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BY DON HORNE
First, the good news: We have some great young people in our industry.
Now the bad news: We can’t share more than 10 of them with you.
Our Top 10 Under 40 program recognizes 10 outstanding individuals in Canada who have made significant contributions to the industry before their 40th birthdays.
We asked our readers to submit potential candidates with an explanation as to why they warranted recognition – and what we found is that there are many out there who are deserving of this accolade.
We asked for information on projects or initiatives the individual has been involved in; workplace initiatives outside of regular job duties; and community involvement.
And my goodness – there are many spectacular individuals in our industry who do some amazing things out there. Take past winners like Erin Loveday and Andrew Phelan.
With nearly two decades in the construction industry, Loveday began her career as a site clerk in general construction at Comstock Canada before she made the move to industrial services at the Axiom Group of Companies, where she worked for 14 years.
“Her hard work and determination saw her rise from payroll all the way to project management, overseeing the opening of new company locations across North America,” says Adam Gall, who nominated Loveday and works alongside her at WrightPlan.
Loveday joined WrightPlan, a workflow management platform for specialized construction businesses, two years ago, and spends her free time outdoors with her two sons.
An unwavering commitment to support is what makes Loveday stand out among her peers, says Gall.
For Andrew Phelan, Vice-President of Sales with Hoisting Overhead Cranes in Edmonton, Alta., it was his superlative work ethic and eye for detail that garnered praise from Doug Clark, the CEO of the company.
“As a result of his relentless pursuit of excellence, Hoisting has developed trust-
ing relationships within the LNG industry in Canada – completing two major projects, and delivering seven overhead cranes, 12 monorail systems, and 10 jibs over the past 12 months,” Clark says. “Andrew’s unwavering commitment and dedication has allowed Hoisting… to proudly compete on a global basis for these large projects.”
Clark points to Phelan’s extensive portfolio, which includes overseeing all domestic and international manufacturing sales at the company, which specializes in custom crane solutions. In addition to LNG, he’s also made inroads as commercial and executive liaison for engineering, procurement and construction clients.
“Even in an economic downturn due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, Andrew was instrumental in pivoting to a business model that’s conducive to survival, longterm resilience and growth,” adds Clark.
That was just a couple of the best 2021’s Top 10 had to offer.
For 2022, we had just as many quality candidates who shone oh so brightly.
Kevin Gibson, the Account Manager at ML Truck Equipment in Abbotsford, B.C., hit the ground running during a very challenging time, starting his career at the beginnings of the pandemic.
“It was an uncertain time at best, and Kevin has shown resilience, aptitude, and success in our industry. From product knowledge, successful crane sales to growing his sales territory,” says his co-worker, Mathew Friesen.
Jori Toth, a Branch Manager with NCSG Crane and Heavy Haul Services in Fort St. John, B.C., immediately started working in the oil and gas industry as a heavy equipment operator after graduating high school.
“At the same time Jori, as a lifelong learner, completed his Leadership in Safety Excellence, Industrial Construction Crew Supervisor and started his Project Management Certificate through the Mount Royal University,” says Bonnie Smith, who nominated Toth to our Top 10. I hope you enjoy all their stories as much as I did.
Don Horne
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The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF-FCA) has appointed Rebecca Kragnes, RSE, as the Chair of its Board of Directors. Rebecca is the Indigenous Business Relations Manager at Bird Construction.
Outgoing Chair, Lionel Railton, IUOE who served for two terms, noted that “Consultation with Canada’s First Nation communities has long been a critical aspect of CAF-FCA’s work, and the inclusion of Indigenous voices bring valuable insight. Having an indigenous woman sit at the head of the table will support CAF-FCA’s commitment to diversity to inclusion.”
Kragnes is a Cree-Métis woman with a passion for improving the Indigenous profile
in Canada. A member of the Mètis Nation of Alberta, she was born and raised in Treaty 8
proud to have you on our team
Territory in the Fort McMurray, Alta. region.
Reflecting on her historic appointment, she said, “There is a lot of conversation around the skilled trades shortage in Canada. There is also a huge opportunity to fill this gap within the Indigenous population and other marginalized and equity-deserving groups. We need to connect, train, and provide support systems to potential apprentices, educators, and employers to create space for a new diverse skilled workforce.”
An experienced manager, skilled in relationship building, stakeholder engagement, government grant administration, entrepreneurial idea to implementation initiative planning and execution, chairing/participating in cross-functional committees, and project management. Strong leadership and business development background, with a focus on Indigenous community engagement and relationship management. An advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, specifically Indigenous and female participation in the construction industry — experienced at speaking and moderating discussions related to Indigenous inclusion and EDI.
A Red Seal Journeyperson Electrician, with more than 25 years experience in the construction industry. Her work experience includes field work, government administration and in her current role she provides executive level support as well as companywide education, engagement, and advocacy to support Indigenous equity within construction industry.
Kragnes is also a Board Director for Women Building Futures, a non-profit organization based in Edmonton, Alberta that offers programs and support services to help unemployed and underemployed women explore and connect to careers that pay above a living wage. She is diligent about improving the
representation of women in skilled trades across Canada.
Channeling her firsthand knowledge of the barriers women, Indigenous people, and other equity-deserving groups face in the industry, she works with communities and organizations to promote opportunities to those groups to pursue careers in the skilled trades.
