Saluting the Prairies’ gravity-defying entrepreneurs 2014 Special supplement published by Business in Calgary and Business in Edmonton magazines.
© 2014 Ernst & Young LLP. All Rights Reserved. “Entrepreneur Of The Year” is a registered trademark of EYGN Limited.
“Innovators.” “Risk takers.” “Game changers.” That sounds about right. FirstEnergy Capital congratulates all the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014 nominees.
FirstEnergy Capital is a leader in the global energy sector, providing financial, advisory and investment services to a broad range of corporate clients and sophisticated investors worldwide.
firstenergy.com
FirstEnergy Capital Corp. is a Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and IIROC.
Entrepreneurs defy gravity — inspiring awe as they lift their businesses off the ground. At EY Canada, our own growth story started 150 years ago in the same way as this year’s impressive Entrepreneur Of The Year finalists: with one entrepreneur committed to defying the odds. In 1864 — before Canada was even a country — Thomas Clarkson founded the trustee and receivership business which has today evolved into EY. His entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for a firm deeply committed to the success of entrepreneurs that still resonates across our organization today. EY is recognized as the top professional services brand among the entrepreneurial community and we were recently named Professional Services Organization of the Year by Startup Canada. But what really makes us proud is the opportunity, every year, to celebrate the stories and achievements of entrepreneurs through our Entrepreneur Of The Year Program. For the award finalists in these pages, their ambition, innovation and leadership have taken their businesses to new heights. Their success is contributing to a better working world for their communities and right across the Prairies. For many, their vision has taken flight across Canada and beyond borders — building Canada’s presence around the world. What will the next 150 years of bring? New generations of entrepreneurs will continue to defy the odds and what we think is possible. And we’ll be right there by their side. Rob Jolley Prairies Director, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year
Table of Contents Business-to-Consumer Products and Services Roger Newton - The Canadian Brewhouse - page 10 | Joe Sunner, Harry Sunner - Durabuilt Windows & Doors - page 12 | Brent Zettl - Prairie Plant Systems Inc. - page 14
Energy Services Mike Dunn - Enerbuilt Technologies Inc. - page 16 | Quinn Holtby - Katch Kan Limited - page 18 | Alvin Pyke Helical Pier Systems Ltd. - page 20 | Pat Wilson - Camex Equipment Sales & Rentals Inc. – page 22
Manufacturing Mike Fata - Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods - page 24 | Dan Leckelt, Lindsey Leckelt - Silent-Aire Manufacturing Inc. - page 26 | Steve Parsons - Inovata Foods Corp. – page 28
Emerging Entrepreneur James Bachynsky - Calgary Shooting Centre – page 30 | Danielle Bragge - The Headhunters Recruitment Inc. page 32 | Stephen Glanville, Regan Davis, Bailey Epp - STEP Energy Services - page 34 | Heather Murphy, Craig Howes - Go Tire Inc. - page 36
Oil and Gas Wayne King - Grit Industries Inc. - page 38 | Bill McCaffrey - MEG Energy - page 40 | Muthu Palanisamy Metalcare Group Inc. - page 42
Special Citation - Social Entrepreneur Shaun Loney - BUILD and others – page 43
Technology and Communications Elmer Brattberg, Audrey Brattberg, Holly Brattberg, Susan Brattberg - Global eTraining and The Brattberg Group - page 44 | David Beresford, Greg Chudiak - Pandell - page 46 | Wayne Karpoff - Willowglen Systems Inc. - page 48 | Jory Lamb - VistaVu Solutions – page 49
Business-to-Business Products and Services Dave Bischoff, Cal Fairbanks - ComplyWorks - page 50 | Ken Greer - Western Ag Group of Companies - page 52 | Mark Repchinsky - Advance Coating Solutions Inc. - page 54 | Al Side - Side Group of Companies – page 56
Professional and Financial Services Greg Burghardt - Arrow Engineering - page 58 | Laurie Goldberg - People Corporation - page 60 | Marnee Brick, Greg Sutton - TinyEYE Therapy Services – page 62
Real Estate and Construction Justin Bobier - Crystal Creek Homes - page 64 | Radhe Gupta - Rohit Group of Companies - page 66 | Travis Penner, Sjoerd Huese - Bridge Road Construction Ltd. - page 68 | Phil Milroy - Westcorp Inc.- page 70
Published by O.T. Communications | www.otcommunications.com | Canadian publications mail sales product agreement No. 41126516 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to circulation dept. 1025 101 6th Ave. SW, Calgary, AB T2P 3P4 info@businessincalgary.com
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
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To judge high-flying talent, you need lots of it. It takes talent to know talent. We couldn’t celebrate the Prairies’ brightest entrepreneurs without the powerful insights of our judges. We’re truly grateful.
Linda Hohol
Kelley Smith
Darryl Levy
Dale Wishewan
Ashif Mawji
Stephanie Yong
Corporate Director, various boards
Corporate Consultant
President & CEO Wynward Insurance Group
CEO NPO Zero Corp.
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President & CEO Booster Juice
Director W. Brett Wilson Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Meet our Prairies leadership team Winnipeg Rob Jolley
Craig Roskos
Program Director, Entrepreneur Of The Year
Managing Partner 204 947 6519 craig.m.roskos@ca.ey.com
780 638 6656 rob.m.jolley@ca.ey.com
Louise Hyland
Joe Healey
Program Coordinator, Entrepreneur Of The Year
Office Leader, Entrepreneur Of The Year
403 206 5372 louise.hyland@ca.ey.com
204 954 5568 joe.a.healey@ca.ey.com
Calgary
Saskatoon Kent Kaufield
Evan Shoforost
Managing Partner
Managing Partner
403 206 5100 kent.d.kaufield@ca.ey.com
306 934 8000 evan.shoforost@ca.ey.com
Dean Radomsky
Greg Keller
Office Leader, Entrepreneur Of The Year
Office Leader, Entrepreneur Of The Year
403 206 5180 dean.w.radomsky@ca.ey.com
306 649 8218 greg.keller@ca.ey.com
Edmonton Ross Haffie Managing Partner 780 423 5811 ross.m.haffie@ca.ey.com
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
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Business-to-Consumer Products and Services
Roger Newton The Canadian Brewhouse Edmonton
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rom the moment Roger Newton, President of The Canadian Brewhouse, began talking, it was clear he was a born leader and entrepreneur. With very little capital and at the young age of 21, he launched the first Brewhouse. His customers were mainly his friends, but through hard work, perseverance and investing all the early profits in the business, Newton grew the company to the beloved establishment it is today. In less than 13 years, The Canadian Brewhouse grew to 11 locations, with more on the way. Are entrepreneurs born or made? I believe they are born. Entrepreneurs need to be decision-makers and risk takers. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? A strong work ethic, the desire to succeed and the ability to advance after a setback. How important have good employees been to your success? They are vital. Employee skills need to be recognized so they can achieve success in their areas of strength. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? To encourage entrepreneurs, we need to start teaching money and life skills in grade school. What was your first job? Delivering newspapers. Let me rephrase that … delivering most of the newspapers assigned to my route! What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I am passionate about my three children – even when they keep me up at night or their antics make me want to hide from them to relax … with a fine Brewhouse product in hand! What book are you reading now? Great books are meant to be read more than once, which is why I’ve been reading Goodnight Moon and Bus Stops to my daughter – about seven times in a row each evening, every evening. What motivates you? Seeing co-workers succeed and guests enjoying what we have created. My advice for entrepreneurs is to keep your plans to yourself. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake, and if you are in need of some creative juices, come visit The Canadian Brewhouse!
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Our house is your house.
WHERE GOOD FRIENDS COME TOGETHER FOR COLD BEER, GREAT FOOD & SPORTS! thecanadianbrewhouse.com @TheCDNBrewhouse
/CanadianBrewhouse
12 LOCATIONS IN ALBERTA Edmonton 9538 Ellerslie Road 10338 - 109 Street 12711 - 97 Street
COMING SOON TO OKOTOKS, AIRDRIE, REGINA AND SASKATOON!
Leduc 5404 Discovery Way Spruce Grove 310, 4 McLeod Avenue
Sherwood Park 200 - 270 Baseline Road
Lloydminster 7703 - 44 Street
Camrose 6608 - 48 Avenue
Grande Prairie 10829 - 104A Avenue
Red Deer 12 Conway Street
Fort McMurray 108 Riverstone Ridge
Calgary 9650 Harvest Hills Blvd
Business-to-Consumer Products and Services
Joe Sunner, Harry Sunner Durabuilt Windows & Doors Edmonton
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ather and son duo, CEO Joe Sunner and President Harry Sunner, are committed to family owned business ventures. Their company, Durabuilt Windows & Doors, is one of Western Canada’s largest privately owned window and door manufacturers. It supplies the residential, new home construction and commercial industries. This year, Durabuilt celebrates its 25th anniversary. President Harry Sunner responds to the questions on behalf of himself and his co-nominee, CEO Joe Sunner. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? At eight I began to involve myself in my dad’s small business, to the point where I would wake up pretending I was too sick for school so I could work in our retail business. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Entrepreneurs are born and are constantly in the making. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Challenging the impossible, personal and professional development, vision, defying the odds, taking risks, and having the discipline to sacrifice personal life to succeed. How important have good employees been to your success? That’s like asking how important your kidneys are over your heart or how important your vision is over your hearing. Good employees are the blood of any great company. What does being a finalist mean to you? Being a finalist means proof that hardship and determination will merit you one day. The recognition gives me an accolade to show my children and demonstrate that if I can be nominated for relentless hard work, then life is an oyster for them, such feeling of an athlete winning a marathon or ironman!
