distillery in Almonte was at the forefront. While the company remains best known for its award-winning Vodkow vodka made from milk sugar discarded from dairy farms, it has now become a major producer of hand sanitizer.

“Back in March, we began hearing about demand for sanitizer from local organizations like Ottawa hospitals and

even people with National Defence,” said Dairy Distillery Founder/CEO Omid McDonald. “We spoke with the whole team about what we could do here to help out and got tremendous support.”

An initial 10,000 litres of what was supposed to be vodka was turned into hand sanitizer, and production ramped up to 120,000 litres distilled by early September. A “Buy One to Give One” program was established, which saw over 30,000 bottles of hand sanitizer donated to charities like the Ottawa Rape Crisis Centre and the Shepherds of Good Hope.

Capacity is growing even more thanks to an investment of $455,000 by the provincial government’s Ontario Together Fund. This injection of capital is funding an expansion that will quadruple its fermentation capacity. Once finished, the larger facility will be able to make 230,000 litres of hand sanitizer a year. Even better, this means that some 2 million litres of otherwise discarded milk sugar from dairy farms will be put to good use.

All of this has McDonald looking at the big picture, and how much Eastern Ontario industries have done to both battle COVID-19 and face the economic challenges of the pandemic lockdown.

“When you talk about recovery, you have to talk about all of these local distilleries creating hand sanitizer, all of these other local production facilities making changes to answer local needs. It will be interesting to see how the local supply chains are all reconfigured based on this ongoing situation, but right now it’s all inspiring and exciting.”

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 15 ]

A Driving Force in the Economy Transportation and logistics are thriving industries in Eastern Ontario

T

BY PAULA ROY he pandemic may have more people talking about supply chains now, but Eastern Ontario has been one of Canada’s key supply chain hubs for years. Highway 401, which runs through the region, is Canada’s most travelled economic corridor.

It is also a key connector between Toronto and Montreal as well as the St. Lawrence Seaway for shipping and the CN mainline for rail transfers.

In addition to its robust trucking industry, the region is also home to extensive warehousing capacity. Loblaw is currently expanding its Cornwall distribution centre from 500,000 to 900,000 square feet; Benson Auto Group has 300,000 square feet in Cornwall and UAP has 150,000 square feet in Long Sault.

Walmart Canada has 3 million of its 8.75 million square feet of its national warehouse space in Cornwall. The company recently automated its freight and payment data in what is believed to be the world’s largest full production blockchain solution, allowing for state-of-the-art collaboration and information sharing with 70 third-party trucking companies that transport inventory for Walmart across Canada. The platform provides enhanced operations, improved delivery coordination and routing efficiency, waste and cost reduction, plus automated payment reconciliation and processing.

Bob Peters, division manager with Cornwall Economic Development, notes that the rise of e-commerce has been central to the growth and innovation of the supply and distribution industry. In Canada, approximately 90% of final consumed goods are delivered by truck; trucks are essential to getting goods to their destination as part of a complex supply chain.

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Workers in Demand

In addition to trucking and warehousing, Cornwall is also home to a number of third-party logistics companies that provide support to the supply chain industry. These include businesses that provide cross-dock facilities; supply and repair pallets; sell and rent trailers; plus repair and maintain trucks, equipment and more.

One of the biggest challenges for the supply chain industry in Eastern Ontario is an ongoing demand for workers. “This is occurring not only because of sector growth, but also attrition with a portion of the workforce ready to retire,” says Peters.

“There is ample opportunity for truck drivers, mechanics, and transportation and logistics executives in a thriving and dynamic field.”

Peters notes that it is also a sector that pays above average wages — often 20 to 30 per cent above minimum wage — and one with a proven track record of helping people grow and advance in their careers. To better prepare the workforce of tomorrow, the Cornwall campus of St. Lawrence College developed a new supply chain graduate course, after receiving funding for additional training in micro sectors including logistics and supply chain.

“Companies have tended to train workers themselves, but if you have a supply chain management certificate you’ll be tracked to the supervisory level more quickly,” he explains.

Seaway Express is an Eastern Ontario carrier that works with national firms to move goods to their final destination in an area spanning from Eastern Ontario to Montreal. The firm invested in new equipment and warehouse space plus

There is no better option at this time to make the supply chain function as efficiently as possible. It is my hope that the government will recognize its importance and acknowledge it as the driving force in our regional economic picture.” BOB PETERS, DIVISION MANAGER, CORNWALL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT advanced information systems, proactively adopting new technology to help customers manage their own supply chains.

General Manager Melanie Hamel says the firm has 44 employees including 25 drivers; their 18 trucks make approximately 100 runs per week, 52 weeks a year. While Hamel is one of few female general managers, she notes that many women play key roles in the trucking industry in areas such as operations, logistics, administration and customer service.

“We are fortunate that our turnover is quite low; once people are hired, they tend to stay and some have been here since the company was founded over 30 years ago,” explains Hamel.

She says the average annual income for drivers, with overtime, is in the $50,000–$55,000 range. When hiring, they look for individuals with a good attitude, strong work ethic and who enjoy the flexibility of planning and managing their own days. “Younger people are entering the profession more now and they are doing so well because they fit the skills profile,” says Hamel.

Essential Role in Region’s Economy

Brockville-based Wills Transfer provides innovative logistics solutions including warehousing, inventory management, order fulfillment, transportation and outsourcing solutions.

Established in 1945, the firm operates 27 trucks and 100 trailers with 37 drivers and has four third-party logistics storage facilities totalling over 750,000 square feet and employing 185 people in Brockville, Ottawa, Perth and Smiths Falls.

Lindsay Allen, responsible for Wills’ driver recruiting, says the average annual income for their drivers is approximately $47,000. They too are pleased to have many long-term drivers who are dedicated to good customer service and who appreciate being at home each night.

For a long time, transportation and logistics have been overlooked for their essential role in our economy, Peters says. “There is no better option at this time to make the supply chain function as efficiently as possible. It is my hope that the government will recognize its importance and acknowledge it as the driving force in our regional economic picture.”

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 17 ]

Giant Tiger Earns Its Stripes How the retailer is keeping products moving and shelves stocked

G

BY BRETT TODD iant Tiger may have been hit with the same pandemic-related supply chain disruptions and product shortages as other retailers, but the discount-store chain is surviving and thriving thanks to a “keep it local” corporate culture. Two major Eastern Ontario distribution centres, in Johnstown and Brockville, play a huge role in keeping shelves stocked in the company’s 258 stores in eight provinces.

“We’ve always recognized the value of having our own operations with our own Giant Tiger employees, and the pandemic has reinforced how strong a culture we have in our operations,” said Jessica Godin, senior vice-president, Supply Chain.

“We’ve been immensely proud of the commitment of our supply chain teams to both serve our communities and do so in a manner that keeps themselves and their teammates safe.”

Issues first arose in January, as COVID-19 began to have a major impact on production lines overseas. Inventory shortages and delays were soon affecting operations at Giant Tiger’s major distribution centres. While the massive 600,000 square foot warehouse complex that opened in 2018 along Highway 401 in Johnstown provided local storage space that was helpful early on, the issues intensified.

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COVID-19 Comes to Canada

By March, the virus was wreaking havoc here at home. Product shortages and fearful, hoarding consumers forced Giant Tiger to implement an “all hands on deck” strategy that made full use of its 500 employees spread among the company’s two distribution centres and its Tiger Trucking operation, which ships around 450 loads per week to stores across Canada.

Focus on health and safety was paramount. Stringent measures were put in place in the warehouses and the trucking facilities to protect employees.

At the same time, however, it was vital to keep the shipments rolling to stores; the company’s millions of customers under

lockdown needed groceries, cleaning supplies and more.

“The ordering teams worked closely with our vendors to secure product as customers transitioned through buying cycles,” explained Godin. “First on the list were toilet paper and antiseptic wipes, then all categories of groceries as more meals were cooked at home. Then we took care of products to keep customers and their families comfortable and happy at home like home décor, patio, games and comfortable clothing.”

It was a long haul. Godin is very proud of how both the distribution and Tiger Trucking teams “worked tirelessly from March onwards” to bring product in and ship it out to stores across Canada.

Toilet Paper Shortage

The company also had to be nimble and react to unexpected surges of demand.

We may joke about the toilet paper shortage now, but the Giant Tiger staff lived through it from the supply-side end.

It forced the company to anticipate what products might be the next focus of a buying binge, especially when it came to anything hygiene-related and cleaning supplies.

Supply issues linger as the pandemic ebbs and flows around the globe, further underlining how important it is to continue what Godin calls “building agility” into corporate operations, so that Giant Tiger can always serve its customers regardless of disruption.

One good thing came from the crisis: the corporate culture that stresses the value of a strong local team right here in Eastern Ontario is stronger than ever.

We’ve always recognized the value of having our own operations with our own Giant Tiger employees, and the pandemic has reinforced how strong a culture we have in our operations.”

JESSICA GODIN SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT, SUPPLY CHAIN

“Across the company — in distribution and trucking, home office functions and stores — we’ve witnessed amazing teamwork, resiliency and agility despite many having to learn to work remotely, frontline staff adhering to strict health and safety protocols, and nobody knowing what the next day would bring,” Godin says.

“Our customers have never depended on us like this before, and we’re so proud as a company to have been able to help support them through this crisis by providing them with products they need, in an environment in which they are safe to shop.”

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 19 ]

How to Manufacture a Career

So you’ve decided to explore a job in manufacturing; now what?

T

BY CATHERINE DONEGAN he key to any career path is to learn the fundamentals in school first.

This magazine highlights several individuals who have successful and rewarding careers in the manufacturing industry. Jobs in manufacturing have a diverse range of positions from machine operators to supervisor positions through to the executive level.

According to labour market data from the Ottawa Employment Hub’s 2020 Sector Spotlight on Manufacturing, education and skill levels required for manufacturing jobs are similar to those in other sectors, with about 30-35 per cent needing university, 14-17 per cent needing college or apprenticeship, and 16-17 per cent needing job-specific training. [ 20 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

Completing a degree in commerce, administration, communications or operations management provides a baseline knowledge that can grow into leadership opportunities. Experience and specialized courses will provide additional support and demonstrate work ethic and leadership firsthand.

Starting in Grade 11, students can select specific courses in high school that will lead them to the workplace, an apprenticeship, college or university.

Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM)

The SHSM program gives students the ability to customize their education through co-op and gain credits towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

(See the Pathway to Success article for more.)

At the College Level

Eastern Ontario’s colleges are a great option for both theory and hands-on experience that can prepare students for roles in the manufacturing industry. Along with Fleming College, Loyalist College and La Cité collégiale, Algonquin and St. Lawrence College are two examples.

ALGONQUIN COLLEGE The four-year Bachelor of Automation and Robotics curriculum offers a solid understanding of engineering principles, a foundation of mathematics, technical writing, project management and machine design. This program offers learning and research placements through co-op.

The two-year Manufacturing

In addition, there are further incentive grants for women in the trades.

At the University Level

Known for their high-profile engineering programs and state-of-the-art facilities, local universities offer students the ability to get expertise on the latest technology and trends today.

Engineering Technician Ontario College Diploma program combines classroom, lab and machine shop environments.

With a strong emphasis on product manufacturing, this program prepares students for technical roles with solid modelling, control programming, engineering, fabrication, project management and quality control. In addition to the broad overview, students get exposure to specific tools, software and machinery used in manufacturing plants.

ST. LAWRENCE COLLEGE The Kingston campus offers a two-year Mechanical Technician diploma program, designed for those who want to pursue a career as a mechanical technician or as an industrial mechanic (millwright).

Completing this course prepares students to write the exemption exams for this trade and is ideal for those who want to pursue an apprenticeship program.

When applying for programs, look for any that are defined as a Red Seal trade.

Service Canada notes that registered apprentices who have successfully completed these programs can apply for an Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG), a taxable cash grant of up to $2,000.

CARLETON’S SPROTT SCHOOL OF BUSINESS Carleton houses the Manufacturing Systems Centre, which brings together both business and engineering. The research being done here examines how to boost productivity in manufacturing operations systems, and how to integrate manufacturing processes within an overall corporate vision.

UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA UOttawa researchers are thought leaders in emerging design development, enabling technologies for augmented life and building sustainable infrastructures.

The focus of the undergraduate programs is bringing together both theory and practice with a heavy emphasis on business entrepreneurship. Students who graduate are given the expertise for a successful engineering career involving anything from the research lab to the plant floor.

Post-Graduate Learning

QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY Queen’s Engineering program has an extensive history of producing some of the finest Canadian engineers. Together with Western University, Queen’s hosts

?

Do You Know About Red Seal Trades?

When applying for programs, look for any that are defined as a Red Seal trade. Service Canada notes that registered apprentices who have successfully completed these programs can apply for an Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG), a taxable cash grant of up to $2,000. In addition, there are further incentive grants for women in the trades.

For more information see www.red-seal.ca

a specialized masters degree option in engineering design and manufacturing.

The Advanced Design and Manufacturing Institute (ADMI) gives people already working in engineering the technical knowledge and business management skills needed to advance their careers to the next level. This two-year program offers a unique weekend schedule across lectures, seminars and visits to companies.

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 21 ]

A Big Bite of the Economy

Eastern Ontario’s food and beverage manufacturers key players in a robust industry

7,800

Canadian food and beverage manufacturing companies employ 290,000 workers.

W

BY PAULA ROY e all know manufacturing is essential for a nation’s economic health. It reduces reliance on imports, contributes to a positive trade balance and provides a significant number of jobs. Food and beverage processing is Canada’s second largest manufacturing sector in terms of production value, according to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). In 2019, sales of processed foods and beverages manufactured domestically were $117.8 billion, representing 17 per cent of total manufacturing sales and 2 per cent of the GNP. There are about 7,800 Canadian food and beverage manufacturing companies employing 290,000 workers, more than the automotive and aerospace industries combined, according to AAFC. The sector supplies 70 per cent of Canada’s processed

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food and beverage products and is also the largest purchaser of agricultural production. But the industry does more than satisfy domestic needs.

In fact, 33 per cent of what gets produced is exported to over 192 countries, primarily the US. In 2019, this amounted to $38.9 billion dollars in exports, an increase of 7 per cent over the previous year.

As stated by the province’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ontario’s food and beverage manufacturing sector is the third largest in North America. It generates annual revenues of more than $35 billion, with a healthy concentration of operations in Eastern Ontario.

A strong economic partnership among food manufacturers, educational institutions and local economic development offices helps to keep the area’s food processing industry strong and highly productive, with strategic access to a robust transportation corridor allowing easy access to markets.

Several large multinational firms including PepsiCo, Weetabix, Quaker Oats, Kellogg's, Nestlé and Parmalat have facilities in Eastern Ontario, along with hundreds of assorted small to medium specialty food producers such as Leclerc, all of whom play important roles in this economic good news story.

Tasting Success Celebrating a local food processing plant

Y

BY PHIL GAUDREAU ou open the box, pull out the tray, and remove the plastic wrapping. Inside, you see the historic Château Frontenac traced in a thick layer of milk chocolate, spread evenly over a delicious butter cookie.

The Celebration cookie made by Biscuits Leclerc lives up to its name, as with every bite your taste buds celebrate a true Canadian success story – one you may want to celebrate again and again.

You might know the name Leclerc and their cookies, but do you know their story?

Founded in 1905, the business has stayed within the Leclerc family through five generations, with a sixth generation waiting in the wings.

From humble beginnings as a small cookie shop in Québec, Leclerc has grown into an international success story with eight plants, 1,200 employees, and a wide range of products. From decadent treats like the Celebration cookies, to their more healthconscious lines such as Praeventia and their Chocomax granola bar lines, Leclerc’s delicious baked goods have made them the number two selling cookie brand, with Celebration the number one selling cookie in Canada.

Over 115 years the company has seen a lot, including the Great Depression, two world wars and various fires. While COVID-19 has posed challenges for many businesses, Leclerc has managed to stay on top of the pandemic without slowing down production.

“We have not missed 10 minutes of work. We have put in many safety measures but we are essential workers, and this is essential work, and I think our employees really appreciate that: the job security and the stability that it brings,” says Nicole Bissonnette, human resources business partner.

That doesn’t mean there haven’t been changes over time, however. All of Leclerc’s plants use facial recognition technology

While many other businesses have been going through COVID-driven layoffs, Leclerc has been actively growing its team. to help employees gain access to the building. The same device now checks their employees’ temperature and ensures they are wearing a face mask.

It’s not just new technologies or new products joining the lineup these days. While many other businesses have been going through COVID-driven layoffs, Leclerc has been actively growing its team. Headcount in Cornwall has nearly doubled since last year’s plant opening. As the company brings on new hires, they continue to emphasize the company’s values: respect, innovation, engagement, authenticity and enjoyment.

“What attracted me to the group is that it is a family business, the values of the group, and the team spirit,” says Pierre Lagacé, plant manager for Leclerc’s Cornwall operations.

“The longevity of the company, the respect you get, the appreciation and the support you get from head office. They provide training, equipment, or anything we need. This company is poised for success,” adds Bissonnette.

The company’s newest product, the Go Pure Bar, contains a mix of fruit and whole oats, and is currently available in six flavours including raspberry, strawberry and cherry.

The 160,000 square foot Cornwall plant and its 55 employees produce 2,200 bars every minute. Two separate production lines are responsible for mixing, baking, packing and shipping the bars to keep up with strong demand.

Even Leclerc employees get to munch down on their favourite treats while at work (when it’s safe and hygienic to do so, of course).

Fresh cookies on demand during your workday? Now that’s cause for celebration!

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 23 ]

Kingston’s Third Crossing Bridge W

BY BRETT TODD ork is now well underway on a new bridge in Kingston known as the Third Crossing, a $180 million project that will join the LaSalle Causeway and the Highway 401 overpass as routes over the Cataraqui River.

When finished in 2022, this 1.2-kilometre two-lane bridge will span the river from Gore Road in the east end to John Counter Boulevard in the north end, dramatically changing the way in which motorists, pedestrians and cyclists alike move around the city.

“The Third Crossing is a key part of Kingston’s vision to be a smart, livable and leading 21st century city,” said Kingston Mayor Bryan Paterson. “It will provide a vital new connecting link for the city, and allow pedestrians and cyclists to explore [ 24 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

the beauty of the Rideau Canal waterway in a whole new way.”

City officials have been contemplating an additional route for some 50 years because of issues with the narrow LaSalle Causeway, built in 1917. The new bridge checks off a number of important goals for municipal leaders, including improving business connectivity for commuters and visitors, enhancing access for emergency services, and adding a welcome new option for pedestrians and cyclists.

Local Impact

Economic benefits to the city and region are huge. By the end of July, $5 million had been awarded through 61 local contracts, craftspeople and staff had worked 60,000 hours already, and 20 people had moved to Kingston to work on the project.

Despite disruptions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, construction is proceeding well and is about 25 per cent complete as of September.

“The project is still on target for bridge opening at the end of 2022. Steady work has been underway since the beginning of the year, with construction of the rock causeway and trestle bridge to provide temporary construction access across the river now completed,” said Project Manager Mark Van Buren.

“Having been deemed an essential worksite, the Third Crossing project continued during the emergency orders provided by the province. The impacts of COVID-19 have been minimal so far; however, the project team continues to remain vigilant.”

Work on permanent in-water

foundations is the current focus. Bauer Foundations Canada is leading the installation of 21 piers to support the bridge. Each pier extends to bedrock under the river, which in some cases is more than 50 metres deep. Pier caps are also being constructed this fall to directly support the concrete girders of the bridge itself, which will be installed in 2021.

Design Consultation

Bridge design has largely been completed.

An announcement at Kingston City Hall showcased a new look that replaced earlier, more dramatic features like a pronounced archway. This sleeker model should better match the flow of the river and address concerns of Parks Canada, the federal agency that oversees the Cataraqui River as part of the historic Rideau Canal.

“The bridge design incorporates a steel main span with an under-arch profile that is centred over the navigation channel in the Cataraqui River,” added Van Buren.

“This design has helped to achieve a light and low appearance of the bridge that fits in the surrounding natural landscape and also respects the UNESCO World Heritage designation of this area as part of the overall Rideau Canal system.”

With that said, the city is still consulting with residents and emergency services regarding features such as street design.

Active transportation is a top priority, as the city is striving for a sustainable model

that works for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists. A four-metre multi-use pathway on the south side will feature extended lookout areas.

Respecting Nature and History

The natural environment has also been a major focus of the project. Rigorous monitoring is addressing both the aquatic and terrestrial zones impacted by the construction. Van Buren reports that fencing has been installed to protect turtles, along with “five passages to allow wildlife to navigate upstream.”

As befits a project touching on the past, present and future of Kingston, the official name of the Third Crossing Bridge will take into account the area’s Indigenous history. Mayor Paterson announced this summer that the bridge will not only span a physical gap within the city, it will also connect to the city’s “Your Stories, Our History” public engagement promoting reconciliation and addressing recent concerns about the legacy of Sir John A. Macdonald.

“By choosing a name that reflects our local Indigenous history, our city is making a statement that we are an inclusive community,” said Paterson.

“That we are fully committed to reconciliation, and ready to build bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Kingstonians and Canadians.”

$5M

awarded through

61

contracts to local businesses with

60,000+ hours worked so far and

20

people moved to Kingston to work on the project

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 25 ]

From Farm Tractors to Nuclear Reactors A local machine shop that likes variety

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I

BY PHIL GAUDREAU f you are a business owner and you need a custom part made for your assembly line or to fix a piece of equipment, where do you turn?