The 2022 CAF-FCA Board Elections were recently conducted and affirmed at the Annual General Meeting of Members on September 21. The following Directors were elected:
• Jurisdiction (2 positions) – Raymond Massey, Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training; Shaun Augustin, Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission;
• Labour – Lorna Harnum, International Union of Operating Engineers;
• Equity – Jove Nazatul, BC Centre for Women in the Trades;
• Employer – Shaudia Ricketts, KIEWIT Canada Inc.; and
• Education – Jim Szautner, SAIT. CAF-FCA is guided by a dedicated group of seventeen volunteer Directors drawn from all corners of Canada’s apprenticeship community. Their expertise provides strategic direction, allowing staff to provide stakeholders with the resources they need to inform policies and programs that contribute to Canada’s world-class apprenticeship system. For more information, visit caf-fca.org.
Schwandt named new CFO at IronCraft IronCraft, formerly Titan Implement, has named Arden Schwandt as its new CFO, replacing retiring CFO Mike Hutsell.
Arden Schwandt
Schwandt brings long experience to his new role including nearly three decades at The Charles Machine Works, parent company of Ditch Witch.
Next Level Awards Program celebrates exhibitors at CONEXPO-CON/AGG
CONEXPO-CON/AGG and the International Fluid Power Exposition (IFPE) have unveiled the Next Level Awards Program to exhibitors for the March 2023 show.
The CONEXPO-CON/AGG Next Level Awards celebrate exhibiting companies that are pushing the boundaries and developing next-level products, technologies and services designed to advance the construction industry, with 10 finalists to be highlighted at the March 14-18, 2023 show in Las Vegas, Nev. with show attendees voting on-site to determine the Contractors’ Top Choice.
“We are excited to recognize the innovative construction products that are taking the industry to the next level,” said Dana Wuesthoff, CONEXPO-CON/AGG show director. “Exhibitors, large and small, have an opportunity to be recognized for driving ideas and developing products or services to advance the industry. This is an exciting edition to CONEXPO-CON/AGG and IFPE and we strongly encourage exhibitors to enter.”
The awards program is open to all 2023 CONEXPO-CON/AGG and IFPE exhibitors in good standing that have created products or services for the construction industry that have one or more of the following characteristics:
• Addresses a common industry need in a unique and innovative way.
• Benefits the industry across multiple applications for industry wide adoption.
• Positively impacts the safety, sustainability, and workforce of the industry.
The judging will take place by a diverse panel of Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) members. Ten finalists identified by the AGC panel will receive
recognition within their booth space. On-site at CONEXPO-CON/AGG and IFPE, show attendees will have the opportunity to visit the 10 finalists’ booths and vote for their favorite Next Level product or service in the Contractor’s Choice Award.
“AGC is excited to be partnering with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) on its Next Level awards initiative to recognize innovation in the construction industry and to highlight tools and solutions that will enable our members to build safer, more efficiently, and more effectively,” said Steve Sandherr, CEO, AGC of America.
Applications are accepted now through November 30.
Nordic Crane has taken delivery of five new Grove all-terrain cranes – all five-axle units – to supplement its regional fleet.
Four are based at the company’s Norwegian operations, while one is at the com-
pany’s Swedish facility. There are two 150 t capacity GMK5150L-1 cranes and three 250 t capacity GMK5250XL-1 cranes. The crane in Sweden is a GMK5250XL-1.
“We’ve had good experiences with Grove cranes in the past and like the capabilities of the cranes. These latest models will be well-suited to the types of projects we have,” says Eirik Kynningsrud, general manager at Nordic Crane.
The cranes were all delivered to Nordic Crane earlier this year, with local Grove dealer ANK Cranes providing full training and commissioning, as well as handling local registration with relevant authorities.
Manatees have been threatened by man and are dwindling in numbers, so a helping hand in any form – such as a crane – is greatly appreciated.
To support its successful manatee care and rehabilitation program, ZooTampa purchased a new Shuttlelift SCD09 carrydeck crane, replacing an older Shuttlelift crane that served the program’s staff for over 20 years. These increasingly threatened, gentle sea mammals have endured habitat loss, dangers such as cold stress and red tide poisoning, and many are hit by boats navigating Florida waters, sometimes leading to animal fatalities.
ZooTampa’s David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center has looked after more than 500 seriously injured, sick, or orphaned manatees, returning more than 280 of them back to the wild. For the past 20-plus years, its trusty but aging 8.5 USt Shuttlelift 3330E was used to carefully handle the stretchers containing these vulnerable creatures whenever they needed medical care and rehabilitation.
On average, ZooTampa admits 30-35 manatees into its hospital each year, although this figure is unfortunately increasing. And with its staff being on call 24/7 to receive stricken animals, its new 9 USt Shuttlelift SCD09 is of vital importance in ensuring timely treatment, says Lisa Dijenno, animal care supervisor at the zoo.
“Without the crane, we wouldn’t be able to get the manatees out from the transport truck into their pool when they first arrive, or from there into the medical school. Sometimes they can weigh around 2,000 lbs when they come in, and the pools are elevated above the ground, so we obviously can’t lift them by hand. Then, when they’re ready for release, we need the crane to get them from the pool into the transport truck,” says Dijenno.
