Brandon Chamber Business Review 2016

BRANDON

2016

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Issue

IN THIS

Messages & Regular Reports & Board 6 Greetings from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce President Terry Burgess

7 Greetings from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce General Manager Carolynn Cancade 8 2016-2017 Board of Directors 10 Greetings from the Mayor of Brandon Rick Chrest

Brandon

Business Review is published by DEL Communications Inc. Suite 300, 6 Roslyn Road Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3L 0G5 www.delcommunications.com President David Langstaff Publisher Jason Stefanik

12 Benefits of Chamber Membership

Managing Editor Carly Peters carlypeters@mts.net

Features

Sales Manager Dayna Oulion Toll Free: 1.866.424.6398

13 A Solid Foundation – Message from Economic Development Brandon 17 Everyday people –Getting the right people for your business and keeping them on board 21 Ready, set… go to Brandon – Three active organizations in Brandon are doing their part to attract tourism dollars 25 The mind matters – Putting the “health” back in mental health 29 Building strong connections – Tech-savvy entrepreneur wins business person of the year 31 Paving the way – Building strong roads leads to lifetime business builder award win 33 Betting the farm on customer service – Manitoba farmer and retailer wins business excellence award 35 All in the family – Brothers win Brandon Chamber’s best new business award 37 Topping up a glass half full – City councillor wins community service award 39 The future is 3D – Businesses can benefit from tech at BU 42 Manitoba grown – Livingstone Landscaping is helping their clients extend the square footage of their home or business 43 Past to present – Atom-Jet Group has a future geared for success 45 International business – Strong roots help Behlen Industries branch out around the world 47 Help wanted! – Business and education partnerships can shape the future labour market 49 Building Brandon up – BNRC works with the City and business community to make Brandon’s downtown core a valuable destination

Advertising Account Executives gary barrington Cheryl Ezinicki Corey frazer Jennifer Hebert Gladwyn Nickel DAN ROBERTS gary seamans Production services provided by: S.G. Bennett Marketing Services www.sgbennett.com Art Director Kathy Cable Layout / Design sheri kidd Advertising Art Dana Jensen © Copyright 2016 DEL Communications Inc. All rights reserved.The contents of this pub­lica­tion may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without prior written consent of the publisher­.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in and the reliability of the source, the publisher­in no way guarantees nor warrants the information and is not responsible for errors, omissions or statements made by advertisers. Opinions and recommendations made by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher, its directors, officers­or employees.

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50 Chamber calendar of events 54 Index to advertisers 4

••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

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2016 ••• Brandon Business Review •••

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Greetings from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce President

W

Terry Burgess

elcome to the ninth edition of the Brandon Business Review. This magazine clearly demonstrates that investing in Brandon and Westman is an attractive opportunity by spotlighting Westman business success stories, highlighting the Brandon Chamber’s 2016 award winners and gives readers an update on the business climate in Western Manitoba.

As we look at the local business climate, the Conference Board of Canada on July 27, 2016, distributed a press release signalling Brandon was expecting to return to solid levels of economic activity after a lack lustre 2015. While this is good news, it is based on developments in two key areas – manufacturing and non-residential construction investments by government. These developments are based on assumptions in government spending, the U.S. economy, and increases in hog supply. In other words, the economy is expected to be strong but there are number of risks that could stall that anticipated growth. This highlights the need for our business community to diversify our growth and the need to work hard at economic development.

This means we need to retain and attract investors in the other sectors important to real GDP growth. The housing market, a key economic activity, is expected to maintain relatively stable as it adjusts to the changes in the oil industry and expectations for slower than average population growth. So, the opportunity for growth remains in the services sector, manufacturing, and agriculture.

6

Hydro have plans to build 22 mini turbines in the Westman area.

Besides contributing electricity to the existing grid, the turbines will be powered by a solution gas – a by-product of producing oil wells. Within the city boundaries, Federated Co-operatives Limited has announced a multi-million dollar fertilizer terminal will be completed in 2017. These two developments will have a positive impact on the economy throughout their construction and then the new jobs to support these investments.

We also recognize tourism will play a role in boosting our economy with Curl Canada’s Canada Cup (December 1-4, 2016) as the top 12 teams in Canada will attract many visitors to the Wheat City. This combined with the expansion of Westjet flights from Calgary in the West to Toronto in the east also makes it attractive for both tourists and business people to travel to visit our city.

Together, these activities will have an impact on our local economy and demonstrate there is opportunity in Brandon for new growth and prosperity. That being said, we cannot rest on our laurels.

The City will continue to work through activities outlined in their Properity by Design action plan and the Chamber will continue to advocate for investments that will generate real growth for our South West Urban Economic zone. Mayor Rick Chrest’s vision of “Team Brandon” helps position how we must work together to succeed and works well with the provincial government’s recent announcements about Trade in Canada and the New West Partnership agreement.

We have already heard of some exciting announcements that will transform the retail landscape with Brandon Shoppers Mall expanding and renovating to accommodate new businesses.

The new Sobeys Extra store and GoodLife Fitness are welcome changes that fill the existing facility and offer consumers from all over Westman additional choices for their services. In addition, the new investments in 13,500 square feet of restaurant pads for Swiss Chalet, Harvey’s, East Side Mario’s, and Fionn MacCool’s will draw additional traffic not only to the Shopper’s Mall but the city itself.

Given the mandate from our members we are working on policies to support our business community, including economic development, skilled labour force, government red tape and inclusiveness. We see some clear opportunities to encourage growth through collaboration and thoughtful planning. Investments in infrastructure that will encourage retail development to the south and manufacturing in the east need to be considered and a plan finalized. This will take partnerships between City and provincial governments, and suppliers like Manitoba Hydro (Gas), to ensure the anticipated service requirements are available when needed.

By anticipating and being ready, we will have the ability to attract more business investment in Brandon.

We have also learned of some exciting non-governmental commercial/manufacturing developments that will drive some significant economic activity in Westman. Tundra Oil & Gas and Manitoba

We believe the business climate in Brandon and Westman is positive and with vision, collaboration and leadership, we see great opportunity for growth and prosperity for our community. ¢

••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

Greetings from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce General Manager

W

Carolynn Cancade

elcome to the annual edition of the Brandon Business Review.

We are thrilled to once again celebrate our business community by highlighting some of the great business success stories in our community. While this is only a sampling of the many success stories that I hear about, it will give you a taste of our broad and diverse business community, representing companies and organizations of all sizes, industries, and sectors.

In particular, we salute the recipients of our Business Achievement Awards. Every year, through the Chamber awards, we recognize the contributions of our business community in business excellence, new entrepreneurship, lifetime achievement, service to the community, and of those in the “peak” of their career.

Our award recipients are great examples of leadership, perseverance, and hard work. I have been so inspired by the stories of determination in setting up start-ups and growing them to multi-million dollar companies, to the innovativeness and adaptability required of our long standing business pillars, to the many ways business continues to contribute and give back. After reading these business profiles you will know why we are so proud of our business community and why our city is a great place to live, work, play, and do business.

At the Chamber, we advocate, connect, and educate but we also do so much more. We are always looking for ways to better serve our membership by re-evaluating and adding new programs and

services based on member feedback. We will continue to provide great networking opportunities, professional development sessions, and cost saving benefits, as well as advocating on behalf of business. Whether it is municipal budget matters, provincial and federal policy issues or discussions and collaborations with other community stakeholders, we will represent your business interests.

As we implement our new strategic plan, we are excited about the many opportunities and the direction we are headed.

We have been the voice of business for over 133 years in our community. We are proud of our long history of helping Brandon businesses succeed and look for forward to serving our members and community in the year ahead.

Please contact us to learn more about the tools the Brandon Chamber of Commerce can give your business to prosper and grow. Visit us at www.brandonchamber.ca or call 204-571-5340. ¢

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2016 ••• Brandon Business Review •••

7

2016-2017

board of Directors

President

vice-President

Terry Burgess RBC Royal Bank

Tami Clements NetSet Communications

Jeff Hood MNP LLP

past-President

Cathy Snelgrove Frank Arndt Siere myITsource & MTS Connect Corral Centre

Jordan Ludwig Brandon Business Interiors

8

Secretary / Treasurer

Rosa Villamizar Behlen Industries

Karen MacDonald Assiniboine Community College

Greg Crisanti Tim Hortons

Tayona Johnas Sunrise Credit Union

Steve McMillan VBJ Developments

Jordan Trotter C & C Rentals

Jason Thorpe Thorpe Construction Ltd.

Trent Sholdice Meighen Haddad LLP

••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2015

Brandon Chamber of Commerce 2016-2017 Board of Directors (Missing from photo Rosa Villamizar)

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Greetings from the Mayor of Brandon

Rick Chrest

M

Team Brandon to Invade Manitoba Legislature

ost readers would quickly agree that business, whether it be in the private sector or the government sector, is heavily influenced by the relationships you foster. The most successful organizations and their leaders apply significant resources and time towards networking and creating professional relationships. At the municipal level of government such as the City of Brandon, our work is highly contingent on partnerships and joint projects we engage in with senior levels of government.

Relatively recently, Manitoba municipalities have experienced a change in government at both the federal and provincial levels.

While we have significant partnerships with the federal government, as a creature of the

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provincial government, we have even closer ties on many of the functions that we do at a municipal level. In April 2016, Manitobans affected a change in government, electing Premier Brian Pallister and his Progressive Conservative government.

The city of Brandon and a great many of our local institutions and amenities have significant connections to the provincial government. While myself, our City staff, and many of Brandon’s local leaders have already been meeting with individual new ministers, I want to ensure the new premier and cabinet know full well Brandon’s commitment to engage and work positively with the new provincial government. To that end, at my May Chamber of Commerce State of the City address, I announced my intention to organize and sponsor a “Team Brandon Visits the Legislature Day.” With the cooperation of Premier Pallister, Mani-

toba MLAs and legislature staff, Brandon will be organizing a broadly based bus-load of local leaders to travel to Winnipeg to visit the “ledge” en masse sometime in October.