In Belleville, The Machining Center has been the place to go for 30 years.

The company that started as a oneperson shop has grown to 20 employees offering full-service manufacturing, including machining, fabrication, engineering and design. They work with companies from a wide range of sectors including nuclear, food, aerospace, oil and automotive.

“You never know what you’re going to be working on. I couldn’t tell you what we‘re going to be making before Christmas, because it could be all kinds of interesting jobs from people walking in the door,” says Paul Vreugdenhil, The Machining Center’s operations manager.

There’s no typical job for The Machining Center – they’ve worked on projects as small as $50 to ones as large as $100,000; from replacing small broken tractor parts for a local farmer to making equipment for large factories such as Kellogg’s and Procter & Gamble.

“Our employees love the variety of work,” Vreugdenhil adds. “Since we do work for so many sectors of manufacturing, our employees are constantly challenged with a wide range of machining and fabrication problems to solve. Figuring out the best way to do the jobs every day is something that our team thrives on.”

The shop has a big focus on teamwork, as employees are constantly working with each other to try different processes and find the most effective way of producing the part to meet the client’s need.

To keep up with the ever-changing projects they receive, they hold regular training sessions and use on-the-job mentoring to help develop different skills.

It’s no surprise, then, the main thing they look for in new hires is a passion for learning and problem solving.

“We look for people that aren’t afraid of computers but also are able to turn a wrench,” says Vreugdenhil. “Because we do a lot of computer-controlled machining, it

is a challenge for us to find people that are willing to learn computer functions and be able to do the programming.”

That can be a surprise for some, who might think of jobs in steel and aluminum as working strictly hands-on with the metals themselves.

Canada produces 13 billion tonnes of steel products in a year, creating 22,000 jobs directly and employment for another 100,000 people in related industries. While some of those jobs are in steel mills, most of which are located in Ontario, others can be found at companies turning those steel products into parts and equipment for the energy, advanced manufacturing, construction and auto-making sectors.

While a lot of Canadian steel and aluminum heads to the US, in The Machining Center’s case the work primarily stays local. Building relationships within the community is key because many of their customers are repeats or referrals. They often work with the local high schools and Loyalist College, taking on placement students to give them hands-on experience.

Vreugdenhil says the company is always looking for prospective hires who demonstrate engagement and interest with the company. “We need young apprentices who want to learn and hone their skills,” he says.

To show examples of what they are teaching, teachers often direct students to The Machining Center’s website and social media platforms. Want an easy, COVID-proof way, to go behind the scenes at their Belleville shop? Check out their Instagram account, where they boast 70,000 followers.

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 27 ]

SPONSORED CONTENT

Pathway to Success

How the SHSM program introduces students and industry partners to possibilities

BY CHRISTINE D. LeBLANC

W

hat do you want to be when you grow up?

It’s a big question, and it becomes particularly important as students approach their final years of high school.

At the same time, where to find a qualified workforce is an important question for industry. A provincial program supported by the Ministry of Education, delivered through school boards and local high schools, helps both the future employee and employer.

The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program allows students to tailor their high school experience to their interests and individual learning styles. Students can focus their learning on a specific sector in the workforce while getting the credits they need to graduate, then receive the SHSM designation on their diploma. The program also helps them transition to employment, apprenticeship, college or university after graduation.

“I really see the heartbeat of SHSM is having these authentic opportunities with industry partners. It also helps us support teachers in a new way of delivering curriculum, without it being just about the textbooks,” says Lydia Hamilton, SHSM board lead for the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) and the co-chair of the Eastern Regional SHSM Board Leads.

The 19 sectors available include manufacturing, construction and food processing. SHSM helps students gain industryrecognized certifications and training relevant to their future careers. Whether students are heading towards the workplace, an apprenticeship, college or university, the SHSM program helps them customize their high school experience so they can explore and get a hands-on taste of their options.

The Ottawa Catholic School Board has manufacturing programs at All Saints and Notre Dame high schools. As All Saints student Connor Lynch says, “SHSM will help me plan my future career because it brings the opportunity to do co-op placements. These placements give students a chance to find a job that is right for them.

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Micah Hurley from All Saints High School learning glass blowing skills at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories I’m hoping to do my co-op over the summer in the trades. As I explore manufacturing, I’m learning what interests me and what doesn’t, which will help me make decisions later in life.”

Journey to a career

Even if students choose not to pursue their choice, it’s an easier, quicker and less expensive way to explore their options than enrolling in a post-secondary program, for example. Those who do continue are more likely to complete college or university, because they know it’s what they want to do.

“A career path is not what it used to be,” Hamilton says, when the goal was to get a good job and stay at one company for life.

Instead, people are evolving and crossing sectors. “It’s not always a straight road, it’s more of a journey,” she says, and students see that.

Students going home and sharing their

experiences with their parents helps both generations see there are many ways to live and make a career. Parents may encourage traditional roles like doctor or lawyer, but with SHSM they are introduced to a great range of opportunities that can be just as beneficial and lucrative for their children.

The SHSM program focuses on experiential learning combined with developing a mindset suitable for 21st century careers. The program fosters design thinking, showing students how to go from an idea to a complete product and beyond. It’s that kind of thinking, Hamilton says, that inspires business and innovation. “We need creative problemsolvers.”

Manufacturers of the future

Manufacturers may not have considered that “students are the consumers and workforce of the future,” she says. Stu-

dents can bring fresh eyes and ideas, offering creative ways to approach a problem or a challenge offered by their industry partners.

“Manufacturing really crosses all sectors, from food to metal and everything in between. We need to expand the definition.”

"We’ve had construction students hired over the phone just based on the certifications they’ve received."

LYDIA HAMILTON, OCDSB SHSM BOARD LEAD, EASTERN REGIONAL SHSM BOARD LEADS CO-CHAIR

Meanwhile, students get to see how school translates to the real world and they discover there can be purpose to their lessons. As part of their course work, students have to complete lessons on either coding, math literacy or innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship (ICE).

In the construction stream, for example, students may be asked to use math to calculate the rise, run and length of roof rafters. That shows them a direct link between their schoolwork and the real-world applications.

SHSM enables students to obtain sectorrecognized certifications and complete training courses that can be expensive to get on their own, outside of the program.

Mandatory courses are first aid, CPR and workplace hazardous materials information systems (WHMIS). Students have to take three additional certifications of their choice, ranging from basic electrical safety and elevated work platforms, to fall protection, welding, computer-aided design/manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and sector-specific vehicle operation and safety.

A definite advantage

Having these certifications definitely gives students an advantage. Companies like that they’re already a step ahead, and don’t need the additional time or training

to get up to speed.

“We’ve had construction students hired over the phone just based on the certifications they’ve received,” Hamilton says.

The co-op portion of the program starts with some in-class work on resumés and interview skills, then students are matched with employers based on their interests. They report to work instead of school, and have a set number of hours and assignments to complete, before returning to class to share their experiences. Industry partners provide the school with reports as well. The program is customized for each student and company, depending on interest and need.

For students interested in going onto an apprenticeship after high school, they may even be able to complete their first level by graduation.

SHSM is available through all 14 school boards in the Ottawa and Eastern Ontario area, whether public, Catholic, English or French. In the Eastern Ontario region, there are 14 manufacturing programs and 42 construction programs.

If teachers and principals detect student interest, their school can apply to the provincial ministry for the program.

While every school board in Ontario can offer the program, each is unique to area needs, from student interests to the mix of local industry partners.

While the pandemic has presented its challenges in delivering the program, particularly the hands-on aspects of a co-op placement, SHSM opportunities are still available for those who are interested. There are multiple ways for a company to get involved as an industry partner, from speaking to students and mentoring a group through a problemsolving process, all the way up to offering a co-op placement, either virtually or in person as COVID restrictions allow.

The Teachers’ Perspective: All Saints manufacturing teacher Paul McDonough feels that community partners play a crucial role in making the SHSM programs relevant, and industry connections make all the difference.

Manufacturers dealing with a lack of skilled workers benefit from the program just as much as students do.

As McDonough says, “The employers get some of the most prepared and brightest minds coming out of high school who have corporate experience, which is very valuable. An employer can train them in skills, but if a student has work experience in an industry, they have a better understanding of what makes someone a better employee.”

It’s those connections that make Scott Pemberton say that in his 22 years of teaching, the SHSM program stands out as the best opportunity students have to feel confident moving forward with a future career.

Pemberton, head of engineering and technology at Earl of March Secondary School, says after their co-op placements, students come back excited about participating in the workforce.

The program helps students make contacts in industry, get references for summer jobs and gives them a “jump start” on their careers.

“Anything we can do to make careers more three dimensional, instead of students just reading about it, is a good thing,” he says. “They get to experience it, they get some training; it makes it very real.”

“The SHSM program helps kids make better choices.”

He has a special message for female students who may not consider manufacturing to be a welcoming or appropriate choice for themselves: “Don’t put limitations on yourself.” He says industry would be served better if female students saw all the options they have.

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 29 ]

SPONSORED CONTENT

Career Options For Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) Students Whether you're heading into the workforce, an apprenticeship, college or university, SHSM can help you along your chosen career path. Here are a few examples of occupations in manufacturing you might consider.

College

Chemical, industrial, mechanical, electrical and electronics technologists and technicians; purchasing agents and officers; technical sales specialists

KAWARTHA LAKES

Workforce

Apprenticeship

Foundry workers; machining tool operators; material handlers; motor vehicle assemblers, inspectors and testers; purchasing and inventory control workers

Millwrights and mechanics; machinists and electricians; tool and die makers; welders; metal and platework fabricators and fitters

University

Chemical, computer, electrical, electronics, industrial and manufacturing, mechanical, metallurgical and materials engineers

[ 30 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

"There's no cost to the student to be in the SHSM program. This provides equitable access across the system for any student interested."

DEB LAWLER, OCSB SHSM BOARD LEAD AND EASTERN REGIONAL SHSM BOARD LEADS CO-CHAIR

PRESCOTT & RUSSELL 1

RENFREW 11, 12 OTTAWA 2, 3, 5, 6 LANARK 4 HASTINGS 8

STORMONT DUNDAS & GLENGARRY 7

FRONTENAC 10

LENNOX & ADDINGTON 9

PETERBOROUGH 13

LEEDS & GRENVILLE 7

PRINCE EDWARD

Eastern Ontario Boards Offering SHSM Courses 1

Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l'Est ontarien csdceo.org

8 Hastings And Prince Edward District School Board hpedsb.on.ca

2

Ottawa Catholic School Board ocsb.ca/shsm

9 Algonquin & Lakeshore Catholic District School Board alcdsb.on.ca

3

Conseil des écoles publiques de l'Est de l'Ontario cepeo.on.ca

10 Limestone District School Board limestone.on.ca

4 Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario cdsbeo.on.ca

11 Renfrew County District School Board rcdsb.on.ca

5

12 Renfrew County Catholic District School Board rccdsb.edu.on.ca

Ottawa-Carleton Disctrict School Board ocdsb.ca/shsm

6 Écoles Catholiques du Centre-Est ecolecatholique.ca 7

13 Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board www.kprschools.ca

Upper Canada District School Board ucdsb.on.ca STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 31 ]

SPONSORED CONTENT

Colleges Collaborate to Provide Crucial Job Training to Aluminum and Steel Industry Businesses

BY FRANK ARMSTRONG

W

hen the U.S. introduced trade tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum in May 2018, Canada’s manufacturers issued a collective gasp. The impacts were felt acutely in Ontario, which has the highest share of steel production workers in Canada and more than 150 aluminum fabrication suppliers.

Eastern Ontario, of course, was no exception

“Some of our smaller manufacturers were really panicked because as soon as you start increasing the costs of supplies and inventory, that means staff disruptions, we’re not investing in capital or innovation, and we are not investing in training,” says Darla Price, managing director of the Northumberland Manufacturers’ Association.

Even without the troubling impacts of the tariffs, aluminum and steel manufacturing firms were already facing challenges from a surge of imports from non-NAFTA countries, rapid technological change in manufacturing, and skilled labour shortages.

Something had to be done

In this region, the Eastern Ontario College Consortium—Consortium des Collèges de l’Est de l’Ontario (EOCC)—was created to help the local steel and aluminum manufacturing and metal fabrication sector to remain competitive, with funding from [ 32 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

the Ontario government.

Through its SkillsAdvance Ontario program, the Ontario government funds partnerships that connect employers with the employment and training services required to recruit and advance workers with the right essential, technical, and employability skills. It also supports jobseekers to obtain employment by providing them with sector-specific employment and training services.

Projects like the EOCC are intended to support workforce development and embody a sector-focused strategy that takes into consideration the dynamic nature of regional economies and labour markets, as well as the evolving requirements of different industrial sectors.

Under the project, five Ontario colleges came together to help steel and aluminum and metal fabrication businesses to innovate and collaborate on sector-based training and workforce development solutions that can be rapidly deployed and achieve synergy via shared resources and ongoing collaboration. Those colleges are Algonquin College, Collège La Cité, St. Lawrence College, Fleming College, and Loyalist College.

Lisa Benoit, manager of employment services at Algonquin College and a consortium spokesperson, says that since the launch in April 2019, the project was able to mobilize quickly to provide the sectors with much-needed upskilling and retraining supports. The project aims to support

over 1,600 incumbent workers and 400 job seekers in Eastern Ontario in its 24-month project period.

Existing workers will continue to receive upskilling and retraining through the project to ensure they are kept up to speed with the ever-evolving technology changes of factories.

In addition, this year, job seekers will receive training to help make them more competitive for employment in the steel and aluminum and metal fabrication sector.

Upskilling training can address a myriad of skills needs, from welding and machine shop essentials to artificial intelligence, pneumatics, and leadership. Indeed, leadership training is in big demand.

“We are, across the board, in an environment where we have a number of mature workers who are set to retire from the sector and a number of emerging new leaders who need to be equipped with the skills to drive change within their organization,” says Benoit.

"Ontario colleges came to the rescue. Our manufacturers wouldn’t otherwise be able to spend in this area."

DARLA PRICE, MANAGING DIRECTOR, NORTHUMBERLAND MANUFACTURERS' ASSOCIATION

The EOCC is also developing and delivering industry-endorsed micro-credentials unique to the sector. The first, developed last year, was for Machine Trade Skills, which provided seven badges and microcertification on areas such as machining essentials, precision measurement, and quality assurance, all of which could help employees enhance their positions within their companies.

This year, three new micro-credentials are under development. One of those is Manufacturing Essentials, which is designed to give job seekers a core set of essential skills for entry-level manufacturing jobs. This course will be launched in late Fall 2020.

Price, of the Northumberland Manufacturers’ Association, who is also a member

of the consortium’s advisory committee, says the consortium has had a big impact on many of her members’ operations.

Every one of them has taken advantage of the free training provided through the consortium.

“Ontario colleges came to the rescue,” says Price. “Our manufacturers wouldn’t otherwise be able to spend in this area.”

Price worked with multiple colleges to address the training needs of the area’s steel and aluminum workforces.

“We sat down and split the list of manufacturers and it worked beautifully,” says Price. “People can’t believe we (the consortium) have five colleges sitting at the table working together.”

Price says the consortium is also doing excellent work at marketing careers in

steel and aluminum manufacturing to eligible job seekers.

All training and industry credentials are free for eligible job seekers and sector employers. Contact the Eastern Ontario Colleges Consortium for more information at info@eocc-cceo.ca.

The Employment Ontario project is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 33 ]

SPONSORED CONTENT

Times May be Tough, but Many Eastern Ontario Manufacturers are Hiring

BY FRANK ARMSTRONG

W

hen the pandemic hit Ontario hard in March, it hit Ross Video’s manufacturing division, too.

Founded in 1974, the Iroquois, Ontario, live production solutions company had experienced growth for 28 consecutive years, but that continuous growth was suddenly threatened when its core sports broadcast services division was faced with an all-out ban on fan attendance at sporting events.

What did Ross Video do?

“We evolved our technology and services to adjust to broadcast live sporting events in the absence of fans being present,” says Cathy McCallion, Ross Video’s recruitment [ 34 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

and community relations manager.

In other words, Ross Video created a solution that includes a combination of physical devices in its control room that can be controlled remotely while minimizing the number of people required to be on-site and keeping all operators safely physically distanced.

The move paid off. Ross Video is now planning to hire another 20 people in the manufacturing department over the next year and is planning to build a 55,000 square foot addition to its already 70,000 square foot. manufacturing facility. Overall, Ross Video is planning to hire close to 200 people throughout the different departments over the next year.

Ross Video is just one of many Eastern

Ontario manufacturers that are thriving, growing, and planning to hire more people in the midst of one of the most challenging economic times in recent history. It seems no matter whom you talk to, there are plenty of well-paying, exciting career opportunities to be had in this region’s manufacturing sector.

It’s an employee-driven market

Steve Holmgren, Eastern Ontario field services advisor for the Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium, says many Canadian companies have adapted and evolved their businesses, like Ross Video, to continue to successfully compete in the global economy.

“It’s an employee-driven labour

Making it in Manufacturing Resource Network The Making it in Manufacturing (MIIM) Resource Network helps manufacturers to market their business, connect with potential hires, and tap into other supports for free. In the fall 2020, these include the following services: • Hosting a booth at a virtual career fair in early October • Showcasing companies in a manufacturing magazine (you are reading it!)

• Accessing hiring support through employment service providers to fill open positions • Using MIIM’s expertise to analyze labour market information The MIIM project is funded by the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, and delivered by the Ottawa Employment Hub at the Algonquin College.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROSS VIDEO

"The potential for employment and for professional development is alive and well in the industry."

STEVE HOLMGREN, EASTERN ONTARIO FIELD SERVICES ADVISOR, EXCELLENCE IN MANUFACTURING CONSORTIUM

market right now, especially in manufacturing,” says Holmgren. “The potential for employment and for professional development is alive and well in the industry.”

Indeed, according to the September 2020 Ottawa Employment Hub Labour Market Navigator report, the number of manufacturing job ads grew between July and August—despite the pandemic.

Nonetheless, Holmgren says, many job seekers aren’t aware that there are excellent opportunities in manufacturing because the manufacturing sector, in the Ottawa area at least, tends to be overshadowed by tech and federal government employers.

People also don’t realize that manufacturing jobs aren’t just on assembly lines

and can be in accounting, computer engineering, software engineering and design and human resources.

“It’s not only the grease and grime of what you might think it to be, although there is some of that,” Holmgren says.

Essential services manufacturing strong

In general, essential services manufacturers—such as medical and electronic components makers—are seeing the strongest growth in Eastern Ontario, where more than 2,100 manufacturers of all sizes reside.

Holmgren says he is seeing the biggest demand for people in the skilled trades, particularly for electricians, who can

History: The Ottawa Chamber of Commerce and the West Ottawa Board of Trade established a Manufacturing Subcommittee in 2017. A manufacturing summit was held, and it confirmed that there is a need to increase awareness of the opportunities within the local manufacturing sector. The committee focused on topics such as how to increase awareness, how to attract and retain talent, and how manufacturers could better connect with each other. The chambers amalgamated to become the Ottawa Board of Trade in 2018, and the Ottawa Employment Hub became a key member of the committee. Another summit was organized in 2018, and there was a strong recommendation to do more. The first STUFF magazine was launched in 2019, and in 2020 MIIM project received operational funding from the provincial government.

Connect with Us www.miimottawa.ca info@miimottawa.ca linkedin.com/company/making-it-inmanufacturing-miim twitter.com/MiimOttawa

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 35 ]

SPONSORED CONTENT

Manufacturing sector is bouncing back from COVID-19 35

COVID-19 hit the manufacturing sector too in early 2020, but by September, the number of people working in the sector in the Kingston-Pembroke area exceeded the 2019 numbers, and in the Ottawa area the gap is almost closed.

(Data source: Statistics Canada.)

(x 1,000 Persons)

30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Jan

Feb

Mar

Ottawa, Ontario 2020 Kingston-Pembroke 2020

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Ottawa, Ontario 2019 Kingston-Pembroke 2019

Hiring in the manufacturing sector continues to increase Compared to 2019, there has been less job openings in the manufacturing sector in 2020 due to COVID-19.

However, the trend is looking positive, as manufacturing is one of the essential sectors for Eastern Ontario. (Data source: Statistics Canada.)

450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Jan

Feb

Mar

Eastern Ontario 2020 Ottawa 2020

earn as much as $80,000 annually.

As an aside, the average manufacturing salary pays about $66,000 per year in Ottawa and $57,493 in Eastern Ontario with more than 4,300 new jobs opening annually, according to figures compiled

by Ottawa’s Making it in Manufacturing Resource Network.

To be sure, overall job market growth has slowed as a result of the pandemic, but Holmgren says the Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium is expecting huge long-term growth in manufacturing employment.

“Folks around my age—the Baby Boomers—will be retiring in large numbers and that’s opening what I would call the old adage of ‘waiting for dead men’s shoes,'" he says. [ 36 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Eastern Ontario 2019 Ottawa 2019

COVID is a “short-term problem”

Sophie Chen, Market Director for Asia at Invest Ottawa, says the negative employment impact caused by the pandemic will not last and overall employment will bounce back.

“We all know that COVID is just going to be a short-term problem,” Chen says.