What did you want to be when you were a kid? I always wanted to be a business owner of a large company that would have national recognition. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would educate myself. I learned many elements of business the hard way. What is your dream vacation? The Maldives for a week and then New York for a week with my wife. My advice for entrepreneurs is to defy the odds. Over the next 10 years, I plan to have a self-running business and thoroughly enjoy life, waking up to do whatever I want! I will also be a mentor to others and to my children. 12
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Celebrating Leadership, Innovation and Commitment EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Regional Finalists, 2014
“The growth we have experienced over the last 25 years can be attributed both to our shared drive to succeed, as well as the immeasurable support of our team, customers, vendors and dealers across Western Canada. The EY Nomination has given us the chance to reflect upon our journey, and look towards the future. We are extremely honoured to be finalists.� Harry Sunner (President) and Joe Sunner (CEO). Durabuilt provides custom Windows and Doors across Western Canada. To learn more please call 1.800.544.3815 or visit durabuiltwindows.com
all about you.
Business-to-Consumer Products and Services
Brent Zettl Prairie Plant Systems Inc. Saskatoon
E
stablished in 1988 by President and CEO Brent Zettl, Prairie Plant Systems is a privately held plant biotechnology company that focuses on research and development. Prairie Plant’s current projects include the growing and processing of medically valuable whole plant components for controlled substances, biosecure production of mutagenized plants for development of unique genetic lines for commercialization, and genetic transformation for tissue specific expression of pharmaceutical biologicals. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I knew very early. Around age 12, my dad started us kids raising chickens. I invested my allowance and moved on to raising pheasants with the money I made. At 18, I brokered a deal with a Saskatchewan company to get their old power poles, which I converted to lumber and sold. C
Are entrepreneurs born or made? M Born – it’s a combination of interest, vision and an appetite for risk that most people Y don’t have. CM
What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Vision, communication skills and tenacity.
MY
CY
CMY
How important have good employees been to your success? K They’re an integral part of the business. We couldn’t do anything without our employees. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Create educational and financial support systems that speak directly to entrepreneurs and their needs. What book are you reading now? Chris Hadfield’s book: An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth. What motivates you? Helping people and helping the environment. Leaving things better than when I arrived. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My father has a passion for business and a compassion for people. He gave up his professional career to form a non-profit organization to assist disabled adults in 1975. Also, former SaskTel president Don Ching understands how businesses work and how to direct our board. My advice to entrepreneurs is not to be discouraged by a lack of resources and support from others who don’t see your vision when you are looking at opportunities. What an entrepreneur sees is not often recognized by anybody else. However, you also need to manage cash flow within the context of your vision. 14
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Safety. Reliability. Effectiveness. It’s in our nature.
I’m honoured to be an EY Entrepreneur Of The Year finalist, and pleased to share this honour with all my staff and management, including those with our subsidiaries. These are most interesting, exciting times as we collectively continue to develop new treatments to better serve a great many customers across Canada, and soon beyond, when conventional medicine isn’t enough.
Brent Zettl
CEO and President
Prairie Plant Systems Inc. #1 Plant Technology Road, Box 19A, RR#5, Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7K 3J8
Phone: (306) 975-1207 Fax: (306) 975-0440 Website: www.prairieplant.com
Energy Services
Mike Dunn Enerbuilt Technologies Inc. Nisku
M
ike Dunn created Enerbuilt Technologies Inc. in 2007 to provide flameless heating solutions that reduce costs, increase safety and are environmentally friendly. Additional services include 24/7 mobile service, maintenance training and warranty processing. Dunn credits his willingness to work hard, learn what’s important and outstanding staff as factors in Enerbuilt’s success. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? From early on, I wanted to have more of an impact on what was going on around me. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Successful entrepreneurs have traits that anyone can choose to learn. The things you must have internally are courage and a belief in yourself that you can recover if things go wrong. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The ability and willingness to learn. How important have good employees been to your success? To be successful, the main ingredient is good people who adapt when conditions change or you have product issues. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? I was lucky enough to join Entrepreneurs’ Organization, and that was a gamechanger for me. Canada’s support vehicle exists right now through this organization. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would accept help and engage in a mentorship process much earlier in my career. If you weren’t in your current leadership position, what would you be doing? I would catch up on family time, learn to play the guitar and get my MBA. If I was still engaged in the business community but had more time, I would focus on mentorship. Where do you want to be in the next 10 years? I want to be actively engaged in supporting growing businesses. How do you define success? Success is your ability to provide meaningful change in your family, community and business. My dad told me you have only failed if you don’t try. It is important to take risks, learn from mentors and rely on good people. When you succeed, give back by becoming a mentor and encouraging other entrepreneurs.
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
“Thank you for your passion and commitment over the past seven years; you have helped us all to reach our current level of success. This recognition is in honour of all your hard work and you should be proud of all that’s been accomplished. I am looking forward to sharing many more successes with you in the future. Thank you for all you have done.” – Mike
Enerbuilt Technologies Inc. aims to be the premier provider of equipment and value-added technologies for the energy industry.
Enerbuilt provides full service flameless heating solutions. Our success with flameless heating has been driven by three main value propositions:
Enerbuilt is committed to developing, distributing and servicing cost effective, environmentally friendly and safe-to-operate equipment and technologies.
• Reduced overall heating costs • Increased safety and lowered risk • Decreased environmental impact
www.enerbuilt.ca 780-979-9991
Enerbuilt Technologies, Inc. 2808 Fifth Street, Nisku, AB T9E 4A6
Energy Services
Quinn Holtby Katch Kan Limited Edmonton
K
atch Kan Limited provides proactive solutions for safety and environmental protection in the oil and gas industry through innovative products such as their patented Rig Safety System™ and Zero Spill System™. Founder Quinn Holtby’s adventurous spirit is a key component in Katch Kan’s success. Katch Kan’s facility houses their state-of-the art service rig, drilling rig and wellhead simulators that can be modified and set to different configurations for training purposes. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Life experience, learning from books and others’ experiences all feed into becoming an entrepreneur, but some personalities are more favourable for entrepreneurship than others. How important have good employees been to your success? No one person has all the skills necessary to handle everything themselves. You need other people to work with you, support you, encourage you, and make up for additional skills you don’t have. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Our desire to give back and make a meaningful difference. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Classic cars, supporting community causes and inspiring, helping, coaching and mentoring new entrepreneurs. What book are you reading now? Several, including Think and Grow Rich, A Message to Garcia and The Strangest Secret. Where do you want to be in the next 10 years? Sitting quietly at my cabin surrounded by family while reading stories about how the oil and gas industry has finally realized a zero spill policy and how accidents on rigs have been virtually eliminated. At the same time, I want to see Katch Kan Limited become an employee-owned company serving countless customers around the world. What motivates you? Watching others grow and become the very best they can and the possibility of saving others from accidents. Lifelong learning also motivates me. My advice to entrepreneurs is, “Don’t quit.” Things will go wrong, money can be short, you’ll get tired, there will be failures and twists and turns – choose not to quit. Also, success is influenced by the people with whom you associate and the books that you read.
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
“Protecting Lives and the Environment with safety equipment and zero spill solutions” I’m honoured and humbled to be recognized as Kan’s success has been achieved through the our remarkable partners around the world, and of course, our outstanding customers, who, like us, are committed to protecting the lives of their workers and ensuring that our precious planet is safeguarded for generations to come. For over 20 years, Katch Kan has been developing innovative solutions to the upstream oil and gas industry and we are exceptionally proud to be serving customers in over 60 countries around the world. Success is realized when innovative ideas are combined with a relentless desire to gratitude that I thank all those who have helped along the way. Quinn Holtby Founder, President & CEO
www.katchkan.com
Energy Services
Alvin Pyke Helical Pier Systems Ltd. Sherwood Park
S
ince 1977, Helical Pier Systems Ltd. has provided engineering, manufacturing, installation, distribution and equipment design/creation services for helical piling products. Founder Alvin Pyke focuses on the implementation of technology, sustainability through green practices and investing in employee training. He looks forward to mentoring other entrepreneurs in the future. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? When I was 12. My brother and I opened a neighborhood fruit stand in Stoney Creek, Ontario where we resold fruit purchased from our local farmers. The purpose was to save enough money to buy a motorcycle we saw in a store window one day. Are entrepreneurs born or made? I think they are a combination of genetics and circumstance. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Many skills are required but of all I think the top skills are salesmanship, the vision and forward thinking, and people management. How important have good employees been to your success? It sounds clichĂŠ, but good employees are everything to the success of any business. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? The ability to overcome the logistics of creating an economic network in a vast and mostly unpopulated country. What did you want to be when you were a kid? A nuclear physicist. I was fascinated with Albert Einstein as a very young lad. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Playing competitive sports of many types as a team and an individual. Where do you want to be in the next 10 years? Semi-retired and giving back to my community in a volunteer role. What motivates you? Building things: a business, an oil plant, a gazebo for the backyard, a motorcycle or a car. I consider myself a builder more than anything. My advice for entrepreneurs is to surround yourself with good people in your work and personal life. I am especially grateful for my parents. We came from very humble beginnings. They worked hard. I was taught many life lessons by my father that I still live by today.
