Alberta Export Awards 2014

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The Export Awards Go National

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n the spirit of development and expansion into new markets, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters and Glacier Media are proud to announce the addition of two new provinces to the Export Awards program; British Columbia and Ontario will each host their own Export Awards later this year.

BC has been hosting an export celebration for over 35 years; 2014 will be the first year it will be produced by Glacier Media. Each provincial ceremony will feature the same high calibre finalists and speakers that you have come to expect from the Alberta Export Awards, and celebrate the contributions that exporters have made to the provincial and national economy.

For more information, including sponsorship opportunities and nomination forms, please visit www.canadaexportawards.com.

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Ontario Export Awards, November 6 2014, The International Centre, Mississauga, ON BC Export Awards, November 12, 2014, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Vancouver, BC Produced By:

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Hi-Kalibre Equipment Ltd.

Patrick Rabby

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i-Kalibre Equipment Ltd. develops and manufactures blowout prevention equipment for the oil and gas industry. Every Hi-Kalibre part goes through a full dimensional inspection two separate times before it is assembled or shipped; and as the company president, Patrick Rabby, is proud to point out, “Our parts and equipment ship globally, and from our customer’s standpoint they have to be perfect. Their safety and productivity depends on it.

“I think what Hi-Kalibre has done to become a committed global partner in our industry has been to focus on agility without compromising quality or reliability,” says Rabby. “Custom solutions can be engineered and shipped in a matter of weeks.” Initiatives that have supported Hi-Kalibre to become this agile supplier include in-house engineering and design validation, vertically integrated manufacturing facilities for control of manufacturing quality and delivery, and third-party engineering product line design approval to improve timelines for ABS or DNV approved projects.

“The advent of Top Drive drilling technology has been an important part of the significant advances in the drilling industry,” explains Rabby. “We are proud to have pioneered products that are of benefit to Top Drive manufacturers, owners and operators.

We invented Dual Ball Drill Stem Safety Valves, which are compact mud control and safety devices specifically designed for Top Drive rigs. We also developed one of the first Top Drive actuators in the market. Hi-Kalibre has proudly patented these products; we truly helped revolutionize inside blowout prevention and mud control in our industry. Our Dual Ball Valves are used on the largest offshore rigs in the world. To date we hold nine patents in the U.S. and Canada for these and other products.

“We were thrilled to be considered an Export Awards finalist,” concludes Rabby. “My thanks goes to all our valued customers.

Without them, this company would not have enjoyed the success we have had over the past 28 years. I would also like to express my thanks to our employees for their dedication and commitment to our company and our industry.”

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BLOWOUT PREVENTION EXPERTISE BY DESIGN At Hi-Kalibre we have supported global oil and gas exploration and development for nearly 3 decades. Our patented blowout prevention equipment works first time, every time, without fail - because you and your crews depends on it. We will proudly provide the same exceptional products and service in the years to come - our reputation is built on it.

We are commited to the safety and productivity of the drilling industry.

Our quality products and services include:

• Drill stem safety valves • Drill stem rotary hydraulic actuators • Service and completion safety valves • Quarter turn ball valves • Compact ball valve manifold solutions • Engineering and custom valve design • Full service and repair facility

Hi-Kalibre Equipment Ltd Phone: 780-435-1111 Email: hke@hikalibre.com

www.hikalibre.com Visit us at the Global Petroleum Show in Calgary, June 10-12, 2014 - Booth 5507 in the Big Four.

KUDU Industries Inc.

Ray Mills

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UDU Industries manufactures and supplies equipment used for pumping oil wells and dewatering gas wells. Recognized as one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies, this progressive business has been pumping out solutions since 1989.

KUDU products and services are suited to any environment with PCP systems that work with all grades of oil, as well as coal bed methane and dewatering applications.

“I was always very interested in the oil and gas industry,” says Ray Mills, KUDU Industries co-founder and CEO. Mills has good reason to be. He grew up watching his entrepreneur father create technology for the energy industry.

Ray’s father, Robert Mills, was a pioneer in the industry. He was one of the first Canadians to work with and create progressing cavity pump (PCP) technology. PCPs maintain the pressure necessary to keep oil flowing from a well while reducing clogging and other issues commonly seen with conventional pump equipment. Although Robert’s first design has long since been phased out in favour of a more efficient drive system, the enthusiasm for creating efficient progressing cavity pump solutions has never wavered.

