the next step is to discuss the resources the project requires and to explore the community’s capacity. For large projects, Valard often seeks to form a joint venture. Joint ventures bring joint benefits Valard’s joint ventures usually have three features. First, a quantified commitment to community participation measured either in work-hours for labour and/or an explicit budget set aside for known local resources. “The key point here is meaningful participation,” says Roland Bailey, Executive Vice President. “We depend on the community for a major contribution of resources to make the project happen.” Second, community ownership of the project. A profit-sharing structure is established that brings the community’s interest in line with the interests of the project.
Apprenticeship opportunities are also available for those interested in a career in the trades. Work experience on a Valard project can contribute to certification as a power line technician, heavy equipment technician, electrician or crane operator. Construction can be contentious – or commemorative A new transmission line can permanently change a region’s landscape. When locals are not engaged, the line can become a constant reminder of the project owner’s intrusion and indifference. But if the community is invited to become a part of the project and
is engaged throughout, the transmission line becomes an enduring symbol of what can be achieved by working together. “A transmission project can be very beneficial, especially to a remote community,” says Adam Budzinski, President. “It can create local employment opportunities, bring money in and invite residents to have meaningful input into the future of their community. Done right, it can be talked about in a positive light for years afterwards.” To learn more about Valard and read its paper on Aboriginal Partnerships, visit www. valard.com.
We respect the people, and we respect their land Third, a Business, Employment and Training Committee. Comprising company and community representatives, the committee meets regularly to identify new conditions or opportunities as the project moves forward. Boost to employment and training The biggest tangible benefit a joint venture brings is employment. On a typical power line project, Valard hires community members to fulfill a number of roles that can range from warehousing and materials management to assembling and erecting transmission towers, and from environmental monitoring and land surveying to project administration and health and safety duties. To those interested in working on the project, Valard provides project orientation, basic skills training and safety and environmental training. Workers are then placed in crews with experienced leaders to learn on the job, picking up transferable skills that can apply to the broader industrial and construction industries.
Building on respect
Valard is a Canadian utility contractor whose operations have grown to span across Canada, bringing us into contact with numerous Aboriginal communities. We are committed to creating partnerships based on respect that maximize employment, training and business opportunities now and for the long-term.
www.valard.com
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Transmission Distribution Substations Canada’s Largest Power Line Workforce Competitive Project Financing
Aboriginal Marketplace / July - August 2012 29