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
I want to thank all of the employees of HPS for their valuable contribution the success of our company. You are the without question the best group I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I look forward to continued success and many more years of working together. It is with great pleasure I introduce our senior management team, all of whom are equally entitled to this honour. A special thank you to: - Bruce Weaver, COO Canadian Operations and VP Finance - Donna Pyke, VP Health and Safety - Ben Kasprick, VP Operations - Tom Bradka, VP Engineering - Red Schuhmann, VP Sales and Marketing We could not have come this far without all of you. I count you all among the very best of my friends and it is with my gratitude that we celebrate this honour together. When we started a little over 6 years ago we had a similar vision of what we could become and that vision is still the common thread that binds us today. In atmosphere of change fuelled by rapid growth all of you have proven to be innovators in your respective fields of expertise.
~ Alvin Pyke
H
elical Pier Systems Ltd. (HPS) offers helical pile engineering, manufacturing, installation and load testing services, with a focus on employee safety and superior environmental performance. HPS engineers optimized foundation designs for ever-increasing loads and diverse structure types using a combination of foundation technologies. Our team is committed to providing custom engineered pile foundation systems that meet the performance requirements specified by our customers and our goal is to provide our clients with cost-effective turnkey foundation systems. Project owners, EPCM’s, geotechnical firms and construction contractors are increasingly cognizant of the substantial economic benefits to the use of helical pile foundation technologies. They are commonly used as foundations for wellpad equipment, pipelines, skidded buildings, work camps, storage tanks of all sizes, large pipe racks, pump jacks, compressor buildings, etc. Other common applications include foundations for substations, lattice towers, H-frames and monopoles for power transmission and distribution.
1.877.547.1017 | hpier.com
EY_A
Energy Services
Pat Wilson Camex Equipment Sales & Rentals Inc. Nisku
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amex is a worldwide supplier of new and used oilfield, mining, pipeline and construction equipment and a manufacturer of custom oilfield trucks and trailers. President Pat Wilson started the company in 1992 with a pickup truck and one employee. Today, Camex has five locations, 90,000 square feet of manufacturing space, over 900 sale and rental units, and over 100 employees. Are entrepreneurs born or made? It’s a combination of both. Circumstance can certainly be a major driver. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The number one skill is the ability to make money with no money. Going broke a couple of times will certainly sharpen one’s skills! How important have good employees been to your success? They are my number one asset. Surrounding yourself with good employees is essential to success. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? The availability of startup capital would go a long way to support entrepreneurial endeavours. What does being a finalist mean to you? Although being a finalist is a great honour, I feel the award more appropriately should read “Team of the Year.” It takes the contributions from all levels of an organization, from management on down to be successful. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would have honed my public speaking skills. As the company develops on the global stage, more and more I am called upon to introduce and sell the company’s product and virtues to diverse audiences and groups. What motivates you? A challenge – doing something that no one else has done before. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My greatest inspiration is Mike Myshak of Myshak Sales & Rentals Ltd. He’s the reason I am here today. My advice for entrepreneurs stems from advice I received from a 75-year-old businessman to, “be a man of your word.” Also, know that strength is gained by going through tough times. My plan over the coming years is to return to the selling side of my business, as selling is my passion. 22
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EY_Award_ AD_2014_Business in Edmonton Magazine 2014-08-12 1:53 PM Page 1
Although it is truly an honour to be among the finalists, “Entrepreneur Of The Year”, more appropriately should read “Team of the year”... It takes the contributions and dedication of all - from management, support staff, shop floor employees, partners and a loyal customer base to have success. I thank each and every one for the ongoing support and encouragement. Pat Wilson
President & CEO
CAMEX Equipment Sales & Rentals Inc.
1511 Sparrow Drive, Nisku, Alberta, Canada T9E 8H9 Tel: 780.955.2770 Fax: 780.955.3735 www.camex.com BED TRUCKS WINCH TRACTORS PICKER TRUCKS VACUUM TRUCKS WATER TRUCKS FUEL/LUBE TRUCKS HEAVY HAUL TRAILERS CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NEW & USED SALES
RENTALS
SERVICE
PARTS
RIG-UP MANUFACTURING
FINANCING
Manufacturing
Mike Fata Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods Winnipeg
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ounded in 1998, Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods manufactures and sells Hemp Hearts, hemp protein powder, hemp oil and Hemp Bliss (beverage). CEO and co-founder Mike Fata helped legalize industrial hemp in Canada. His passion stems from how healthy hemp foods dramatically improved his health.
Are entrepreneurs born or made? They’re born. You either have the entrepreneurial spirit and aptitude or you don’t. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Perseverance, passion, well-developed negotiation skills, the ability to see the big picture and build teams around that vision. How important have good employees been to your success? Without committed and skilled team members, our company would not be what it is today. It takes many different points of view and skill sets to succeed. Not wearing too many hats allows you to lead and innovate. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? As Canadians, we are often quite modest and a bit conventional. To support a stronger Canadian entrepreneurial environment, I think we need to challenge conventional wisdom and break away from the norm. We also need to support innovation at every level within that ecosystem. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? That’s an easy one – I’d dream bigger! What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Hemp foods! I used to be overweight, unhealthy and unhappy. Now I’m passionate about nutrition and the notion that food can heal. Last year I became a certified health coach to give me more tools to help educate others on healthy living. Who has been your greatest inspiration? I was raised by a single mother. She told me very early on that my greatest strength was seeing the larger vision and staying focused on it. My mom inspired me to think bigger. My partner, Autumn, and our two children also inspire me. My advice for entrepreneurs is dream big. Have the courage to challenge traditional wisdom and break from the norm. Don’t take shortcuts. Do something right so there’s a foundation to build upon.
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Better doesn’t happen by chance. For 150 years, we’ve been helping Canadian entrepreneurs grow their businesses. Congratulations to the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year finalists! ey.com/ca/entrepreneurs
© 2014 Ernst & Young LLP. All Rights Reserved.
Manufacturing
Dan Leckelt, Lindsey Leckelt Silent-Aire Manufacturing Inc. Edmonton
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ilent-Aire Manufacturing Inc. creates custom, technologicallydriven HVAC solutions for clients worldwide. Co-Presidents and brothers Dan and Lindsey Leckelt credit their parents for teaching them survival skills, strong ethics and dedication. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? Dan: Since we were children; being an entrepreneur is how we were raised. Lindsey: In Grade 7 I declared that I was going to be a mechanical engineer and work in the family business. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Dan: Entrepreneurs can be born, but a lot can be made. Lindsey: It takes influence to create an entrepreneur.
What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Dan: The ability to sell yourself. Lindsey: Guts, creativity, self-reflection and the ability to be your own toughest critic. How important have good employees been to your success? Dan: Employees are one of the keys to the success of our business. Lindsey: Our employees are one of the strongest areas of our company. Quality employees are the lifeblood of our organization. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Dan: Our ability to think outside of the box, our creativity and operational flexibility. Lindsey: Canadian entrepreneurs have a larger sense of realization of the value good employees bring to the business. What does being a finalist mean to you? Dan and Lindsey: It is an honour for our company and staff, and a great way for our team to realize the fruits of our hard work. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Dan: Hockey. After playing competitively for many years, my passion shifted to coaching kids. Lindsey: Spending time with my wife and kids, playing hockey and working in my yard. How do you define success? Dan: Having the ability to make a difference in people’s lives. Lindsey: Taking care of my family while giving back to my friends and community. Our advice for entrepreneurs is: be flexible, calculate risks, learn from your mistakes, know all aspects of the business, be balanced and stay humble. 26
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
“
“
We are honoured to be chosen among the finalists for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year. We thank our staff for their hard work, dedication and belief in what we could achieve. We also thank our vendors and most importantly, our clients, for their loyalty, confidence and patronage. – Dan and Lindsey Leckelt
Turning complex heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) challenges into creative solutions since 1994. When you work with Silent-Aire you are more that a customer. We work as your partner, helping you to realize your vision and meet your needs.