The LTM 1110-5.2 with 3 new core features: the crane control system, the driver’s cab and the gearbox. The new LICCON3 crane control system comes with large touch displays and is prepared for fleet management and telematics. The ZF TraXon gearbox with DynamicPerform offers wear-free manoeuvring. Plus a modern crane design – the future of the all-terrain series. www.liebherr.com
Advanced technology has made cranes more efficient and effective than ever before – but they are now vulnerable to cyberthreats
By Emily Newton
Safe crane operations and construction sites rely on effective smart crane cybersecurity. Cyberthreats are growing every year, and the industry must prepare defences for every device and piece of equipment. Cranes are no exception. Luckily, any team can take steps to boost their safety.
At first glance, it may seem odd that a hacker would target a smart crane. After all, they may not seem like lucrative targets compared to large data centers or business servers. However, the dangers of a smart crane hack are very real. There are a few key risks and hacker goals connected to an attack.
Cyberattacks have been on a virtually unstoppable upward trend over the past few years. Many are designed for profit. However, others are created to cause chaos, damage and potentially even injury.
A crane is such a large and valuable piece of equipment that a hacker could easily see it as a method of destruction. For instance, they might remotely hijack a smart crane to have it ruin part of a structure in development.
Arguably the most common goal of any cyberattack is monetary profit. Ransomware attacks rose an estimated 92.7% in 2021 alone. The construction industry is no exception to these threats. In fact, some of the biggest cyberattacks of the past
few years have been ransomware attacks on construction and utility targets. Consider the now-infamous Colonial Pipeline cyberattack, which resulted in a 5 million USD ransom.
A hacker may not be able to steal much valuable data from a smart crane, but they could lock down the vehicle or remotely hijack it. Until the ransom is paid, the operators would not be able to use it.
Construction
Hackers are not blind to the surge in construction activity over recent years, making this sector a high-value target for cyberattacks. There is a lot of funding and investment going into projects. Plus, companies are on demanding schedules with persistent labour shortages.
Even a cyberattack lasting only a few hours could negatively impact a project. Crane activity is particularly crucial to progressing on any construction site. Smaller and medium-sized work areas may only have one crane, and hacking it could stall progress completely.
Hackers are likely also noting the rising use of robotics in construction. In addition to smart cranes, robotics and automation are becoming increasingly popular in all kinds of projects. For instance, robots can now be found laying bricks and tying rebar on many sites. As the industry relies more on these technologies, they become higher-value targets for cyberattacks.
A hacker will launch their attack against a smart crane’s components. This includes things like IoT devices and sensors, the
software running the crane, and any programs or gadgets it’s connected to. For instance, a hacker might initially break into a construction site’s system through its IoT or operations hub and then work their way into a connected smart crane.
The software can be a particularly high smart crane cybersecurity concern. In fact, the U.S. passed the Port Crane Security and Inspection Act in 2022, a bill specifically designed to address these risks. The bill bans the use of cranes manufactured in certain high-risk countries. They could have software with malicious programs hidden in it that could pose a serious security risk.
Even conventional radio operations can be an avenue of attack for hackers. A 2019 research project found that radio-controlled cranes could be remotely hijacked without even accessing the remote control. These attacks would simply require the hacker to send the crane a disruptive recorded radio signal, allowing them to tell the crane to do whatever they wanted. These machines might not be connected to the internet, but they are still at risk of hacking.
Smart
What can construction companies do to strengthen their smart crane cybersecurity? They should combine basic safe crane operations and proactive security measures. Even a few steps in the right direction can go a long way. These tips can be a great place to start.
Preparing for a cyberattack ensures everything is accounted
for and documented safely. This offers a record for proof of damages in the event of a successful attack and can also act as a recovery backup of key data and information.
Construction companies should get their smart cranes appraised properly, including the replacement cost of a new one. The official appraisal could be used for insurance purposes to recoup some of the loss if a crane is rendered unusable after a cyberattack.
Additionally, construction companies should ensure their data is securely backed up regularly, whether in the cloud or off-site servers. This extends to all information the business handles, not just what’s related to the smart crane. Once a hacker is inside the system, they can move from one device to another, mining for data. A secure backup ensures they won’t be able to successfully hold anything for ransom.
Effective security on every device is crucial to strong smart crane cybersecurity and operations. Industry experts recommend securing everything from office devices to everyone’s phones and tablets, as well as any connected gadgets on-site.
For instance, IoT devices need their own security protocols, such as strict access control. Radio-controlled cranes need to use end-to-end encryption with remote control devices. Anything members of the project team are using for work-related purposes must have antivirus and anti-malware software installed and regularly updated.
It is a good idea to give everyone on the project team a basic phishing awareness course. These attacks are often the gateway for large-scale cyberattacks.
Smart crane cybersecurity is crucial for ensuring a safe construction zone and preventing financial harm from ransomware attacks. Safe crane operations rely on strong cybersecurity, and some basic safety practices may help strengthen things.
For example, conducting regular inspections helps keep cranes in good working order and can also be a great opportunity to update security software. Make sure to also establish emergency communication
protocols with operators. This will protect them from harm if a crane is remotely hijacked.