Our delegation is expected to include representatives from a comprehensive selection of local organizations such as Brandon University, Assiniboine Community College, Prairie Mountain Health, Brandon School Division, Brandon Chamber of Commerce, Aboriginal Organizations, Economic Development and Tourism to name a few. We will make appointments with appropriate ministers and staff, establish an information booth in the “ledge” for the day and generally “network.” There are a great many joint opportunities that lie ahead between Manitoba’s second largest city and the province, and we wish to initiate as much dialogue as possible towards advancing our collective agendas.

I expect this to be just the beginning by the way. Brandon is blessed with a large array of progressive businesses, industries, professions, service organizations, and major institutions. At a population of 50,000, we are large enough to have a significant critical mass, yet small enough that most local movers and shakers know each other and are accustomed to working together. “Team Brandon” is a significant asset of our community, and I intend to help it collaborate and seize our Brandon spirit as readily as we can. I would suggest that following our legislature invasion, opportunities to visit investors, developers, expanding industries and business leaders will come next.

If your enterprise would like to be the next addition to "Team Brandon", contact me directly at mayor@brandon.ca. ¢

10

••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

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Benefits of

Chamber Membership Five Reasons to be a Chamber Member

1

LOBBYING AND ADVOCACY

2

LEADS, REFERRALS AND NETWORKING

With approximately 600 member companies, the Brandon Chamber of Commerce is the credible Voice of Business, speaking out on behalf of all members on a variety of topics, including working with the City of Brandon and Brandon School Division on business related issues. The Chamber also lobbies municipal, provincial and federal government representatives regarding issues that face our Chamber members.

The Brandon Chamber is about making connections...whether it’s chamber staff getting to know you and telling others about you or whether it’s you attending a variety of gatherings from small group events (Committee meetings and Business After 5’s) to larger functions (Luncheons, the Annual Dinner or Golf Tournament).

Or whether it’s you connecting with other Chamber members through our business directory, with its nearly 70 pages of listings and contacts - a who’s who of the business community.

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AWARENESS AND PROMOTION OF YOUR BUSINESS

Joining the Brandon Chamber is about raising your profile in the business community. The Chamber offers you numerous opportunities to promote your business through sponsorship of a variety of events from luncheons and networking events to dinner’s and golf tournaments.

The Brandon Chamber of Commerce also provides advertising opportunities for your company in both print and electronic media, getting your message out to more than 800 business owners and their employees.

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COST REDUCTION PROGRAMS

The Brandon Chamber can save you money and make it easier to do business through such member benefits as group insurance, merchant discounts and payroll.

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LEARNING, EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Whether it’s attending our luncheons and hearing from key political, business and community leaders or coming out to our Special Events throughout the year, the Brandon Chamber keeps you up-to-date on topics of current interest.

The Brandon Chamber also provides you an opportunity to volunteer and grow as an individual - whether it’s helping to develop policy, speaking at a Chamber meeting or welcoming guests at a Chamber event.

The Power of Affiliation

Approximately 600 businesses with one unified voice for business means protection for your business. Businesses faced with unfair government administration, taxation, or legislation can use the Chamber as a valuable resource. Well-established channels to government and the power of representing over 800 delegates business people give the Chamber a voice that speaks louder than each business can alone.

Making the Most of it ADVERTISING

Advertise to a targeted market through the Chamber Insider e-newsletter, Chamber @ a Glance, Membership Roster, mail inserts and Event Sponsorship. As a new member, you also receive recognition at the first luncheon you attend and an opportunity for a free member profile in the Chamber @ a Glance.

NETWORKING

You are your greatest asset in teaching other people about what your business can do for them. By attending a Luncheon, Business After 5, Friday morning Coffee Break and other special events you can spread the word about your business to other Chamber members in the Brandon community. This is also your opportunity to learn about other businesses and how they can be of service to you.

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There are many opportunities to assist on a Chamber committee to lend your hand towards various Chamber initiatives on behalf of the business community. To maximize your membership benefit—get involved, meet people and be available for other members. Use the Chamber to broaden your personal network. Other business leaders, who know the pressures of ownership, can offer insight to the local marketplace or can be a sounding board for your newest idea.

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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SANDY BLACK

A Solid Foundation

A growing population, sustained investments from existing and new businesses, and a strategic yet flexible plan for economic prosperity continues Brandon’s growth

By Sandy Trudel, director of Economic Development, City of Brandon imilar to other mid-sized cities across Canada, Brandon’s economy experienced a slow down in 2015, with the real gross domestic product (GDP) growing by 1.2 per cent, half the annual average between 2010 and 2014. Contributing to the decline was a contraction in the goods and the services sector. The construction sector, finance, insurance, real estate, and non-commercial services, such as healthcare and education, experienced positive growth. Not unexpectedly the job market declined in the latter part of 2015, carrying on into 2016. The continued downturn in the oil services sector has impacted Brandon directly (the closure of Trican’s Brandon facility and reduced contracts for Brandon businesses directly serving the oil sector) and indirectly through its role as a service centre for southwestern Manitoba. Less disposable income in Westman means less money being spent in Brandon. That said the downturn has prompted many skilled individuals who left Manitoba for Alberta to return to Brandon, enabling local employers to hire highly-skilled candidates for what are traditionally hard to fill positions.

According to the Conference Board of Canada, buoyed by strong growth in the manufacturing sector, Brandon’s real GDP is projected to grow by 2.2 per cent in 2016 and 2.3 per cent in 2017, more in keeping with recent GDP growth. Employment is expected to climb by two per cent in 2016 and a further 0.9 per cent in 2017.

Public projects such as the airport redevelopment, first street bridge construction, and the Brandon Regional Health Centre renovations are having positive impacts on the local economy. From the lens of

private investment, work commenced on plans to expand the Shoppers Mall Brandon site with the addition of up to five pad sites along 18th Street contingent upon receiving the required development approvals. New tenants have been confirmed for the pad sites (GoodLife Fitness, Swiss Chalet / Harveys, East Side Mario’s, and Fionn MacCool’s) with other announcements expected in the future. Phase one of the redevelopment of long vacant commercial space at 34th Street and Victoria Avenue into WestVic Common is moving forward.

The owners plan to upgrade the existing 80,000 square feet of space in phase one (2016) and add pad sites along Victoria Avenue in phase two. A new Boston Pizza is being built on Brandon’s north end adjacent to the Trans Canada Highway.

On the industrial front, Federated Co-op confirmed they were proceeding with the construction of a bulk granular fertilizer storage facility in Brandon’s industrial area.

Local businessman, Ed Dornn, built a new 26,000-square-foot Greenstone Structural Solutions plant in Brandon’s industrial area, 2016 ••• Brandon Business Review •••

13

the second Greenstone branded plant in Canada. The facility manufactures Greenstone Structural Solutions panels that can be used across all construction sectors and became operational in 2016.

Despite an overall decline in employment, Brandon businesses continue to cite labour shortages as the main barrier to continued growth and success. With today’s mobile labour force, Brandon, like many small cities across North America, struggles to attract specialized talent. Experts say that successful recruitment of key candidates to smaller, less-glamorous locales requires a good understanding of the unique benefits the community has to offer, a full appreciation of the allure of larger cities, and creating a personal connection. Basically, we need to be able to connect the business and community’s offering with the candidate’s needs, in an honest and transparent way.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SANDY BLACK

In an effort to connect individuals outside Brandon with skilled/professional job opportunities and quality of life information in one spot, the Economic Development Brandon office launched a Brandon job site in 2016, www.jobsinbrandon.ca. An external marketing campaign focused on skilled trades and professionals will aid in driving potential candidates to the job site.

There is no fee for employers or individuals seeking employment to use the site.

Economic Development Brandon also of-

fers a city tour to assist Brandon businesses in recruiting key/specialized candidates.

Businesses can contact the Economic Development Brandon (EDB) office and request a city tour for the candidate(s) being interviewed. EDB staff, or one of their volunteer community champions, will spend time understanding what matters to the candidate and their family and then customize the city tour to ensure Brandon’s attributes showcased align with the candidate’s priorities. To date, 68 per cent of the candidates for whom EDB conducted a city tour have accepted the employment offer.

In addition to the job site and community tours, Economic Development Brandon provides at no cost to businesses, relocation packages, promotional materials including but not limited to power point presentations, an online photo library, and cost of living and marketing overviews.

Guided by Prosperity by Design, Brandon’s Economic Development Strategy, the Economic Development office launched a Business Thrives in Brandon, Manitoba online business profile series. The series shares success stories of some of Brandon’s businesses. If you haven’t done so already, check the series out at www.economicdevelopmentbrandon.com/business-profiles. Resources have also been invested in better understanding the type of information required by those who are proactively

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As industrial growth fuels commercial and residential growth, Brandon’s industrial area is a major focus of work for the department. An industrial land development forecast was recently completed and we have partnered with our planning department to undertake a secondary plan for the industrial area. We continue to advocate for an industrial land servicing strategy to address servicing constraints in the area. With much of today’s initial site selection vetting occurring online well in advance of any personal contact with Economic Development offices, the EDB office is working on the development of an online industrial land inventory. The inventory aims to address the gap in online exposure resulting from many of the industrial land parcels available for development not being actively listed with a realtor. Marketing materials are being developed to support each of the properties included in the industrial land inventory.

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A growing population, sustained investments from existing and new businesses, and a strategic yet flexible plan for economic prosperity combined with an abundance of rich agricultural resources, close proximity to the oil services sector, and an engaged business community form a solid foundation for continued economic prosperity. ¢

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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

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Everyday

People

The Beaver Truck Centre crew.