7107 - 8th Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6P 1T9 Tel.: 780•456•1061 Fax: 780•456•1286
With our in-house manufacturing team and design-build approach, your HVAC solution is within reach.
www.silent-aire.com
1145 West Gary Avenue, Gilbert, Arizona, USA 85233 Tel.: 480•656•1239 Fax: 480•656•2907
Manufacturing
Steve Parsons Inovata Foods Corp. Edmonton
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novata Foods services the retail, club store and food service industry in Canada and the US by creating and supplying innovative and convenient meals to the retail public. Inovata’s research and development team takes a product from concept to production for their own label or for clients’ private labels. Established by Steve Parsons, President and founder, and Lisa Parsons, wife and co-founder, in 1989 as The Pasta Mill Ltd., Inovata has continuously expanded. It now operates from a 45,000-square-foot facility in Edmonton and a 100,000-square-foot facility in Tillsonburg, Ontario. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? From the very early age of around 12 or 13. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Risk taking, creative problem solving, understanding your strengths/weaknesses and effective delegation. How important have good employees been to your success? Good employees have been critical. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? The typical Canadian personality of honesty, integrity and politeness will eventually lead to success in entrepreneurial enterprise. I believe our harsh climate assured Canada was settled by those with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and that is now in our DNA. What was your first job? I have never really had a job outside of being an entrepreneur. From a very young age I have always looked for ways to make money working for myself. I painted fences, picked and sold berries, and started an oilfield painting company when I was 17. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Family, cycling, mountain biking, snowboarding, global humanitarian aid and being innovative with food. If you weren’t in your current leadership position, what would you be doing? I would be more involved with international mission work in developing nations. My advice for other entrepreneurs is to start small but dream big. Starting small allows you to make small mistakes that you will learn from. Additionally, you need to have a can-do attitude. Focus on “can” not “can’t.”
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Voice & Data Cabling Phone Systems Paging Systems Voip Services
Moving or Expanding? We can help. Ask about how we can
save you money on your phone bill!
Bay B - 5815, 36th Street S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2C 2J1 Phone: 403.921.9889 | Fax: 888.341.0565
www.coretelecom.ca
Emerging Entrepreneur
James Bachynsky Calgary Shooting Centre Calgary
A
s one of the most technologically advanced ranges in North America, Calgary Shooting Centre provides a great experience for individuals and groups, whether they want to try something new, hone existing skills or engage in team building. President James Bachynsky founded the company in 2010 following 21 years of military service and his 2001 retirement. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I have always wanted to do things my own way, and I enjoy a sense of accomplishment in making the deal, finishing a project or building something of my own. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Every skill set can be learned, but some people have an advantage in being born with the required mindset. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Knowledge, willingness to take risks, confidence and determination. How important have good employees been to your success? Hard-working, enthusiastic employees are the core of success. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Canada is a pretty good place to start a business. However, we have developed regulatory bureaucracies that require far too much of a business’ time. Eliminating or simplifying this bureaucracy would make entrepreneurship much easier. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I wish I had started my own business earlier. I started late and therefore have less time to grow, less energy to direct and less time to enjoy success. However, starting late made me more capable of withstanding failure, learning from it and turning it into success. What motivates you? Fear of failure. I have failed enough to know that I don’t enjoy it. How do you define success? Success for me is completeness. I want everything done right, and the closer I get to perfect the more successful I feel. My advice for entrepreneurs is to jump in with both feet. It’s easy to sit on the sidelines watching and worrying. Don’t let failure get you down; learn from it, and use it to make you stronger. Persevere, overcome and conquer!
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
The most technologically advanced shooting range in canada.
“Thank you to my partners John and Markus who have shared the blood, sweat and tears of starting a new business. Thanks to all of our staff who work so hard making our business the success that it is. And thanks to our members and all of the customers whose trust and loyalty has made Calgary Shooting Centre the best business of its type in Canada.”
• James Bachynsky, Owner Calgary Shooting Centre
7130 Fisher Rd SE, Calgary AB
•
theshootingcentre.com
•
403-451-1777
Stocking/Importing high end products:
Join us for: • Shooting sports • Corporate team building • Canada’s only cinema range
Gunsmithing done by our in house master gunsmith!
Emerging Entrepreneur
Danielle Bragge The Headhunters Recruitment Inc. Edmonton
T
he Headhunters Recruitment Inc. is a recruitment agency that services both jobseekers and employers by creating mutually beneficial scientific matches between candidates and employers. Compatibility is assessed not only on skills, but also attitude, aptitude, communication and organizational culture. Co-founder and Vice President Danielle Bragge credits The Headhunters team for their past and future success, and enjoys that they are fully engaged in helping clients reach their full potential. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? My first business was at eight, selling bush grass to build straw huts to neighbourhood kids (I grew up in Africa). That was a tough sell and didn’t go so well! Being an entrepreneur is in my blood. What would you say the top skills are to be an entrepreneur? Be able to takes risks and be comfortable with the unknown.
How important have good employees been to your success? My partners and I feel very fortunate to have the team we have today. Their commitment and definiteness of purpose is the core of our success. There is no “I” in team! How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? One-on-one with successful entrepreneurs will help new entrepreneurs avoid pitfalls. Give new entrepreneurs access to advisers, finance, marketing, sales and banking. Teach Canadians how to network more effectively. Educate entrepreneurs on the difference between working in the business instead of on the business. Teach them when and who to hire. What did you want to be when you were a kid? A marine biologist. What is your dream vacation? My husband and I (along with our five kids) just got back from our dream vacation. We spent two weeks in Nicaragua travelling across the country and cuddling children at an orphanage in Managua. What motivates you? My family and finding the fit between employer and employee. That’s when the magic happens and when companies and careers grow. My advice to entrepreneurs is to surround yourself with talented people, hire to your weaknesses, allow others a voice and admit when you are wrong.
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
EOY
BUILDING BETTER BUSINESSES ONE HIRE AT A TIME “Our company was founded on a genuine passion for bringing together the right businesses with the right people, with the help of scientific tools that identify FIT. We are so thankful to everyone who helps us continue to fulfill that vision every day. Thank you.“
DANIELLE BRAGGE
Co-Founder, The Headhunters Recruitment Inc.
accounting & finance • engineering • operations • sales & marketing • office support
W W W. T H E H E A D H U N T E R S . C A W W W. T E M P S A H E A D. C O M
EOY Ad.indd 1
EDMONTON 780.486.8377
VANCOUVER 604.682.9999
WINNIPEG 204.515.0800
29/08/2014 12:10:58 PM
Emerging Entrepreneur
Stephen Glanville, Regan Davis, Bailey Epp STEP Energy Services Calgary
S
TEP Energy Services is a privately-owned, technically-focused oilfield service company that provides specialized coiled tubing units along with pumping and support equipment to the deep horizontal well market in Western Canada. Nominated along with VP Engineering & Technology Bailey Epp and VP Operations & COO Stephen Glanville, President & CEO Regan Davis presents some personal insights and a closer look at what he calls “an amazing company built around a great business strategy and wonderful opportunities.” When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I had a bicycle repair shop in elementary school. Are entrepreneurs born or made? People can be enticed into entrepreneurship, but most have traits that are a core part of their personality.
What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The top skills needed are the ability to anticipate the future, comfort with uncertainty and risk, decisiveness with limited information, gut instinct, and high tolerance for stress. How important have good employees been to your success? They’ve been 100% important to the success of STEP. Our professionals are the backbone of our company. I couldn’t be more proud of our team. What does being a finalist mean to you? It is an endorsement for the great company we have built. Being a finalist allows us to celebrate in our successes as a team. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I truly get joy from being with my family. I love mentoring, inspiring and helping people discover their significance. I’m also passionate about traveling and new experiences, and I enjoy being mediocre at a whole bunch of different sports! How do you define success? The quality of the relationships in my life. Who has been your greatest inspiration? I have had the amazing benefit of being exposed to many different leaders and successful people. I have tried to extract and use the best from them all. My expectation is that 10 years from now we will be an international oilfield service company with a focused offering that defines us as the premier supplier of the services and products we deliver.
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
CT
Redefining
Emerging Entrepreneur
Heather Murphy, Craig Howes Go Tire Inc. Red Deer
G
o Tire aims to transform the way Canadians change their tires. Business partners and engaged couple Craig Howes and Heather Murphy created this mobile tire-changing service, enabling on-site changes at home, work or wherever you may be. With over 40,000 locations, the franchise is growing fast. When did you know you wanted to be entrepreneurs? Howes: Early – my family was very entrepreneurial. They owned a variety of businesses. Murphy: My family was conventional, but I was always an independent thinker, appreciated challenges and the feeling of creating something and seeing it succeed.
What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Howes: A drive to succeed, a passion for customer service and the willingness to overcome any real or imagined obstacles. Murphy: Long-term thinking, short-term goal setting and a focus on the customer. How important have good employees been to your success? Howes: We are blessed with the best employees anyone could ever ask for. They treat the business as though they own it, and they make great decisions. What does being a finalist mean to you? Howes: I think everyone has heard of EY, but as we have gone through the process we now understand the benefit of having the accolade associated with our brand. Being a finalist is important because if we were to win, we would be recognized as being among the best and brightest in Canada, and our young business would be given the opportunity for expedited growth. What is your dream vacation? Howes: On a beach with my family. Murphy: An adventure and being exposed to different cultures. How many hours do you work a day on average? Howes: From eyes open to eyes closed, about 14-16 hours per day. What motivates you? Howes and Murphy: Our children. We want to show them that with hard work and focus you can achieve great things, and we want to ensure their needs are always met. Our advice for entrepreneurs is be relentless, be passionate, and know your skills and your flaws. Wake every day with an answer on how to grow your business and yourself.