Addressing Rigging and Crane Cybersecurity
Protecting construction sites and equipment from cyberattacks involves preparation and attention to detail. Cranes are an integral part of cybersecurity safety measures. These tips and insights can help any team secure machines and ensure safe crane operations.
Emily Newton is the Editor-in-Chief of Revolutionized Magazine. She regularly covers news and trends in
JLG releases new whitepaper on use cases for augmented reality
By Don Horne
JLG Industries, Inc. has published a new whitepaper “Augmented Reality Solves Two Common Challenges on Construction Job Sites,” offering four use case scenarios that highlight how augmented reality (AR) can streamline project planning, simplify ordering/renting JLG equipment and provide guidance on machine functions and proper usage.
“JLG’s AR app is designed to help users find the answers to the questions they have,” says Ara Eckel, Director of Product Management – Connected Solutions, JLG, “but because this technology is still relatively new to the industry, many aren’t aware of how it can be used in everyday operations. This whitepaper provides an in-depth look at how augmented reality can assist with 1) Sizing and configuring equipment and 2) Helping operators better understand and use their machines.”
Because JLG’s AR app is specifically designed for use on real-world job sites, the whitepaper walks through multiple scenarios to highlight how the JLG AR app saves users time and money.
“With the recent updates to the JLG AR app, we significantly evolved the tool to provide more value by increasing users’ productivity with it,” says Eckel. “This new whitepaper illustrates to our app users how they can confidently select the right machines and accessories for the job, navigate the virtual machines around their job sites to confirm planning and access additional educational resources for more efficient machine operation.”
The whitepaper is available for download on JLG #DirectAccess.
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NICOLE CONNOLLY
Director, Operations – Oxford Builders Supplies Mississauga, Ont.
By Don Horne
The future of the heavy lifting industry looks bright. Armed with a strong work ethic, initiative, curiosity, and a commitment to training and safety, the 2022 winners of our Top 10 Under 40 contest are setting the bar for young professionals across the industry. Whether they work in leadership, operations, maintenance, sales or support, these crane and hoist employees are highly regarded by their colleagues, clients and peers. We wish we could have included everyone who was submitted, and you made it difficult to pare our list to 10. Congratulations to our 2022 winners!
Oxford Builders Supplies team in a leadership capacity.
Nicole Connolly started in the equipment division, Oxford Builders Supplies, in London, Ont., shortly after she graduated from university in 2008.
“She started out working in an administrative and purchasing role before quickly taking on all the rental coordination responsibilities for the division. In 2010, Oxford sold off most of its rental equipment to Stephenson’s Rental Services, and Nicole took the opportunity to move to Toronto to work as a ProDesk Account Manager,” says Alex Davoli, a coworker of Nicole’s for 10 years. “In this role with Stephenson’s Rental Services, Nicole acted as the direct EllisDon liaison. She continued to build the strong relationship and partnership that was created upon the acquisition of Oxford’s assets while simultaneously supporting the company’s biggest clients.”
“She started as the Service Manager within a staff of eight people, which has since grown to over 30 and counting. She has been an integral part of the growth of the division, managing what started as just a handful of customers and job sites to more than 40 active sites and a fleet of over 70 man and material hoists currently on rent in the Greater Toronto Area and Southwestern Ontario,” says Davoli.
In addition, when Oxford’s scaffolding division opened in 2017, Connolly took on the responsibility of overseeing the transition until a permanent staff member was put in place. She has also been responsible for training new hoist staff in Vancouver and helped with crane service/administrative duties out of London.
In 2014, when the Hoist Division was created, and a branch was opened in Toronto, an Operations Manager specifically sought out Nicole to have her return to the
After moving into the Director of Operations role this year, Nicole is responsible for all hoist operations in Toronto, including booking hoist installations, extensions and dismantles. She currently manages a staff that includes an office administrator, purchaser, hoist labourers, and a boom truck driver and simultaneously facilitates all logistics and trucking both internally
and externally while overseeing operations in the field, shop, and office.
She has retained Oxford’s 24-hour hoist service line and acts as the first point of contact for any potential on-site issues, providing exceptional customer service by dispatching service technicians immediately; continuing to foster the sense of trust and dependability.
“Nicole is also responsible for dispatching and communicating workforce daily, working with engineering and Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA), communicating all progress with Oxford’s clients and for ensuring that all of Oxford’s equipment is safely serviced and maintained both in the shop and on-site,” says Davoli.
“As a Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSA) member, Nicole puts safety as a top priority both in the field and in Oxford’s shop. She always ensures that safe practices are in place and that safety certificates and documentation are up to date. As a fleet manager, Nicole also extends this to Oxford’s company vehicles,” says Davoli. “As an avid sports fan, you can catch Nicole cheering on the Leafs, Raptors and Toronto FC in her spare time, and she is looking forward to cheering on Team Canada in the World Cup this winter.”
Crane & Rigging Supervisor, R&D Crane
Halifax, N.S.
“Nico started at R&D Crane as an apprentice when the company started and worked his way up from boom trucks to being the 450 Ton GMK6400 operator,” says Rob Blois, who Baldasso reports to. “When I started as General Manager, I made Nico our Crane and Rigging Supervisor. By far the best decision I made.”
Baldasso shows a passion for the industry and loves what he does, adds Blois, and “every day he comes to work with the attitude he can do better than the day before.”