“Eventually, it will go away.”

Chen recommends that students who are considering career paths in the Ottawa area monitor the Ottawa Employment Hub’s sector spotlight publications published on its website, which show where the jobs are in the area. Indeed, the 2020 Sector Spotlight on Manufacturing reveals that almost one quarter of local manufacturing jobs are in computer and electronic product manufacturing.

These same reports are used by employ-

ment service providers to guide job seekers. They are also used by industry to make critical investment decisions.

This can include decisions to locate a new factory in Ottawa or to expand, says Chen, who uses the reports when working with Invest Ottawa clients.

Lorraine Gignac, branch manager of Adecco Employment Services and cochair of Ottawa’s Making it in Manufacturing Resource Network, says there are many in-demand manufacturing jobs.

Opportunities vary from the entry level assembly roles to production technicians.

Plenty of jobs available

The highest demand is for people who have some experience in production assembly, says Gignac. “But there are

Ottawa Employment Hub The Ottawa Employment Hub (OEH) is one of the 26 Workforce Planning Boards across the Province, with a mandate to gather and share intelligence on the local labour market and bring the community together for the purpose of collaborating on workforce development. OEH is funded by the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development.

Ottawa Employment Hub activities in 2020 – 2021 include the following:

"I always say, take a chance and even take a temporary job in manufacturing to see if it is an environment you would like, because once you get experience in manufacturing, you could open up a whole new world."

LORRAINE GIGNAC, ADECCO EMPLOYMENT SERVICES BRANCH MANAGER, MIIM CO-CHAIR

also jobs for candidates with no assembly experience with a good work ethic—many manufacturers are open to training,” she says.

Adecco is also fielding plenty of requests to find workers for manufacturers from many industries. Moreover, warehousing requirements grow hand-in-hand with manufacturing because manufacturers need places to store their products.

Gignac agrees with Holmgren that many job seekers are not aware that manufacturing jobs can lead to challenging, upwardly mobile careers.

Gignac has first-hand experience with those career growth opportunities. Her

first job was an entry-level one in a production environment. She was promoted to supervisor then to production manager. She then went back to school to study management and continued to rise in her career, says Gignac, who has seen many Adecco clients do the same.

Says Gignac: “I always say, take a chance and even take a temporary job in manufacturing to see if it is an environment you would like, because once you get experience in manufacturing, you could open up a whole new world.”

• Engage employers by organizing sector-specific roundtables, helping them to navigate existing services and surveying them on their hiring needs and challenges.

• Offer workforce development tools for the community partners and educators who work with youth, students and job seekers.

• Provide local labour market information, such as sector spotlights and occupational outlooks: ottawaemploymenthub.ca/lmi-library/.

• Deliver the Making it in Manufacturing (MIIM) Resource Network project.

History: Ottawa Employment Hub has held different names and delivered several projects in the community since its inception in 2011.

Some of the OEH partners are the Ottawa Board of Trade, Invest Ottawa, industry associations, Employment Ontario Ottawa Network, Rideau Ottawa Valley Learning Network, Hire Immigrants Ottawa, LASI Coalition, Employment Accessibility Resource Network, Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition, colleges, universities and school boards in Ottawa and Ottawa Network for Education.

Connect with Us ottawaemploymenthub.ca

Lorraine Gignac, Steve Holmgren and Cathy McCallion are all part of the Making it in Manufacturing (MIIM) Resource Network working group. The MIIM project is funded by the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, and delivered by the Ottawa Employment Hub.

info@ottawaemploymenthub.ca linkedin.com/company/ ottawa-employment-hub twitter.com/OttEmpHub

The service is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 37 ]

SPONSORED CONTENT

CITY OF CORNWALL

Give Your Family and Career Room to Breathe From manufacturing to logistics and food processing, Cornwall's employers are hungry for talent.

Cornwall is a thriving Eastern Ontario city that has evolved from its United Empire Loyalist roots into a modern economy anchored by forward-thinking companies.

But it has one pressing challenge—a lack of people.

“There are simply more jobs than people –we’ve never seen anything like it,” said Bob Peters, division manager at Cornwall Economic Development. “Job opportunities are coming fast and furious and span a variety of occupations, skillsets and experience levels.”

Cornwall’s challenges are a result of successful efforts over the past 15 years to attract new investment. The city’s strategic location — in addition to low electricity rates, affordable commercial land and low housing costs–has created one of the strongest economies in Ontario.

A growing hub for multinational companies

Today, Cornwall is a growing hub for warehousing, transportation and logistics as well as the light industrial and manufacturing activities that have always been its mainstay. Walmart, Shoppers Drug Mart and the Benson Group operate large distribution centres, while Olymel and Leclerc have established state-of-the-art food processing facilities.

These and a host of other employers in the area now find themselves in dire need of talent to fill vacancies that

Cornwall offers young people a chance to enjoy life while they are building a career.

It is a great city to call home, with an amazing river lifestyle and progressive employment opportunities.” GUY ROBICHAUD, PRESIDENT, LAMINACORR • Laminacorr started in Cornwall in 1998 with just a few employees. Today, it has over 80 employees and has grown to become the largest independent corrugated plastic products manufacturer in North America. It is recognized as one of Canada’s fastestgrowing companies. For Guy Robichaud, choosing Cornwall is all about lifestyle. [ 38 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

SPONSORED CONTENT

10 REASONS TO WORK, LIVE AND PLAY IN CORNWALL 1 Housing prices are among the most affordable in Ontario 2 Wide variety of employment opportunities 3 The amenities of a big city, without the headaches 4 A bilingual and multicultural community 5 Hundreds of acres of scenic waterfront parks with dedicated recreational trails 6 A vibrant arts scene along with top-notch shopping and dining

include skilled tradespeople, health-care professionals, truckers, managers, supervisors and technicians.

employers are creating opportunities to build careers and advance in growing sectors of our economy.”

For Peters and his team, it’s vital to reach recent graduates, newcomers to Canada and anyone else looking for a change from big city living.

A list of current employment opportunities can be found on ChooseCornwall.ca.

“Cornwall offers the chance to raise a family without having to worry about a crippling mortgage or deal with a long commute every day,” Peters said. “Our

7 Excellent schools, including St. Lawrence College and skills training programs 8 A full-service community hospital and modern health care services 9 Public transit, 400-series highway, daily inter city bus and rail service 10 Modern fitness facilities, organized sports, world-class golf

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 39 ]

SPONSORED CONTECT

CITY OF KINGSTON

A Smart, Liveable 21st Century City Kingston combines a vibrant social scene with entrepreneurship and innovation.

Ian Murdoch’s previous career as a consulting engineer took him across the country, giving him plenty of insight into what it would be like to live and work in any of Canada’s major cities.

At the end of each trip, he always found himself glad to come home to Kingston.

So, it may come as little surprise that he ended up with the Kingston Economic Development Corporation as a business development officer — an ambassador for the Limestone City, charged with grow-

ing and retaining its employment base and labour pool.

“Kingston is the fresh-water sailing capital of the world, we have more pubs and restaurants per capita than just about anywhere, a vibrant waterfront and nightlife,” he said. “I have acres of land just minutes from downtown. Just about every activity on water imaginable is outside your front door. Kingston’s earned kudos as most walkable city in Ontario, one of the top places to live in Canada, and that’s just a start.”

That quality of life is only part of the story. A well-educated labour force is another of Kingston’s distinctions. The area has a strong post-secondary tradition between Queen’s University, St. Lawrence College and the Royal Military College of Canada, and has ranked first in Canada for PhD grads. Each year, these three institutions have about 45,000 students enrolled.

For Murdoch and the team, the challenge is to impress upon these students that Kingston is a great community in which to remain.

Top in Canada for R&D

What may surprise many people is Kingston’s spot on an international ranking of Canada’s cities — No. 1 for industrial

If you are thinking of starting a family or a business, there is no better place than Kingston. The barrier to entry and the cost of doing business is lower than the GTA or Ottawa. We have the Highway 401 access, the US access, the water access for recreation. We love it here and we love promoting Kingston.”

ERIC DINELLE, PRESIDENT, ENVIRONMENTALL CONTRACTING SERVICES.

[ 40 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

SPONSORED CONTECT

KUDOS FOR KINGSTON Best Canadian Hotspot for Young, Talented Workers (Next Cities) Top City to Raise a Family (Today’s Parent) World Top 7 Intelligent Community 2014 (Intelligent Community Forum) The Best Place to be a Woman in Canada 2019 (Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives) Most Sustainable City (Corporate Knights) Top Place to Live in Canada (MoneySense Magazine) and academic research and development.

Businesses such as DuPont, INVITSA, Bombardier, GreenCentre Canada and Grafoid maintain significant global R&D facilities in Kingston to take advantage of the research partnerships available with the colleges and the university.

“Our post-secondary institutions are developing world-class talent, we have specialized research institutions and dedicated startup incubators and accelerators,” Murdoch said.

All of which positions the city as an innovative, leading economy. Residents of Kingston benefit from high-speed connectivity delivered by 1,000 km of fibre-optic cables as well as proximity to major markets in Canada and the US. Over the past three years, more than $2 billion of new infrastructure investments have been completed or announced that will further boost the city’s appeal for both jobseekers and employers.

Find your place

Most Vibrant Downtown (Journal of American Planning)

living in a larger city,” Murdoch said. “We are a city of diversity and big ideas—come be a part of it.”

To learn more about putting down roots, building a career or starting a business in Kingston, please visit www.kingstonecdev. com.

“Kingston offers fantastic career opportunities and an even better quality of life without having to absorb the high costs of STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 41 ]

SPONSORED CONTENT

RENFREW COUNTY

More for You in Renfrew County Just west of the nation’s capital, in the Ottawa Valley, lies the biggest county in Ontario.

It ranges from Arnprior on the edge of Ottawa, west to Deep River and Laurentian Hills, and southwest to the Madawaska Valley, Barry’s Bay and Algonquin Park.

There, many surprises await you. It starts with a sense of community, a special quality of life, and space to wander and explore.

“We have a style of living here that’s allowed Renfrew County to grow a diverse economy around our heritage industries of agriculture and forestry, to include manufacturing, scientific research and development, aerospace, defence and security, tourism and media,” said Alastair Baird, head of Renfrew County’s economic development department. [ 42 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

“Our employers draw partners, suppliers and customers from just down the road in Ottawa, across North America and around the world.”

The region features an interesting mix of industry and employment opportunities.

With more people working remotely than ever, even your commute won’t hold you back anymore. “We can get to work via fibre on the internet, a car, on foot or by bike,” quips one local.

One example of a local company looking to expand its workforce is Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), Canada’s largest nuclear science and technology centre.

“Over the past two years we have looked very carefully at our capabilities, our skill sets and people, and identified those areas in which we are uniquely equipped to respond to global challenges in health, in energy, and in climate change,” commented Dr. Kathy McCarthy, vice president of research and development with CNL. “As CNL enters this period of organizational growth, our biggest challenge will be

to augment our high-calibre research and development team, build strength in new capability areas, and effectively replace those who are planning to retire.”

In addition to your dream job, your dream home can be more than just a fantasy, with lower housing and rental costs than major urban areas. A low crime rate, excellent health care services and multiple school boards make the county of Renfrew an ideal place to raise a family. New apartment buildings, urban housing developments, and rural resort and waterfront housing are springing up across Renfrew County.

Plus, with the region’s lakes, rivers and forests, there’s something for everyone in all seasons.

From canoeing, stand-up paddling, whitewater rafting, mountain biking and hiking, to fishing, skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling, your opportunities to be active and in nature are endless.

A SAMPLING OF LOCAL COMPANIES Manufacturing • Arnprior Aerospace • Bishop Water Technologies • Bonnechere Valley Windows • Bubble Technology Industries • Deslaurier Custom Cabinets • E.T.M. Industries Inc. • Kerry (Canada) Inc. • Magellan Aerospace • Nylene Canada • Plaintree Systems • St. Francis Herb Farm • Scapa Tape • Tru-Way Machinery Manufacturers Forestry Get the best of small town and rural living, all within reach of major cities. Start living your best life — here in Renfrew County.

Recruiting businesses

Entrepreneurs and established businesses alike can all find their place in Renfrew County.

Take the opportunity to rethink your business and reduce your costs. Well-priced land and buildings, plus development costs lower than the provincial average, mean your investment goes a lot farther here.

With a municipal economic development team waiting to welcome you that’s dedicated to helping your business relocate, launch and succeed, consider the possibilities.

“A qualified, available and dedicated workforce is essential for business success, and we find that here in Renfrew County,” notes Alexandre Ouellette, Plant Manager at Roseburg Forest Products/Pembroke MDF. The company makes medium density fibreboard (MDF) from wood fibre sourced from across the County, with sales across Canada and the eastern US.

Industry and manufacturing, science and technology, agriculture and forestry, food and beverage processing — the diverse business environment in the region will surprise you.

Both large and small companies can find commercial space on a main street or in a shopping centre. The county’s highways and nearby airports create easy access to larger cities and proximity to major markets, so your customers and suppliers are never far away.

Here, your employees and partners are your neighbours, with a skilled labour force at your doorstep.

• Ben Hokum & Son Limited • Hec Clouthier & Sons • Herb Shaw & Sons Limited • Laverne Heideman & Sons Limited • Murray Brothers Lumber Company • McRae Lumber Company • Pastway Planing Construction • Bonnechere Excavating Inc. • Greenwood Paving

Innovation and great business can happen anywhere — why not here in Renfrew County?

• H&H Construction Inc.

Curious? Find out more at www.investrenfrewcounty.ca.

• Miller Group

• M. Sullivan & Son Limited • RGT Clouthier Construction Ltd. • The Eastway Group • Zuracon Inc. General Contracting

Pay us a visit in Renfrew County.

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 43 ]

PEMBROKE

RENFREW NIPISSING

LANARK

N HALIBURTO

HASTINGS

C FRONTENA

UGH

PETERBORO KAWARTHA LAKES

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LENNOX & N ADDINGTO BELLEVILLE

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[ 44 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

PRINCE EDWARD

KINGSTON

& PRESCOTT RUSSELL

CORNWALL

OTTAWA LS

SMITHS FAL

STORMONT DUNDAS &RY GLENGAR

PRESCOTT E

BROCKVILL LEEDS & E GRENVILL

E

GANANOQU

Jobs & Careers

in Manufacturing & Building in Eastern Ontario Adecco

46

BCS Automation Central Wire Continental Conveyor E.T.M. Industries Inc. EMC Canada Encore Steel Fab-Cut Systems Healthcraft

48 50 52 54 56 58 60 62

Ironworkers Local 765 KI Canada KE Solutions Kingston Aluminum Tech Kott Inc. Label Innovation Inc. Laurysen Kitchens Ltd.

64 66 68 70 72 74 76

Lucky Strike Bait Works M CON Products Inc. METEC Metal Technology Inc. Northern Cables Inc. OlsonFab Metal Fabrication

78 80 82 84 86

Olymel Prysmian Group Pure Ingenuity Ross Video Sanmina SigmaPoint SnapCab Sport Systems (SSCI) Sullivan The Bobbins Production Studio Wills Transfer

88 90 92 94 96 98 100 102 104 106 108

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 45 ]

ADECCO Why you want to work here

Our vision is to ensure that people across Canada and the globe are inspired, motivated, trained and developed to embrace the future of work. To be in environments where they are empowered to thrive, stimulated to succeed and given every chance to make their individual futures better and brighter than ever before.

Who we are

Adecco offers a wide variety of services that include temporary staffing, permanent placement, career transition, reskilling and talent development.

In Eastern Ontario, Adecco helps manufacturing companies hire hundreds of employees annually. We’re looking for smart, driven individuals eager to grow their careers, experience and skills. And not at some ordinary company. We’re talking about a global industry leader that challenges and rewards its employees in a fun, collaborative culture. A company that makes a difference by putting hundreds of thousands of people to work every year.

We’re looking for people like you to work at Adecco.

What we do

For businesses, we provide services in assessing the landscape and address areas for business transformation by forecasting needs, addressing skills gaps and accessing diverse, scalable talent pools.

For job seekers, we offer a simplified job search process, reskilling and upskilling opportunities, access to health benefits and career path development.

Our top customers

We work with a range of companies, from Fortune 500 companies to startups!

Our workplace culture

People are at the heart of our business — this foundation drives us to consistently reinvent ourselves and adapt to economic changes.

Career advancement

A position within Adecco offers the ability to start your career and grow within. Adecco University has online training programs from your first [ 46 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

day, all the way through as you make career advancements. The supportive leadership team helps you to understand your development path and how to achieve your goals. There is a variety of opportunities, and ability to progress within Adecco.

228-329 March Road Ottawa, ON 613-599-3151 www.adecco.ca @adeccocdn @adecco_canada twitter.com/@adeccocanada Youtube.com/Adecco4Canada

MEET THE TEAM Position: Senior Partnership Coordinator Name: Lana Ways Years at company: 3 Educational background: Bachelor of commerce – Human resources What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Working in the fast-paced world of staffing, each day is different! Typically, the first part of my day is ensuring all our job postings are up to date on every platform, updating my team, and screening resumés. The other part of my day is spent interviewing and connecting with candidates.

At Adecco, we’re all about connections. From connecting firsttime job seekers with awesome jobs to helping people have new career adventures."

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started my career with Adecco in 2017 as an onsite coordinator. I have been fortunate enough to work with several of our large third party logistics and manufacturing clients over the years as an onsite supervisor, and onsite manager, most recently working with our medical manufacturing client in Ottawa as a senior partnerships coordinator.

What is the best part about your job?

Simply put – the people. Being able to help our clients find the right candidates, and help our candidates find the right opportunities.

The job Requirements

Two years' related sales/customer service experience in a service-oriented environment, post-secondary education or equivalent years of experience, proficient with office technology.

Skills

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, organizational skills, proactive and analytical, customer service-oriented, adaptable to changing business needs.

Perks Health and dental benefits Three weeks of vacation time RRSP match program Short- and long-term disability coverage

Other: Flexible work hours; remote-friendly work environment; fitness reimbursement; tuition reimbursement; opportunity to earn bonus pay

Contact Person Lorraine Gignac, Branch Manager Lorraine.Gignac@adecco.ca 613-599-3151 ext. 0476 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 47 ]

BCS AUTOMATION Why you want to work here

Every project is unique and employees have the opportunity to work on a variety of tasks which include: quoting, designing, manufacturing, commissioning and servicing. Employees at BCS Automation get to see their designs come to life over the course of the project.

Who we are

BCS Automation is a family-owned Canadian business located in Belleville, Ontario, and specializes in electrical automated systems for marine, offshore and cement industries.

What we make

BCS manufactures custom electrical control equipment for industrial and marine applications. Products include switchboards, motor control centres and control panels.

Our top customers

Canadian Coast Guard, Seaspan Vancouver Shipyards, Algoma Central Corporation, Lower Lakes Towing, Lehigh Hanson Cement, LaFarge Canada, Kawartha Ethanol.

Our workplace culture

We promote collaboration and mentoring; new employees work closely with senior employees. We encourage employees to learn new skills and seek innovative solutions.

Career advancement

BCS provides employees with industryspecific training. As an employee gains experience, they will have the opportunity to contribute and lead complex projects.

Fun stuff

BCS has a newly renovated office in an old firehall that was built in 1953. We like to celebrate employee milestone achievements with a party or BBQ.

Community involvement

We sponsor a Technology Award every year at Centennial Secondary School. We have also been involved in the Young Women in Leadership Program. [ 48 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

316 Dundas St. East Belleville, ON 613-969-1108 www.bcsautomation.ca

MEET THE TEAM Position: Electrical Control Systems Designer Name: Jacob Burr Age: 32 Years at company: 8 Educational background: Electrical engineering technician diploma from St. Lawrence College What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

The day-to-day tasks and responsibilities vary depending on the project. Projects can include designing electrical schematics in AutoCAD, writing automation software, wiring custom control equipment, and many other things.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

After graduating from college, I took this position with BCS. After eight years I moved into a leadership role, and now I am leading a variety of projects.

Technical Expertise PLC Programming Human Machine Interface Variable Frequency Drives Industrial Grade Networks Instrumentation Motor Control Power Distribution Video Monitoring & Access Control Panel Building Project Management Commissioning

What is the best part about your job?

The best part of the job is the variety of different projects. There are great opportunities to learn and do new things.

The job Requirements

An electrical engineering technician diploma from a recognized college. Additional job requirements include experience with industrial programmable logic controllers, human machine interfaces and computer-based programming.

Skills

The ability to interpret client specifications and drawings, detail electrical systems and components from engineering sketches and communicate effectively with project team members and clients.

Perks Financial bonuses Three or more weeks of vacation time Casual dress code Retirement plan/RRSP contributions Free parking

Other: Flexible workplace (summer hour, flex time); strong work/life balance; competitive salary; paid employee training and development; great work space

Contact Person Kyle Pidduck kpidduck@bcsautomation.ca

Eligibility for payment of professional membership fee STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 49 ]

CENTRAL WIRE Why you want to work here

Our employees know that they are our most valued resource. They take great pride in their direct contribution to our customers’ success.

Who we are

CWI, headquartered in Perth, Ontario, is a global manufacturer of specialty alloy wire products. These products are used in aerospace, medical and industrial applications.

What we make

We manufacture fine wire, shaped wire and welding wire. Our specialty alloy welding products are manufactured using advanced techniques and practices to support the markets that shape our future.