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Oil and Gas
Wayne King Grit Industries Inc. Lloydminster
U
nder the leadership of President Wayne King, Grit Industries provides green, sustainable solutions that address the most pressing issues in the oil and gas industry. From burner systems to natural gas line heaters to the “Grit Hog” (a machine used to clean oil storage tanks, replacing the person who used to do this dangerous job), Grit Industries uses innovation to make the energy industry a safer and more efficient environment. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? All my life. I’m in my 60s and have been starting companies and creating products since the mid-1980s. At seven, I converted mother’s rototiller into a go-cart. She wasn’t impressed by that! Are entrepreneurs born or made? Both – you can be born that way but also choose to live your life that way. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The desire to succeed, change course and direction midstream, be driven to change, and have diverse thinking. How important have good employees been to your success? Good employees are everything. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? We live in a country that focuses on business and the health of the economy. We have an abundance of adventurous people. How can Canada support a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem? Existing government programs support entrepreneurs through flexible lending and supporting people with ideas. What did you want to be when you were a kid? I wanted to be a peace office or an airplane mechanic. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would stay in school. My post-secondary education is from the school of hard knocks! What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I have no passion other than entrepreneurship. I eat, sleep and breathe my work. My goal over the next 10 years is to continue making a difference. My main plan is to continue to work. My dad planted his last crop at 83, and I plan to be just as active. We have several projects in progress, and over the next decade we will fully commercialize what we have started.
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Oil and Gas
Bill McCaffrey MEG Energy Calgary
B
ill McCaffrey is the President and CEO of MEG Energy, a company focused on sustainable and in situ oil sands development in southern Alberta’s Athabasca region. Thanks to a large, high-quality resource base, including interests in two key midstream assets (Access Pipeline and Stonefell Terminal), MEG holds some of the best in situ resources in Alberta. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I come from a family of entrepreneurs; I think it must be in the McCaffrey genes. I was intrigued at the thought of going out on my own and years later, I’m happy with my choice. What are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Understand the business from the bottom up, have patience, develop the right team, think outside the box and maximize opportunities. How important have good employees been to your success? They’ve been extremely important. Our business results are a direct reflection of the talented and innovative teams we have working at MEG. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Canada offers a business landscape that encourages education and supports a can-do entrepreneurial spirit. What motivates you? I feel like MEG is in its first inning as a company, and we have a long way to go, which is part of the fun. I am motivated by the dream of where our team can take MEG. How do you define success? Success is when I hear the passion our people have as they talk about the company to friends and family. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My mom and dad taught me about the entrepreneurial spirit. In the business world, Peter Lougheed was a mentor and friend. He was a board member at MEG, and he always inspired me to be innovative. My advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to follow your dreams, surround yourself with great people and get up every morning excited about the journey. Take a moment to think through obstacles presented to you, as they may in fact become opportunities to advance your business in ways you had not anticipated.
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
results innovative
talented
teams “Our business results are a direct reflection of the talented and innovative teams we have working at MEG.” – Bill McCaffrey
520 - 3 Avenue SW
I
Calgary, Alberta, T2P 0R3
I
Tel: 403.770.0446
I
Fax: 403.264.1711
I
www.megenergy.com/jobs
Oil and Gas
Muthu Palanisamy Metalcare Group Inc. Fort McMurray
M
etalcare Group Inc. provides consulting and inspection services to the oil sands, oil and gas, petroleum and petrochemical, power generation, and pipeline industries through five divisions: non-destructive testing, geotechnical, geomatics, in-service inspection and project support services. The company slogan, “driven by innovation, powered by people,” is at the heart of their service. CEO Muthu Palanisamy considers the Metalcare team to be the pillar of the company’s success. He is proud of his people for their dedication, hard work and commitment. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Dealing with people around me shaped me into an entrepreneur. Lessons of leadership can be imparted to anyone, but having the intelligence to connect oneself to those lessons is something else all together. It takes seeing through the results, and more importantly, having the ability and passion to implement these lessons. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Have focus, passion, motivation and innovation. It’s also important to welcome challenges, be proactive and connect with people. What does being a finalist mean to you? Being an EOY finalist is a great recognition for our employees’ hard work and dedication. It gives inspiration and excitement to our employees to do more for the team and our clients. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Helping people has always been my passion. Where do you want to be in the next 10 years? Leveraging my experience, contacts and influence to create a much larger visionary organization or foundation for a cause that I believe in. How do you define success? Feeling proud of yourself for what you have accomplished and having a hunger to achieve more. My advice for entrepreneurs is that backup plans help people sleep easier at night and can also create an easy out when times get tough. Personally, I will work a lot harder if my primary plan simply has to work because there is no other option. Total commitment without a safety net will drive me to work harder than I ever imagined possible. As long as I keep working hard and keep learning from my mistakes, I will find a way to succeed.
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Special Citation - Social Entrepreneur
Shaun Loney BUILD, Manitoba Green Retrofit, Aki Energy and the Social Enterprise Centre Winnipeg
B
UILD provides employees with entry-level job skills; Manitoba Green Retrofit (MGR) focuses on aspects of building maintenance; Aki Energy implements geothermal heating into Manitoba First Nations communities; and the Social Enterprise Centre houses all three operations. Overseen by Executive Director Shaun Lawrence Loney, BUILD, MGR, Aki Energy and the Social Enterprise Centre work together to help those facing barriers to employment. Loney’s social entrepreneurship has a significant impact in and around Manitoba’s First Nations communities. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? As a kid sweeping off the sidewalk of my dad’s grocery store, I remember thinking I was going to own the store someday and employ people from the First Nations. Are entrepreneurs born or made? People can learn entrepreneurship, but some people have a knack for it. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? I’m tempted to say to “think outside the box,” but the Elders tell me to “think inside the circle.” Partnerships and relationships are also important. How important have good employees been to your success? My co-workers are heroes. As ex-offenders and people who have grown up dealing with the legacy of the residential school system, I admire them greatly if they can overcome incredible obstacles in their daily lives to do things the rest of us find normal. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? We must move toward supporting economic ventures that solve our social and environmental problems. What is your dream vacation? Canoeing with friends from Winnipeg to Hudson Bay. How do you define success? Success for me is simple – how many Aboriginal people can I employ? Who has been your greatest inspiration? I’m motivated by my co-workers, most of whom are ex-offenders. They are great employees! My best advice for entrepreneurs is to go for it! Do something that makes a difference in the world and your life will be richer. During the next 10 years, BUILD will connect people who most need work with the work that most needs to be done. EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
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Technology and Communications
Elmer Brattberg, Audrey Brattberg, Holly Brattberg, Susan Brattberg Global eTraining and The Brattberg Group Edmonton
G
lobal eTraining and the Brattberg Group is a family business run by parents Elmer and Audrey Brattberg and their two daughters, Susan and Holly. Through online delivery, Global eTraining provides ways to learn skills faster, retain knowledge longer and create application-ready real life skills. All companies under the Brattberg Group umbrella (including the Academy of Learning and Digital School) are global education leaders. CEO Susan Brattberg answers questions on behalf of the company’s nominees. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? As early as I could remember. It’s how we grew up. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Entrepreneurs are born with the drive or born into entrepreneurial families. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Think quickly on your feet, take the time to do proper planning and know when to roll with it. How important have good employees been to your success? Our employees have been absolutely integral to our success. What does being a finalist mean to you? It means being recognized among a high group of achievers. We were finalists last year. Winning this year would mean a lot because we got a glimpse of the high calibre of winners. To be among them is an honour. To win would be the icing on the cake. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? My passions are family, friends and travel. What book are you reading now? The Lean Startup by Eric Ries. I keep this book on me at all times because we are implementing the strategies into our company. What motivates you? Being able to see the success of our products and what we are able to do for our customers; to see the impact and difference that we are making. Global eTraining is on a hyper-accelerated growth curve at the moment, and we have plans to keep that pace and be the leader in online global training. We currently have over 100,000 learners in 140 countries and will have millions of learners within the next 10 years. The impact we are planning to make in helping people learn skills is monumental. 44
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Global eTraining and The Brattberg Group of Companies A Proud Finalist in EY Entrepreneur Of The Year -Technology and Communications -
Defining and Designing 21st Century Training
globaletraining.ca
Home of The Generator, the revolutionary build-it-yourself course development tool. Rotating, Grouping, and Arraying Out of all the other basic modifying tools we could address in this lecture, the Rotate tool is perhaps the most unique. Rotating elements in Revit is not quite the same as in other applications like AutoCAD. Click Let me Try to step
Power Up Your Training MENU
through a simple exercise to explore the various ways of rotating content.
eDemo Click here for a demo video
eTip Click here for helpful hints
Easy as 1-2-3
Let Me Try
1. Develop
Let’s Play! Try it now!
View Image Architectural Annotation
Learn More Content you need to know
2. Publish 3. Deliver
Helpdesk
The Brattberg Group of Companies
academyoflearning.ab.ca
digitalschool.ca
completecorporatetraining.com
globaletraining.ca
Technology and Communications
David Beresford, Greg Chudiak Pandell Calgary
P
andell delivers industry specialized software to more than 350 organizations in the energy and government sectors across North America. President and CEO Greg Chudiak manages the overall business aspects while David Beresford, Vice President of Research and Development, guides the technology strategies. Under their leadership, the company combines its oil and gas industry expertise, proprietary Lithium web technology and cloud hosting model to deliver affordable back-office applications to its client base.