President, A.W.
Leil Cranes & Equipment
Dartmouth, N.S.
As a member of the board of directors at A.W. Leil Cranes & Equipment, Stephen Denton knew that Ryan Long was deserving of a Top 10 nomination.
“Ryan has spent the vast majority of his career in the Canadian crane rental industry, in a variety of increasingly senior roles,” says Denton. “He was recently appointed President of A.W. Leil Cranes & Equipment, the largest crane rental business in Nova Scotia, and is a natural leader with over 15 years of management experience and a strong ability to lead teams.”
Denton describes Long as being decision-oriented, driven to succeed, and calm under pressure – a manager that values a balanced complement of formal training and education paired with a blue-collar work ethic and field experience.
“Ryan is a leader that believes in creating an autonomous working environment
for employees, while holding them accountable to reach stretch targets and develop their skills,” says Denton. “He is passionate about the industry, and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Crane Rental Association of Canada.”
TNT Crane & Rigging Canada expanded its operations into the Edmonton area in 2017. At the time Josh was employed as our Crane & Rigging supervisor. The opportunity came quickly for Josh to grow in his role and take on the responsibility of Branch Manager overseeing the exceptional growth for our branch and region. We have expanded to provide crane service all throughout Northern Alberta. Josh’s ability to create a team focused environment has been key to our success. Our team, customers and other crane companies have the upmost respect for Josh as a leader in the crane industry. Josh continues to make the workplace as pleasant and upbeat as possible creating a very close group. The hard work and commitment Josh puts in everyday is a great example of a successful career starting as an operator and progressing to management. 37
www.tntcrane.ca
JIMMY LAROUCHE
Chief Mechanic, GUAY
Quebec City, Que.
Jimmy Laroche joined GUAY in 2012 as an electro mechanic. Almost from the start, it was apparent to all he was highly motivated to learn everything he could about cranes and what makes them tick.
“Progressively, Jimmy specialized himself on all things technical regarding lifting gear and machinery and has become our ‘go-to guy’ for electronic trouble shooting,” says Olivier Giguere, a coworker of Larouche’s for 10 years. “Through his hard work and dedication, Jimmy is now a reference for employees in our garages across the province.”
It is one of the many reasons why, in January 2021, he was nominated chief mechanic for GUAY’s Quebec City branch.
And although he has a new role, Larouche still likes to get his hands dirty and go on site whenever he has an opportunity.
“Jimmy is a dedicated and focused pro-
fessional who thrives on challenges,” says Giguere. According to several of his colleagues, he is a wonderful mentor and coach, who never hesitates to share his knowledge and his passion for the field, as well as pushing the young mechanics to surpass themselves.
JOSH LOH
Branch Manager, TNT Crane and Rigging Canada Inc.
Leduc, Alta.
When TNT Crane and Rigging opened its Leduc Branch in 2017, Josh was hired as a Crane and Rigging Supervisor. Three years later, Josh was then promoted to the position of Branch Manager.
Since then – says his co-worker and nominator Kris Nelson – he has accomplished amazing feats.
“When I joined the team two years ago,” says Nelson, “we had a fleet of five cranes, and six employees. In just that short amount of time we have grown into a lead contender in the crane industry of northern Alberta with a fleet of over 15 crane in the Leduc branch ranging from 15 - 500 tons.
“Josh has been key in the curation of relationships with customers, and other crane companies, gaining us the work which has allowed us to grow such as we
have. He makes this company a wonderful place to work with his upbeat, fun loving attitude and attention to employee needs.”
Loh started his career as a crane operator, and “is a prime example of how with hard work and dedication, there is no goal that is unattainable.”
Technical Product Specialist & Business Development, Canstahl (formerly Groupe Industriel Premium) Terrebonne, Que.
Vincent Chaussé worked for Groupe Industriel Premium for 12 years, one of the top three Canadian crane builders, having recently moved to his new company Canstahl. But he definitely left a good impression with his former supervisor at Groupe Industriel Premium, Alain Leclerc.
“During this time with us, Vincent was a service technician, later becoming a sales representative,” says Leclerc. “He is truly contributing to the Canadian crane industry with his strong technical expertise, and is always pushing the limits to develop new solutions that will meet the customer needs.”
Leclerc goes on to say that he’s been working with engineers all his life in the high tech industry, “and I have not seen that many people like Vincent Chaussé.” He adds that Chaussé has a very impressive
technical background and is the perfect sales rep and is taking care of the people around him.
“Health and safety? Top notch too,” says Leclerc. “He is the ideal team player. He would be the perfect candidate to join the CSA B167-16 committee.”
MATTHEW HNATUK
General Manager, Prairie Crane
Saskatoon, Sask.
Matthew Hnatuk started in the family business in high school, and originally had his eyes set on a heavy-duty mechanic career; but as soon as he was introduced to cranes that changed.
“Matthew continued to work for the family business out of high school pursuing his mobile crane operator ticket,” says his sister Stephanie Hnatuk-King. He then spent many years in the field while also learning the ins and outs of the company to work his way into the General Manager position.
Within this role he still fulfills that of a crane operator, supervisor, mechanic, problem solver, and role model to a lot of people.
“I don’t know many people that could balance the roles he has while maintaining a high level of integrity. He is a straight shooter and one of the hardest workers I know,” says Hnatuk-King.