Getting the right people for your business and keeping them on board

A

ccording to Tim Silversides, president, West-Can Human Resource Solutions Inc., a staffing agency specializing in human resources services, the cost of a “bad hire” can be anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000. Ensuring that you have the right people on board – and can keep them onboard – can make the difference between a successful business and a struggling one.

“2015 was the first time that there were more people in Canada who were over the age of 65 than there were people between the ages of zero and 14,” explains Silversides. “We are at the point where there are more people leaving the workforce than entering. And it’s only going to get worse as time goes by.”

Tim Silversides, president of West-Can Human Resource Solutions Inc.

Secrets to success Recruitment and retention are two sides of the same coin. One begets the other. In the case of the

By Melanie Franner former, a good reputation in the community and industry can go a long way.

“I get a lot of feedback from the community,” says Patrick Southall, operations manager, Beaver Truck Centre. “That’s where I hear positive things about the company.”

According to Southall, the positive reputation that Beaver Truck Centre has created in the community and in the industry definitely goes a long way in recruiting new hires.

“Ultimately my goal is to have people in both the community and the industry let everyone they know that Beaver Truck Centre is the place to work,” he says. “That we treat everyone with respect, dignity, and fairness. Most importantly, that we pride themselves on their family environment that has been created among all levels of staff.”

The company nurtures its reputation by hosting a variety of staff events, like regular weekly barbe-

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17

cue lunches in the summer and other activities like bowling evenings.

It even has a few sports teams that staff is encouraged to join. The company is currently planning to host a few more events that include staff and their families, so that the children of the staff get to join in some Beaver Truck Centre fun.

Southall also says taking care of new hires that are from out of town is extremely important to the company and that it goes a long way.

“We do a fair amount of recruiting overseas and Beaver Truck Centre always makes sure that they are taken care of,” he says. “We provide accommodations and financial assistance to ensure that they are able to establish themselves. When you invest care and time, the entire family prospers.”

When West-Can Human Resource Solutions is recruiting from outside the community, the staff always ensures that they sell employees on the amenities of the city itself.

“When you’re drawing people from outside the community, you have to remember that these people have a fear of the job and a fear of the community,” explains Silversides. “I like to take people on a bit of a tour around the community and ask them what’s important to them, to their spouse, their kids and then try to sell them on what Brandon can offer. It can make a huge difference.”

Other tools to recruit potential employees, adds Silversides, include social media, the company website, industry publications, and trade associations. Asking existing employees or people already in the industry for referrals is another resource. Silversides adds his company will often offer these folks a financial bonus if their referral ends up being hired.

“I liken recruiting to fishing,” he says. “The more hooks you have in the water, the better the chance of landing good employees.”

Walk the talk Silversides says good employee recruitment and retention is a matter of good communication.

“It gets down to having really basic communication with your employees,” he explains. “Treat people fairly like you’d like to be treated.

If you look at the surveys of what’s driving employee retention, it’s not just the wages. Sure, money helps. But it’s all about empowerment, team building, and having your people feel involved.”

Silversides emphasizes owners and managers need to stay connected to their people; they need to pay attention to detail.

“An employer can get caught up in the day-to-day business and not really get a chance to step back from the business and take a look,” he says. “The employer needs to ask himself if there are any fires that need to be addressed, to see what is, and what isn’t working. He needs to get the pulse of where his employees are and how happy they are.”

This, adds Silversides, can be achieved by talking regularly with the staff.

“Employers or managers can’t afford to lose contact with their staff,” he continues.

One employer who stays very close to her staff is Sue Swarbrick, owner of Budget Blinds.

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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

Those businesses interested in workforce development have a variety of resources available to them.

Third-party agencies like West-Can Human Resource Solutions is one route. Another is through local business organizations, like the Brandon Chamber of Commerce.

Bonnie Nay-Draper Entrepreneurship Manitoba

The Chamber developed a special Workforce Development Committee (WFDC) in the fall of 2013.

“Our mission is to act as a catalyst to achieve a workforce that meets the evolving needs of the community,” states Bonnie NayDraper, chairperson of the WFDC. “We have benefitted from a strong, driven, and diverse committee over the past two years and are confident the drive and focus will continue.”

One of these committee members is Karen MacDonald, vice-president of People and Planning at Assiniboine Community College.

“During our first year, we went through a strategic planning exercise around the awareness of workforce development and helping businesses understand the resources available to support it,” explains MacDonald. “This year, we took a step back to try to determine what our members are saying about recruitment and retention. That way, we can offer more effective solutions.”

Examples of work completed to date by the WFDC include: assisting in the development of reports related to the changes and impacts of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and Worker Compensation Board; assisting with and providing ongoing support for a trailing spouse strategy through the city; providing a platform for associations that supports training and development of under-employed groups in increase awareness of opportunities and available resources; refining the role and mission of the WFDC; and this year, hosting 12@12’s, openforum discussion sessions with target groups around the topic of workforce development.

“Through past and future consultations, the committee is garnering a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities surrounding workforce development, which includes recruitment and retention,” says Nay-Draper.

“Input and feedback from the business community is critical to understand the root cause of these issues and determine options and solutions.”

“We’re part of the franchisee network throughout North America,” she says, adding she purchased the franchise five years ago and can have between six and eight employees at any given time. “Retention is huge for me. I’m very much a proponent of treating our people well so they will want to stay loyal. If we expect our staff to treat our customers well, then we need to treat our staff well.”

Swarbrick has several long-term people on staff, one of whom is in the key position of full-time style consultant.

“It’s a small business so it lacks some of the benefits of a larger organization but we try to compensate by offering our employees flexibility and time off,” Swarbrick explains. “We’re constantly doing potlucks and building camaraderie. Some people prefer to work for a smaller organization for just those reasons.”

Left to right: Robyne Frederiksen, Carolynn Cancade, Bonnie Nay-Draper, Rosa Villamizar, Stephanie Cruickshanks, Doug Pople, Sandy Trudel. Missing: Tim Silversides, Luka Amona, Karen MacDonald, Karen Roe, Eric Sefton, Wade Winmill, Dara Black

And so far, it seems to be working. Swarbrick has lost some of her long-term staff but mainly because of relocation or semiretirement.

“Right now, I’m looking for an executive assistant,” she adds. “It’s proving tough to find because we need someone who is both a detail person – one-eighth of an inch is a big issue in this business – and someone who has soft skills.”

Swarbrick’s past experiences will probably lend toward her going with a hiring agency, such as West-Can Human Resources Solutions.

Left to right: Some of the Budget Blinds staff, Bobbi-Jo Flannigan, Sue Swarbrick, and Penny Mayo.

We’ve hired some pretty key people out of agencies in the past,” she says. “If you use traditional hiring methods like advertising in newspapers, you’d go broke. And to advertise on Kijiji, you need the time to wade through all the responses. Why not an agency?

They do what they do well.”

Hand in hand According to Silversides, communicating with and recognizing employees can go a long way to recruiting and retaining employees. The two go hand in hand.

“Employers should recognize someone when he or she has done a great job,” he concludes. “Share your successes with them. Offer perks like flex time, bonuses, coffee once in a while, treats on a hot day. It doesn’t have to be expensive. As much as anything, it’s about acknowledging a job well done, which helps in the long term.” ¢

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Three active organizations in Brandon are doing their part to attract tourism dollars

By Deb Smith

W

ith virtual shrinking of the world through global communication and marketing, tourism has become one of today's fastest-growing industries. In Manitoba, this complex and farreaching industry brought in $1.52 billion dollars of revenue in 2012 alone – that’s almost three per cent of the province's GDP. In recognition of the huge economic potential and benefit to all residents of the province, Travel Manitoba is committed to focusing on providing marketing information and opportunities to industry partners, setting a goal of increasing tourism visitation revenues of $2 billion by 2020.

Three active organizations in Brandon are doing their part to attract a sizeable share of those tourism dollars.

At Brandon Tourism, Lois MacDonald, general manager, welcomes thousands of people to the Riverbank Discovery Centre (RDC) annually. Open year-round, also operating as the Regional Tourism Centre, the RDC distributes travel information and offers support, making sure visitors are aware of everything they can see and do in Brandon, throughout the region, and across Manitoba.

"We serve as a kind of hub/spoke effect, with people coming and staying here while they take in things like the International Peace Gardens, Spruce Woods Provincial Park, and Riding Mountain National Park," says MacDonald. "We're surrounded by a lot of unique natural attractions, and

Brandon is the largest centre in the area."

The city itself has a lot to offer leisure travellers with its many historic sites reflecting the unique western heritage of the province, museums, the Agriculture Hall of Fame, and the list goes on.

In June, Brandon Riverbank Inc., in partnership with the City of Brandon, launched Back to the River, Brandon's Assiniboine River Corridor Master Plan, 2015-2035. An estimated $29 million will go into developing the 700 acres that wind through the city into opportunities for residents and visitors to experience this riverbank space. Work has already begun on the first project, Festival Park, a covered stage and amphitheatre destined for community celebrations, to be followed by a bronze sculpture park, a nature playground, and enhancements to the wetlands habitat.

Meanwhile, Brandon First, established in 2003 as a non-profit destination marketing organization, operates with local groups and businesses to promote Brandon as a host city for multi-day events in any sector–from sports to government and business conventions to culture/trade shows.

Jackie Nichol, executive director of Brandon First, works in close affiliation with the Riverbank Discovery Centre to the point of sharing the same office location, although her focus is more on the event side of tourism.

"We promote both locally and nationally," explains Nichol. "We spread information as far and wide as we can across the country, making sure everyone sees the countless benefits of being in Brandon. Event tour-

PHOTO COURTESY OF SANDY BLACK PHOTOGRAPHY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BRANDON.

2016 ••• Brandon Business Review •••

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ism generates the highest daily expenditures of all visitor types."

According to the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, delegates generally spend four times more per stay than leisure travellers, on average $1,000 for each visit on transportation, hotels, dining, and shopping.