Our workplace culture

We focus on health and safety, and training and development is actively encouraged.

Career advancement

At CWI, career advancement is real, not just a checkbox on a recruitment ad. Our GM started his journey at CWI as a junior sales coordinator, our corporate quality manager as a QA technician, and our corporate procurement specialist as an inventory control clerk, to name just a few examples!

Fun stuff

Our facility is situated directly within the town of Perth. For many of our employees, their daily commute is a brief walk!

facebook.com/centralwire/ linkedin.com/company/ central-wire/ twitter.com/CentralWireInd

[ 50 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

1 North St. Perth, ON 613-267-3752 www.centralwire.com

MEET THE TEAM Position: Maintenance Manager/Mechanical Designer Name: Adam Crouch Age: 24 Years at company: 4.5 Educational background: Manufacturing engineering technician, Algonquin College

At CWI, career advancement is real, not just a checkbox on a recruitment ad."

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Troubleshoot and repair wire manufacturing equipment with the help of the maintenance team and design new machines/upgrades for existing machines using Solidworks CAD software.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started as a draftsperson for CWI right after finishing school. My role designing equipment and distributing drawings for workers to complete flowed into taking over the maintenance management position when the previous manager retired.

What is the best part about your job?

Always getting to work on something new as different projects are completed. No two days are ever the same so I'm constantly learning.

Position: Production Scheduler Name: Joey Hannah Age: 39 Years at company: 15 Educational background: High school, some college, Lean management systems program What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

My primary focus is to efficiently plan and schedule our many products through the production operations, ensuring all customer requirements and expectations are met or exceeded.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started with the company as a part-time employee in shipping with our welding wire division. After two years, I got the opportunity to transition into the Production Scheduling team, and the rest is history!

What is the best part about your job?

Working together with different people and departments, all with the same goal in mind. Seeing the wide variety of products our customers make using our wire! I love working so close to home; the daily commute for me is a five minute ride on my Segway!

Perks Dental benefits Drug benefits Eyecare benefits Life insurance Free parking

Contact Person Retirement plan/RRSP contributions Other: Employee assistance program, education assistance program

Doug Ross General Manager doug.ross@centralwire.com 613-326-3004 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 51 ]

CONTINENTAL CONVEYOR Why you want to work here

Continental Conveyor is a great company to work for. They offer competitive wages, benefits and opportunities for advancement. They have a very low employee turnover rate as a result of their willingness to accommodate home-life balance for each employee.

Who we are

Continental Conveyor, established in 1963, specializes in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of mechanical bulk materials handling equipment and systems.

What we make

Bulk material handling equipment; belt conveyors; screw conveyors; apron feeders; bucket elevators. Design and develop complete engineered systems.

Our top customers

Mosaic Potash, Vale Canada - Nickel, DeBeers - Alamos Gold, Glencore, Lafarge Canada, OPG, Kirkland Lake Gold, Pinnacle Renewable Energy - Wood Pellets.

Our workplace culture

Exceptional leadership by encouraging collaboration with colleagues at all levels of the organization and an environment where employees feel respected and appreciated .

Career advancement

Continental encourages employees to communicate their career interests and help to create new opportunities for growth.

New stuff

Continental is in the final stages of our new idler plant expansion which will include new CNC equipment and improved processes.

Our values

Continental hires skilled local talent.

We support community organizations: United Way, Community Foundation of Napanee, Queen's University, St. Lawrence College and Loyalist College. [ 52 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

100 Richmond Blvd.

Napanee, ON 613-354-3318 www.continentalconveyor.ca

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Production Operator Name: Esteban Age: 27 Years at company: 1 Educational background: Instrumentation and control engineering technician diploma What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

4

Operate, configure and adjust programming on a highprecision state-of-the-art CNC turret lathe to make parts within 0.01 mm for conveyor systems.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

For eight years I've been involved in the mining/heavy equipment industry. Rebuilding machines being my passion, I was fortunate to get a job at the best conveyor manufacturer with state-of-the-art technology.

What is the best part about your job?

What I love about my job is I get to learn about anything involving machines, how they are made and work; whether it is the engineering, assembly, welding, fabricating, programming, work process or troubleshooting.

3

The job Operate CNC machinery, tooling and precision measurement tools; post-secondary education in relevant field preferred; read and interpret mechanical documents and drawings; computer savvy with basic understanding of computer programming and CAD/CAM.

Excellent communication skills; mechanical aptitude; excellent math skills; attention to detail; results-driven individual; adaptability in scheduling and priorities.

Lead Hand

2

Requirements

Skills

Supervisor

1

CNC Machinist

Factory Labourer

Perks Dental benefits

Retirement plan/RRSP contributions

Drug benefits

Free parking

Casual dress code

Life insurance

Eyecare benefits

Paid holidays

Contact Person hradmin@continentalconveyor.ca 613-354-3318

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 53 ]

E.T.M. INDUSTRIES INC. Why you want to work here

We have a talented and experienced workforce that allows us to be cutting edge in today's manufacturing industry. It is exciting to be part of an innovative and successful team.

Who we are

Founded in 1977, as a tool and die shop serving local industry, E.T.M. Industries Inc. has evolved into an international business. This continuous growth, in volume and capacity, has allowed us to develop a skilled and knowledgeable workforce from our community.

What we make

E.T.M. Industries Inc. is a multifaceted manufacturing facility providing CNC machined and plastic injection precision components and assemblies to the aircraft, space, military, automotive, mining, telecommunication and medical industries.

Our top customers

Our customers vary from a large range of industries that include aerospace, military, telecommunication, medical, mining and automotive.

Our workplace culture

At E.T.M. Industries Inc, our employees' success and well-being are paramount to our company's success. Our employees enjoy summer bbq's, pizza days, fund raisers that support our local community and our yearly Christmas festivities, just to mention a few.

Career advancement

As a company, we promote cross training and reap the benefits of having a very diverse workforce. Over the years many of our employees have started out as students and have now become part of our dynamic management team.

[ 54 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

310-266 Hall Ave. East Renfrew, ON 613-432-6136 www.etmindustries.on.ca

MEET THE TEAM

Career Options

Position: Office Manager Name: Marie McCallum Age: 62 Years at company: 35

CNC Machine Operator

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

As office manager my focus is to oversee the operation of the general office, coordinate appointments, meetings, and managing staff calendars. I also play the role of company payroll advisor and responsible for all of our accounts payable.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

5

4

I was approached by the owner who was looking for someone to run his office. I had previous experience in accounting and payroll, and as the company was growing there was a need for a dedicated office staff and I was a perfect fit. I did everything from deliveries, to purchasing, accounting, invoicing and organizing social events for our small team.

After being with the company 35 years I have seen it grow tremendously and I am proud to have been part of this successful team.

3

What is the best part about your job?

The people. We are a wonderful team.

The job

Engineering Quality Inspector

Maintenance Machinist

2

Requirements

College or university certificate or diploma in Office Administration. Five years' experience in Office Administration Management experience Excellent computer skills including a high degree of proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.

Assembly Technician

Tool Maker

Skills

The main goal of being office manager is to ensure that the office operates smoothly and efficiently. My duties and responsibilities usually include overseeing administrative staff members, receiving and directing visitors, and handling or delegating basic office tasks.

Perks Dental benefits

Employer-provided work wear

Drug benefits

Boot allowance

Eyecare benefits

Life insurance

Three or more weeks of vacation time

Short and long -term disability

Casual dress code

1

Office Administration

Contact Person John Robertson

President jrobertson@etmindustries.on.ca careers@etmindustries.on.ca STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 55 ]

EMC Why you want to work here

Excellence in Manufacturing is dedicated to helping Canadian manufacturers grow and become more competitive, at home and around the world!

Who we are

EMC is a unique not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping manufacturers. We contribute knowledge, expertise and resources towards the success of over 13,000 member manufacturers, representing every province across Canada. EMC's total manufacturing audience includes 40,000+ employers and 600,000 manufacturing employees.

What we make

With over one thousand industry events annually, we offer a broad range of hands-on programs and services, and help manufacturers to lower costs, access greater opportunities to compete for business and improve efficiencies in dealing with the day-to-day complexities of running a manufacturing operation.

Our workplace culture

EMC was founded with service to our members as our driving force. We succeed when our manufacturers succeed – our commitment is matched by the longevity of our employees with many over 20 years of service.

Career advancement

We work in leading edge technologies with national partners striving to assist Canadian manufacturing to the future.

Our values

EMC is focused on sustainable growth with our members, and community partners.

We fully believe that we need to ensure a viable productive future for all citizens of Canada now and in the future. We focus on leading edge technologies and systems to better assist our members to meet and exceed the challenges they face. [ 56 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

EMC Canada Head Office Box 396 Owen Sound, ON 1-866-323-4362 www.emccanada.org facebook.com/emccanada.org linkedin.com/company/excellence-inmanufacturing-consortium/ twitter.com/EMCCanadaMFG

MEET THE TEAM Position: Field Services Advisor Name: Steve Holmgren Age: 60 Years at company: 2 Educational background: Post-Secondary Business

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

My role is to ensure our members in the Eastern Ontario Region are provided the absolute best in support, research, and technology to assist them in meeting the challenges of manufacturing in the 21st century.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

Initially I began in banking and became a branch manager at the age of 25. Decided to return to Eastern Ontario, thus beginning my HR career spanning some 30 years, 20 of those in manufacturing.

EMC has grown to become Canada's largest manufacturing consortium and with over 1,000 industry events annually, is one of the most active manufacturing organizations in North America!"

What is the best part about your job?

I truly enjoy helping people and organizations do better for themselves and their communities.

The job Requirements

Post-secondary education with many years of experience in manufacturing in a variety of areas, such as finance, production, HR, engineering and quality.

Skills

We employ people in many areas of skill/education. Research, engineering, economics, marketing/sales, administration, government programs and community outreach.

Perks Dental benefits

Life insurance

Drug benefits

Free parking

Eyecare benefits Three or more weeks of vacation time Casual dress code

Other: Books or CDs to upgrade work-related skills; development support; snacks; employee assistance plan

Contact Person Steve Holmgren sholmgren@emccanada.org 613-246-2128 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 57 ]

ENCORE STEEL Why you want to work here

We are a structural and miscellaneous steel fabricator and installers with over 100 combined years of expertise, experience, and versatility. We take pride in our ability to complete intricate and challenging projects. Our remarkable portfolio shows dedication to delivering results in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Who we are

Encore Steel has become a leader in the business, offering a complete range of steel fabricating processes. This ranges from complete to partial fabrication.

What we make

We provide a variety of steel beams and columns, stairs, ladders, sump pit covers, trench frames, garbage enclosures, shelf angles, and loose lintels.

Our top customers

Ellisdon, Waterdon, Eddylands, Demarco, Westview, Lundy, BBS, OLRT, Chamberlain, Bronson, Pranger-Debruyn.

Our workplace culture

Encore steel is a friendly and respectful place to work while also being challenging and motivating: it creates an ideal workplace.

Career advancement

There are a multitude of opportunities from working your way up from junior welder to becoming shop foreman, drafting to estimating to project managing.

We ask our employees about their career path and we help them achieve it.

Fun stuff

Each year we provide many group activities from summer BBQs, Christmas parties and games to frequent teambuilding activities like mini putt.

Our values

We satisfy the needs of the construction world. We adhere to all the industrial standards and building codes. We make sure the tools used by our fabricators are of high quality and we provide devoted and specialized structural and miscellaneous steel fabricators. [ 58 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

2715 Sheffield Rd. Ottawa, ON 613-741-4610 encoresteel.ca facebook.com/EncoreSteel-105260691203780 linkedin.com/company/encore-steel @SteelEncore instagram.com/encoresteel/

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: President Name: John DeGrasse Age: 58 Years at company: 20 Educational background: Three-year architectural technologist What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

On a day-to-day basis I am coordinating projects, scheduling, drafting, engineering, and estimating as well as being heavily involved in the day-to-day running of the business.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

After completing my three-year architectural technologist course I started working for Carlton Iron before moving to regional steel, before being asked to join Encore Steel where I worked my way up to becoming President.

5

4

What is the best part about your job?

Being able to interact with my employees and customers on a daily basis, as well as loving what I do.

Position: Shop Foreman Name: Stephane LeBlanc Age: 53 Years at company: 11 Educational background: Welding course leading to my supervisor CWB certificate

3

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started as a junior welder, then I became a fabricator. After a few years of experience I became a shop lead hand before eventually taking on my supervisor shop foreman role.

1

Senior welder/ fabricator

Fabricator

2

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Usually, I am supervising what the guys in the shop are doing; helping coordinate the work for our projects to ensure we meet deadlines and training whenever needed.

Lead hand/ Shop foreman

Welder

Deliveries, forklift driver and some welding

What is the best part about your job?

Getting to work in the shop with the guys each day and helping them learn and progress: it almost feels like teaching.

Requirements

Having a welding/fabricating course and in any supervising role 5 years minimum experience is required.

Skills

Welding skills, reliable, good organisation skills, good time management skills.

Contact Person Emma Millar

encoreaccounting@bellnet.ca 613-741-4610 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 59 ]

FAB-CUT速 SYSTEMS Why you want to work here

At Fab-Cut Systems, our team of people are all family to us whether they are related or not. We have grown together, learned together and built a tight team where we all want the best for each other and for our customers. No one has an employee number here.

Who we are

Fab-Cut速 Systems is a family owned business focused on building CNC plasma cutting tables designed to meet customers needs.

What we make

Fab-Cut速 offers a rugged and high quality CNC plasma cutting table design featuring products from Thermal Dynamics, Kjellberg, Hypertherm, and Flashcut.

Our top customers

Welders, steel fabricators, sheet welding companies, and similar.

Our workplace culture

We have fun most days and, when the days are challenging, we all hunker down and just do everything we can to get the job done.

Career advancement

Those who start in the assembly area can move up to machine operator or into tech support. From there, they can potentially move into sales.

Fun stuff

Fab-Cut速 employs numerous military veterans as part of our team, leveraging their excellent technical and hands-on background and dedication to service.

1585 Centennial Drive Kingston, ON K7M 0K4 613-389-7761 www.fab-cut.com

[ 60 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

facebook.com/fabcutcnc twitter.com/FabCutCNC linkedin.com/company/ 64987089 www.youtube.com/channel/UCH_ qhq6p0FJhV-vHggypShQ/videos

MEET THE TEAM Position: Lead CNC Technician Name: Eric Bearisto Years at company: 5 Educational background: Three-year business administration degree What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I coordinate the day-to-day operations of the shop, providing mentorship to the other technicians as well as scheduling the purchase of equipment from various sources that is required when building each of the CNC plasma tables.

Most of our customers don’t need a Hummer to drive to work when a Chevy truck will do just fine. Our tables are solidly built, so you can rest assured that when you put a piece of metal on our tables, there is no movement or jiggle when cutting at high speeds."

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I work on the development of our product line, the integration of software, and the implementation of three different product lines of plasma machine and CNC plasma tables. I recently retired from the military and wanted to try something different.

What is the best part about your job?

My job day to day is never the same. We provide unique solutions and build the individual CNC plasma tables as per what the client needs. Taking something from raw material and equipment and seeing it through to the end is the most rewarding part.

The job Requirements

Electrical and/or electronics background experience. All training is done by us with the help of our manufacturers.

Skills

Electrical and/or electronics background. Ability to work independently and in teams.

Open to change and a busy environment with ever-changing manufacturing schedules.

Perks Dental benefits

Free parking

Drug benefits

Eyecare benefits

Casual dress code

Contact Person RenĂŠ Barnes rene@fab-cut.com 1-844-575-4500 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 61 ]

HEALTHCRAFT Why you want to work here

For 26 years HealthCraft has been designing and manufacturing fall prevention solutions. HealthCraft employees take pride in the craftsmanship that goes into making premium fall prevention equipment. Every space a safer place.

Who we are

HealthCraft was founded in 1994 by an engineer, occupational therapist, and a durable medical equipment store owner. Since 1994 HealthCraft has helped nearly one million people make over 500 million safe transfers in over 20 countries worldwide.

What we make

We design and manufacture advanced grab bar support products that help prevent falls. Our purpose is to raise awareness and educate on the needs of fall prevention and help people move with confidence.

Our top customers

We work directly with consumers who need safety, as well as market leaders who are passionate about providing a full safety solution for their clients including medical equipment stores, access remodelers, occupational therapists, and architects.

Our workplace culture

We are all about Lean Manufacturing and ISO13485 Certification. Minimizing waste, maximizing productivity, continuous improvement, and quality management.

We are a purpose-driven culture where our core values guide us to achieve excellence.

Career advancement

HealthCraft Team members have opportunities to advance when performance meets the highest standards, our purpose and core values are embraced, an interest to learn new skills is demonstrated and there is a desire to take on more responsibility. We are inspired by potential.

Fun stuff

Monthly birthday and HealthCraft anniversary celebrations, food truck visits, summer BBQs, Christmas parties, hockey pools, pumpkin carving contests and more. The Team at HealthCraft give back to the community by supporting Toy Mountain and the Youth Service Bureau’s “SleepOut for Youth.”

2790 Fenton Road Ottawa, ON 888-619-9992 healthcraftproducts.com invisiacollection.com linkedin.com/company/ healthcraft-group facebook.com/healthcraftgroup

[ 62 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

@hlthcrft_group

MEET THE TEAM Position: Marketing Manager Name: Ian Crawford Age: 41 Years at company: 17 What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Career Ladder • Digital Marketing (E-Commerce) • Sales Representative • IT Support

I lead an amazing marketing team at HealthCraft. Our goal is to educate targeted groups of consumers, retailers, trade partners, designers, and architects about fall risks in the home. We use a variety of tactics and methods to reach our audiences – social media, digital marketing, email marketing, print media and more.

• Assembly Technician

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

• Welder

• Powder Coat Paint Technician

I went to school at St. Lawrence College in Kingston, graduating from both the advertising & public relations and marketing programs there. I served in several different marketing roles in the retail and service industries before joining HealthCraft 17 years ago.

What is the best part about your job?

Falls are the most common cause of injury among older Canadians. One third of seniors over the age of 65 will fall and be injured this year. Knowing that every product that we make helps a family member or friend be safer in their homes is rewarding.

Position: Sales Representative Name: Brooklyn Langlois Age: 27 Years at company: 1.5 What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I connect with businesses, teams, and individuals to educate on the epidemic of falls and how together, we can be more proactive in preventing them. I help get products in the hands of those in need to eradicate more falls before they happen.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I received my Bachelor of Science in biology from the University of Maine. I am deeply rooted in a background of health and science but always knew I would end up in a position in where I would provide care and expertise on life-changing solutions.

What is the best part about your job?

Falls are an unspoken issue that we are speaking up about. We are not just making products; we have created a movement around fall prevention. Every person here plays an important role in making a difference, and that is powerful.

Perks Dental benefits

Casual dress code

Drug benefits

Free parking

Financial bonuses

Life insurance

Three or more weeks of vacation time

Monthly personal development sessions

Contact Person Kim Steele

jobs@healthcraftproducts.com 888-619-9992 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 63 ]

IRONWORKERS LOCAL 765 Why you want to work here

This job is about independent work and initiative.

As an ironworker, you will be the first to arrive at a building site. The work you do will make it possible for other workers in other trades to complete their tasks.

Who we are

We are a trade union representing about 800 structural, ornamental and reinforcing ironworkers and overhead door mechanics in Ottawa and area.

What we make

Rodworkers and structural ironworkers are essential to the construction of buildings, factories, commercial buildings and other critical infrastructure projects.

Past projects have included parliament buildings, hydroelectric projects, Department of National Defence projects, windmills, steel mills and Ottawa’s new light rail transit system, just to name a few.

Our workplace culture

Ironworkers Local 765 is committed to providing the best-trained and reliable workers to our signatory contractors.

Our membership is highly diverse and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Career advancement

Completing an apprenticeship as an ironworker or reinforcing rodworker is just the start of the career journey. An apprentice today can become the foreman, superintendent and contractor of tomorrow.

Learning never ends, and members are provided with ongoing skills training.

Fun stuff

2014 recipient of the Eagle Award of Achievement from the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers.

Our values

We sponsor local sports teams and charities. Our outreach program visits high schools and trade shows to promote skilled trades careers. [ 64 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

7771 Snake Island Road, Metcalfe, ON 613-821-7813 www.ironworkers765.com facebook.com/IW765 @ iwlocal765

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Instructor Name: Jeff Sharpley Age: 40 Years at company: 22 Educational background: High school, instructor training

4

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Manage a crew of Ironworkers; coordinate deliveries and placement of rebar; work with the crew.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

Instructor

Started as an apprentice, worked my way up to journeyman and eventually foreman.

What is the best part about your job?

Reaching the goals and seeing the finished project every time I drive by. The camaraderie and brotherhood.

3

The job

Foreman

2

Requirements

High school diploma, constant safety training upgrades, foreman training.

Skills

Journeyman

Manual dexterity, attention to detail, communication skills, organized, physically fit.

Pay

Apprentices start at 60 per cent of the journeyman rate and receive regular wage increases as they progress through training. Fully trained rodworkers can earn $41.52/hour and ironworkers can earn $43.86.

1

Apprentice Journeyman

Perks Dental benefits

Retirement plan/RRSP contributions

Vision benefits

Life insurance

Drug coverage

Pension and benefits paid by the employer. Second to none.