KUDU’s manufacturing facility is located in Calgary. A second manufacturing shop in Lloydminster assembles custom pumps and power units for heavy oil applications. The Lloydminster location will soon be expanded to include additional KUDU products. Using lean management techniques and guided by the Toyota Production System (TPS), KUDU is a prime example of a local company that works efficiently, minimizes waste, strives for excellence and produces quality products for use in and out of Canadian borders.

KUDU Industries has a Canadian award for excellence in manufacturing, but was still surprised – and pleased – to be nominated for an Export Award. “There are a ton of great companies that I’ve looked up to and recognized as great leaders,” says Mills. “I’ve learned so much from their leadership and how they manage their companies. I’d like to thank our entire team at KUDU. Because of them, we are successful.”

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At Your Service Helping customers get the most from their oil well is KUDU’s top priority.

Whether the concern is production, efficiency, troubleshooting or training; partnering with KUDU gets results.

KUDU’s proven artificial lift products handle the demands of heavy, medium or light oil; coal bed methane and dewatering applications. With locations around the world, we’re just around the corner, offering the best service standard in the industry.

Finalist for the Alberta Export Awards 2014

Bringing Solutions to Surface

kudupump.com

STRATA Energy Services Inc.

Jason Scheyen

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TRATA Energy Services helps clients maximize value and efficiency by providing technological solutions for performance drilling. With a focus on managed pressure and under-balanced drilling, STRATA has been involved in over 500 projects across the globe since opening in 2004. Companies all over the world turn to STRATA for: rotating control devices, surface recovery and separation equipment, membrane nitrogen services, light snubbing services, engineering project management and equipment rentals, along with under-balanced and managed pressure drilling services. With offices in Red Deer, Calgary, Denver, Houston, Cheyenne and Kurdistan, this Albertabased business has gained worldwide recognition in a very short period of time.

“Oilfield manufacturing and services is a dynamic industry,” says chief operating officer Jason Scheyen. “We develop our own technology so it is always interesting to see where technology is heading. Our company is a technology leader in our business and I enjoy being part of a team that continually pushes ideas forward and then executes on plans.”

By using innovative strategies such as selling products to competitors to gain industry recognition and to finance the company, STRATA was able to achieve accelerated growth. They were the second fastest growing company in Alberta in 2008 (as per Alberta Venture Magazine), and the 36th and 83rd fastest growing company in Canada in 2009 and 2010 respectively as per Profit Magazine.

Here at home, STRATA Energy Services is pleased to support Red Deer Minor Hockey, the Joe Schmidek Children’s Education Fund, suicide information and education services and the Canadian Diabetes Association.

“STRATA has a great team of dedicated employees and I would not be able to support STRATA without the support of my family,” says Scheyen. “We are excited for STRATA to be recognized so prominently after so many years of dedication from so many employees.”

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Ready to raise your international profile?

• Increase your knowledge of international markets • Develop business relationships in regions across the globe • Learn about projects available through international financial institutions • Spread the word about your value-added products and services abroad If you’re an export-ready Alberta company looking for advice, market intelligence or introductory services, the Government of Alberta is here to help build connections and provide the information you need to succeed in the global marketplace.

For more information, visit www.albertacanada.com.

DIRTT Environmental Solutions

Scott Jenkins

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IRTT stands for “Doing It Right This Time” and is also the motto Scott Jenkins, president, and co-founder Mogens Smed, CEO, live by.

DIRTT brings together construction and technology to create a more sustainable, efficient way to build. Its proprietary 3D ICE® software technology designs, specifies and produces custom prefab interiors for industries including corporate, government, education and health care. DIRTT’s customizable solutions include DIRTT Walls, DIRTT Millwork, DIRTT Power and DIRTT Networks; all work together to create environmentally sustainable, flexible, productive interiors.

“Construction is one of the world’s oldest and largest industries, and we are using technology to flip it on its head,” says Jenkins.

And flip it they did! DIRTT was incorporated in 2004, started selling in 2005, and in 2013 achieved nearly $140 million in sales with a team of approximately 800, and a network of 100 distribution partners across the globe.

DIRTT does more than provide outstanding, sustainable construction solutions. “We are big believers in building value for stakeholders (community) not just shareholders,” says Jenkins. “At DIRTT, we are very proud of our donations, time and work with Ronald McDonald House, United Way, Adopt a Family and more.”

DIRTT is equally proud of their nomination, pointing out the difficulty of being recognized as an export leader when your company is not part of Alberta’s robust oil and gas sector.