“Last year Matt nominated myself for the Top 10 Under 40, and without his guidance and knowledge I would not be where I am today, his hard work and leadership has had a significant impact on our company’s success,” she adds.
KEVIN GIBSON
Account Manager, ML Truck Equipment
Abbotsford, BC
Kevin Started with ML Truck Equipment during the beginning of the pandemic.
Kevin was new to the Crane & Heavy Lifting industry and has made huge strides, writes nominator Mathew Friesen.
“It was an uncertain time at best, and Kevin has shown resilience, aptitude, and success in our industry. From product knowledge and successful crane sales to growing his sales territory,” says Friesen.
“There is nothing Kevin sets his mind to at which he does not succeed. It is great to watch Kevin grow and mature in his Territory Manager role.
“The sky is the limit, and we are so pleased to call Kevin part of the team here at ML Truck Equipment.”
JORI TOTH
Branch Manager, NCSG Crane and Heavy Haul Services
Fort St. John, BC
Jori Toth, born and raised in a farming community in Central Alberta has been around large equipment all his life. Always fascinated with large equipment, he found his real passion more specifically was large cranes.
Graduating from high school at 17, he immediately started working in the oil and gas industry as a heavy equipment operator. At 23 years old he received his Journeyman Red Seal Mobile Crane Operator ticket. By 24 years old, Jori was a Crane Supervisor/ Site Foreman at Suncor’s Fort Hills site starting during the construction phase and continuing on into the maintenance phase.
“At the same time Jori, as a lifelong learner, completed his Leadership in Safety Excellence, Industrial Construction Crew Supervisor and started his Project Management Certificate through the Mount Royal University,” says nominee Bonnie Smith. “In addition, Jori stayed active in his community by volunteering and mentoring youths.”
Smith adds that NCSG quickly recognized this dynamic, career driven, safety orientated young man and promoted him to Branch Manager, overseeing the Fort St. John Branch
at 29 years old. “In the last year-and-a-half he has increased the customer base by 19 per cent and increased revenue by 25 per cent,” she says. “Jori has been commended by clients and management staff for his outstanding management skills.”
When others speak of Jori’s management skills, it has been said more than once that “Jori made my life easier,” adds Smith.
A large client commented that when Jori was on his site, “what Jori oversees turns to gold.”
Working closely with Jori, Smith adds that “I can confidently say that he has not yet come close to reaching his full potential and we are honored to watch him soar as he conquers many more challenges in his career.”
KELLY TRUMAN
Sales Account Manager, Falcon Equipment Surrey, B.C.
“Kelly has been with Falcon since 2004; he started in the parts department and has slowly worked his way up through several roles,” says his manager, Joel Gibson. “He is now one of the most knowledgeable account managers on the sales team.”
Truman works with municipalities and road maintenance contractors across British Columbia providing custom solutions to suit their needs, and Gibson says that his technical knowledge on lifting equipment is unmatched.
“Kelly is also heavily involved in the Canadian Association of Fleet Supervisors and the BC Road Builders Association, where he gets to immerse himself in the industries he serves,” says Gibson.
Kelly sells and services to some of the largest fleets in Canada with expertise and professionalism on a daily basis, as well services owner operators as if they were family. “There has not yet been a lifting solution Kelly could not solve.”
By Andrew Snook
Not many companies get to enjoy 40 years being in business, but Equipment Corps located in Stoney Creek, Ont. is doing just that. The supplier of large industrial equipment has been growing ever since Tim Bedard decided to branch off on his own.
After working in the rental industry for a few years, he decided to go out on his own and started Equipment Corps in 1983 with a few partners, whom he had bought out by 1996.
“We basically followed rental house protocols – small tools, machinery dollies, and hydraulic jacks, what everyone else did until 2003. In 2003, we started to pay attention to the phone calls a little more and started listening to the customers and switching our product offerings to what people couldn’t find,” recalls Mike Orzel, vice-president of Equipment Corps. “2003 to 2010 were our biggest growth years, we changed our rental offerings from small tool job box shut down tooling to larger heavy industrial, maintenance and plant specialty industrial solutions. Uniquely, we have established a technical field services team that can follow the equipment and provide onsite tech support and expertise to clients and projects.”
The company still carries tools like grinders and impact guns (now just on a
much smaller scale) but have moved heavily into large winching equipment with pneumatic and electric winches up to 56,000 pounds and an air hoist fleet with capacity up to 60 tons. Equipment Corps’ extensive inventory of hydraulic cylinders now has capacity to 1,000 ton and grows constantly, Orzel says.
“We have listened to the market and focused on the large capacity pieces of equipment that were not traditionally available for rental,” he says. “In the last few years, we have expanded into specialty tools classified as “below the hook.” We have taken on Modulift Spreader Beams for Canada. We have an extensive fleet of Straight Point load monitoring equipment and now offer Crosby BlokCam along with a few other specialty below the hook tools; which now complement our heavy hoisting and winching equipment.”
What was the biggest challenge when making these drastic changes to the company’s inventory? Sleeping at night, Orzel says.
“When we purchased our first few 20ton chain falls, we thought that was big,” he recalls. “We started to deal with some of the bigger companies, lifting big heavy, expensive pieces of equipment, and we were not really able to operationally test some of the equipment we were supplying.