"Our central location is a big selling feature," says Nichol. "And comparatively across the country, for Brandon's population size, we have exceptional hosting facilities."

The Keystone Centre, also a non-profit organization, is at the heart of this success, able to host sporting and entertainment events, fairs and agricultural exhibitions, and conferences.

"We generally host about 1,500 events annually, and that's been increasing every year," says Neil Thomson, general manager of the Keystone Centre. "We've done an economic impact study on our facility, and a conservative estimate is that we bring in over $62 million to the area on a yearly basis."

Thomson agrees that a central geographic location is a big plus for hosting events.

"We attract people from past the Saskatchewan border, north to Dauphin and down below the U.S. border." For example, the Keystone Centre currently hosts the Canadian National Arabian & Half-Arabian Championship Horse Show, one of the largest horse shows in Canada, and the majority of the entries are coming from the

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"We view ourselves as a convention facility," explains Thomson. "But the Centre is really multi-purpose." Four-season sports facilities for everything from curling to soccer and events such as the Brandon Wheat Kings hockey games serve communities throughout the Westman region. In order to host small music events and theatre groups, the Keystone Centre recently transformed a cattle sales ring into an amphitheatre; it even offers an on-site campground for leisure and business travellers alike. Whether participants in the many events and opportunities come from near or far, the Keystone Centre has everything in place to make things happen.

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destination of choice. ¢

All three organizations are working together to generate economic impact from tourism throughout the city. Nichol explains, "One of our priorities at Brandon First is to get the message to our residents and people who do business here that everyone benefits from events coming to Brandon. It affects the whole community. For example, the Brandon University hosted the CIS Women's Volleyball Nationals this year. What an opportunity for kids to see our university and all the facilities it offers; some may decide to come back and live in such a thriving, progressive city."

Brandon Tourism volunteers set up tourist information booths at events, providing a wide variety of support and information for visitors to the city, including hosting tours and offering promotional coupons to area attractions and services, while the Keystone Centre is looking into establishing electronic information kiosks to encourage business travellers to come back another time.

Travel Manitoba recognizes several strong opportunities within the tourism industry: an overall increase in travel globally is expected to double by 2020, baby boomers

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The Mind Matters

Putting the “health” back in mental health By Melanie Franner he Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) reports that, in any given year, one in five people in Canada will experience a mental health problem or illness. The cost to the economy is well in excess of $50 billion.

Numbers from the CSA Group show that mental health problems and mental illness account for approximately 30 per cent of short- and long-term disability claims. And they are rated one of the top causes of disability claims by over 80 per cent of Canadian employers.

The workplace can be a source of mental health issues but it can also be a refuge for workers during difficult times – if support and help are available.

Changing the way we think For Tracy Ridgen, Mental Health Promotion Clinic, Community Mental Health Services, Prairie Mountain Health, promoting mental health in the workplace is both important and beneficial. Although she admits there are businesses out there – big and small – that recognize the need to promote mental health and/or are actively promoting it, she also says that for her, it’s all about “putting the ‘health’ back in mental health.”

“When people hear the words ‘mental health,’ they automatically think of mental illness,” she explains. “That leads to images of sick people and hospitals. Mental health is a continuum. It’s all about how we balance things. I believe that there is a continuing need today to decrease the stigma around mental health so that people

think of it less as an illness and more of a desire to help people who reach out.”

Marion Cooper, executive director, Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Manitoba and Winnipeg, recounts a story that illustrates this concept.

“I was off work a few years back because I had cancer,” she explains.

“During my time off, I received a lot of cards, gifts, and food from colleagues and Marion Cooper, friends. I had a colleague who was off work executive director, for depression at the same time as me. The Canadian Mental Health difference between her and me was that Association (CMHA) she didn’t receive anything. She felt very isolated. I realize that people still struggle with how to respond in these types of situations and I do think we’ve come a long way but I also believe that there is still a stigma around mental health.”

Tap into resources Businesses have a wealth of resources to access when it comes to developing a plan or program around mental health.

“We go into the workplace to educate employers and employees about mental health, about how to accommodate people and to make the workplace a safe place,” explains Cooper, who adds the introduction of Psychological Health and Safety Workplace standard in Canada was an important first step in recognizing the is-

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sue. The standard was the collaboration of the MHCC and Guiding Minds @ Work (GM@W), an organization designed to promote psychological health and safety in the workplace. “Right now, the standard is voluntary but I think we’ll see a growing expectation among the public to make this a mandatory standard just like other health and safety standards already in the workplace.”

The standard, which was introduced in 2013, cites 13 factors of psychological health and safety. These include: psychological support; organizational structure; clear leadership and expectations; civility and respect; psychological competencies and requirements; growth and development; recognition and reward; involvement and influence; workload management; engagement; balance; psychological protection; and protection of physical safety.

“I would encourage businesses to reach out to organizations like the CMHA,” says Cooper. “If you’re starting down this path, then realize that it’s okay not to have all the answers but to seek help to ensure you can provide an effective program to your employees.”

Cooper adds that the CMHA just finished training six of its staff as Psychological Health & Safety Advisors. Their job is to go out into the workplace and help businesses.

“It’s important for businesses to understand why it makes good business sense,” she says. “You need to look at where you are currently, which often starts with doing a survey among the staff. The data collected will show you where you need to start.”

Ridgen is another strong believer in taking the time to plan an effective strategy.

“The first thing an organization needs to do is to determine where

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they are and what tools are available to help them,” she explains.

“They need to also look at what the stressors are in the workplace, if there are any. Businesses can seek third-party help for this or they can opt to do it on their own. I’ve seen a lot of places that have passionate people get involved on this and just run with it.”

GM@W is another option for businesses looking to go down this path. It offers a comprehensive, free set of resources designed to protect and promote psychological health and safety in the workplace. GM@W resources allow employers to effectively assess and address the 13 psychosocial factors known to have a powerful impact on organizational health, the health of individual employees, and the financial bottom line.

The little things Promoting mental health in the workplace doesn’t have to follow hard and fast rules. It can also include creating a fun and healthy environment for staff. Prairie Mental Health in cooperation with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce has developed a “Best Boss” award that recognizes those employers who go above and beyond for their staff. To date, 18 people have won the award, but many more have been nominated.

“The award is a good opportunity to identify individuals who are doing a good job and giving them the recognition they deserve,” says Ridgen. “If we can highlight the good things that are happening in the workplace, then that works to motivate other people to do the same. Sometimes it’s the simple things, like the Best Boss Award, that get people to think about things.”

Murray Turner, director of Network Operations, NetSet Communications is one of this year’s nominees. The company he works for is a privately held telecommunications firm that offers broadband service throughout Manitoba.

“I think that mental health is something that is well recognized throughMurray Turner, director of out the company today,” explains Network Operations, NetSet Turner. “We started out as a small orgaCommunications nization with a handful of employees and have grown into a company with over 100. Mental health has become more relevant as we have grown.”

According to Turner, one of his priorities is to promote work/life balance.

www.paddockdrilling.com Phone: 204-725-0657 Toll Free: 1-800-339-4908 Fax: 204-727-4926 26

••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

“We make sure that it’s very clear what everyone’s role and responsibilities are,” he says. “Everything flows from that. We’re in a fast-moving industry but our technology makes us very flexible so people can cross-train, work from home after hours to make up time and take time off when they need to.”

NetSet Communications also makes it a point to promote the mental health messages through events like summer barbecues, golf tournaments, and other events held throughout the year.

“It was pretty special to find out that I had been nominated by my employees,” says Turner. “That tells me that we’re on track.”

Dr. Jay Winburn of Winburn Orthodontics.

The winner of the 2016 Best Boss Award is Dr. Jay Winburn of Winburn Orthodontics. Windburn has been in practice since 1979.

It was after the nomination but before the win that Winburn treat-

“Making the office a mentally healthy and happy place is top of mind here,” he explains. “It’s something we take very seriously. We actually sat down one day and had a conversation about it, about how we all play a part in creating a pleasant atmosphere. We all made a point of agreeing that we would consciously work at making this a fun place to work – and it is.”

“We had a really good year in 2015 and it wasn’t just because of

Winburn admits to being surprised at the nomination and the win.

played a huge part,” he concludes. “Our commitment makes the

“I truly feel it’s the greatest honour I have ever received,” he says.

“It means a lot to me to know that everyone enjoys working in the office.”

difference. I don’t think you can leave this sort of thing to happen-

ed his staff to a week’s vacation in Mexico. me,” he says. “I felt that the staff should benefit too.”

As the official 2016 winner of the Best Boss Award, Winburn has some sage but simple advice.

“I think the fact that we all take the mood in the office seriously has

stance. Make it a point to have a conversation with your people.

And keep the conversation going.” ¢

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Business Person of the Year

building strong connections Tech-Savvy entrepreneur wins business person of the year.

T

By Lea Currie he introduction of the internet is akin to the early days of electricity with many struggling against the bizarre new invention, wanting to maintain their old-fashioned conventions. Raised on a farm in Treherne, Charlie Clark recalls his father telling him about the trials and tribulations in the 1940s of trying to convince neighbours to electrify their farms. This innovative vision was met with resistance as some people thought the idea absurd. Fifty years later, Clark met similar resistance when he began his telecommunications business, NetSet Communications, from reluctant business owners who could not yet appreciate the significance of computers to financial institutions hesitant to provide the capital for the seemingly radical initiative. Thankfully, Clark overcame the barriers and now has one of Canada’s largest privately held telecommunications companies – a significant achievement that helped earn him the Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s Business Person of the Year award.

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For rural Manitobans, a stable, fast connec2016 ••• Brandon Business Review •••

29

tion was rare and Clark’s rural roots planted the seed of inspiration.

“It became evident that people who were buying personal computers wanted to connect to the internet, but really had no ability to do so other than dial-up internet,” says Clark. “The cities had broadband internet service, but the country did not.