When did you know you wanted to be entrepreneurs? Chudiak: For David, it was right out of high school when he participated in the start-up of a business in the medical field. For me, it was after working for a couple of great companies to gain valuable experience before venturing out on my own. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Beresford: The ability to listen carefully to what a customer segment is saying and out-of-the-box thinking. How important have good employees been to your success? Chudiak: Critical would be an understatement. We have been privileged to have people join our company who are smart, hardworking and self-motivated to achieve results. This has been one of the primary drivers in the success and growth of Pandell. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Chudiak: Canadians bring humility, quiet confidence and humour. We are easy to work with and are trusted around the world. What did you want to be when you were a kid? Chudiak: I wanted to be a pro hockey player! What motivates you? Beresford: Working alongside smart people to create innovative software is truly rewarding, and when we deliver that software and see our customers smile, I feel an amazing sense of accomplishment. How do you define success? Beresford: A great team, happy customers and giving back to the community. Our best advice for entrepreneurs is that success comes from what you believe, not what others say. There will always be people telling you why something can’t be done, but if you are confident, persistent and focused on adding value for your customers, your chances of success go way up.
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
As EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Finalists, We’d Just Like to Say...
To Those Who’ve Helped Us Get Here Our Clients
Our Staff
Our Families
Who inspire us to explore new ideas and create innovative software solutions.
Who are dedicated to delivering exceptional results for our customers.
Who support us through our challenges and contribute to our successes.
Come visit us at www.pandell.com
Technology and Communications
Wayne Karpoff Willowglen Systems Inc. Edmonton
U
nder President Wayne Karpoff, Willowglen Systems provides turnkey industrial automation solutions to customers around the world. For over 40 years, Willowglen has provided solutions directly or through local providers. Solutions include flow computers, supervisory control and data acquisition host systems, an array of remote terminal units (RTU), ultra-low power RTUs, and communication and instrumentation systems. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Entrepreneurs have a natural drive to create, but being exposed to other successful entrepreneurs creates confidence. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The ability to see needs before others, to turn abstract concepts into concrete actions and the ability to communicate. How important have good employees been to your success? Critical - I’ve always been a big idea guy, but to make things work takes many talented people. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Since Canada is a healthy multicultural country, it is easier for us to think of new ideas being adopted in a multicultural world. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Canada needs to create a culture of early adopters. Good early adopters engage entrepreneurs at the whiteboard stage, nurture product ideas, are willing prototype evaluators and are the first to buy the finished product. They nurture the relationships created through the collaborative process to ensure the innovation cycle can be repeated. What did you want to be when you were a kid? An architect. I’ve always liked the idea of creating things. What was your first job? My brother and I created a landscape construction company when I was in high school. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I like to create things, so I have a very well-equipped home shop with a CNC machine, woodworking equipment, welding equipment and other metalworking equipment. My best advice for entrepreneurs is to become an expert communicator. Learn to interview would-be customers to understand their needs. Learn to how to sell ideas. Learn the tools of the trade. Learn how to make your passion infectious. Learn how to work with both traditional and social media outlets, and communicate, communicate, communicate!
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EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Technology and Communications
Jory Lamb VistaVu Solutions Calgary
L
ed by President Jory Lamb, VistaVu Solutions is a business management software provider with the industry experience, tools and tailored solutions to help companies in the energy services sector streamline their operations and accelerate their growth. This values-based company opened in 1996 and is guided by integrity, growth, service, commitment to excellence and passion. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? My family was a partner in the local Red Rooster food stores in Lloydminster. I’d hang out at their meetings while the other kids played. By 11, I knew I liked business and wanted to run one of my own. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Made – there is an entrepreneurial spirit in everyone, but for some, their risk tolerance exceeds their willingness to win. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Vision, courage and sheer perseverance. How important have good employees been to your success? We are nowhere without them. I’m very appreciative of all the people along the way who have contributed to the past, present and future of VistaVu. What does being a finalist mean to you? At 23, I started my first business. Before I began, I made a collage of what defined business success for me. I had several images of what I wanted to achieve and right in the middle was the EOY logo. This award is something I’ve always held in the highest regard. For me, being a finalist is a great honour.
What book are you reading now? Textbooks because I’m taking my MBA. Microeconomics, financial accounting and case studies on management. What is your dream vacation? The upcoming vacation to Hawaii for three weeks on the beach with my family. The kids are going to have a great time, and I’m going to just chill out and do a whole lot of nothing! What motivates you? The opportunity to create something from nothing and matching people with opportunity. My advice for would-be entrepreneurs is take the first step. Don’t pause for perfection if it’s not the perfect idea or the perfect scenario. It’s amazing how many business ideas refine themselves when you get on the path. For existing entrepreneurs, my advice is focus, focus, focus. EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
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Business-to-Business Products and Services
Dave Bischoff, Cal Fairbanks ComplyWorks Calgary
P
resident, CEO and Director Cal Fairbanks and Executive Vice President and Director David Bischoff are at the helm of ComplyWorks Ltd. Founded in 2004, ComplyWorks Ltd. was built in response to the industry’s demand for standardized regulations, certifications and compliance in the energy sector. Now, ComplyWorks is pleased to provide customizable compliance, certification, pre-qualification and orientation management solutions across a broad spectrum of industries that includes over 50,000 contracting companies and over 100,000 individual users.
When did you know you wanted to be entrepreneurs? Fairbanks: Since high school. Bischoff: From a very early age – around eight years old. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Bischoff: It’s a little of both. Having a vision and the drive to pursue it may be a personality trait, but the entrepreneur also needs skills that are learned. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Fairbanks: Self-confidence, communication and listening skills, quick decisionmaking and learning from your mistakes. How important have good employees been to your success? Fairbanks: Critical – we are reliant on our great employees. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Fairbanks: Our well-educated talent pool, risk taking and pro-business attitude. What was your first job? Bischoff: When I was 12, I got a summer job running an ice-cream bike. It was hard work, baking in the sun for little pay! What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Fairbanks: Golf. What motivates you? Fairbanks: I’m a results-driven person, so I’m motivated by helping employees, customers and people accomplish positive results. Bischoff: I’m passionate about solving a problem or creating something new that no one else has built, and I take pride in seeing our people do the same. How do you define success? Fairbanks: Overcoming the challenge you are facing to achieving your desired outcome. Our advice for entrepreneurs is to believe in yourself, eliminate self-doubt and be passionate about what you are trying to achieve. Potential opportunity will always exceed what you can actually produce at any given time. Learn to pick your priorities for the most effective outcome and pursue those with vigour. 50
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Business-to-Business Products and Services
Ken Greer Western Ag Group of Companies Saskatoon
U
nder Principal Ken Greer, Western Ag Group of Companies are: Western Ag Innovations, researching soil nutrient bioavailability; Western Ag Professional Agronomy, empowering farmers to make wise crop decisions; Western Ag Global, growing business opportunities; and Western Ag Seed Innovations, providing performance seed varieties to farmers through its Professional Agronomy network. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? My first entrepreneurial business began at age 13, when my dad gave me a cow herd of 10 heifers. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Both – an entrepreneur is “one who takes risks.” What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Financial literacy, the ability to hang on and the wisdom to build the right team. How important have good employees been to your success? It is nearly impossible for me to think of anything that is done completely solo at Western Ag! What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Winter! Given the very finite resource of summer and all of the impending work that needs to be completed before winter, Canadians have an intrinsic advantage in the skill of prioritizing. What did you want to be when you were a kid? For the first 10 years of my life, I wanted to be a cowboy. Entrepreneurship is as close to the modern-day cowboy as you can get. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would worry less about trying to make everyone happy. I spent some of my early years searching for compromise. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My parents. They were married at 20 and started farming with one milk cow and a debt of $1,200 in back taxes that my grandpa couldn’t pay in the 1930s. They retired in 2000 with over $2 million net worth, two houses, two vacation properties and six kids who they put through college. Over the next 10 years, we will franchise the Western Ag Professional Agronomy brand in 40 more locations around North America and the world, and we’ll use this base of advisement to advance stewardship of the world’s arable soil resources. 52
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Mission is what draws in and holds the best people. The journey from an idea on the University Lab bench to billions of dollars more food grown by farmers – this kind of noble mission demands the best professionals. The professional staff who: …work to empower farmers with choice …secure and sustain the food supply for the planet, and for everyone on it. To all of you who have been on this journey, I sincerely appreciate your commitment and contribution. From the seemingly smallest detail to the biggest breakthrough, I believe that each and every step has happened for a reason. Together, we have advanced the Plant Root Simulator into a world-class tool that can help to grow an efficient, plentiful and sustainable food supply on the planet. My heartfelt thanks and deep appreciation go to my wife, Karen, and our children, Meghan, Justine and Ian. Only the true Entrepreneur knows that even the biggest Thank You would never be enough to repay the debt owed to family.