Our shop had no method to test large capacity hoists and winches, so to feel more secure about what we put out to the job sites, we began to invest heavily on specialty test frames and can now certify all capacities of hoists and winches we offer; making us unique in the rental market. There are not many companies that would have testing facilities like we have and it does set us apart in the market.”
Another advantage of having sophisticated testing facilities is knowing that the equipment is operational, and more importantly, safe before it ends up on a site in the customer’s hands.
“It gets a little expensive, picking up air freight to supply a second piece of equipment when a failure or breakdown has occurred with the original piece, having it tested and confirmed operational is advantageous to all parties involved. One of the principals our owner always instilled us from the beginning is, ‘Let’s get the job done for the customer,’ and that should be the No. 1 focus,” Orzel says, adding that collecting on the extra charges for shipping was something that should always be secondary. “Once the focus of the company shifted to larger capacity items, we noticed it created a demand that required us to invest in multiple items. It was doing us no good to just own one of something, we always purchase in multiples – probably way more than we need. But it makes it a lot easier when a customer calls and asks if you have it. We try to take care of their tool solutions with one phone call.”
Equipment Corps currently has two locations: the main location in Stoney Creek with a second location in St. John’s, Nfld. In total, the company has about 35 employees.
“We are very heavily staffed with technicians and shop staff, which is unique in the industry, but with the extensive testing requirements of the equipment and the volume that we’re doing, it just requires it. There’s no way around it,” Orzel says.
When it comes to finding people to come and work for the company, Equipment Corps hasn’t had a lot of issues over the years.
“To be honest, we have never really had much issue getting staff. We retain staff very well. We treat our employees as part
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of our family. One indicator of treating your staff properly is when a guy brings in his friend’s resume, which means that they’ve been talking about work and explaining how he likes working here, and the friend now wants to be a part of the team.”
Director of sales Luke Habza says the company does a good job ensuring people get the training they need to do their job properly and grow their knowledge base.
“If they’re not qualified in any aspect of the job, all of our vendors offer manufacturers training and we encourage staff to better their knowledge and confidence in their role. We provide the learning tools without question, so that goes to retaining staff well, making sure they have all the tools that they need to their job properly,” he says.
Even through the past few years of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, Equipment Corps has been able to stay busy and remain successful.
“We’ve been fortunate. Despite the challenges of the last couple of years, we just never seemed to slow down. And now when things get back to normal, it keeps snowballing,” Habza says.
The company’s main short-term goal is not unlike any rental company’s goals.
“Like everyone else, increase utilization of equipment and continue to grow long term. We do need to add a few more locations in the upcoming years,” Orzel says.
He adds that the company’s success is directly tied to having great partners all across the country.
“Our success is really all tied to the success of our partners. We have some of the greatest rental partners in the industry. Customers rely on us for support of those products that are harder to find, and one of our goals is to not exclude our rental partners,” Orzel says. “For example places in Western Canada, we know we can’t service properly, so we utilize a rental partner who will benefit from our tools but also act as a local representative for the end user.”
“The 40-year milestone is a very proud achievement for our company and our staff. We look forward to many more years to come and are always looking at ways to be relevant as a leader in industrial equipment solutions,” adds Habza.
How the crane industry learned to love going digital
By Don Horne
Alex Schuessler, International Group president and founder of SmartEquip, Inc., told Crane & Hoist Canada magazine that while the industry now loves his OEM ordering platform, there was initially reluctance and doubt.
“Over the past few years, we’ve had nothing but positive feedback,” says Schuessler. “The favourite thing we hear back from those in the crane industry is, ‘We should have done this earlier’.”
The shift to online
Similar to the digital shift across your life as a consumer, you can now also buy parts online, from your designated dealer.
“What we focus on is the ‘demand chain’,” says Schuessler. “When you simplify the demand chain for the dealer, you not only remove a great deal of effort and transaction cost, but you are also enhancing the full equipment lifecycle. Dealers don’t just allow you to secure the right part with minimal effort, but they can now also deliver service time savings and improve equipment uptime.”
For a company like Ritchie Bros., who acquired SmartEquip, the benefits to crane and hoist owners and rental companies was evident from the very beginning.
“Ritchie Bros. has long been exclusively associated with equipment disposition, with a stellar reputation on maximizing a return on sale,” says Schuessler. “SmartEquip, in stark contrast, has always been focused on maximizing the value of equipment ownership – its lifecycle.” to Ritchie Bros., this is an important strategic broadening of focus.
But what are the benefits of a “smart” network when it comes to identifying and ordering OEM parts for crane and hoist equipment?
Cranes are complex pieces of equipment, with each unit being different from the next. Locating the right, often serial-number-specific part and service procedure for each asset is a highly complicated procedure – one that stands to benefit from a digital platform which guides the service technician. Yet, when Schuessler and SmartEquip approached the crane industry with its online platform, there was the anticipated hesitancy within the industry.
“We’ve been doing this for 22 years, and our focus has been on construction equipment,” he says. “The crane industry has only become interested in the last four or five years... they learned about the benefits by watching how their customers used our platform to support their construction equipment fleets.”
Fleet owners are recalibrating their ‘replace versus repair’ projections to deal with the challenges presented by supply chain delays, and by increased acquisition costs.