So we connected a few dots and decided that there was an opportunity to be in the fixed-wireless business serving rural Manitoba. We started with one tower and today we have close to 200.”

Since 2001, NetSet’s services have allowed people and companies to stay in their rural communities while still being able to operate on a level playing field because they are connected to the rest of the world.

“It’s pretty rewarding when businesses or individuals say, ‘I don’t need to move to the city to do my job anymore,’” says Clark.

“They now have the same opportunity, the same connectivity as those who live in the city. And being a farm kid with farm roots and seeing these enterprises thrive in rural Manitoba partially because of what we’ve been able to provide to them, that makes me really proud. We’ve made a lot of difference to a lot of people, so it’s pretty rewarding.”

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Clark would have been content with the satisfaction of a job well done, but the commendable work he has done deserved another layer of distinction. Clark is honoured to be acknowledged by his peers through the Chamber’s business achievement award and he’s grateful for the Chamber’s support. Likewise, the entrepreneur is a big proponent of supporting the chamber and credits it as “a very important institute for the city and our business community.”

Like electricity, resistance to the internet was futile and there’s now an insatiable demand for connectivity that will benefit NetSet Communciations for years to come.

Clark continues to see business growth, as he builds a new two-storey office building, hires more staff and adds new towers. “Internet, when we first started, was a pure luxury and now it’s an absolute necessity.

Everybody wants it and everybody needs it. The future is pretty bright for our business.” ¢

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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

Lifetime Business Builder Award

Paving the way

Building strong roads leads to lifetime business builder award win

B

By Lea Currie

ehind the wheel of his 1968 Ford Mustang, William (Bill) Cumming is cruising into the sunset of retirement – and he likely helped pave the very road he’s driving on. After half a century in business, the president of Wheat City Concrete Products LTD. and Zenith Paving has more than earned it, along with the distinguished Lifetime Business Builder award he was given from the Brandon Chamber of Com-

Community based since 1971.

merce. This recognition is especially befitting to Cumming who he has spent his lifetime building the city’s infrastructure.

Cumming’s father was a general contractor who started his own business, W.C. Cumming & Son. In 1957, Redi Mixed Concrete was added to supply Brandon and surrounding areas with quality concrete products. The company was then sold in 1963 to a small group of Brandon businessmen including Cumming and his brother Garth, and the name was changed to Wheat City Concrete Products LTD. Cumming carried on as plant manager before becoming general manager. A decade later, Cumming and Garth purchased Zenith Paving, a paving and gravel contractor, as a natural extension to the family’s original business.

Throughout his tenure Cumming applied basic life philosophies to the companies, such as “be upfront with people” and “it pays to work at it.” Simple concepts, but this straightforward approach helped his businesses find success.

“Being honest and trying to satisfy the customers is the main mandate, and obviously we’ve been able to do that,” says Cumming, although he’s quick to emphasize his many years of success couldn’t have happened without good products and an incredible staff behind him.

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Cumming also found the Chamber to be beneficial, not just for his businesses, but for the entire community. “The Chamber, they

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helped pretty much everybody that’s out there in my opinion,” says Cumming. “Their mandate is to get out and help the city grow, and by doing that it helps our business.”

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Despite his illustrious career, Cumming was not expecting to be honoured by the Chamber. “I was pretty surprised, and very humble at the time,” says Cumming. “It was something that you don’t strive for but it’s really very nice when it does happen. I felt very good about it.”

“I felt that he really deserved it, but I’m a prejudiced,” says Cumming’s wife, Gloria. “He’s worked hard all his life and given us all a good life.”

The award win isn’t just recognizing his nine-to-five work, but also his community service; Cumming is well-known in Brandon for his dedication to the local Masonic Lodge, Brandon Shrine Club, and Manitoba’s Khartum Shriners. As well, he and Gloria were founding members of the Riverview Curling Club.

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Nowadays, Cumming is enjoying retirement, while sons David and Ronald run the companies. His time is still quite full though: when he’s not in Arizona escaping the cold, he’s busy working on his classic cars (in addition to the Mustang, Cumming has a 1966 Plymouth Valiant and 1926 Ford Model T) and spending time with his family, which also includes daughter Carrie, seven grandkids, and one great-grandchild with another one expected in October.

While he’s still keeping a hand in the companies and regularly has coffee with David and Ronald to discuss business matters, Cumming can rest assured he’s paved a solid road for his sons to continue to grow the businesses, while he is finally able to sit back and enjoy the life he has built. ¢

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Business Excellence Award

Betting the Farm on Customer Service

Manitoba farmer and retailer wins business excellence award By Lea Currie

M

anitoba loses one farmer a day. This staggering statistic would make most companies run in the opposite direction, but the Mazergroup has continued to bloom in today’s tough agricultural industry.

“It’s a steady decline. According to Stats Canada, we lose close to 10 per cent of our producers every five years,” says Bob Mazer, president and CEO of Mazergroup. “We have to care for and build relationships with less and less people, but it is absolutely critical that we have strong relationships with those people because you take one producer out of our organization and it’s a fairly significant hole.”

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Mazer was thrilled to receive the award from the Chamber, and is quick to give credit to his 275 employees and the customer care they provide every day.

Thankfully, caring for people is what Mazergroup does best. The farm equipment retailer has been in operation since 1959 when Mazer’s father started the business, and while the company’s names and structure have changed and developed over the years, the goal has always been the same – to provide superior service and products.

And it’s what helped to earn Mazergroup the Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 Business Achievement Award for business excellence.

“Success of a small business is not based on product, it’s really based on people. Customer service is our primary business philosophy. I think that’s why we stand out. I’m not saying that others do not offer good service in the industry, but I will tell you this – it is way closer to my heart than possibly others because I am a farmer. I know what it’s like to be down in the field, having something break down, and it’s beautiful weather and you’re not getting your crop in or you’re not making your hay,” says Mazer, who is still actively farming, with one of his sons running the 9,000-acre farm. “This seems to be something that I’ve been able to por-

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tray throughout our organization – that we have to look after our customers, we have to be responsive and understand the urgency of the moment.”

With this strong customer focus, the company has not only been able to withstand the industry’s harsh climate, but it has also prospered, opening new stores in Swan River, Steinbach, and Morden. The retailer now also sells construction and turf management equipment. Mazer has plans to grow westward and into the south, but is wisely sitting tight while the dollar and oil prices remain low.

Over nearly a half a century in the business, Mazer has seen many changes in the industry from the reduction in producers to the transformation of equipment, but the one constant has been the company’s membership in the Brandon Chamber of Commerce.

“I’ve had a link with the Chamber for a long, long time. Brandon has got a great Chamber. The effect they may have had over the years on some government policies and issues, whether it be taxes or rules and regulations, and those kinds of things, that’s been a very good benefit to us,” says Mazer, who encourages the next generation, including his sons, to get involved.

While the future of the agricultural industry may be changing in ways we cannot predict, you can bet the farm that Mazergroup will be adapting to meet the new challenges ahead and thriving for many years to come. ¢

Outstanding New Business Award

All in the Family

Brothers win Brandon Chamber’s best new business award By Lea Currie

A

weekly dinner or the occasional holiday get together is usually the most families get to see each other in today’s busy world. But the Day brothers have made family a priority as co-owners of not one, but two companies.

Even the idea for the business came from within the family tree.

Their father, Bob Day and cousin Dean Peech have been in the janitorial service in Brandon for many years and they saw the need for a local sanitation supply company. Armed with the knowledge and advice of their dad and cousin, who are both silent partners, the brothers were urged to explore their entrepreneurial sides.

The brothers started Progressive Sanitation in 2009, and later expanded to add Progressive Mats & Uniforms in the fall of 2013. Their strong union has resulted in two stand-out companies and earned the joint businesses the Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 Business Achievement Award for outstanding new business.

“It’s kind of a weird business to get in to. It’s not something you think to get into, but it’s been unbelievable,” says Spencer of the sanitation industry. “It’s been a lot of fun and we’ve totally fallen in love.”

“Working with my brother actually works out great. Obviously it’s still a family business and those tendencies tend to come out from time to time, but we take care of two totally different areas of the business and it’s a really good complement to each other; our skills work really well together. Honestly it’s a partnership I wouldn’t change for the world. It’s worked out absolutely beautifully,” says Spencer.

The younger brother describes himself as a macro guy, and subsequently oversees the business as a whole, including the hiring process and bidding for new tenders, while Riley is more about the micro side of the corporation, such as managing the drivers, handling inventory and orders, and customer service.

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The brothers are also supported by Spencer’s wife Kathryn, who runs Progressive Mats & Uniforms. “She’s our biggest asset here by far,” boasts Spencer.

The family-run business wouldn’t be as successful if it wasn’t also for their extended family – the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and the local community. Since joining shortly after the business opened, the Day brothers have found tremendous support from their fellow Chamber members and the community around them.

“People want to support people that deal with the Chamber. That’s the whole idea – we’re in it together,” says Spencer. “Brandon is a community that loves to operate locally. Everyone in this city has an open-door policy.”

The family-friendly character of the two Progressive companies also filters down to their nearly 20 employees.

“I’m most proud of the environment that we’ve created here for our staff and customers. I think our staff truly enjoy being here. No one goes home for lunch. We stock our kitchen here with groceries for our staff,” says Spencer. “We have just a great work experience here.”

Even in the world of business, Spencer and Riley have found a way to make their family – both immediate and extended – a priority. With two flourishing companies and an impressive award already under their belts, the brothers have created a family bond that goes beyond what is found around a dining room table or a holiday feast. ¢

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Community Service Award

Topping up a Glass Half Full City councillor wins community service award

W

hen Barry Cullen started his business 35 years ago, he knew becoming a successful entrepreneur would require more than just a good head for business, but also a passion to get involved.