Ken Greer, MSc., P.Ag. Chairman and Principal
#104 - 110 Research Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 3R3 306.978.1777 | Toll Free: 1.877.978.1777
westernag.ca
Business-to-Business Products and Services
Mark Repchinsky Advance Coating Solutions Inc. Edmonton
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dvance Coating Solutions is a family business run by brothers Mark Repchinsky, Vice President of Operations, and Chris Repchinsky. Mark’s son, Garrett, and Chris’s son, Greg, are also involved in the family business. The abrasive blasting and protective coating company services Alberta’s energy sector, specializing in pipelines, storage tanks and secondary containment liners. Internal research and development ensures that Advance Coating Solutions remains at the leading edge of technological advancements and uses only the best quality products for their industry. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? Growing up in the family business, it was not really a conscious decision to become an entrepreneur, rather than being one from the start. My father always instilled in us to work for yourself, not someone else. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Made – competition, expectations, lifestyle and atmosphere play a role. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? They are resiliency, focus, managerial skills, innovation, adaptability, risk taking and communication skills. How important have good employees been to your success? Very important – we depend on them for continual work and long-term relationships with our customers. What does being a finalist mean to you? Just being an EOY finalist means so much. It allows all the hard work we have done to be recognized by family, friends and peers. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would have more education. If I could have afforded post-secondary education growing up, I would probably be further ahead than where I am now. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? My family is my number one passion, followed by my health. I also have a passion for performance cars. What motivates you? I like the challenges in the business. It’s never the same thing twice. It’s exciting! Our growth plan over the next 10 years is expansion of our shops and our fieldwork. This includes employees, equipment, capacity and placing the right people in the right positions so I can slowly step back and enjoy the company’s success through retirement. 54
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uilding for the last 44 years, Advance Coating Solutions’ journey has been a long and exciting one. It is with great sincerity that I extend the thanks to all the hard working men and women who have helped us exceed our goals. Our success is a direct reflection of the quality of staff attracted. It is their ambition, dedication and safe approach to common goals that have helped the business grow, evolve and flourish. Due to their efforts we have emerged as an industry leader in the coating service sector.
~ Mark Repchinsky
advanceCoating.com | 1 866 Blast 4 U
Mark and Chris Repchinsky
Business-to-Business Products and Services
Al Side Side Group of Companies Grande Prairie
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or over 50 years, Al Side has been the President of the Side Group of Companies. Side Group and affiliates provide industrial and oilfield supplies, supply chain management and logistics, property and land development, vehicle rentals and leasing, rail trans-load, transportation, and financial services. Side Group services the western provinces and territories with an unwavering commitment to the group’s team, customers and vendors. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Made – people become good at what they do out of necessity. Your intellect, environment and dedication have much to do with your success. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? A total dedication to your business and a lot of good people around you. How important have good employees been to your success? The people who have helped me are not only our talented employees; I also surround myself with a lot of smart and practical people who act as my sounding board. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Our northern region sets Canada apart, and the determination and innovation of the men and women who go up north to take advantage of the many yet-untapped opportunities in the region make our entrepreneurs truly unique. What did you want to be when you were a kid? Growing up in small-town southern Saskatchewan, it never entered my mind to be a business person let alone to have grown to the magnitude we have built. That changed when we moved to the northern part of Canada. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I owned a fishing lodge in the north, I own a registered trap line, and I ranch a section of land with a herd of bison and a few horses. However, my greatest passion is my wife and family. Canada has a number of products that we can build and export, but we need good transportation infrastructure to get our products to market competitively. Over the next 10 years we will continue to work with the development of promoting Canada’s transportation infrastructure.
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Professional and Financial Services
Greg Burghardt Arrow Engineering Edmonton
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ed by President and CEO Greg Burghardt, Arrow Engineering provides clients with the full complement of integrated consulting services, including mechanical, electrical, structural and civil engineering for the building construction industry. Working from offices in Edmonton, Calgary and Saskatoon, a skilled team of over 80 people delivers effective, innovative and eco-friendly design solutions across all markets. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? Since my mid-20s, I’ve had the desire to be involved in the growth of great businesses. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Entrepreneurial nature comes from within, though outside influences may help. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Drive, competency, vision, optimism and leadership. How important have good employees been to your success? Our outstanding team is consistently noted as a one of the key differentiators that sets Arrow apart. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Canadians are ethical with a respect for the law. We have a desire to do the right thing, and we try to do business in a win-win situation for all. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? People are my passion. My personal mission is to provide many people with a fulfilling career and to have lasting and enduring relationships with our team. What motivates you? I am self-motivated to be the best person I can be and to build a great company with real substance. How do you define success? Accomplishing what’s important to you, personally. My advice for entrepreneurs is to, “know when to fold them,” as Kenny Rogers sings. I think there are too many experts, speakers and authors out there who talk about never giving up, and I strongly disagree with this. Sometimes a strategy is simply flawed, and you need to cut your losses and move on to something that can be successful. As well, you need to find a sweet spot where you are good at it, you love doing it and people are willing to pay for it.
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Professional and Financial Services
Laurie Goldberg People Corporation Winnipeg
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eople Corporation is a national provider of group benefits, group retirement and human resource services. As Chairman and CEO, Laurie Goldberg has led the firm to the forefront of consolidation within its industry. Through acquisition of regional companies, People Corporation is now one of the largest and fastest growing national companies in Canada. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I grew up in an entrepreneurial family and started a fence and deck building business at 12, which I grew through high school and college. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Believe in what you are doing, be passionate, have a plan, have strong work ethic and surround yourself with talented people who believe in your vision. C
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How important have good employees been to your success? They are the number one factor to our success.
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What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Canadian entrepreneurs are balanced in how we start and grow businesses, and as a result, the economy reflects that through steady growth.
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What did you want to be when you were a kid? I wanted to be a carpenter, so I was! What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? I replaced my passion for building with cooking. I want to be a pro chef someday. If you weren’t in your current leadership position, what would you be doing? Building – I would love to design and physically build my own house. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My father taught me a lot about business. He instilled in me values of work ethic, generosity, kindness and integrity. He told me, “It’s just as easy to think big as it is to think small, so think big.” Over the next 10 years, our intention is to build the next large-scale benefit, pension and HR consulting firm in Canada. Our vision is to grow to half a billion in revenue. We see a lot of opportunities in the Canadian landscape to consolidate the fragmented marketplace and bring best-in-class advice to the small- to medium-size business market, which we believe is currently underserviced.
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E M P LOY E E B E N E F I T S | P E N S I O N | H R S E R V I C E S
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People Corporation’s goal is to deliver a customized and superior solution that meets our clients’ employee benefit, pension and HR needs. On behalf of myself, our management team, our consultants and our Board of Directors, I would like to share this honour with all our professional staff at People Corporation across the country and acknowledge their efforts and dedication which has contributed to our success. Thank you for ensuring our clients truly
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EXPERIENCE THE BENEFITS OF PEOPLE.
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Laurie Goldberg Executive Chairman and CEO
With close to 300 professionals in 17 offices across Canada, People Corporation is amongst the fastest growing Employee Benefits, Pension, and HR solutions providers in Canada. WWW.PEOPLECORPORATION.COM
Professional and Financial Services
Marnee Brick, Greg Sutton TinyEYE Therapy Services Saskatoon
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inyEYE Therapy Services, co-founded by CEO Greg Sutton and President Marnee Brick, provides speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists to school districts through telepractice. Telepractice is the use of communication technology to provide remote speech-language services. TinyEYE was the first online therapy provider and continues to lead the industry in implementing new innovations. In 2014, TinyEYE added mobility to telepractice, enabling its therapists to connect with schools through telepresent robots. Are entrepreneurs born or made? We believe it is the business that builds or breaks the entrepreneur. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Successful entrepreneurs need passion, humility, discipline and courage. How important have good employees been to your success? Good employees are extremely important. Having the right people is what has driven our success. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Focusing on a culture of entrepreneurship will drive the growth of the Canadian ecosystem.
Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? We would not change a thing. The hard times built our character, having the wrong people made us prove our values, the bad decisions taught us to think, the failed projects taught us discipline, and the naysayers taught us courage. We could not achieve the goals we have set for ourselves in the next five years without character, values, intelligence, discipline and courage. None of these things can be learned in a classroom or from seaching online. You have to live it if you want it and own the bad with the same pride in which you own the good. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Our passions include family time, windsurfing, kayaking and day dreaming. How do you define success? To us, the ultimate success is being at the crossroads of passion, skill, economics and family. Our advice for emerging entrepreneurs is to maintain focus on the culture of your company because this above anything else will determine your ability to succeed. Also, be passionate about helping others succeed and realize their full potential.
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Bridge and conquer. Entrepreneurs build the world, one great idea at a time. Let’s explore how we can help you bring your biggest ideas to life. ey.com/ca
Š 2014 Ernst & Young LLP. All Rights Reserved.