Three or more weeks of vacation time

Contact Person jsharpley@ironworkers765.com 613-794-5563

Casual dress code STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 65 ]

KI CANADA Why you want to work here

KI offers unique employment opportunities with a diverse and skilled workforce in an environment that is warm, friendly, down-to-earth and supportive.

Who we are

KI Canada is one of five plants in North America and is the sixth largest manufacturer of office furniture in the world. We have been located in the Ottawa Valley since 1992 and employ approximately 115 full-time production staff and 30 salaried staff. We have various skilled trades positions, including electricians, millwrights, and CAD designers. Our Pembroke facility also has departments specializing in design and engineering, purchasing, MDM, customer service, research and development and human resources.

What we make

We make top-quality office furniture, primarily storage units like vertical and lateral filing cabinets. We also make desks and privacy dividers for offices.

Our top customers

Around 95 per cent of our products are shipped to the US. We provide office furniture to many leading corporations and companies around the world.

Our workplace culture

KI really is about different age groups working together with one common goal.

We have many employees who have been here for years who have climbed the ranks, and we also hire summer staff to keep up with the demand during our busy season.

Our employees like to help each other and support one another.

Career advancement

When we look at the history of KI, many of our employees who started out in positions such as a production technician or as an hourly employee, have learned the business, and have gradually moved to [ 66 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

more senior roles. We give our employees an opportunity to advance in their careers.

Fun facts about us • We purchase approximately 8,260,428

pounds of steel annually • We purchase approximately 78,689 kg of powder paint annually • We use approximately 1,000 locally made, pallets per week • We use 370 paint hoods per year • We purchase and receive inventory globally • We normally ship 10+ trailers of product per day

1000 Olympic Drive, Pembroke, ON 613-735-5566 www.ki.com facebook.com/kifurniture linkedin.com/company/ki/ twitter.com/kitweets youtube.com/user/kinetwork

MEET THE TEAM Position: Team Lead Name: Raymond Woodcox Years at company: 22

Career Ladder

Age: 56

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

As a team lead, I make sure that people know how to do their jobs. I train people who are heading into new roles at the company, as well as summer students who are brought on to help with the workflow. I ensure that the parts keep coming and the assembly lines keep flowing.

5

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

Since graduating high school I have always worked in industrial plants. Once arriving at KI, I started learning one job at a time and kept climbing the ranks until I became team lead six or seven years ago. It’s all about having a willingness to learn and work hard.

What is the best part about your job?

I have always loved helping and meeting new people, and this job allows me to do that. The people who work at KI are amazing and will do anything for you in or outside of work.

The job

4 3

Perks Life insurance Long term disability, critical illness, medical, paramedical Dental Educational assistance program LifeWorks Employee Perks and employee assistance program

RRSP match Other: Pet adoption reimbursement; Costco memberships; annual barbeque; Christmas dinner; annual golf tournament

1

Team Leader

Production Technician/ Support Technician 3

2

Requirements To become a team lead, you must know all of the different positions at KI. You must also be able to lead a team, and make sure that the work gets done.

Skills Knowledge, willingness to learn, collaboration, problem-solving, being hands-on.

Value Stream Manager

Production Technician/ Support Technician 2

Production Technician/ Support Technician 1

Contact Person Deborah Clouthier Human Resources Manager Deborah.clouthier@ki.com 613.735.5566 ext.364 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 67 ]

KE SOLUTIONS Why you want to work here

PART OF KILMARNOCK ENTERPRISE

KE Solutions is a fast-growing company branched out from Kilmarnock Enterprise, focused on next-generation Industry 4.0 solutions. We are helping to grow Canadian manufacturing by equipping it with the latest technologies to stay competitive.

Who we are

KE Solutions is one of the most diversified end-to-end industrial solutions providers solving complex problems faced by manufacturers around Canada.

What we make

In our 60,000 square foot machine shop, we fabricate customized machines, process lines, and provide end-to-end robotics and customized solutions.

Our top customers

Medical and pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, chemical, steel, biotech, fuels and automotive, renewable sources.

Our workplace culture

Trust, respect, integrity and professionalism stand at the core of the company. We emphasize teamwork both in and out of office hours.

Fun stuff

We organize plenty of team building activities year round, from small barbeque get-togethers to outdoor activities.

15 Hershey Drive Smiths Falls, ON 166 North Murray St., Trenton, ON 613-283-4422 kilmarnock.ca [ 68 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

facebook.com/ kilmarnockenterprise linkedin.com/company/ kilmarnock-enterprise/ @KilmarnockEnt @kilmarnockenterprise

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Mechanical Design Engineer Name: Nik Howe Years at company: 1.5 Educational background: Bachelor of applied science in mechanical engineering What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

4

I design engineered solutions to complex problems and help our customers adapt to the fast-changing manufacturing world. I do this working closely with both the customer and our in-house manufacturing team to ensure we provide an elegant solution in the most efficient manner possible under the given constraints.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I came to Kilmarnock for the opportunity to be part of an innovative and dynamic team where I could contribute to the design and development of custom solutions for customers.

What is the best part about your job?

The satisfaction of being presented with a technical challenge and seeing it through to development. I am involved from the initial proposal to quality planning and quality control aspects, before delivering the product to the customer.

3

Requirements

Design engineers require a bachelor’s degree in mechanical or electrical engineering from a reputed university and a strong desire to continuously learn in a fast-paced environment. They should be willing to commit to teamwork and collaboration on every project.

Skills

Both mechanical and electrical design using various software including 3D modelling, knowledge on industrial automation and controls, liaising with suppliers and customers, good verbal and written communication.

Perks Dental benefits

RRSP/DPSP Plan

Vision benefits

Free parking

Drug coverage & paramedical services

Life insurance

Three weeks of vacation time

Boot allowance/uniforms

Business casual dress code

Critical illness policy

Journeyman Welders

2

The job

1

Pipefitters

Millwrights

Engineers in Training/ Mechanical Technologists

Contact Person Cathy O’Neil

Manager of Recruitment and Skills Development coneil@kilmarnock.ca 613-283-4422 ext. 222 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 69 ]

KINGSTON ALUMINUM TECH Why you want to work here

KAT employees are flexible and enjoy working in a range of conditions that allow them to be constantly challenged in a world of learning and growing.

Who we are

We’re shaking up the bottling industry with a better alternative to plastic bottles, glass bottles, and aluminum cans.

What we make

Custom bottles and labels, drinks, machinery and prototypes.

Our top customers

Any business needing beverage bottles for their products, such as drink companies and entrepreneurs.

Our workplace culture

We have a close nexus of individuals who strive to showcase their talents and achieve mutual goals of excellence, resilience and creativity. The BPE Group of companies is dedicated to improving the communities where we live, work, and play.

Career advancement

As we scale up our business, we continue to seek out individuals with strong electromechanical abilities and knowledge who love a good challenge.

Fun stuff

KAT is part of the BPE Group of Companies, which sponsors several initiatives in Kingston from sports teams to housing organizations.

Our values

We are always engaged in local research and development, as well as showcasing our technology and work ethics with local academia.

[ 70 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

545 Montreal St. Kingston, ON 613-507-7507 www.katinc.ca

MEET THE TEAM Position: President Name: Betty Pilon Years at company: 3 Educational background: Chartered accountant

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I am responsible for ensuring that our coworkers produce goods in a safe and efficient manner that speaks of quality and ingenuity, while retaining customers, paying bills and ensuring a healthy and happy workplace.

Headshot (Size flexible)

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

Our process is smart.

Scrap rates are down, changeover time from one customer to the next takes minutes, and small batches are possible.

While the advantages of aluminum packaging are undeniable, the existing process to make them is inefficient. We wanted to create a process that would allow anyone, from a startup to a large brand, to work with us."

I had a dream to reinvent the plastic bottle and was convinced that we had the local know-how and community to support us.

What is the best part about your job?

Showing up every morning with a purpose and belief that we’re making a positive difference in the world.

The job What are the job requirements of this position?

Experience is a wonderful teacher and life has a way of educating us all, if we’re lucky.

What skills are needed in this area of work?

Calm demeanor and attention to detail. Act with an iron fist in a velvet glove.

Perks Dental benefits

Stock options

Drug benefits

Retirement plan/RRSP contributions

Financial bonuses

Free parking

Three or more weeks of vacation time

Eyecare benefits

Casual dress code

Contact Person Jonathan Pilon jonathan@bpegroup.ca 343-333-1553 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 71 ]

KOTT INC. Why you want to work here

There’s a little KOTT in the majority of new homes built in Ottawa. Whether it’s our lumber, trusses, floors, stairs, roof, exterior cladding or all of the above, our team takes pride in knowing they helped those homes get built.

Who we are

We are one of Ontario’s largest suppliers of products for residential construction: pre-fab components, lumber, building materials, roofing, siding and stone.

What we make

We design and build pre-engineered roof trusses, pre-fab wall and floor panels and custom stair and railing systems.

Our top customers

Our customers are Ottawa’s largest homebuilders, renovators, general contractors and other construction professionals.

Our workplace culture

Five core values guide the way we run our business, and we place a high priority on employee fit with them: teamwork, accountability, safety, growth and positivity.

Career advancement

Our large range of job types presents opportunities for employees to take on more, try new things and move up or across.

Fun stuff

Twice a year we open the KOTT Store. It’s a chance for employees to get great branded clothing – KOTT pays half!

Our values

We believe in giving back to the community we work and live in. KOTT donates corporately, and also gives $100/ year/employee for employee-chosen initiatives.

[ 72 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

3228 Moodie Drive Ottawa, ON 613-838-2775 www.kottgroup.com facebook.com/kottgroup/ linkedin.com/company/kott-lumber/ @kottlumber @kottinc youtube.com/channel/UCLz7YY1Gc5hXt2X_MHohldw/featured

MEET THE TEAM Position: Railing Installation Coordinator Name: Karli O'Brien Age: 25 Years at company: 5 Educational background: Pre-service firefighter training and hazardous materials awareness What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I’m the point person for coordinating railing system installations. I work with the people who design and produce our railing systems, and coordinate the installations on our customers' job sites. Every day is different!

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

Before joining KOTT, I worked in customer service and admin. I spent my first three years here assembling trusses, then moved to the order desk dealing with customers, and recently became the railing installation coordinator.

With a huge range of job types, there’s no ‘typical’ career path here.

Our core value, 'Reach for More,' is about growth and personal development; whether moving up, to a new team, or taking on new responsibilities within your job."

What is the best part about your job?

It’s fast-paced and never boring! I love a challenge, and I get lots of opportunities in this job to troubleshoot. It’s really satisfying when I know I’ve solved a problem for a customer.

The job Requirements

Most KOTT manufacturing jobs require experience working with your hands, and with power tools. Carpentry or framing experience is an asset, as is the ability to read plans.

The work is physical; the ability to lift, and to stand for long periods is required.

Skills

All of our production jobs require team players with a strong work ethic. Being qualityand detail-oriented is important.

Perks Dental benefits Drug benefits Eyecare benefits Life insurance Casual dress code Free parking Gym membership

Other: Employee recognition rewards; hiring referral bonus; employee and family assistance program; events; discounts on third-party products and services.

Contact Person Christa Stewart

HR Manager cstewart@kottgroup.com 613-794-6017 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 73 ]

LABEL INNOVATION INC. Why you want to work here

At Label Innovation Inc., we work on projects that encompass applying tremendous creativity, collaborating with a diverse range of clients and using leading-edge technology to create niche solutions that are essential to our customers’ businesses.

Who we are

We are a custom converter and manufacturer of specialty components, tapes and labels. We have built a solid reputation over four decades for developing unique, inventive solutions to complex problems, delivering highquality products and maintaining excellent customer service.

What we make

With flexographic print technology we produce highly customized, pressure sensitive-based products that meet customer-specified requirements.

We excel at converting challenges where tight tolerances, multilayered constructions and efficient production processes are required.

Our top customers

Our clients come from a wide variety of industries including the medical device, security, technology and industrial markets. They rely on LINC as an invaluable supply partner who routinely makes the impossible a reality, providing superior solutions with quick turnaround times.

Our workplace culture

Our focus on partnership, emphasis on trust and desire to constantly improve has built a company-wide team driven to perform to the highest standards.

Our values – creativity, integrity, respect and ownership – drive us to achieve exceptional results for all clients.

Career advancement

We hire, train, promote and retain excellent people who are performancedriven and operate with unwavering integrity and values that match those of our organization. [ 74 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

2714 Fenton Road Ottawa, ON 1-877-247-9200 www.labelinnovation.com facebook.com/labelinnovation linkedin.com/company/label-innovation-inc-/ twitter.com/labelinnovation youtube.com/user/labelinnovation

MEET THE TEAM Position: Business Development Name: Jerry Aziz Age: 47 Years at company: Just under 1 year Educational background: Business and Marketing What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

My day consists of prospecting for new business opportunities among the various industries that Label Innovation (LINC) services, including the medical, security, technology and industrial manufacturing markets. I work with current and potential clients, where my main priority is to ensure their specifications and requirements are met for each project from start to finish.

I feel proud that we help our customers bring new and innovative products to the market."

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I have 15 years of sales experience and have always been interested in taking on new challenges. Prior to my work at LINC, I was an Account Executive in Canadian telecommunications for 7 years, servicing our Canadian-based customers. At LINC we work with companies across the globe.

What is the best part about your job?

I get to work on new projects with little-to-no production precedent where I help advance products and processes from inception to completion.

The job Requirements

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Communications with 2 years experience in a quota carrying position. I’m also experienced with cold calling and emailing outreach. I possess exceptional written and verbal communication skills, which has helped me with the technical aspects of this position. My strong time management and organization skills have been an asset to the team here as well

Skills

Excellent interpersonal capability coupled with an ability to prioritize different projects and stay on schedule has been helpful at LINC. Creativity, reading and understanding technical drawings, accuracy and attention to detail are additional skills that have served me well in my role here.

Perks Medical, dental and vision benefits

Free parking

Drug coverage and paramedical services

Life insurance and income protection

Two weeks or more vacation time for new hires Group RRSP/DPSP with company match

Paid time off for vacation, bereavement, jury duty and more Training opportunities/tuition refund Recognition prior service

Contact Person Leanne Harvey

Director of Human Resources lharvey@labelinnovation.com 613-247-9200 ext. 1111 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 75 ]

LAURYSEN KITCHENS LTD. Why you want to work here

Family owned and operated company with a strong culture that goes beyond a corporate mentality.

Long-term employees, various company social events, and continual advancement of technology in our industry. You will get to work with the latest industry machines.

Who we are

Laurysen is a dynamic cabinetmaking company that is always looking to improve our product in a team setting.

What we make

Kitchen cabinets, vanities, closet organizers and residential millwork such as office furniture and wall units.

Our top customers

Mattamy Homes, Minto Homes, Urbandale Corp., Lepine Corporation, Caivan and Patten Homes, Glenview, Mackie Homes and Talos Custom Homes.

Our workplace culture

It is a close-knit group in the office and in production, we work as a team. Our culture is based on a lean manufacturing system with a goal of continuous improvement.

Career advancement

Designers can achieve their CKBD certification from the NKBA. In production there is cross-training.

Fun stuff

Summer BBQs, ChiliFest, Xmas Party, Pizza Days to celebrate 100 days of no time-loss injury.

Our values

Water-based finishes to reduce our VOCs, supporting local sports teams, raising money for various medical and community initiatives. Nondiscrimination policies.

2415 Carp Road Stittsville, ON 613-836-5353 www.laurysenkitchens.com facebook.com/LaurysenKitchens @ottawakitchens youtube.com/user/LaurysenKitchens @ottawakitchens

[ 76 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Head of Order Processing & Special Projects Manager Name: Matt Stairs Age: 26 Years at company: 7 Educational background: Cabinetmaking and furniture technician diploma from Algonquin College

4

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Overseeing quality control, order input flow of five order processors who are entering orders into the ERP system for production. I also manage special projects off-site, currently a 19-storey apartment building in the Ottawa area.

Head of Order Processing

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started at Laurysen 7 years ago and my main responsibility was to alleviate bottlenecks at various production cells. I was cross-trained on all machines throughout the plant. In 2015, I transitioned to order processing department.

What is the best part about your job?

The best part of my job is that every day is unique and there is a different challenge on a day-to-day basis. This allows me to continue to learn about products and operation and expand my skill sets.

3

Order Processor (Advanced)

2

The job Requirements

Order Processor

In-depth knowledge of cabinetmaking, proficiency in 2020 Design software, understanding of cabinet production, adaptability within a team environment, understanding of production schedules and timelines.

Skills

Patience, ability to interpret orders, understanding of production schedules and timelines, general knowledge of supply chains, ability to work under stress in a constantly evolving environment.

1

Production (Gen. Labourer/ Machine Operator)

Perks Dental benefits

Retirement plan/RRSP contributions

Vision benefits

Free parking

Drug coverage

Life insurance

Three to four weeks of vacation time

Financial bonuses

Casual dress code

Contact Person Jessica Upshall jupshall@laurysenkitchens.com 613-836-5353 ext. 423 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 77 ]

LUCKY STRIKE BAIT WORKS Why you want to work here

We have a lot of long time employees (20+ years) who enjoy the reliable hours and relaxed atmosphere of working in a family-owned business.

Who we are

Lucky Strike Bait Works is a fourth generation family-owned business.

What we make

We manufacture over 1000 styles of fishing lures and fishing nets for anglers in North America.

Our top customers

Canadian Tire, Bass Pro, Cabela's, Walmart, local tackle shops.

Our workplace culture

We work in a relaxed, low stress work place that values team work above all.

Career advancement

Work alongside the owners and have a chance to become a leader in areas of metal stamping, electro-plating, painting, product design and marketing.

Fun stuff

Just landed #1 on Amazon for fishing spoon.

Our values

We donate to over 100 fishing events across Canada that emphasize children and family coming together outdoors.

facebook.com/facebook.com/ luckystrikebaitworks @LuckyStrikeBait @luckystrikebaitworks

[ 78 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

2287 Whittington Drive Cavan Monaghan, ON 705-743-3849 www.luckystrikebaitworks.com

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: President Name: Dustin Rhodes Age: 38 Years at company: 16 Educational background: Bachelor of commerce Lakehead University What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Designing new innovations in product development and manufacturing techniques. Leading sales and marketing projects while overseeing quality control.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

5

I found myself using Lucky Strike in many of my university projects and after graduating I felt there was an opportunity to help use my knowledge to grow sales. I had to work my way up the ladder but gained knowledge along the way.

4

What is the best part about your job?

Highlight of my job is when I see photos of anglers catching fish using our lures and nets. Who doesn't like a good fish story.

3

The job Post-secondary education in Supply Chain Management or relatable field and 2-3 years work experience in a leadership role.

Skills

Perks Dental benefits

Casual dress code

Vision benefits

Free parking

Drug coverage

Life insurance

Three weeks or more of vacation time

1

Work Flow Production Scheduler

Department Lead

2

Requirements

Strong leader, well organized, customer focused, flexible to change, critical thinking and problem solving, people management, effective communicator.

Operations Manager

Assembly Operator

Material Handler

Contact Person dustin.rhodes@ luckystrikebaitworks.com 705-743-3849 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 79 ]

M CON PRODUCTS INC. Why you want to work here

We have a unique work environment; our products are varied and our equipment is specialized. Departments work together to manufacture products to the industry’s highest standards. We are continually working to find better solutions and implement the latest technologies.

Who we are We are a one-stop shop for all precast concrete infrastructure products. Our philosophy: if it can be poured in place on site, it can be made better if it is precast.

What we make Circular/box/elliptical concrete culverts, circular/box maintenance holes, catch basins, engineered gravity retaining walls and various other stock and custom products for water and drainage solutions.

Our top customers Tomlinson, Cavanagh Construction, Taggart Construction.

Our workplace culture Ours is a busy, friendly company, which focuses on ensuring our people have the proper training and support to have a fulfilling career and go home safe each evening.

Career advancement Career development courses and certification programs available to all staff.

Onboarding and positional training sets each employee up for a successful career.

Fun stuff Annual Christmas party, sports ticket draws, summer BBQs/food truck days.

Quarterly challenges and awards.

Job tenure awards for every five year milestone.

Our values We are very involved in supporting community events. Our products offer a sustainable option, with less degradation than alternatives. We continuously reduce our environmental impact by improving processes and technologies to decrease waste and increase efficiencies. [ 80 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

2150 Richardson Side Rd. Ottawa, ON 613-831-1736 mconproducts.com facebook.com/mconproducts linkedin.com/company/ mcon-products-incbit.ly/mconproductsYT @mconproducts

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Engineering Manager Name: Brett McChesney, P. Eng. Age: 48 Years at company: 10 Educational background: Bachelor of Engineering in civil engineering What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I record incoming and completed jobs, review and approve production drawings, provide design input to engineers and design information to estimators, provide technical input to marketing, perform quality control and oversee eight staff.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I was a site inspector with a consulting engineering firm then transitioned to designing jobs. I moved to the manufacturing industry in 2004 and now help produce components for sewer networks I once designed.

5

4

What is the best part about your job?

Seeing the finished product going out on a truck, sometimes even the same day! I also get a great deal of satisfaction from mentoring staff and helping consultants with their design questions.