“In order to be in business, there’s two sides to the coin: there’s your business side, and then – especially in a community like Brandon, Manitoba – there’s the community side,” says Cullen, owner and chief executive officer of Keywest Photo and Image By Design. “I wanted to not just have a business in the community, I wanted to be a part of the community.”

This dedication to his city recently earned Cullen the Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 Business Achievement Award for community service. From his early involvement with the Lion’s Club after moving to Brandon in 1978, to sitting on numerous non-profit boards, such as the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, United Way, and both the Brandon and Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, Cullen has become a well-known figure beyond the four walls of his business.

By Lea Currie

Whether by fate or luck, Cullen has found that the right philanthropic opportunity come to him when he’s ready. “It’s kind of like, when the student is ready, the teacher will appear, and in the case of me, when I was ready for a certain position, people showed up to ask me to step into that role.”

Today, Cullen’s volunteer work has shifted to the political arena as city councillor for the ward of Victoria. He also recently joined the

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board for the Assiniboine River Basin Initiative – a joint water management project between Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and North Dakota.

Being granted with the community service award is an honour Cullen values as many of the people he admires have won this distinction. “There’s a lot of people who have won this award before that I would aspire to be like, so I was honoured to be in their same company.”

strongest chambers in all of Canada, per capita, without a doubt.”

For Cullen, giving back isn’t just about being a good member of the Chamber or enriching the community or being a conscientious business owner, but also about becoming a better person and creating a well-balanced life for himself.

Being granted with an award from the Chamber itself is also a source of pride. During his tenure with the Chamber’s board, he gleaned much from his fellow board members and past presidents before him.

“Everyone has that analogy of the glass being half full or half empty, but my big philosophy has always been that it’s your job to top it up with different experiences,” says Cullen. Beyond his own businesses and volunteer initiatives, Cullen tops up his very full glass by spending time with family, playing the drums in his band, J4K, and hitting the waters in his kayak.

“I don’t think there’s any of them within my time [on the board] that I didn’t learn something from. It’s great to be around a group of people who are in the same boat, and you can appreciate them as your teachers,” says Cullen. “The Brandon Chamber is one of the

“You have to keep learning and ever evolving. Every time you volunteer, you’re actually contributing to yourself and your own education,” says Cullen. “I’ve never had an inspiring experience sitting on my couch.” ¢

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The Future is 3D

Businesses can benefit from tech at BU

B

randon and Westman businesses have the future at their fingertips, thanks to some high technology equipment at the Brandon University campus.

Business professor Mike Malazdrewicz says there has been steady interest in the new Innovation Zone, which includes a pair of three-dimensional (3D) printers.

“We’ve been doing demos for almost a year now,” he says. “And that’s still just a tiny percentage of the people who need to understand the possibilities.”

The 3D printers, he explains, let anyone turn out a functional prototype or model without the hassle or expense of tooling up a special mold. The printers accept standard digital 3D files, and produce models using nozzles and special polymer materials.

There are two printers at BU, currently located in the John E. Robbins Library so that anyone can use them and see them in action. They were purchased last summer, with federal funding of $47,000 from the Western Diversification Program.

One printer can produce materials that are about eight inches by eight inches and eight inches high, using a special type of ABS-plus plastic, similar to what’s probably used in home plumbing fixtures. It produces a very durable model that won’t crack or splinter.

The second printer can produce models up to eight inches by eight inches by 12 inches using a polymer called PLA (poly-

lactic acid) which is based on corn starch.

It’s very environmentally friendly, says Malazdrewicz, and stiffer than ABS, although a little on the brittle side.

“For larger objects, you just have to ‘think it down’ to pieces no larger than that,” he explains, demonstrating how the printers can create interlocking objects, and even connecting pieces like screws, so that you can assemble a much larger final product out of pieces that can come from the printer.

It is also a simple matter to produce a

smaller version of a design to allow people to understand the concept that is being considered.

“We’ve printed a model of a piece of the storm and sewage system that exists in downtown Brandon,” says Malazdrewicz. “It fits in the palm of your hand, making the possibility of building a scale model a real possibility.”

Both of the printers use what’s known as an additive approach, which means the printer makes many passes to extrude new

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quickly at low cost. Much of the printing can be set up to be done overnight, so that you press a button, walk away, and come back in the morning to a finished product.

layers, slowly building up the final model.

An alternative approach to 3D printing is subtractive, which is akin to sculpting.

The BU Innovation Zone is close to launching an online interface for people anywhere in Westman to submit their jobs for pricing and printing – meaning only a single trip to the university is required to pick up the final product. For now, printing is generally arranged either in person or via email.

ing another item whenever it is needed.

The advantage to an additive printer is that you can print hollow objects, like spheres, although some thin or extended models require temporary supports to also be printed. Those supports are later snapped off or dissolved.

“Anyone who’s shrewd knows they need to be awareofthis,”saysMalazdrewicz.“Whatwe’re finding with people who come in for a demo is their minds open up and they start to think of the potential applications. They come in wondering, ‘What could I use it for?’ They leave wondering, “Where should I start?’”

So what does this mean for business? It’s a new way of thinking. Old solutions, like ordering a replacement part and waiting for it to arrive, can be supplanted by simply print-

Because it’s so affordable – most pieces cost less than $100 in time and materials, with many less than $50 – Malazdrewicz says that one-off ideas can be prototyped relatively

Either way, the process is easy. Manufacturers familiar working with CAD files can tinker with their designs using cheap polymers, working through as many iterations as they want before finding the perfect one.

But it’s also great for people who want to fix something that’s only got one broken part. Common plastic pieces like clips or battery covers can be tough to find spares for, but can now be printed on-demand.

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Although he notes that plastic isn’t as strong as metal or as flexible as fabric, it’s perfect for many other purposes – and can even be used for things like wrenches or sockets.

“Whether it works depends on what you do,” he says. “But it’s so cost-effective, it’s worth it to try. You may have to replace it more often than if it were steel, but it’s far cheaper, and you can refine the design with each print.”

If you don’t have access to professional CAD files, Malazdrewicz says there are plenty of 3D design files online, many free for download, that can be adjusted based on anyone’s needs, using free or low-cost computer programs.

The Innovation Zone at BU includes access to a professional 3D design program (Solidworks), which is available in the Convergys lab in the BU library for public use. Public classes are being planned.

Several BU faculty have already begun using 3D printing in their classrooms – to make models of the human heart, of microscopic organisms, or tools for chemistry. And, there’s burgeoning interest from local businesses.

One took advantage of their existing design files to make scale models of its products for marketing, an entrepreneur continues to refine an invention, and others are starting to explore the possibilities.

“The biggest thing about 3D printing is that it shatters a lot of preconceived notions,” says Malazdrewicz. “You can design it here, you can make it here, and you can do just one – you don’t need a factory run of 5,000.”

He says the next step will be to get more people trained in the design aspect of 3D printing.

“I hope we get to the point that my senior students will come to me with a business plan, and they’ll have a prototype already in hand.”

Plans are also being developed to acquire some 3D scanning equipment to make creating replacement items to be effortless.

“Historically, southwestern Manitoba has provided a lot of service and retail businesses,” he says. “Entrepreneurs can now expand that, to produce more here and sell outside our region.”

Anyone interested in a demonstration or setting up a 3D print job of their own is invited to contact Mike Malazdrewicz at 204-727-9610 or innovation@brandonu.ca. ¢

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Manitoba Grown

Livingstone Landscaping is helping their clients extend the square footage of their home or business

By Tammy Schuster

A

lush residential backyard oasis, a crisp and tidy stone patio behind an industrial warehouse, or a rich wood deck and trellis expanding the seating area of a downtown bistro. Livingstone Landscaping is helping their clients extend the square footage of their home or business by creating usable outdoor space.

Established in 1992, and owned and operated by the Berg family, the Brandon-based company serves residential, commercial, industrial clients throughout Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

A full-service landscape design-build firm, Livingstone offers a complete range of services from concept development through to project completion. Using the latest technology, such as full-colour, three-

dimensional computer-generated renderings, clients can virtually walk through the layout of their proposed landscape design.

Under the company’s landscape construction division, Livingstone has full capacity to manage a project including installation of plants and shrubs, paving stones, retaining walls, and sprinkler systems. The carpentry division oversees and builds fences, decks, patios, and water features. Their team can operate the full facet of a project from start to finish.

Livingstone’s services also include lawn and grounds maintenance, mosquito spraying, snow removal, and ice management.

One of the most noticeable trends in landscaping is the need to create a landscape that is both attractive and low mainte-

nance. A design that extends a client’s home into the outdoor space that is also sustainable and enjoyable for years to come with little to no maintenance.

But the company says it is seeing more thought and attention put towards the image of commercial and industrial spaces as well.

Their commercial clients have been more focussed on the beautification of their outdoor spaces, converting areas that were previously parking lots or storage into areas their customers and employees could enjoy.

The theme is always to maximize outdoor space. Livingstone Landscaping can create a plan that best utilizes the space available, making it useable regardless of the size, terrain, or season. ¢

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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

Past to Present

Atom-Jet Group has a future geared for success

Atom-Jet Group first began operations on August 8, 1962, under the banner Atom-Jet Industries as a family-owned business. In 1965, Atom-Jet acquired Precision Machining, utilizing this service for their humidifiers, but also to satisfy a growing need of machining services within the area.

On January 31, 1967, a fire destroyed the building and only five short months later in June 1967, Atom-Jet Industries was rebuilt and re-opened for business and still today remains in its original location.

In the late 1970s, Atom-Jet Industries took another step in expansion as they began production of sprockets. This required the addition of CNC machining capabilities which solidified the machining and advanced manufacturing department. The sprocket production was eventually dropped but the equipment opened up other opportunity in the CNC production industry.