Real Estate and Construction
Justin Bobier Crystal Creek Homes Calgary
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ustin Bobier is the President of Crystal Creek Homes where luxury, elegance, distinction, quality and comfort await you on arrival to their custom-designed homes. Building in Edmonton and Calgary, Crystal Creek Homes has been operating since 2004. Crystal Creek communities include Allard in Heritage Valley, Laurel, Maple Crest and Walker Lakes Station in Edmonton; Aspen Woods Estates, Tusslewood Terrace Estates, Currie Barracks, Rock Lake Estates, and various infills in Calgary; and Canals Landing and Cooper’s Crossing in Airdrie. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? When an injury took me out of the workforce and left me without an income for three months, I decided to take charge of my career so I would never be in that situation again. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Born – it’s something that is instilled from a very early age, but unfortunately not everyone gets the opportunity to turn their talent and drive into entrepreneurship. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? A drive to succeed, tolerance for risk and a desire to make life better. How important have good employees been to your success? They are paramount. Without employees supporting you and your vision, you have nothing. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Canadian lenders tend to be a little conservative in dealing with entrepreneurs. Canada should provide more robust support, financially and through mentorships. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? In the beginning, I would have taken more time in the hiring process, ensuring those selected fit our corporate culture. What motivates you? I am very goal oriented. At the start of each year, we make a budget and plans to achieve those budgetary goals. Accomplishing those goals motivates me. How do you define success? Having a happy family and business life. Achieving my goals, be it personal or business. My advice for entrepreneurs is “go for it!” Never take no for an answer. Use that “no” as motivation to prove those people wrong. Reach out to industry professionals for help and rely on your financial institution, accountant and lawyer to guide you. 64
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“I would like to share the honour of being recognized as an EY Entrepreneur Of The Year finalist with our entire Crystal Creek team and thank our valued trade partners, clients, developers and lenders in helping us reach our goals and achieve the success we have to date.� Justin Bobier Owner/President
a Reflection of You CrystalCreekHomes.ca | 403.254.6499 | Connect@CrystalCreekHomes.ca
Real Estate and Construction
Radhe Gupta Rohit Group of Companies Edmonton
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nder the direction of CEO Radhe Gupta, Rohit Group of Companies aims to be the premier real estate group in Western Canada. Founded in 1986, the company grew from a small residential homebuilder to a diversified organization with complementary interests in residential and land development, commercial assets, and real estate lending. Under the Rohit Group umbrella, Rohit Capital provides lending solutions for real estate investors, Rohit Communities builds high-quality residential housing, Rohit Land Development plans and develops entire communities, Rohit Commercial provides complete real estate services for businesses, and Rohit Charities gives back through financial and volunteer contributions. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? My father owned his own business when I was growing up; I have always had an interest in the business world. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Entrepreneurs are born with the drive and will to succeed on their own terms. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Identify opportunities, have realistic ideas and be willing to take risks. How important have good employees been to your success? Creating a strong team with complementary skills sets is critical to the success of our business and one of the main reasons why our company has been able to grow the way it has. What does being a finalist mean to you? Being a finalist means greater credibility and confidence. It is a validation of the goals and standard of excellence I have always set for myself and my company.
How many hours do you work a day on average? Working eight hours a day – eight very productive and busy hours – allows me to enjoy work/life balance. The more you work, the more you can achieve, but you must also take time for yourself, family, friends and the hobbies you enjoy, or that success will be hollow and fruitless. How do you define success? I realize success when the largest number of stakeholders are winners. My advice for entrepreneurs is to cover your wickets well. Whatever can go wrong may go wrong in the beginning. Be prepared for every possibility.
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ROHIT
GROUP OF COMPANIES
Your Full Service Real Estate Partner Rohit Capital
Rohit Commercial
Our real estate lending division provides functional capital and intelligent leveraging solutions for its borrowers, while maximizing returns for investors.
Rohit Commercial designs, builds, leases, manages and acquires revenue producing properties throughout Alberta. These properties include office, residential, warehouse, industrial and retail space.
Rohit Communities A leading home builder in Western Canada for over 25 years, Rohit works with our community partners to bring a full range of award winning homes to our neighbourhoods in Edmonton and Fort McMurray.
Rohit Land Development Our land division develops innovative neighbourhoods from niche opportunities to large multi-use projects. Our goal is to develop multi-generational communities, offering a variety of home styles to suit any lifestyle.
A Message from Radhe Gupta It is an honour to be selected as a finalist for this prestigious award. I would like to thank my family and the Rohit team for their support and dedication to our vision. I look forward to our continued success in the future.
RohitGroup.com
Real Estate and Construction
Travis Penner, Sjoerd Huese Bridge Road Construction Ltd. Winkler
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ice Presidents Sjoerd Huese and Travis Penner of Bridge Road Construction build adult active lifestyle communities and hotels in Western Canada. Their rural developments in Manitoba and Saskatchewan focus on the needs of the aging population and creating a new vision of aging. When did you know you wanted to be entrepreneurs? Huese: Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, it came as a natural choice for me. Penner: Nobody in my family owned a business. I didn’t know I wanted to an entrepreneur until the last couple of years.
Are entrepreneurs born or made? Huese: Made, as it’s a natural result that comes from leadership. Penner: Made, as it comes from the thrill of leadership. How important have good employees been to your success? Huese: We are very fortunate to have talented, committed and hard-working staff. They believe in and are passionate about, “turning vision into community” and making a difference in the lives of people. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Huese: Take care of rural communities where the government is not keeping an eye on things. The smaller communities tend to fall through the cracks. What did you want to be when you were a kid? Huese: A firefighter. Penner: A hockey player. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Huese: My family and a balanced life including spirituality, family, community and physical well-being. Penner: The same goes for me. I have three young kids with a fourth on the way. Fatherhood is my passion along with camping and sports. How many hours do you work a day on average? Huese: Between 8-10 hours a day. Penner: From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., then its family time (with some emails being answered) and more work time in the evening and early morning hours. It’s between 10-12 hours a day overall. Our plan over the next 10 years is to continue to increase our market share and expand into Alberta. Our market penetration plan includes more rural communities and different housing plans. We would also like to expand our interests in the assisted living market.
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Five reasons entrepreneurs matter most By Colleen McMorrow
We say it time and time again: entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of the Canadian economy. These business leaders operate companies of all shapes and sizes, across a wide spectrum of industries. Their amazing diversity is just one of the reasons we’re proud to celebrate their stories and achievements year after year. In many ways, entrepreneurs matter most — to the communities where they set up their businesses, to the people they employ and to the Canadian economy overall. Through their ability to dream and commitment to win, entrepreneurs:
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Drive economic growth. In good times and bad, Canada’s entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy. They see opportunity in adversity and forge ahead to drive growth in all economic conditions. Are true job creators. Job creation remains in the good hands of entrepreneurs. EY’s annual Global job creation survey reveals 76% of entrepreneurs plan to increase the size of their workforce in the year ahead by an average of 19%. What’s more, this year’s Entrepreneur Of The Year finalists in Ontario represent close to 8,000 jobs in Canada. And across the country that number grows to 37,000.
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Broaden Canada’s presence on the world stage. Our entrepreneurs are putting Canada on the map: 74% of our 2013 finalists report having an international presence and 39% are prepared to expand into international markets in the next 12-25 months. Innovate at every turn. Innovation is about understanding evolving industry and customer needs and improving on what already exists. Entrepreneurs know this better than anyone, and demonstrate their ability to adapt to new market conditions time and time again. They are powerful agents of change. Strengthen communities. Giving back to the communities where we live and work is an important way we can all build a better working world. Entrepreneurs take this corporate responsibility to new heights. They recognize that real success means creating social value.
The list could go on. There’s no end to the value that entrepreneurs bring to the table. That’s why it’s important we work together to create an entrepreneurial environment that supports them on their path to success. After all, they’re the engine driving this country forward. To learn how we support entrepreneurs, visit us at ey.com/ca/entrepreneurs.
Real Estate and Construction
Phil Milroy Westcorp Inc. Edmonton
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nder the leadership of President and CEO Philip J. Milroy, Westcorp has served the real estate industry for over 30 years through acquisition, development, construction, marketing and management of residential, retail, office, hospitality and mixed-use projects. Westcorp retains ownership, either solely or with investment partners, in its incomeproducing properties, providing the company with a stable financial base from which it can develop new opportunities. Westcorp currently presides over a diverse, high-quality portfolio that produces significant returns for the company and its investment partners. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I have known that I wanted to be an entrepreneur for as long as I can remember. Are entrepreneurs born or made? I would say it’s a combination of the two. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? A successful entrepreneur needs vision, determination and persistence. How important have good employees been to your success? Good employees have ensured Westcorp’s success. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Incorporating entrepreneurial activities into the Canadian education system would really help, as well as supporting worthwhile programs such as Junior Achievement. What did you want to be when you were a kid? I wanted to be a rancher when I grew up. Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would have started to build a corporate management team with more depth and breadth earlier in my career. What was your first job? Technically, my first job was on the farm, but my first paid job was on the oil rigs as a roughneck. How many hours do you work a day on average? I work an average of 10 hours each workday. Over the next 10 years, we intend to grow significantly as we aim to double our assets, equity and cash flow with a focus on the continued development of large, high-quality assets. Additionally, we will continue to hold fast to our mission to “create, invest in and maintain spaces and places that bring out the best in people” and to our vision “that our stakeholders will be our greatest advocates.” 70
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Phil Milroy, President and CEO of Westcorp, is honoured to be chosen as a finalist in the 2014 Prairies Entrepreneur Of The Year program in the Real Estate and Construction category. Thank you to Westcorp’s team members, suppliers, customers, and investors for helping us to continually grow our business. Your collective contributions have helped guide our actions and decisions, and with your help we will continue to create great spaces and places for many years to come.
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Westcorp.net 780.431.3300 | mail@westcorp.net | 200, 8215-112 Street, Edmonton, AB
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