Position: Cage Fabrication Supervisor Name: Miguel Costa Age: 53 Years at company: 35

3

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I oversee that the steel cages which reinforce all our products are prepared and ready for production; I assist with production planning and inventory control. I assist with hiring and training.

What is the best part about your job?

Having been at M CON since day one, I’m glad to have been able to progress through various roles and I find the work extremely satisfying because of the value our products bring to key infrastructure projects.

Perks Dental benefits

Retirement plan/RRSP contributions

Vision benefits

Free parking

Drug coverage

Life insurance

Three or more weeks of vacation time

Financial bonuses

Casual dress code

Lead Hand Area Supervisor

Skilled Labourer

2 1

Machine Operator

Semi – Skilled Labourer

General Labourer

Contact Person Office: Marco Mion Plant: Tim Underhill hr@mconproducts.com 613-831-1736 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 81 ]

METEC METAL TECHNOLOGY INC. Why you want to work here

Great atmosphere; friendly, knowledgeable and happy employees. Early Fridays make for a shorter week and longer weekend. Employers are focused on education, training and support for employees.

Who we are

We are a community-oriented, family owned and operated company located in Vankleek Hill, ON. Established by Christian and Shigi Walz in 1995.

What we make

Precision machining, fabrication, manufacturing and assembly services as well as custom prototyping and design.

Our top customers

Aerospace, food manufacturers, agricultural, federal and municipal.

Our workplace culture

Professional and friendly, familyrun company. Safe and clean work environment.

Career advancement

Training is encouraged and opportunities are available to try multiple different jobs.

Fun stuff

METEC usually holds a few BBQs a year and gives awards/gifts for longterm employees. What happens at the Christmas party stays at the Christmas party.

Our values

METEC is environmentally conscious.

Recycling, reducing and reusing.

facebook.com/ metecmetaltech/ linkedin.com/company /metec-metal-technology-inc/

[ 82 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

20 Terry Fox Drive Vankleek Hill, ON 613-678-3957 www.metec.ca

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Vice President, Operations Name: Marc Walz Age: 25 Years at company: 5 Educational background: High school and college diploma What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Manage production operations, research and development department; as well as quote machining/fabrication jobs, new attachments; approve sales team quotes and analyze jobs once completed, together with my team.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

5

I began my career in welding and progressed to supervisor, including assisting with quotations/design. I accepted a similar position in Germany which prepared me for my career at Metec Metal Technology.

4

What is the best part about your job?

Designing new products, working with customers and seeing our products in use.

Pleasing customers with on-time deliveries and high quality products always puts a smile on my face.

The job

3

Background in mechanical engineering, production management, minimum one year in machining, one year in welding/fabrication and one year of Solidworks experience.

Understanding of basic business practices and analyzing statistics.

Skills

Perks Dental benefits

Casual dress code

Drug benefits

Free parking

Eyecare benefits Financial bonuses

Other: Paid work wear

1

Vice President, Operations

Production Manager

2

Requirements

Knowledge of CAD, welding, fabrication and machining skills. Advanced skills in problem-solving, scheduling, time management, analyzing costs and interpreting drawings.

President

Welding Supervisor

Welder

Contact Person Barb Keatley bkeatley@metec.ca STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 83 ]

NORTHERN CABLES INC. Why you want to work here

People are our most valued resource at Northern Cables, which embraces a proven and successful grow-fromwithin culture. Workers can enjoy coming to work every day knowing they are contributing to the growth, stability and success of the company.

Who we are

Northern Cables is a growing, privately owned company with facilities located in Prescott and Brockville.

What we make

Northern Cables is a producer of lowvoltage interlocked armour cables as well as aluminum and copper products.

Our workplace culture

With a focus on safety, quality, skill development and training, the company has a grow-from-within-culture that provides career development opportunities for those wish to pursue opportunities in manufacturing or support roles.

Career advancement

Most of the company staff, from support roles through to management, began their careers as a manufacturing worker.

All production workers are given ample training opportunities, starting when they begin as an indirect utility worker through to a manufacturing operator.

Fun stuff

The company hosts a second-to-none Christmas party complete with live entertainment, prizes and annual service awards. The annual golf tournament is always well attended. Company personnel are engaged to join in community events such as the Big Bike Ride in support of the Heart and Stroke Foundation, curling teams, as well as community festivals.

50 California Ave. Brockville, ON 613-345-1594 northerncables.com

Our values

Northern Cables is a major sponsor of the Salvation Army, Canadian Aid for Chernobyl, the Brockville Aquatarium and Railway Tunnel, the Brockville and District Hospital Foundation, Legacy Homes and the YMCA. [ 84 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

We also sponsor many local minor hockey and baseball leagues/teams/tournaments.

Northern Cables also has an active reuse and recycling program that significantly reduces environmental waste.

facebook.com/northerncablesinc linkedin.com/company/ northern-cables-inc/about twitter.com/northerncables

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Plant manager Name: Owen Heavens Age: 44 Years at company: 17 Educational background: High school What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I am responsible for the day-to-day management of site safety, quality and productivity as well as leading our production workforce.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started in an entry-level production utility job working rotating shifts. I was able to demonstrate to the company that I work hard and care about what was best for the company.

5

What is the best part about your job?

4

My favourite part of my job is working closely with my fellow workers.

I get to know my colleagues personally and coach them the way I was coached through the years by company management.

Position: Production scheduler Name: George Barlow Jr. Age: 45 Years at company: 20 Educational background: High school What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I schedule the materials required for use in manufacturing, as well as, schedule machine loading according to orders and available labour.

3

What is the best part about your job?

Working closely with my fellow workers. Getting to know them on a personal level and coaching them the way I was coached through the years by company management.

Perks Dental benefits

Employee assistance program

Vision benefits

(Laundered) uniform program

Drug coverage and paramedical services

Group RRSP/retirement plan

Two weeks of vacation time

Free parking Life insurance

1

Production coordinator $47,000–$52,000

Production support $47,000–$52,000

2

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started at Northern Cables as an introductory production worker on rotating shift work. After nine months I became an armouring machine operator. After five years, I became a shift coordinator for around 12 years. I was offered the role of plant scheduler which has been my current role for the past three years.

Production management $55,000+

Production operator $53,000–56,000

Production worker $50,000–$52,000

Contact Person Human Resources

humanresources@northerncables.com

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 85 ]

OLSONFAB METAL FABRICATION Why you want to work here

Our success and growth are driven by our team.

We appreciate all their hard work and ensure it does not go unnoticed. Our employees take pride in the unique and quality crafted projects they fabricate. Want a challenging and rewarding job? This is the place for you.

Who we are

A family-run and operated, one-stop shop for all your metal fabrication needs. Specializing in the industrial, commercial, institutional and energy sectors.

What we make

Structural and miscellaneous steel (buildings, stairs, stacks), custom metal fab, pressure vessels (ASME), fuel/storage tanks (ULC), enclosures, welding and engineering design.

Our workplace culture

We see our team like one big family. We focus on ensuring workplace satisfaction, investing in our people and quality leadership. Workplace morale is very important.

Career advancement

We're firm believers in career development, through experience and training courses. We've had many team members start on the shop floor and move to management positions.

Fun stuff

Christmas parties, hockey tickets and prize draws, summer BBQs, food trucks, pizza days, golf tournaments and much more!

355 Balmoral Ave. Cornwall, ON 613-932-9492 www.olsonfab.com

[ 86 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

facebook.com/Olsonfab-MetalFabrication-1476792415878597/ linkedin.com/company/olsonfabmetal-fabrication-ltd-/ youtube.com/channel/UC9ZotWi FQYZfzy9Y2To6Kw/featured olsonfab_metalfab

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Senior Project Manager/Estimator Name: Kevin McAteer Age: 54 Years at company: 22 Educational background: Fitter (structural, platework), red seal welder, pressure welder

4

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I am responsible for estimating and managing projects, coordinating with other trades, dealing with customer inquiries and needs, scheduling projects and deadlines with clients, job site visits for measuring and design and overseeing employee production.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

In high school, I took every welding course offered. Graduated college with distinction, worked at a local company then came to Olsonfab as a fitter/welder.

Started taking on small estimates, doing site measuring, and then gradually became senior project manager/estimator.

What is the best part about your job?

3

Dealing with our clients! Working with them and their specific needs, being able to see the project through from A to Z to the final end result of a project is very rewarding. Also, taking an idea/need, then designing it and turning it into something.

Requirements

Many of our employees started off as a student or as a labourer and moved up the ladder thanks to their dedication and skills. So, we focus more on their experience in the industry and being mechanically/technically inclined. Project management courses are a plus!

Skills

Strong leadership, organization skills, customer-focused, great at problem-solving and critical thinking, people management, great communication skills, ability to work in a fast-paced environment, attention to detail.

Perks Dental benefits

Retirement plan/RRSP contributions

Vision benefits

Competitive salaries

Drug coverage

Paid employee training and development

Financial bonuses

Shop Foreman

2

The job

1

Project Manager and/ or Estimator

Licensed Tradesman (Welder/Fitter)

General Labourer

Contact Person sladouceur@olsonfab.com 613-932-9492 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 87 ]

OLYMEL L.P. Why you want to work here

Ours is a very large company that is run like a family business. We value our people as much as the quality of our products, offer significant opportunity for career advancement and enjoy tremendous employee loyalty.

Who we are

With deep roots in the food processing industry that stretch back over 100 years, Olymel is one of Canada’s fastest-growing, diversified agri-food businesses.

What we make

We produce sliced bacon and bacon products for a wide range of customers, packaged under our brand as well as our customers’ brands.

Our top customers

Major national grocery store chains in Canada and 65 countries around the world, restaurant groups, processed food distributors.

Our workplace culture

Our trainer and health & safety team ensure employees have all the tools to do their jobs well and adhere to the highest Canadian and international standards.

Career advancement

Olymel values its internal talent and always strives to promote from within.

Many production employees have progressed to supervisory/management roles, including VP.

Fun stuff

Our active social committee plans events such as family fun days, barbeques and catered recognition dinners for all employees.

Our values

We regularly donate food and volunteer labour to the Agapè Centre (food bank/ soup kitchen) and actively support the UFCW Canada Leukemia Fund.

[ 88 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

2330 Industrial Park Drive Cornwall ON 613-932-3040 www.olymel.ca/en/ facebook.com/Olymel/ instagram.com/olymel_ca/

MEET THE TEAM Position: Plant Manager Name: Dany Gagnon Age: 47 Years at company: 15 Educational background: High school diploma What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I plan for the future by week, month, year, participate in many committee meetings with our team, offer coaching as needed on various topics and manage the plant’s budget with the help of our team.

Olymel is a modern, innovative company whose products are now enjoyed in more than 65 countries.

We feed the world, with passion.”

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started in 1990 as a general labourer and was promoted to Team Leader then Supervisor after 12 years. I left the company for other opportunities of increasing responsibility and returned to Olymel Cornwall as Plant Manager in 2017.

What is the best part about your job?

I like that every day offers a different challenge as our team and I work to manage all aspects of the business including production, quality assurance, meeting CFIA requirements, labour relations, health & safety and accounting.

The job Requirements

Must possess a university degree or college diploma in a relevant field: production, microbiology, administration, human resources, or equivalent experience; minimum ten (10) years’ experience in a management position; excellent problem solving, conflict resolution, negotiation, decision making, organizational, communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills; ability to influence, lead, mentor and coach management.

Skills

Knowledge of the food industry; excellent problem solving, creative thinking, leadership, conflict resolution, decision making, organizational, communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills; ability to lead, mentor and coach; able to quickly adapt to change.

Perks Dental benefits

Life insurance

Drug benefits

Free parking + and transit tickets through payroll deduction

Eyecare benefits Casual dress code Retirement plan / RRSP contributions

Other: Discounted food purchases; attendance bonuses

Contact Person Heather Jiujias, CHRL Human Resources Manager 613-932-3040 ext.4128 hrcornwall@olymel.com STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 89 ]

PRYSMIAN GROUP Why you want to work here

Prysmian Group designs, manufactures and sells highquality wire and cable products that connect the world.

These products are needed to provide electricity, phone and data service to people worldwide, in addition to specialty items such as the cabling to support elevators and escalators.

Who we are

A global company that works in essential industries and uses state-of-the-art technology and consistent manufacturing excellence to develop superior products.

What we make

We make the widest range of wire and cable products like electric power lines, phone and data lines and fire-resistant emergency cables.

Our top customers

Verizon, Telus, BC Hydro, Hydro-QuĂŠbec, Hydro Ottawa, Manitoba Hydro, Hydro Toronto, OTIS and more.

Our workplace culture

With more than 29,000 people around the world, we are full of diversity: diverse people, cultures and ideas. These are supported in many ways, with innovation at the forefront. Ideas and creative thinking are highly valued and rewarded.

Career advancement

For people just starting out, we have many multi-year programs: Make It (manufacturing), Sell It (sales), Sum It (controller) and Build the Future (graduate program with international placements). Employees also receive specialized training at the Prysmian Academy, as well as opportunities to participate in a mentorship program.

Fun stuff

We encourage all facilities to develop a fun and inclusive culture. At our Prescott facility, we created the corner market. Employees receive free market vouchers for good ideas, over and above initiative or setting new standards, and we do pizza Fridays when we hit our monthly plant targets. [ 90 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

137 Commerce Drive Johnstown, ON na.prysmiangroup.com @PrysmianGroupNorthAmerica @Prysmian @PrysmianGroupNorthAmerica @prysmianna

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Maintenance Purchaser, Storekeeper and Small Package Coordinator Name: Meredith Ostrander Age: 41 Years at company: 4

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I maintain crucial stock levels in the parts department, interact with numerous parts suppliers daily and ship small packages worldwide.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I grew up in the Ontario area. For nine years, I was in the National Women’s Hockey League based in Toronto. After retiring, a friend recommended Prysmian, and I landed a spot as a production operator. Then, I had the opportunity to cover a planning role in logistics, which helped me earn a promotion to my current role.

5

4

What is the best part about your job?

I’ve had some of the best people as managers. I don’t feel micromanaged and can work, learn and grow in each new role. Personally, I thrive in a team environment, given my background, and at Prysmian, I know I always have a team behind me.

Position: Engineering Manager Name: Kirk Irvine Age: 52 Years at company: 27 What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I manage a team of five in the engineering department who provide support to the whole manufacturing facility.

3

In 1993, I joined Prysmian Group as a process engineer directly out of university. Over the last 27 years, I worked in various technical and managerial roles in both engineering and production.

I am grateful for the many learning opportunities throughout my career. Prysmian provided training in technical, logistic and interpersonal skills. I’ve also learned from visits to facilities in North America and four European countries. At Prysmian, we push hard to stay ahead in the manufacturing world, and if longevity of employment and achievement is the payment, it continues to be worth the effort.

Plant Manager

Department Manager

2

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

What is the best part about your job?

VP of Operations

1

Senior Engineer

Junior Engineer

Perks Dental benefits

Retirement plan/RRSP contributions

Drug benefits

Free parking

Financial bonuses

Life insurance

Three or more weeks of vacation time

Eyecare benefits

Casual dress code Stock options

Gym Other: Discounts in cellular; great coworkers

Contact Person Dawn McDougall-Brown human.resources.ca@ prysmiangroup.com STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 91 ]

PURE INGENUITY Why you want to work here

Our employees enjoy unique design and manufacturing challenges and feel proud when their work can be seen by the public, as is the case with Bill Lishmans’s iceberg sculpture outside the Canadian Museum of Nature.

Who we are

Pure Ingenuity is an engineering and fabrication company based in Kingston, working in stainless steel, highperformance alloys, aluminium, plastics and carbon fibre composites. Customers bring us their manufacturing problems and we solve, design and deliver.

What we make

We design and manufacture high-quality, custom process equipment for a wide range of industries.

Our top customers

Food, beverage and pharmaceutical manufacturers in Eastern Ontario and around the world.

Our workplace culture

Our workplace culture is collaborative and fast-paced. We focus on forging an effective partnership with each customer to develop innovative solutions. As a team, we maintain an unwavering focus on creating the best products possible in an energetic, fun environment.

Career advancement

Pure Ingenuity welders and fabricators receive on-the-job training in an apprenticeship-like system. Employees advance as they learn new skills and take on responsibility. Ours is a dynamic, entrepreneurial setting that values both technical and soft skills.

Fun stuff

Many of our company parties are held at Spearhead Brewery, which is right next door.

[ 92 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

Pure Ingenuity welders and fabricators receive on-the-job training in an apprenticeship-like system.

665 Development Dr. Kingston, ON 613-389-3335 pureingenuity.com facebook.com/pureingenuityinc linkedin.com/company/ pure-ingenuity-inc-/

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Fabricator Name: Nicolas Deragon Age: 20 Years at company: 2 Educational background: One year of trades program (welding) at college. CWB certified, TSSA certified What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Each day, one of the lead hands tells me what to work on. Sometimes it is continuing a welding project from the day before, or something new. Some days I go out of town with a crew to work at a customer site.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

3

Lead Hand

My plan was to learn the more practical side of engineering, and ended up deciding that office work is not for me. I like the variety, challenges, and all the new things I get to learn.

What is the best part about your job?

Travelling to customer sites, which changes things up. It is gratifying to see what we can accomplish.

2

Position: Head Welder Name: Adam Finn Age: 27 Years at company: 9.5 Educational background: Secondary school, CWB certified, TSSA certified

Fabricator

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I oversee welding procedures and jobs, read drawings, weld on projects and make sure others are following expectations set out by the company.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started at the bottom, grinding and cleaning, working hard and keeping my head down. I knew if I did so, I would have the opportunity to move up.

1

Junior Fabricator

What is the best part about your job?

The quality of the work we do. It’s never the same job each day. I like the problemsolving aspects and those occasions when I get to show the engineers that things don’t always go as planned!

Contact Person

Perks

Emily Hutchinson

Dental benefits

Drug coverage and paramedical services

Vision benefits

Free parking

hr@pureingenuity.com 613-389-3335 ext. 121 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 93 ]

ROSS VIDEO Why you want to work here

We develop pretty cool solutions that are used by TV news studios, rock stars, sports stadiums and more. If you have ever watched live or televised sports, attended a concert, or tuned into the news, you have probably seen Ross equipment (and/or Ross personnel) in action.

Who we are

Ross powers video productions for billions of global viewers daily with the industry’s widest range of high-impact, high-efficiency production solutions.

Ross makes it easy to create compelling news, weather and sports broadcasts, engaging material for sports stadium screens, entertainment shows, as well as rock concerts, educational institutions, legislative assemblies, corporate applications and houses of worship.

What we make

Ross Video designs, manufactures and delivers dependable technology and services that power exceptional live video productions. Our solutions are delivered in many forms, including hardware, software and cloud-based solutions.

Our top customers

Ross solutions have impressed the audiences and marketing partners of NBC Sunday Night Football, Eurosport, BBC World, Google YouTube Space London and Chinese eSports powerhouse VSPN.

Our workplace culture

Our staff are given the opportunity to continuously learn and try new things; we encourage innovation and an environment in which our employees are not afraid of failing.

Career advancement

We provide educational assistance, extensive training and mentoring so that our employees continuously enhance and evolve their skills.

Fun stuff

Activities include wine tours, escape rooms, horseback riding, zip-lining and golfing days. More recently we have included axe throwing. [ 94 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

Living in South Dundas

Ross Video's main manufacturing facility is located in the growing waterfront community of Iroquois, an hour's drive south of Ottawa. Located on the shoreline of the St. Lawrence River, Iroquois and the surrounding communities in South Dundas offer residents an unparalleled quality of life with multiple beaches, marinas, golf courses and parks, and a low cost of living.

8 John St. Iroquois, ON 613-652-4886 RossVideo.com facebook.com/rossvideo twitter.com/ross_video linkedin.com/company/ross-video youtube.com/rossvideo

MEET THE TEAM Position: Production Manager (PCBA and Robotics) Name: Joanne Lewis Years at company: 17.5 Educational background: Electronics technician diploma from Seneca College What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Monitor production reports to ensure products are moving through the floor to meet shipments. This includes problemsolving and collaboration with co-workers.

We encourage innovation and an environment in which our employees are not afraid to take risks."

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I received my electronics technician diploma from Seneca College in May 1995. I initially started at Ross Video as an SMT operator.

What is the best part about your job?

Great atmosphere, great friends and co-workers! I am empowered to have the ability to go above and beyond when necessary to be able to make changes without the long process of approvals from upper management.

Position: PCBA Process Development Name: Lyndon Sykes Years at company: 8 Educational background: B.Sc. mathematics What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Manage the printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) process development department. The department consists of eight personnel responsible for the development and management of all processes involved in manufacturing printed circuit board assemblies.

What skills are needed in this area of work?

Our code of ethics is more than words on the wall. Teamwork for mutual benefit, clear and effective communications and translating overall company goals into more specific functional objectives and assignments are all critical. This role contains elements that are time-sensitive, requiring effective decision-making in both team and individual contexts, and an ability to leverage the skills other members of the team bring to the organization, in a timely fashion.

Perks Dental benefits

Life insurance

Eyecare benefits

Employee share ownership program

Drug benefits Three or more weeks of vacation time Casual dress code Fitness allowance Free parking

$150 per year for magazines, books or CDs to upgrade work-related skills Educational assistance and development support Complimentary beverages and snacks Employee assistance plan

Contact Person recruitment@rossvideo.com 613-228-0688 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 95 ]

SANMINA Why you want to work here

Employees who work at Sanmina Ottawa have the opportunity to gain a broad range of skills and expertise across many industries, including telecommunications, aerospace and renewable energy as well as industrial and medical markets.