Early in the 1990s Atom-Jet was presented with another opportunity to expand the manufacturing capabilities of Atom-Jet, this time in the agricultural industry. The revolutionary farming technique of zero-till had entered into the Canadian prairies and the demand for seed openers began to grow. Atom Jet pioneered the industry’s first carbide seeding openers, setting the industry standard that is still used today. Over the last 30 years the agriculture department has enjoyed international growth and is now distributed in Canada, U.S., Australia, Russia, and the Ukraine.

A key component to Atom-Jet’s success has been its diverse service lines offered to local and national customers, as well as its strong focus on research and development. The R&D team has successfully launched nine leading-edge patented products to the market. This type of innovation continues to be the cornerstone of the business.

Being located in Brandon is ideal as it is in the heart of the prairies with a strong, talented, and skilled labour pool. Atom-Jet supports and works in conjunction with Assiniboine Community College where many of the company’s current staff are graduates of, including the current owner. The company is actively involved

2015 2016 ••• Brandon Business Review •••

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with the apprenticeship program supporting trades and students interested in a local career.

recognition as one of Manitoba's top 50 Fastest Growing Companies over the last decade.

The agriculture department achieved further success by offering its Carbide Brazing services to businesses in the oil and gas, mining, and agriculture sectors. The innovative approach to offering custom solutions to original equipment manufacturers has generated exponential growth and developed into a department of its own.

The company would continue to prosper, and in 2011, acquired Glendale Industries. The 34,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, also located in Brandon, offers a line of services that complement the various departments within Atom-Jet Group.

In 2002, ownership of Atom-Jet Industries would shift with two new partner’s providing financial and mechanical expertise which quickly impacted the company, equating to consistent growth and

Established in 1984, Glendale manufactures vacuum and portable water tanks, which are distributed through a growing dealer network in Canada and the United States. To support its tanks division, Glendale has also added a parts and service department.

The division serves industrial markets with powder coating, sandblasting, wet paint, structural steel components, welding, and structural steel fabrication. Lastly, the Glendale construction department is focused on local projects through specific industrial manufacturing partners.

Today, Barry LaRocque has acquired full ownership of Atom-Jet Group and is proud to work with over 80 skilled trades and management in its community. The organization is committed to corporate responsibility, supporting a number of causes, coupled with direct involvement in various boards and foundations supporting Brandon and Westman area. With a tradition of innovation and a committed talented team Atom-Jet Group is poised for future growth and motivated by a vision to be a dynamic manufacturing leader within the global markets they serve. ¢

YEARS Here to Help Since 1916

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Employers must report workplace injuries to the WCB within five business days.

204.954.4100 | 1.855.954.4321 | wcb.mb.ca

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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

International Business

Strong roots help BEHLEN Industries branch out around the world

S

tepping outside into the Krasnoyarsk winter, one can feel a familiar blast of cold air hitting their face. The Siberian city may be much farther north on the map, but the winters feel just like the ones back home in Manitoba. Snow, slush, and ice crunch beneath heavy boots as they file down the streets, heading towards one central attraction. Rounding the last street corner, a marvel of engineering, fabrication, and sports entertainment rises before your eyes – Central Stadium, home to the Yenisey Krasnoyarsk Futbolny Klub, the red and blue uniforms of club supporters easy to spot peeking out from underneath parkas in the crowd. It’s almost game time in the

world-record-sized indoor stadium, and the air is electric with excitement. The opening kick is taken, and the crowd erupts under the world-record 313-foot clear-span roof.

In Peru workers don their protective gear and climb into their machinery at 14,107 feet above sea level, ready for another day of labour in the world’s largest combined copper/zinc mine. The mood is light, as the hard work of the people involved has helped the mine reach commercial production months ahead of schedule.

The work is demanding, but the jaw-dropping scale of the site still takes the breath from some. Hard work begets hard work which begets success – the hard work of a Brandonite steel building fabricator allows the miners to put their hard work into ore extraction, which leads to unprecedented success – the mine has been

2016 ••• Brandon Business Review •••

45

producing 70,000 tonnes of ore each day, and today is warming up to be another good one. The machinery roars to life, and another production cycle begins.

Gangneung, South Korea. The 2018 Winter Olympics are scheduled to take place in the city, and preparations have been underway for a while now. Canada’s curling teams are highly regarded in the competition, and are training hard for the gold. From the first rock throw to the final end of the competition, our Canadian athletes will feel right at home knowing they play for their country underneath a roof produced at home and shipped overseas to the Gangneung Curling Centre. The marvel that is Canadian manufacturing first showed itself with the Peak 2 Peak gondola terminal in the Rocky Mountains, used during the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, and will be making a special repeat performance in the upcoming games. The games may be more than a year away still, but preparations have already begun to ensure 2018 is a success.

What do these scenarios have in common? None of them would be possible without the homegrown Canadian talents at BEHLEN Industries LP. BEHLEN has been producing buildings in Canada for more than 45 years, but over the past several years the export market has also taken leaps forward, with large-scale BEHLEN buildings popping up around the globe. And those projects are starting to be noticed.

BEHLEN Industries has been operating in Brandon for more than 45 years. Over this time, the company has grown faster and larger than anyone could have imagined, most recently culminating in being awarded the Manitoba Export Award 2016 by Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME). BEHLEN Industries attributes their success in large part to the local community in Brandon, where many clients, partners, and friends are located. While BEHLEN buildings can be found around the globe, their home community of Brandon is where they find the talent that helps BEHLEN achieve greatness.

The company also gives back to their community and the community produces and fosters the talent that drives the heart of this company. A strong heart requires a strong body and BEHLEN employees are on par with The Hulk – daily demonstrating talent that is hard to find anywhere else. They are rooted in the core of this community, inspiring, and encouraging BEHLEN to continue to grow and to work hard to produce the highest quality product.

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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

Not only does BEHLEN draw from its homegrown talent, but they also bring workers from abroad who offer their experience and talents, who then move to Brandon and become an integral part of the communities. The successes of employees have allowed BEHLEN to succeed and put Manitoba on the map in the international market.

The recognition for BEHLEN’s overseas success is exciting, and it’s inspiring the company to continue pushing export sales. We strongly believe that our home, Canada, offers plentiful advantages to buyers in foreign markets around the globe, and our success proves that belief to be true. Behlen shows no sign of slowing down, either at home or around the planet, and plans to continue representing Canadian business success for years to come. ¢

Left to right: Yevonne Boxhorn at the Wonder of Work (Westman) Grad in 2016 receiving theBusiness Partner Award.

Meghan Reynolds in Heavy Duty Mechanic Trades lesson at Assiniboine Community College.

Aiden Vanmackelberg – Aiden Vanmackelberg in Culinary Arts at Assiniboine Community College.

Help Wanted!

Business and education partnerships can shape the future labour market

A

ccording to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business only three provinces in Canada have a lower sense of business optimism than Manitoba.

Hiring plans in Manitoba are lukewarm and only one-third of employers feel their businesses are in good shape.

If this were a picture it wouldn’t be a very bright one. But why?

According to a recent study, labour market concerns play a big part, with skills and labour shortages being a major concern.

The result is that help wanted signs abound, and yet many young people still find it hard to land a job.

It’s clear that Manitoba businesses and youth face a challenging labour-market environment, one that impacts the community with lost productivity.

However, there is a solution to unemployment, underemployment, skills mismatches, and an aging population: education organizations and business can partner now to create a labour market with individuals that have the skills that employers need.

One organization working toward this goal is Career Trek. Career Trek is an organization which runs out of Brandon, and services the Westman region, with a program

that aims to address these challenges.

There is ample evidence that when edu-

“We are playing the long game,” says Darrell Cole, CEO and founder of Career Trek.

“We recognize that we are facing longterm challenges that need long-term solutions. These challenges didn’t surface overnight and they aren’t going away overnight either. They will only be properly addressed through education, guidance, and system change.”

cators and businesses work together to

Career Trek’s solution to these complicated, long-term challenges is kids.

and school related behaviours, and feel

The Career Trek solution Career Trek is an organization that helps young people prepare for employment by providing educational programming with a career development focus. Beginning in grades five and six, kids are taken to Assiniboine Community College and Brandon University where they experience 48 occupations.

provide relevant programming, transitions from school to work are streamlined.

A recent study out of the University of Manitoba found that Career Trek participants are more curious about things they learn, are more aware of their interests, feel they have more control over their activities that planning for the future is important.

Career Trek addresses the skills mismatch, worker shortages, and turbulent transitions from school to work by: elping kids uncover their education and •h career passions.

•e ngaging kids in education and career planning that make for easy transitions and fewer false starts.

Lasha Stordeur, Career Trek’s director of programming, thinks the solution is simple, start talking to kids about career options early.

• providing experiential learning that im-

“Self-discovery and reflection are important when it comes to young people making decisions,” says Stordeur. “Experiencing a variety of occupations will help to lead young people down the right path and eventually into a well suited career.”

mation they can use to link their interests

proves problem solving and decision making skills.

•p roviding kids with labour market inforand skills to jobs.

• engaging underrepresented groups that can help to significantly address worker shortages.

2016 ••• Brandon Business Review •••

47

Parker Andrews and Aron Moore at University of Brandon experiencing the Anthropology lesson.

Help wanted Taking down the help wanted signs won’t be easy.

Cole cautions changing the system that leads to skills mismatches can’t be done in a vacuum. The success of the future workforce – and indeed, the success of the businesses that tap into it – is dependent upon partnerships that allow directed career development to take place.

Increasingly, Career Trek is reaching out to employers who understand the role they can play in bridging the gap between labour market supply and demand.

One organization that has recognized the benefits of career development programming is Manitoba Aerospace, the aerospace sector association in Manitoba.

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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

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“We’ve been working with Career Trek in order to give participants the opportunity to gain a basic awareness of careers in aerospace, as well as the educational pathways to those careers,” says Wendell Wiebe, CEO of Manitoba Aerospace.