“I have a dream job, I must admit,” laughs Jenkins. “We [the company] are like young, brash teenagers thinking we can conquer the world! We work hard and we play hard. I know this team can accomplish great things, and I’m proud of them.”

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IMC International Mascot Corporation

Joel Leveille

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nternational Mascot Corporation (IMC) is the driving force behind thousands of instantly recognizable mascots worldwide.

Hershey Corporation, SeaWorld, Carnival Cruise Lines, A&W Restaurants and countless sports teams turn to IMC for mascots, mascot services and mascot accessories.

“I saw a business opportunity and decided to explore it, to determine its potential,” says CEO Joel Leveille. “Within five years I came to understand the wide array of opportunities available in the character costume industry. I sold my business interests and focused 100 per cent on IMC with my business partner at the time, Brian Baker.”

This single-minded focus on IMC had plenty to do with the competition, but not in a way you would expect. While analysis of the competition was completed in pursuit of IMC’s accounts, Leveille is happy to say, “We place a high value on respect for our competitors. We always speak highly of them and reach out to establish personal contact. When opportunity and circumstances dictate, we send referrals to them.”

This gracious thinking, which is as unique as the characters turned out by IMC, is partly why the costume giant has been an international success for over 25 years. Another reason is because IMC provides a full range of services for their clients, from costume design to maintenance, cleaning and repair. IMC also provides inflatables, plush toys, promotional products and animatronic character displays.

IMC sales and manufacturing facilities are located in Edmonton and Atlanta. Satellite offices are in California, New York and Madrid.

When not delighting audiences near and abroad with imaginative characters, IMC can be found supporting the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of Canada, Edmonton’s local hospital foundations, numerous Edmonton festivals, juvenile diabetes research, sports teams and much more.

“I was humbled to be nominated,” admits Leveille. He thanks all current and past employees, IMC’s suppliers, HSBC for their advice and support, current president Brendan Watson and his family, business partner Brian Baker, lawyer John Huckell, IMC’s accountant Brian Farrell at MNP LLC and his wife Michelle.

“Keep dreaming and keep an open mind,” concludes Leveille.

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NOVA Chemicals Corporation

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Grant Thomson

OVA Chemicals Corporation was founded in 1954. With a mission to enable the development of great plastic products that make life easier, healthier and safer, NOVA Chemicals uses advanced process technology solutions to create high-quality polyethylene and polystyrene products for customers in North America, Asia, Latin America and Europe.

“We believe in a zero-injury workplace,” says Grant Thomson, president, olefins and feedstock, as he explains one of NOVA Chemicals’ core values: responsibility. “We value the safety and well-being of our co-workers, communities and the environment. Everything we do includes the goal of sustaining them for the future.” Additional values of equal importance include a strong focus, collaboration with all stakeholders and being straightforward in everything they do.

NOVA Chemicals is committed to challenging and improving their industry. “In Eastern Canada, we are upgrading our Corunna facility, enabling it to utilize up to 100 per cent natural gas liquids feedstock,” explains Thomson. “In December 2013, we reached a key milestone in the project and were the first mover of Marcellus-based ethane – with our Corunna facility being the first to receive and begin cracking ethane supplied from the Marcellus Shale basin as a routine component in our feedstock diet.”

In Western Canada, NOVA Chemicals has continuously innovated through diversification of their feedstock slate as well, reducing dependence on natural gas from border flows. “We were the first to recover petrochemical feedstock in the form of ethane from oilsands upgrading in Alberta, through our agreement with Williams Energy,” says Thomson. The company is also accessing ethane from oil-based shale development in North Dakota to bring north across the U.S. border via the Vantage pipeline, as well as accessing ethane from field sources not associated with border flows.

Active community engagement is key for NOVA Chemicals. “We value the safety and well-being of our communities and the environment, and work collaboratively to provide open dialogue and outreach. We lend a hand through our active service and to invest in select organizations dedicated to making a difference and improving quality of life. Through projects such as tree plantings and wetlands programs, NOVA Chemicals’ employees and volunteers engage in the health and safety of their communities year-round,” says Thomson.

The Export Award nomination is a welcome recognition amongst many other awards, such as the Canadian Medal for outstanding achievements made in business development in the field of chemistry or the chemical industry (2013), the Pennsylvania Resources Council Innovative Recycling Award (2013), ICIS Company of the Year (2012), Elite U.S. Customs Trading Partner (2012), United Way Centraide Canada Thanks a Million Award for contributions of over $1 million in 2011 and 2012, a Community Builder Award (2012) and numerous safety awards.