Who we are

Sanmina Ottawa provides innovative B2B technology, electronics design capabilities, supply chain services and state-of-the-art manufacturing to Canadian and global corporations. The site’s unique capabilities have helped transform products for many industries.

What we make

Network equipment for telecommunications infrastructures, electronics for aerospace systems, electronics for power conversion in wind turbines.

Our top customers

Leading global telecommunications providers, top aerospace technology companies and large multinational organizations that provide industrial power solutions.

Our workplace culture

If you enjoy a high-energy, fast-paced environment where no workday is ever exactly the same, Sanmina Ottawa is the right place for you. While everyone works hard and takes responsibility to achieve their personal and team goals, the group also takes time out on a regular basis to celebrate wins and enjoy each other’s company.

Career advancement

We are big champions of career development, providing on-the-job training for new candidates and ongoing opportunities for advancement and promotion to all employees.

Many employees began as individual contributors at Sanmina Ottawa before earning supervisory positions and now oversee major production lines or operations initiatives. [ 96 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

500 March Road Kanata, ON 613-886-6000 www.sanmina.com facebook.com/SanminaCorp linkedin.com/company/sanmina youtube.com/sanminacorp twitter.com/SanminaCorp

MEET THE TEAM Position: Manufacturing Supervisor Name: Bonnie-Lee Beauregard Years at company: 21 Educational background: DEC in social sciences What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I am a manufacturing supervisor working in Sanmina's micro-electronics lab. We work in a clean room class 10,000 environment where I manage a team of 26 employees. I ensure that production runs smoothly.

There are great opportunities to grow and move forward within the organization.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started as a seal and brand operator. After a year I became a team lead, and then became the NPI coordinator for leading edge new design projects. In 2011 I became a manufacturing supervisor.

What is the best part about your job?

The best part of my job is the amazing team that I get to work with. We are all hard workers in the micro-electronics department. We have unique skills that set us apart.

The job Requirements

Background in electronics manufacturing is preferred; however, candidates direct from school will also be considered. Must have some technical background in electronics.

Skills

Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic team environment. Must be able to collaborate closely with planning, quality and shipping to ensure customer orders are delivered on time.

Perks Flexible benefits

$ Competitive salary

Health care spending account

10 personal emergency leave days

Personal spending account

Tuition reimbursement program

Defined contribution pension plan (DCPP)

Eligibility for payment of professional membership fees

Three weeks of vacation time

Discount programs (Dell and GoodLife Fitness)

Free parking

Contact Person sanmina.com

Life insurance STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 97 ]

SIGMAPOINT Why you want to work here

Our employees make all the difference. The diversity of our workforce brings all cultures together for the same mission: build it right, build it better. We build really cool products for our customers and are committed to reducing our environmental footprint.

Who we are

SigmaPoint is a contract electronics manufacturer that focuses on lean manufacturing to reduce waste in the process, save money for our customers and reduce non-value added steps in the process while focusing on the employee to make their job easier.

What we make

Multi-layer, complex circuit boards such as those used in surveillance drones, military communications devices, licence plate recognition consoles found in police cruisers, high-speed rail inspection cameras and medical devices.

Our top customers

Manufacturers of commercial drones, aerospace security, defence, industrial IoT, advanced network systems and medical devices.

Our workplace culture

We are all about LEAN! Lean manufacturing that is, by eliminating waste and continuous improvement.

We have a huge commitment to the environment and reducing our carbon footprint. Additionally, everyone at SigmaPoint is on a first-name basis. From top to bottom, everyone works in unison.

Career advancement

It’s limitless. Where do you want to be? We encourage everyone to live their dream, ask questions and advance in your field of interest. We have so many great stories about people who started in entry level positions and are now project managers, product leaders, senior lean agents, supply continuity specialists, tactical buyers, account managers, value stream managers – the list goes on. [ 98 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

Fun stuff

Gender-balanced workforce, service awards at five, 10, 15 and 20 years of service, summer BBQs for all shifts, summer picnic, daily fitness breaks, Christmas parties, dragon boat races, Big Bike for Heart & Stroke , financial aid for education related to your field, company softball team.

Our values

We sponsor many local charities and events including Sparky’s Christmas Toy Drive, Baldwin House, the Children’s Treatment Centre and OSPCA, among others. We’ve also committed to a $15,000 donation to the Ottawa Heart Institute over the next three years. Elsewhere, we divert more than 120,000 kilograms of waste from landfills through recycling annually. More recently, we created a “SigmaGarden” – an in-house wall garden to share the “fruits of our labour” with all employees.

2880 Marleau Ave. Cornwall, ON 613-937-4462 sigmapoint.com facebook.com/sigmapointtechnologies linkedin.com/company/ sigmapoint-technologies/ twitter.com/sigmapoint

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Marshall Cunningham What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

The day-to-day is always changing. Over the last several months, it has included designing and implementing our data pipeline infrastructure, meeting with different departments at SigmaPoint to help break down knowledge gaps, and leveraging the collected data to address specific pain points. I also spend time researching and attending webinars from industry leaders to learn about the current landscape of data-driven manufacturing solutions.

4

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

After high school, I pursued a Bachelor of Applied Science degree with a major in electrical engineering at Memorial University (class of 2020). During the final 16 months of my degree, I completed two four-month work terms at SigmaPoint, contributing to the quality assurance, product engineering and test engineering, and Test Engineering departments. I developed a data analytics tool for the in-circuit test platform during my work terms, significantly improving my software development and project management skills. After graduation, I was offered full-time employment as a data engineer at SigmaPoint, along with the opportunity to complete an M.A.Sc. at Queen’s University with a focus on leveraging machine data to improve manufacturing processes.

3

Engineer $60,000$80,000

Account Management $50,000$75,000

What is the best part about your job?

The best part about my job is the autonomy we have to drive our project. It is enriching to feel a sense of ownership of my work and see it effect meaningful change at SigmaPoint.

2

Meet some of our summer students Hunter Goudie I attend Algonquin College in the electrical engineering technology program. I worked in the test engineering department in the summer of 2020 as an intern.

During my summer I worked on two projects: a tool to predict the upcoming workload of the test engineering team and designed the hardware and software for an automated test solution for a new high-volume COVID-19 product. With these projects I was able to apply my knowledge from school, be creative in my work and learn parts of the industry I don’t see in school. The internship gave me an idea of what type of work I want to do after school. The best part of my summer internship had to be the people; everyone at SigmaPoint is very approachable and will help anytime they can.

Ahmed Abdelrehim I attend the University of Ottawa pursuing a mechanical and software engineering degree. I worked on two main projects during my short summer stay at SigmaPoint.

One includes designing 3D models to enable us to test our boards more efficiently, which is used in a COVID-19 health care product. The other one was focused on introducing additive manufacturing solutions to the business through 3D printing.

The most exciting part about what I did was the exposure to the business side of things, enabling you to see how much tangible value your work is adding to the company, which is something you will definitely not experience at school.

1

Supply Chain $40,000$65,000

Production jobs $16 per hour to start, rising up to $25 per hour

Contact Person Paula Fontaine, CHRL pfontaine@sigmapoint.com 613-937-4462 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 99 ]

SNAPCAB Why you want to work here

SnapCab’s intention is to create space for communities of usefulness – both for its customers as well as its employees. SnapCab focuses on the right cultural fit before qualifications and embraces a fear-free culture where team members can talk openly, initiate ideas and collaborate.

Who we are

For over 35 years, SnapCab has been a leader in developing architectural products that are flexible, high quality and safe to use in a variety of environments.

What we make

SnapCab manufactures isolated, mobile office pod products, as well as a simple to install elevator interior system.

Our top customers

Accenture, Trihealth, Amazon, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Google, US government, MassGeneral Hospital for Children.

Our workplace culture

We have a wonderful culture focused on being useful. Team members are rewarded for reporting their mistakes and given time and materials to mistake-proof processes.

Career advancement

Opportunity for growth is endless! It's our goal to promote from within, starting from the factory floor to all different areas of the company.

Fun stuff

On each team member's work anniversary, management will create testimonial videos from coworkers highlighting the good work you do and how much you're appreciated.

SnapCab's values

SnapCab's values are Be Kind, "Be Authentic, and Be Useful," which were recently highlighted by Export Development Canada in their new campaign: https://workspace.snapcab. com/pages/business-as-unusual. [ 100 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

SnapCab

®

70 Railway St. Kingston, ON 855-762-7222 www.snapcab.com facebook.com/wearesnapcab linkedin.com/company/snapcab twitter.com/snapcab instagram.com/snapcab

MEET THE TEAM Position: Operations & Product Manager Name: Kyle Mullin Age: 35 Years at company: 2.5 Educational background: Kyle has an engineering degree, but aptitude is our first focus.

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I drive organization and execution of the production of SnapCab’s amazing products with our incredible operations team. I also work closely with R&D, engineering, marketing and sales to develop new innovations to serve our customers.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

Every day I work at SnapCab I’m inspired by the kindness, authenticity and drive to be better that each employee embodies. We believe in what we do!" - Kyle Mullin

I wasn’t hired for a specific role. I was hired based on my alignment with the tremendous work culture. I worked in production/support for months before finding my fit in my current position.

What is the best part about your job?

In short, the SnapCab team and company culture. Every day I work at SnapCab I’m inspired by the kindness, authenticity and drive to be better that each employee embodies. We believe in what we do!

The job Requirements

We welcome those who are naturally kind, willing to put the needs of the community first, and have a strong desire to be useful, no matter what job experience or career path brought them here.

Skills

An openness to learning and working together, and an attitude that starts with the question, "How can I help?"

Perks Dental benefits Drug benefits Casual dress code

Other: Fear-free culture; rewarding for mistakes; community-focus

Contact Person Sahiza Hossenbaccus sahiza.hossenbaccus@ snapcab.com 613-704-2912

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 101 ]

SPORT SYSTEMS (SSCI) Why you want to work here

Sport Systems (SSCI) is a great family business in the exciting field of sports infrastructure. Sport and recreation is part of our country’s fabric and our team brings exceptional Canadian-made products and services to the world. We are proud of how our employees have driven us to be one of the top 500 firms in Canada.

Who we are

Canada’s leader and fastest growing company in the athletic equipment space.

An aggressive company with a committed team of professionals who Build a Better Game everyday.

What we make

Stadium and gymnasium seating, outdoor sports equipment, gymnasium equipment, protective gym floor covers, custom stadium and therapeutic padding, sports barrier netting and custom metal products for other industries.

Our top customers

Our clients consist of universities and colleges, professional and amateur sports teams, municipalities, school boards, private sports facilities, general contractors and dealers.

Our workplace culture

We’re a tight-knit group focused on helping one another and finding the best solutions for our customers. We’re responsive and we excel at executing projects on time and on budget.

Career advancement

We are constantly entering new markets and developing new products. A team member can start on the shop floor and find themselves in management, project management, sales, supervisory roles and design and engineering.

Fun stuff

We’re a team that likes to have fun and have a laugh. Our geographical footprint means that our team has the opportunity to visit different parts of Canada and the world.

Our values

CONVENTIONAL COLOUR SEPARATION Professionalism: We always act with integrity and treat everyone with respect.

Reliability: We always do what we say we will do.

Optimism: We always keep a positive attitude.

PMS 1797 EQUIVALENTS: 201R 22G 25B / 0C 94M 94Y 6K / #C91619

28 Industrial Dr. Almonte, ON 613-256-1112 www.ssci.ca

PMS 1797

Black

facebook.com/SportSystemsInc linkedin.com/company/3302036 twitter.com/SportSystemsInc www.youtube.com/user/ SportSystemsInc instagram.com/sportsystemsinc

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MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Senior Account Manager Name: Alex Jackson Age: 33 Years at company: 10 Educational background: Marketing management What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I focus on working with new and existing clients within our core customer profile on preliminary design consulting, budgeting, estimating, sales and project management.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

5

General, Marketing, Financial and Human Resource Management

Whether I was as a general labourer, commercial painter or in concrete restoration, I have always been involved in the construction industry one way or another growing up and while in school. After receiving my college diplomas in the marketing field, it only made sense to combine the two skill and experience sets and work in the athletic construction industry.

4

What is the best part about your job?

Being part of a small business environment allows for lots of variety throughout the day. There have never been two days alike, which can be exciting and always keeps me on my toes. It also allows me to learn all aspects of the unique sports infrastructure and construction business by doing the work firsthand. The travel would also be right up there. Throughout my years with the company, I have travelled to and been part of projects in every province in Canada from British Columbia to Newfoundland, many states in the US and even in the Caribbean, Barbados and St. Croix, US Virgin Islands.

3

Requirements

Industry experience, post-secondary education in related field for some positions.

Results-oriented, safety and customer-first attitude, pride of workmanship, open to change and continuous improvement.

Skills

Problem-solving, organization and time management are key. A strong understanding of how the general construction industry operates, and being proactive and solutionoriented are a must.

Perks Dental benefits Drug benefits Financial bonuses Casual dress code Life insurance Eyecare benefits

Other: Industry-leading training and mentoring

Departmental/ Team Supervisor/ Coordinator

2

The job

1

Sales, Procurement, Design and Project Management

Installation Technician/ Fabricator

Labourer

Contact Person Jeff Hurrle General Manager jeffhurrle@ssci.ca 613-623-6584 ext. 112 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 103 ]

SULLIVAN Why you want to work here

Sullivan is a not just a family business, it is a family.

Recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, all employees are fully trained and empowered to develop creative business solutions to help drive the company’s future growth.

Who we are

One of Canada’s oldest family-owned construction companies, founded in 1914 and committed to construction excellence with an intense focus on customer and employee safety.

What we make

Design-build, construction management and stipulated sum construction services plus project management and integrated project delivery integrating sustainable and green construction practices.

Our top customers

Our clients are in the industrial, commercial, institutional and public sectors.

Our workplace culture

A fifth-generation company, Sullivan has a family-focused, caring atmosphere that influences every aspect of operations, from ensuring complete customer satisfaction to supporting employees.

Career advancement

Our senior management team and corporate culture fully support the development of our people. We are committed to continuous learning and mentorship and aim to promote from within wherever possible.

Fun stuff

We have an active social committee, with representation from all levels of the company, that organizes summer barbeques and curling bonspiels, along with many other fun events.

236 Madawaska Blvd., Suite 100 Arnprior, ON 613-623-6584 www.sullivan.ca

Our values

We are committed to employment equity. We care for our employees and our communities through charitable fundraising, community involvement and supporting local organizations. [ 104 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

facebook.com/Sullivan.ca www.linkedin.com/company/ msullivan/

KINGSTON 445 Montreal St. Kingston, ON NORTH BAY 1-191 Booth Road North Bay, ON

MEET THE TEAM

Position: Project Manager Name: Saara Levesque Age: 28 Years at company: 4.5 Educational background: B.A.Sc. Civil Engineering specialized structural University of Ottawa Science de la nature specialized mathematics Cégep de L’outaouais

“At Sullivan, every single employee is committed to the company’s principles – before, during and after project completion.”

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Evaluate drawings and documents to determine the feasibility of a project and the resources required. Continuously monitor projects to ensure they can be completed safely, within scheduled time frame and on budget.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

Following Cégep, I participated in a university co-op program gaining experience in the construction industry. This prompted me to pursue construction project management positions rather than work on the design side of the engineering industry.

What is the best part about your job?

It's fast-paced, and I am constantly learning new ways to be resourceful to ensure a successful project delivery for each of my clients. I appreciate receiving support and encouragement from Sullivan management to pursue training and certifications.

What skills are needed in this area of work?

Excellent organizational skills and strong communication skills are key in order to be successful in project management. An engineering background or a PMP Certificate is an asset.

What kinds of jobs are available at Sullivan?

Superintendent, foreman, project controls engineer, project coordinator, estimator, project manager, surveyor, health and safety coordinator, site quality officer, general labourer and carpenter.

What kinds of skills are necessary for these jobs?

Industry experience and post-secondary education in related field for some positions.

Results-oriented, safety-and customer-first attitude, pride of workmanship, open to change and continuous improvement.

Perks 100 per cent employer-paid health and dental

Free parking

Employee bonus plan

Gym memberships

Three or more weeks of vacation time Business casual dress code Group retirement plan – 6 per cent company match

Life and disability insurance

Other: Paid employee training and development; Fridays are 1/2 days; Rona discounts

Contact Person

Glenda Boldt Director of Human Resources 613-623-6584 ext. 217 gboldt@sullivan.ca

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 105 ]

THE BOBBINS PRODUCTION STUDIO INC. Why you want to work here

Working at The Bobbins is a different experience every day. Because we handle contracts from apparel companies of all kinds, you'll have the opportunity to diversify your practical skill set and knowledge of the industry in an ever-evolving workplace.

Who we are

The Bobbins specializes in small-batch apparel production. We value transparent, local production, and promise to engage in ethical apparel manufacturing.

What we make

The Bobbins makes custom apparel on a contract basis. Clients' orders range from women's wear, to baby clothes, to tote bags and other blank merchandise items.

Our top customers - Bundle Baby - Twiss & Weber - Yurblock - OMNI Health Care

Our workplace culture

We pride ourselves on being humancentric and transparent in all our practices. The workplace culture is focused on employee growth and education.

Career advancement

Entry-level employees will receive industrial sewing machine training with room for advancement in fabric cutting, pattern making and operations.

Fun stuff

We always encourage self-expression through fashion! The only dress code is that employees wear closed-toe shoes (and PPE masks indoors during the pandemic).

2728-A Howe St. Ottawa, ON 613-596-4902 www.thebobbins.ca

Our values

By providing accessible infrastructure for small businesses and startups, The Bobbins aims to grow the sustainable fashion community in the Ottawa region.

facebook.com/thebobbinsproduction/ @thebobbinsproduction

p ro d u ct i o n st u d i o

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p ro d u ct i o n st u d i o

MEET THE TEAM Position: Operations Director Name: Ivy Tessier Age: 27 Years at company: 1 Educational background: Diplomas in fashion design and business marketing from Algonquin College What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I supervise the manufacturing process daily in tandem with our production director to ensure efficiency. I source all machines and machine parts, and ensure the production schedule is on track. I also do all pattern making and grading.

It allows me to put my problem-solving skills to good use, and I love being able to come to work every day with my colleagues who have become good friends."

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I worked with the other owners in clothing production for a small business for two years and noticed a niche in the market, so we pursued the potential for a clothing and apparel manufacturer in Ottawa.

What is the best part about your job?

It allows me to put my problem-solving skills to good use, and I love being able to come to work every day with my colleagues who have become good friends.

The job Requirements

Certification from an educational institution that offers a specialized fashion design program is preferred, although a comprehensive portfolio showing three or more years of sewing and/or pattern making experience and finished products is an acceptable substitute.

Skills

The ideal employee is a self-sufficient problem solver who is willing to learn and grow.

They should be reliable, and have a sewing and pattern making background.

Perks Three or more weeks of vacation time Casual dress code

Free parking

Contact Person thebobbinsproduction@gmail.com 613-596-4902 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 107 ]

WILLS TRANSFER Why you want to work here

At Wills Transfer Limited, we are customer-and employee-focused, providing a proactive solutionoriented approach to our clients and committed to continuous improvement of our employees and our processes through education and innovation.

Who we are

In 1945, G.H. Wills began with two small trucks owned by a hard-working, community-oriented family. The business was created to ship items in and around Smiths Falls and surrounding communities, quickly building a reputation for excellence, efficiency and affordability. From those humble beginnings the company, which is now known as Wills Transfer Limited, now boasts 185 employees.

2210 Parkedale Ave., Brockville, ON 10 Industrial Rd., Perth, ON 146 ON-15, Smiths Falls, ON 3100 Swansea Cres. Ottawa, ON

What we do

We provide innovative logistics solutions to help contribute to our customers' success. We provide a wide spectrum of warehousing services from short- and long-term storage, a cross-docking service, order processing and distribution, pick and pack operations and a focus on managed 3PL (third-party logistics) services, where we manage the shipping and receiving, the inventory management and the customer service functions on behalf of our customers.

Career advancement

We hire, train, educate and cross-train excellent people who are performancedriven and operate with integrity and values that match those of our organization.

Fun stuff

Wills Transfer has been part of Canada’s Best Managed program for the last four years, earning the Gold Status, awarded in 2020. Yearly activities include barbeques, employee recognition awards, holiday parties, and various charity and community events. [ 108 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

146 Lombard St. (Hwy 15) Smiths Falls, ON 800-267-7937 www.willstransfer.com facebook.com/WillsTransfer WarehousingLogistics https://www.linkedin.com/company/ wills-transfer-limited/ twitter.com/Wills_Transfer

MEET THE TEAM

Career Ladder

Position: Operations Manager Name: Craig Mearns Age: 28 Years at company: 5.5

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Oversee the warehouse and customer service teams: coordinating, assigning, and reviewing all work related to shipping, receiving, storing, distributing and inventorying functions. Overseeing the required training of all branch staff to ensure a safe and healthy working environment is maintained.

5

4

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I completed my final university co-op assignment as an inventory controller with Wills Transfer after working in a couple other BComm-related fields. Wills Transfer treats their employees incredibly well, which made my decision to grow within the company an easy one. Wills Transfer approved and facilitated gaining my masters certificate in supply chain and logistics management this past year.