The business benefits for getting involved with kids early are clear: showcasing opportunities can help improve employment and recruitment prospects, prospects that will lead to jobs and growth for individuals and business.

With the help of business and industry, programs like Career Trek can introduce young people to a range of occupations and in the process meet the needs of employers. And hopefully along the way restore confidence in Manitoba’s economy so that the help wanted signs can come down.

To be a part of the conversation, join us for the Let’s Get to Work Conference in Winnipeg, November 4, 2016.

For more information on partnership opportunities contact Meghan Lavallee at mlavallee@careertrek.ca. ¢

Building Brandon Up BNRC works with the City and

business community to make Brandon’s downtown core a valuable destination

By Carly Gasparini, general manager, BNRC

T

he BNRC has come a long way in our first 15 years of existence and our growth and change hasn’t slowed down into 2016. In the last year, we have seen a new general manager, completed a new Community 5-year Plan, and set a new strategic direction for the organization. At the cornerstone of our growth has always been the partnerships with our community that allow us to respond to community needs and make Brandon’s downtown core a valuable destination for community to come together.

The BNRC released our Community 5-year Plan in November 2015. The plan is a result of extensive community consultations and was led by a dedicated volunteer steering committee. It captures the voices of those who work, live, and play downtown, and of those who want to enjoy the downtown in the future. It outlines 23 priorities that paint a picture of a vibrant, well-used, and welcoming downtown. These priorities will guide our actions for the next five years, but the power of the plan comes from the call for community partnerships. These priorities require the public, private, and non-profit sectors to come together to eliminate crime, increase art and cultural activities, encourage economic development, and create opportunities for everyone in our downtown to prosper. The BNRC is and has always been ready for these partnerships.

The BNRC delivers a variety of programs. Our core mandate has been set by Neighbourhoods Alive! and sees us offer community development guided by the Community 5-year Plan and resourced by our community grants program. Groups and organizations with a project idea that responds to the Community 5-year Plan can apply for up to $5,000 in funding to make it happen. We also partner with the City to deliver a wide range of affordable housing programs including the provincially funded Front and Paint program, Homeowners Reno-

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vation Assistance Program, Rental Housing Improvement Program, and the Rooming House Assistance Program. We have also recently expanded our mandate to work on the implementation of the City’s Affordable Housing Strategy.

We have recently added two new programs including a Community Research program and a Community Marketing program. These project serve the needs of the BNRC but are also available to the community for joint projects in these areas.

We have a strong partnership with the federal government to deliver the Homeless Partnering Strategy here in Brandon, as well as across rural and remote Manitoba. This program has funded successful community initiatives including Brandon Housing First, Homes for the Homeless, the Safe and Warm shelter, and various capital projects across the community.

Finally, we have the Brandon Energy Efficiency Program (BEEP) and Bug and Scrub. BEEP is a construction training program that works with our participant to remove barriers to employment while provide employable construction skills, while Bug and Scrub is a budding social enterprise that currently works with clients to prepare for and clean up after the termination of bed bugs in their homes.

I wanted to take this opportunity to clarify the work that BNRC does, not only to highlight the diversity of our work, but also to engage the community in a conversation about what we can work on next. We want to keep growing and expanding and we want to work with all community sectors to do so. We have incredible staff who are ready to work with you to develop the next great idea and we encourage you to call us to see how we can work together.

For more information on any of our programs, or if you have that next great idea, call Carly Gasparini, general manager, at 204 729 2495. ¢

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2016 ••• Brandon Business Review •••

49

Mark Your Calendars

Stay connected and current to business and community by attending Chamber events.

Meet new people and learn about a range of topics relevant to business. The Chamber offers a variety of events at different times of the day and caters to every budget. With the event season running from September to June, there’s always something going on at the Chamber!

Luncheon Series These popular monthly events feature presentations from business, industry, government, and institutional CEO’s on topical information of importance to the business community. The Luncheons draw a large attendance with 250-400 attendees that provides prime networking opportunities.

Workshops & Conferences Learn new skills, meet others, stay informed and get motivated. Stay up to date on topics of current interest by attending workshops and conferences of various sizes and focus. Ranging from a comfortable room of 10 around lunch, to all-day conferences for 300, the Chamber offers several education and development opportunities throughout the season.

Business After 5 A complimentary networking event to attend after business hours. Mingle with colleagues; learn about the business hosting the event, or invite the membership to your front door! This is a casual social event complete with refreshments and prizes.

Friday Coffee @ the Chamber These weekly mini-events are an excellent networking opportunity for you and your business. No RSVPs, no speeches and open to all, the Coffees are a great way to catch up with colleagues, meet new comers and practice your networking skills in a comfortable, casual setting.

Annual Gala Dinner The gala event is the premier business event of the year boasting a spectacular night of great food, entertainment and celebration as we recognize the success of our thriving business community with the presentation of our Business Excellence Awards.

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••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

Annual Golf Tournament Each June the Chamber hosts its annual golf tournament, a social sporting event that usually sells out.

This popular team-based event is a great networking opportunity featuring a fun day of golf, lots of door prizes and a hearty supper at the end of the day.

September 22nd- Luncheon: Business Opportunities with CFB Shilo October 5th - 2016 Westman Human Resources Conference October 17th - Luncheon: Small Business Week October 19th - Business After 5 November 17th - Luncheon: Champions of Agriculture December 8th- Luncheon: Christmas January 19th - Luncheon Series February 16th - Luncheon: CN March 9th - Luncheon: State of the City Address March 16th - Awards Gala April 20th - Luncheon: State of the Province Address May 18th - Luncheon Series June 8th - Presidents’ Luncheon and Changeover Ceremony June 14th - Annual Golf Tournament Dates are tentative and subject to change. View our website for current information.

The Brandon Chamber of Commerce hosts events for the membership to create opportunities for business networking, to provide information that benefits business decisions and foster active participation in community issues.

Running monthly from September to June, each event has a different theme relevant to business.

Drawing a diverse attendance allowing you to meet new people, spread the word about your organization and learn about how other businesses can be of service to you. Arrive early to mingle before lunch, bring your business cards to share with your table.

Please contact us to learn more about Brandon Chamber of Commerce events – event dates and times are subject to change.

Please visit us at www.brandonchamber.ca for up-to-date events listings.

2016 ••• Brandon Business Review •••

51

We offer...

Brandon, MB

Index to Advertisers Accel Towing & Transport Ltd..................................................................................23

Livingstone Landscaping Ltd...................................................................................42

Aida's Catering..................................................................................................................20

Mac Safety Group Ltd...................................................................................................25

Assiniboine Community College...........................................................................20

Manitoba Entrepreneurship.....................................................................................48

Atom-Jet Industries........................................................................................................44

Manitoba Hydro...............................................................................................................15

Behlen Industries LP......................................................................................................20

Maple Leaf Foods............................................................................................................36

Benmarks..............................................................................................................................46 Blue Moon Water Inc.....................................................................................................35 Brandon Business Interiors........................................................................................37 Brandon Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram............................................................... OBC Brandon Economic Development...................................................................... IFC Brandon First......................................................................................................................30 Brandon Tourism..............................................................................................................30 Brandon University.........................................................................................................35 C & E Locksmiths..............................................................................................................40

Minute Muffler & Brake................................................................................................38 MNP LLP................................................................................................................................28 MPI............................................................................................................................................32 NetSet Communications............................................................................................29 New Beginnings Intimate Apparel.......................................................................36 Paddock Drilling Ltd......................................................................................................26 Party Professionals & Rental Company...............................................................37

C.M.S. Services Inc...........................................................................................................14

Persnickety Furniture Refinishers...........................................................................31

Canadian Linen & Uniform Service..........................................................................7

Pinchin Ltd...........................................................................................................................49

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters....................................................................9

Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba.........................................................................36

Cancade Restoration.....................................................................................................19

Roland Weir Realty & Appraisal...............................................................................41

Cando Corporate Services.........................................................................................39

Roy Johnston TDS.........................................................................................................IBC

Career Trek Inc...................................................................................................................34

Sunrise Credit Union........................................................................................................3

Cliff Cullen / Reg Helwer.............................................................................................11

Synergy Land Services Ltd............................................................................................5

Construction Association of Rural Manitoba.................................................38

The Chilli Chutney...........................................................................................................19

D&B Sprinklers...................................................................................................................38

The Green Spot Home & Garden...........................................................................22

Dash! Mobile Dining & Entertainment Inc.......................................................16

The Paw Resort & Wellness Centre.......................................................................11

Dick Agencies....................................................................................................................40 Discover You – Siere.......................................................................................................27 Ducks Unlimited Canada............................................................................................17 Excel - 7 Ltd.........................................................................................................................41 Giant Tiger............................................................................................................................30 Glacier Wash Inc...............................................................................................................40 Guild Insurance Brokers...............................................................................................45 Horizon Builders Ltd.........................................................................................................5 Hunt Miller & Co. LLP.....................................................................................................34

54

McMunn & Yates Building Supplies......................................................................31

Venture Accounting Group Ltd..............................................................................41 Visa2Canada Immigration & Settlement Services.......................................15 Wawanesa Insurance....................................................................................................10 WCB..........................................................................................................................................44 West-Can Human Resource Solutions Inc.......................................................15 Western Manitoba Public Library.............................................................................7 Westman Communications Group......................................................................50 Westman Spray Foam...................................................................................................15

J&M Window & Door Inc.............................................................................................25

Westman Steel..................................................................................................................24

J&M Industries Ltd...........................................................................................................20

Westoba Credit Union Ltd.........................................................................................33

Jacobson & Greiner Group.........................................................................................28

Wheat City Concrete Products Ltd.......................................................................49

Jani-King of Manitoba..................................................................................................40

Windsor Plywood............................................................................................................38

Leech Printing.............................................................................................................Insert

Zenith Paving Ltd............................................................................................................32

••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2016

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