“There is a big shift going on among big equipment industries,” says Schuessler. “We have 110 equipment fleets and approximately 675 suppliers on the system today, worldwide, and most are in the construction space. But there is so much learning now going on in the crane industry as well, and we are very happy to be a part of it.”
By Andrew Snook
In the small town of Ottawa, Ohio lies a company that has built its reputation through a combination of ingenuity, solid customer service and perseverance through adversity.
Nelson Manufacturing Company was founded in 1947 by Jack and Virginia Nelson as a manufacturer of lowboy trailers for the construction industry. Five years into operation, the company moved to Ottawa, Ohio so it could begin expanding operations.
“When it very first started out, we were located in a small town about 10 minutes away called Leipsic. The trailers were manufactured on the second floor of this two-story building and then driven out on a steep, dirt ramp. As you can imagine, that proved not to be a very viable solution. But then they moved to Ottawa and have been in Ottawa ever since,” explains Amy Niese, Secretary and Treasurer and co-owner of Nelson Manufacturing. “Jack Nelson looked at a map and he said, ‘Where can I be fairly centrally located in the Midwest where you can get to industrial base within an eight-hour drive?’ and that’s how they settled on this area.”
The company’s Ottawa Lowboy was a popular item throughout the region for many years. In 1961, Nelson Manufacturing
moved into a 28,000-sq.-ft. plant. The following year, the company built the first “crane boom carrier” or “boom dolly.”
Nelson Manufacturing enjoyed many years of success until tragedy struck the Nelson family in 1979, when Jack and Virginia Nelson passed away in a plane crash. Despite this tragedy, the company didn’t shut down operations, it persevered through the leadership of Jack Nelson’s son, John Nelson, who became the sole owner of Nelson Manufacturing. In 1985, the company designed and built its first “multi-axle” trailer with hydraulic steering. Then in 1988, Nelson designed and built its first 19-axle trailer.
As the company was bringing out new products to market it was struck with another tragedy, losing John Nelson to another plane crash in 1990. Despite another major tragedy hitting the company, Nelson Manufacturing continued to preserve. The company was purchased from the estate by Virgil Niese, along with two other individuals – George Rellinger and Bob Luttfring – and they continued to build trailers to serve the construction sector. In 1991, the company expanded its manufacturing facility, adding another 13,000 square feet; then added another 16,000 square feet of space in 1994.
During the time that Virgil Niese ran the company with the two other parties, another generation of the Niese family was rising through the ranks. His son, Tony, was introduced to the company at an early age, working various jobs around the plant since the early 1980s.
“I used to clean the toilets, sweep the floors, when I was a kid,” Tony recalls. “I worked out on the shop floor during college. After I graduated from college, I left the company for about twoand-a-half years, and then in 1990, I came back full-time.”
As his father and the other owners got older and wanted to retire, Tony bought each of their shares and eventually took over ownership of Nelson with his wife, Amy. Tony oversees the company as the president of Nelson Manufacturing.
The company underwent its biggest expansion under Tony’s leadership in 2008, building a new 65,000-sq.-ft. fabrication facility adjacent to the original plant, doubling the company’s headquarters in size to 130,000 square feet.
“When we put up the new fabrication building, that helped us immensely for larger trailers and more unique projects,” Tony says. “We’ve really evolved from the lowboys way back in the ‘60s.”
Nelson manufacturers many kinds of custom trailers for the crane, rigging, construction, heavy haul and oversize markets, including hydraulic goosenecks; steerable dolly transports; telescopic trailers; multi-axle trailers; ramp trailers; and double drop trailers. While Nelson builds a wide variety of popular models and configurations, it also has a great deal of experience in smaller niche markets.
“As a lowboy manufacturer, we’ve kind of evolved… we do a lot of trailers that have unique applications,” Tony says. “Some of them are for heavy hauls, like riggers, someone who is transporting heavy fork trucks, things like that. We’ve built all kinds of trailers. We’ve made them to move houseboats, for example. Trailers to transport subway cars, rail cars, mobile boilers. We have a modular system for pre-stressed concrete beams for bridges.”
These are only a few of the custom trailers that Nelson has created over the years. In more recent years, the company has been specializing in serving the aerospace market.
“As we continue down that path of unique trailers, we’ve gotten into more niche markets,” he says. “We’ve gotten into some aerospace, building trailers to haul aircraft wings, aircraft parts, aircraft and rocket components, spacecraft satellites.”
Tony says that a key to the company’s success all these years has been listening to the customers.
“We don’t go to our customer and say, ‘This is what we have.’ We ask them what they’re trying to do,” he says. “We listen to what they’re asking for, then go back and see what we’ve done in the past, and what we can offer them.”
Through a focus on its customers’ needs, Nelson has been able to overcome major tragedies and continue to be a leader in the customer trailer marketplace for three quarters of a century.
“The evolution of the company from building 25-ton lowboys to designing and manufacturing dual lane transporters, boom launch trailers, self-steering trailers and satellite transporters is absolutely remarkable,” Tony says. “Surviving and thriving for 75 years is truly a testament of the hard-working people that worked with us in the past and those that continue to work with the Nelson team. We would not be where we are today without these individuals and our loyal customers.”
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