What is the best part about your job?

Each day is different, keeping me consistently challenged. Additionally, the people: we have a phenomenal team which genuinely makes coming to work each day an enjoyable experience.

3

The job Post-secondary education in supply chain management or related field. Two to three years' experience in a leadership role.

Comprehensive knowledge of third-party logistics, strong leader, well organized, customer-focused, flexible to change, critical thinking and problem solving, people management, effective communicator, motivator, stress-tolerant.

Perks

1

Operations Manager

Warehouse Supervisor

2

Requirements

Skills

Branch Manager

Customer Service Representative

Material Handler

Dental benefits

Life insurance

Eyecare benefits

Free parking

Contact Person

Other: Paid leave; disability insurance; member of Employment Equity; annual clothing allowance, including PPE; paid personal days; employee appreciation days; annual employee engagement survey.

Colin Goodfellow

Drug benefits Financial bonuses Three or more weeks of vacation time Casual dress code Registered retirement plan

Business Development Manager cgoodfellow@willstransfer.com 613-315-4780 STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 109 ]

COMPANIES MAKING IT IN MANUFACTURING Arnprior Aerospace Inc. Barrette Structural Blanchfield Commercial Kitchen Services Ltd. Braebon Medical Corp.

Camcor Industries Cord King Design 1st Direct Coil Dominis Engineering Dynamic Precision Inc. Eip Manufacturing Elpa (Ontario) Inc. Feris Build Tech Gastops General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada Havelock Metal Co. Heat-Line Freeze Protection Systems Hewitt Tool Engineering Inc. Ivaco Rolling Mills Kawartha Metals Corp.

Kingston Anchors Lee Valley Nanometrics Inc. Oz Optics Piramid Manufacturing Quickmill Robadair Ltd. Sideshift Inc. Siemens Process Instruments Smartcone The Machining Center Inc. Ts Manufacturing Co. [ 110 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

ARNPRIOR AEROSPACE INC. 550 Employees Arnprior www.arnprioraerospace.com

BARRETTE STRUCTURAL

Arnprior Aerospace Inc. specializes in the design, production and support of structural components for aerospace, defence and other industrial applications. They combine product design and program management skills with close tolerance fabrication, precision machining, complex assembly and integration, heat treat, chemical processing, and paint capabilities to create superior one-stop shopping value for their customers.

Established in Arnprior, ON, in 1954, Arnprior Aerospace Inc. put the town on the map for aviation. They now employ approximately 550 people in a total 360,000 square feet of production space across four facilities in Arnprior, ON; Montreal, QC; Portland, US and Chihuahua, Mexico.

BLANCHFIELD COMMERCIAL

KITCHEN SERVICES LTD.

BRAEBON MEDICAL CORP.

40 Employees

18 Employees

34 Employees

Ottawa

Ottawa

Kanata

www.barrettestructural.com

www.blanchfieldcks.ca

www.braebon.com

Barrette Structural is a leader in the wood frame and engineered wood products industry in Quebec and Ontario. The company supplies lumber framing, roof trusses, prefabricated walls and its TRIFORCE floor system to thousands of construction projects each year in the residential, multi-residential, institutional, commercial and agricultural sector.

Blanchfield Commercial Kitchen Services installs and services all makes of commercial food equipment — gas, electric, microwaves, refrigeration and ventilation — and also provides custom fabricated BLASSCO stainless steel products to commercial kitchens.

BRAEBON is a leading Canadian designer, manufacturer and distributor of diagnostic home sleep apnea recorders, highquality diagnostic sleep sensors, accessories, therapeutic intraoral appliances and software solutions for the sleep medicine marketplace.

They have developed a unique combination of over 140 products at the forefront of sleep medicine technology that are used on six continents.

Established in the early 2000s, Barrette Structural has grown significantly over the years and now has 700 employees at five manufacturing plants in Metcalfe, ON; Montreal, QC; Laval, QC; Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC and Trois-Rivières, QC. They are a branch of Barrette Ltd.

Owned and operated by Peter Blanchfield, Blanchfield Commercial Kitchen Services has been serving the Ottawa area for over 30 years and employs a team of 18.

BRAEBON is based in Kanata, ON, with an office in Ogdensburg, US. They employ a team of over 30.

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 111 ]

CAMCOR INDUSTRIES

CORD KING

45 Employees

DIRECT COIL 100+ Employees

Carp

Perth

Millhaven

www.camcorindustries.com

www.cordking.ca

www.directcoil.com

Camcor Industries is a high precision machine shop specializing in the manufacture of tight tolerance, complex geometry machined components for customers in the space, scientific instrumentation, defence & security, oceans, subsea and other sectors. Camcor’s vast manufacturing knowledge ranges from pressure-sensitive ocean bottom sensors to optical and microwave components installed in satellites orbiting the earth.

Cord King manufactures the world’s most productive firewood processor, fully customizable to suit their customers’ needs.

Based in Perth, ON, Cord King has grown from humble origins into an industry leader and highly respected manufacturer of highquality firewood processors and accessories. Now in use in over 16 countries across the globe, and with over 20,000 machines built, Cord King has set itself apart by providing a user-friendly and innovative machine that can produce — at a minimum — four full cords of wood per hour.

Direct Coil is an advanced manufacturer of innovative custom heat transfer products, specializing in the design and manufacture of heating and cooling coils found in most heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment and other custom engineered products.

Camcor was founded by Roberto and Orlando Campagna, who collectively have more than 60 years’ experience in the machining business. Their shop is located in Carp, ON.

DESIGN 1st 31 Employees Ottawa www.design1st.com

[ 112 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

Headquartered in Millhaven, ON, and with a newly established USA manufacturing facility in Tennessee, Direct Coil has established itself as a major player in the North American market, and is poised for continued growth.

Design 1st is a full-service industrial design and engineering firm that develops simple, compelling products that incorporate human behavioral science to support organizations’ business and marketing goals. For over 25 years, Design 1st has helped entrepreneurs, startups and enterprise organizations across Canada and the United States transform ideas into winning products across a variety of industries including – but not limited to - mining, telecommunications, healthcare and robotics.

Headquartered in Eastern Ontario, Ottawa and roots in Nortel Networks, Design 1st has developed over 750 projects that influence millions of people globally and secured 130 client patents. Core competencies in industrial design, mechanical engineering, electronics design, embedded firmware and manufacturing setup have established Design 1st as one of the most trusted product design firms across North America.

DOMINIS ENGINEERING 18 Employees Ottawa

Dominis Engineering is a leader among marine and ship propeller manufacturers, specializing in the design and manufacture of precision propellers and impellers for high-speed vessels. The company was founded in 1985 with a vision to build high-precision propellers that reduce noise and vibrations and increase fuel efficiency. Their monoblock propellers, CP propeller blades and water jet impellers have been used on Canadian and US Navy and Coast Guard vessels.

www.dominis.ca

Based in Ottawa, ON, Dominis employs a team of 18. Their manufacturing facility uses state-of-the-art technology to CNC mill large sculptured surfaces to final form and finish.

DYNAMIC PRECISION INC.

EIP MANUFACTURING

ELPA (ONTARIO) INC.

12 Employees

21 Employees

25 Employees

Nepean

Pembroke

L'Orignal

www.dynamicprecision.ca

www.eipmfg.ca

www.elpa.ca

Dynamic Precision Inc. is an Ottawabased machine shop offering CNC machining, prototyping, highspeed machining and professional welding. They are capable of machining all metals and alloys, whether hard or soft, and use both CNC and manual machining to ensure the highest level of precision no matter what the material. They also offer expert welding services certified by Canadian Welding Bureau standards.

EIP Manufacturing is a custom precision machine shop, specializing in the design, development and manufacture of custom tooling and associated components for industries including aerospace, automotive, construction, power generation and mining and nuclear. Their services also include production machining and inspection.

ELPA (Ontario) Inc. is a precision manufacturing company offering full CNC machining and welding fabrication, as well as complete manufacturing services, in the aeronautic and manufacturing industry. Their fully automated CNC shop, complemented by TopSolid and Surfcam CADCAM software, gives them the capabilities and tools to fully service diverse customers.

EIP Manufacturing, formerly known as Eddy Industrial Products, was founded in 1957 as a division of the Eddy Match Company. The company has grown significantly since being purchased by local businessmen Michael and Tim Harrington, and now employs a team of 21 at their facility in Pembroke, ON.

Founded in 1979, ELPA’s size, capabilities and reputation have grown over the years. They now employ 25 people in their shop in L’Original, ON.

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 113 ]

GENERAL DYNAMICS

FERIS BUILD TECH

GASTOPS

20 Employees

160 Employees

1,100 Employees

Kingston

Ottawa, Halifax, St. John’s

Ottawa

www.ferisbuildtech.com

www.gastops.com

www.gdmissionsystems.ca

Kingston-based Feris Build Tech Inc. is a leader in high performing, environmentally sustainable building envelope solutions.

Feris' next-generation Harmonic Advanced Building Envelope Technology provides the structure, insulation, and vapour barrier all in one system, for net-zero energy consumption. Harmonic offers significant architectural design flexibility, and withstands floods, fire, and extreme weather such as hurricanes and earthquakes.

Harmonic’s materials are Greenguard Certified and enable precision installation while reducing onsite waste, errors and inefficiencies. Builders can now install a Net zero ready, energy efficient building envelope four times faster with reduced requirements for skilled labour, without altering construction methods.

Gastops is recognized worldwide for its innovative contributions to the maintenance, productivity and safety of complex critical equipment used in the aviation, energy, marine, rail and mining industries. Gastops’ advanced equipment sensing and analysis products and specialized technical and engineering services add value throughout the critical equipment life cycle, from design through to in-service operations and support.

General Dynamics Mission Systems– Canada is one of Canada’s leading C4ISR defence and security companies and has a worldwide reputation for excellence in the production of integrated solutions for land, airborne, maritime and cyber applications. A dynamic force in the business community, General Dynamics is building Canada’s manufacturing base; supporting research and development; and working closely with Canadian suppliers, small businesses and Indigenous companies.

HAVELOCK METAL CO. Peterborough www.havelockmetal.com

Gastops’ head office is located in Ottawa, ON, with additional branch offices in Halifax, NS and St. John’s, NL.

MISSION SYSTEMS–CANADA

The company provides an innovation-driven workplace for 1,100 employees in Ottawa, Calgary and Halifax and offers exciting coop placements in engineering, information technology, commercial services and more.

Havelock Metal is eastern and central Ontario’s premier manufacturer and roll former of metal roofing, siding, trim and flashing, selling directly to the public. For more than 25 years, they have made it their mission to fabricate the best possible residential, commercial and agricultural roofing, siding and accessories. They offer a wide variety of steel profiles that can be manufactured in many colours, textures and woodgrains.

Havelock Metal was founded in 1993 and relocated their entire manufacturing facility and showroom to Peterborough, ON, in 2018.

[ 114 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

HEAT-LINE FREEZE PROTECTION SYSTEMS 18 Employees Algonquin Highlands

Heat-Line Freeze Protection Systems specializes in developing and manufacturing the most advanced water pipe freeze protection systems using self-regulating technology. The company is committed to developing products out of necessity, providing heat tracing and heat cable products that meet the needs and challenges of those who call some of the most extreme cold climates home. Many of Heat-Line’s proprietary designs are patented within North America and carry trademarks globally.

www.heatline.com

Founded in 1988, Heat-Line is located in Algonquin Highlands, ON, and employs a team of 18. Learn more about what Heat-Line has to offer at www.heatline.com.

HEWITT TOOL ENGINEERING INC.

IVACO ROLLING MILLS

KAWARTHA METALS CORP.

20 Employees

500 Employees

55 Employees

Smiths Falls

L'Orignal

Peterborough

www.hewitttool.com

www.ivacorm.com

www.kawarthametals.com

Hewitt Tool Engineering Inc. is an original manufacturer of quality precision metal cutting tools used in the manufacture and maintenance of commercial, military and executive aircraft.

The company offers special tool design to help customers improve the efficiency and quality of their product where Hewitt tools are used.

Ivaco Rolling Mills is one of North America’s largest suppliers of hot rolled wire rod and continuous cast steel billets to the automotive, energy, agriculture, construction and telecommunication industries.

They are dedicated to supplying high-quality products to both the domestic and international markets and are proud to be a certified Canadian Women Business Enterprise business.

Kawartha Metals Corp. is one of central and eastern Ontario’s largest suppliers of steel, aluminum, brass and plastic material, carrying over 5,000 different grades. They specialize in custom metal orders and hard-to-find metal products.

Founded by Peter Hewitt in 1989, Hewitt Tool’s original employees brought with them years of worldclass engineering and techniques to produce high-quality, reliable tooling. The company now employs approximately 20 people at their shop in Smiths Falls, ON.

Established in the early 1970s and acquired by Heico Holdings Inc. in 2004, Ivaco now has approximately 500 employees. Its facilities are located on the banks of the Ottawa River in L’Original, ON.

Kawartha Metals Corp. has recently moved into a new 100,000 square foot facility at 1961 Fisher Dr., Peterborough, ON, which offers more room for inventory and stateof-the-art material processing equipment and material finishing services. The company employs over 55 highly trained employees.

Kawartha Metals can service the needs of many manufacturers who need added value cut-to-size metal goods. Kawartha Metals Corp. services the Collingwood, Huntsville, Perth and Kingston areas.

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 115 ]

KINGSTON ANCHORS

LEE VALLEY

NANOMETRICS INC.

425 Employees

150+ Employees

Kingston

Ottawa

Kanata

www.kingstonanchors.com

www.leevalley.com

www.nanometrics.ca

Kingston Anchors is a specialty supplier of superior-quality boat anchors, bow rollers, roller wheels, accessories, dinghy davit systems, pins and custom metal manufacturing. Their products are handcrafted in Canada with pride from 100% marine-grade stainless steel. The company has been proudly serving North America’s boat manufacturers, boating enthusiasts and weekend warriors since 1977, and their reputation for high quality and exceptional customer service has earned them an impressive national and international client base.

Lee Valley is a family-owned Canadian business specializing in unique tools and gifts for woodworking, gardening and other hobbies and crafts, as well as products that solve everyday problems. Their mission is to foster the creative spirit of their customers by finding and developing some of the best tools in the industry.

Nanometrics Inc. is a leading earthquake monitoring company specializing in full-service, integrated solutions for studying manmade and natural seismicity.

Working with the world’s leading scientific institutions, universities and geological surveys, they’ve found solutions to the most difficult monitoring challenges. The company’s innovative technology is used in mission-critical seismic arrays and tsunami warning systems in over 100 countries across the globe.

OZ OPTICS 260 Employees Ottawa www.ozoptics.com [ 116 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

Veritas Tools, the manufacturing arm of Lee Valley, is a world leader in woodworking tool design innovation. With 250 products and more than 100 patents in lines that include woodworking planes, sharpening equipment, marking and measuring tools, router tables, drilling accessories and more, Veritas is a leading developer of products for discerning woodworkers.

Their research and development engineers, industrial designers and modern manufacturing facility combine to create innovative tools of the highest quality.

Nanometrics Inc. is headquartered in Kanata, ON, with offices in Calgary, AB; Beijing, China; and Houston, US. For the past two years, the company has been recognized for overall business performance and sustained growth by Canada’s Best Managed Companies.

OZ Optics Ltd. is a leading worldwide supplier of fiber optic products for existing and next-generation optical networks. In addition to designing and manufacturing components and test equipment for fiber optics markets, the company offers award-winning fiber optic sensor systems for remote monitoring of oil and gas pipelines, wells, refineries, bridges, dams and other large structures, and security fences, as well as for fire detection.

OZ Optics' head office is located in Ottawa, ON, with a manufacturing, administration and R&D facility. The company has also established manufacturing facilities in Turkey and China.

PIRAMID MANUFACTURING LTD. 12 Employees Nepean

Ottawa-based Piramid Manufacturing Ltd. is a small, family owned and operated sliding closet door company specializing in the manufacture and installation of high-quality closet doors, room dividers, barn doors and hardware. With a focus on quality products and great service, we are always searching for motivated workers looking to work in the construction industry.

www.piramidmfg.com

Piramid was established by Clifford Fleury and Anna Cox in 1978. They are located in Nepean, ON, and employ a team of 12.

QUICKMILL

ROBADAIR LTD.

70 Employees

70 Employees

Peterborough

Ottawa

Carleton Place

www.quickmill.com

www.robadair.com

www.sideshift.com

Quickmill Inc. is a world-class manufacturer of CNC milling machines and CNC drilling machines. Their gantry- and bridgestyle CNC machining centres offer some of the best value on the market today, and are used in industries such as heat transfer, power generation, aerospace, structural steel, mold and die, machine shops and off-road equipment.

Robadair Ltd. is a leading supplier of custom precision metal fabrication for hi-tech, telecommunications and military applications offering a complete build to print and assembly service.

They hold industry certifications including an AS9100 quality program, Nadcap, CWB, and Controlled Goods. Centrally located in Ottawa, Robadair Ltd. operates a full-fledged sheet metal shop and assembly operations in a 35,000 square foot facility and a separate 12,000 square foot machine shop.

With various industry relationships, Robadair Ltd. provides full turnkey solutions including plating and silk-screening services.

Sideshift Inc. delivers a range of affordable, high-performance docking products and operates as the only North American volume manufacturer of externally mounted thrusters, shipping to thousands of customers in over forty countries. The company’s own revolutionary bow and stern thruster technology sets the standard for affordable, powerful and easy-to-install thruster solutions for all types of boats, including monohull, pontoon and houseboats.

Quickmill’s origins can be traced back to 1984, when a small machine shop producing low-cost parts on high-cost machines realized the demand for a lower-cost vertical drilling machine to save on inhouse labour. They now employ a team of 70 at their facility in Peterborough, ON.

SIDESHIFT INC.

®

STUFF Magazine 2020/2021 [ 117 ]

SIEMENS PROCESS INSTRUMENTS

SMARTCONE

THE MACHINING CENTER INC.

15 Employees

20 Employees

Peterborough

Stittsville

Belleville

www.siemens.ca

www.thesmartcone.com

www.themachiningcenter.com

The Siemens Process Instruments factory designs and manufactures sophisticated measurement instruments and automated equipment for the process industries. Siemens Peterborough is part of the global Process Instrumentation business segment and operates under the Siemens Canada umbrella.

SmartCone Technologies Inc. provides a futureproof, modular IoT platform for solutions surrounding safety, surveillance, asset tracking and more. Since 2011, they have been researching and developing IoT technologies to make safety more intelligent, cost-effective, adaptable, scalable and mobile, all at the highest standards of security and privacy. SmartCone’s mission is to save lives and secure people’s assets.

The Machining Center Inc. (TMC) provides full-service custom machining, fabrication, maintenance, and engineering and design to a diverse customer base. TMC was established in 1988 and strives to provide customers with quality and cost-effective parts and services in a timely fashion, with honesty, integrity and professionalism.

Siemens automatic equipment is used in a wide variety of applications in industries such as oil and gas; environmental; chemical; food and beverage; pharmaceutical; and mining, aggregate and cement.

Siemens Canada is a subsidiary of Siemens AG, a global technology company focused on intelligent infrastructure for buildings and distributed energy systems and on automation and digitalization in the process and manufacturing industries.

They work with companies from a wide range of sectors including nuclear, food, aerospace, oil and automotive from a 14,000 square foot facility in Belleville. Their diverse skillset and community connections offer a wide variety of work opportunities - from replacing broken tractor parts to making factory equipment for Kellogg’s and Procter & Gamble.

TS

MANUFACTURING CO. 100 Employees Lindsay www.tsman.com

[ 118 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca

TS Manufacturing has the largest selection of steel for sale in the Kawartha Lakes and Lindsay area. They also have the machinery to cut or process steel so it is ready for fabrication. Their services include welding and fitting, engineering consulting, high-definition plasma cutting, mobile welding, processing and painting, and machining and millwrighting, as well as repair work for their local agricultural and construction clients.

Are you looking for employment?

Nine Employment Ontario agencies in 11 different locations in Ottawa can offer you a full range of employment services in both official languages. We offer resources and supports to respond to any employment and training need. We are open to all and there is no charge for services. Find your nearest Employment Ontario office in by visiting www.eoon.ca. If you are elsewhere in eastern Ontario, please visit www.ontario.ca/page/employment-ontario to find your nearest Employment Ontario location.

Want to upgrade or learn new skills?

A network of literacy and basic skills programs in Lanark, Renfrew, Prescott-Russell and Ottawa offer a variety of programs, which will help you with job searching, independent living, or to feel more confident using technology. Programs are mostly for adult learners.

Visit www.rovln.ca to find literacy help in your area.

Looking to explore careers?

Ottawa has the Edge! In partnership with Edge Factor, the Ottawa Employment Hub is unlocking FREE, high impact career exploration tools for our community. Discover industries, explore careers and virtual workplace experiences and watch inspiring “edutainment� films, and more on www.edgefactor.com/OttawaON. The service is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

BURGUNDY: PMS 195 / 8B1E5F WARM GREY LIGHT: PMS 418 / 748C85 WARM GREY DARK: PMS 425 / 4C4E47 TEALE: PMS 7719 / 006C67 BLUE: PMS 299 / 0678B2 GREEN: PMS 356 / 46B549