Making everyday life easier, healthier and safer.

Thank you to our employees, communities, customers and suppliers for helping NOVA Chemicals add value to Alberta’s natural resources.

At NOVA Chemicals, we turn natural gas liquids into ethylene into polyethylene—that gets turned into thousands of great plastic products, like your mulch bags. Throughout the petrochemical value chain, we’re committed to health, safety, and the environment—to help make everyday life easier, healthier and safer.

novachemicals.com A Responsible Care® company.

PERFORMANCE DRIVEN. CUSTOMER INSPIRED.

EMSCAN Corp.

Stéphane Attal

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MSCAN develops and sells leading-edge lab bench solutions for printed circuit board engineers and antenna engineers to test electromagnetic emissions; reducing if not eliminating the need for an anechoic chamber. These solutions are based on patented fast very-near-field magnetic measurement techniques.

The company enables accelerated time-to-market for PCB engineers, antenna designers and wireless engineers. EMSCAN has thus helped transform the design process for manufacturers of cellular, Wi-Fi, RFID, military, consumer electronics, automotive, semiconductor and medical devices.

“I was recruited to turn around the company,” says CEO Stéphane Attal. He proceeded to meet the challenge with a mind full of great ideas, relentless drive and unbridled enthusiasm. “I took on the job when I saw that the fundamentals were outstanding: a great team and very innovative patented products for a market large enough to sustain aggressive growth.”

“EMSCAN was rebuilt from the ground up; a massive overhaul,” explains Attal. “The products were great, but they needed to be brought to the market’s and end-user’s attention to generate revenue. Solid sales and marketing strategies were required first.

EMSCAN was rebranded, product packaging was redesigned, a new attractive and informative website was developed, a corporate brochure and data sheets were created and we made sure it was easy for suppliers and clients to communicate with us. Then we embarked on getting EMSCAN known through trade shows, technical seminars, webinars, articles, social media and more.”

But he didn’t stop there.

“With sales and marketing in place, it was time to develop new products. EMSCAN invests heavily in research and development to deliver leading-edge solutions, in excess of 40 per cent in 2010 and around 20 per cent in 2014,” Attal continues. “In parallel, EMSCAN’s offices were redesigned to provide an outstanding work environment and to foster cooperation and innovation. EMSCAN’s IT was upgraded with Microsoft 365 and Dynamics CRM. More importantly a ‘team’ was forged; a focus on quality and on customer care was elevated to a mantra level, and EMSCAN invested and continues to invest in employee training and recognition.”

That was four years ago. Today the company is thriving corporately and among its peers. “We are elated and grateful that EMSCAN’s team efforts have been recognized by others,” says Attal of the Export Award nomination.

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Pure Technologies Ltd.

Peter & Jaime Paulson

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ure Technologies was founded in 1998 and is on a mission to provide owners of critical pipelines with innovative management solutions that prevent failures, reduce capital expenditure and lost revenue, and contribute to a sustainable future. “We are renowned for our engineering and technical expertise, client-first approach and ability to develop innovative solutions that solve specific issues,” says Pure Technologies chairman, Jamie Paulson.

“Throughout our history, we have constantly challenged the status quo in this industry by developing new solutions to assess and manage critical infrastructure,” explains Paulson. “Our primary industry, municipal water and waste-water pipelines, has seen most of this innovation. Previously, there was no way to assess large-diameter pipelines without taking them out of service, which affected a huge number of end users. These assets were also not designed to be inspected, which created a need for solutions that met the difficult operational requirements.”

After identifying this challenge, Pure Technologies developed technologies to assess the condition of live pipelines. This represented a major step in the industry, as critical pipelines could now be assessed for structural damage without affecting service. This allowed operators to prevent pipes from failing and renew assets selectively in favour of replacing them entirely.

That was just one of the ways Pure Technologies has changed the industry. They also had the foresight to realize the majority of large-diameter water and waste-water pipelines constructed many decades ago were close to the end of their serviceable life.

By providing solutions that help operators identify areas on pipelines that are most in need of repair, the company helped shift utilities toward proactive management, which contributes to environmental sustainability and fiscal responsibility on the part of operators.

Pure’s solutions have now been enhanced and applied to the oil and gas industry to verify containment as part of integrity management programs, which is a growing focus of the business.

With a Cleantech Stock of the Year (2013) Award, Water’s Next Award (2013) and a Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants Corporate Reporting Award (2012) already in their trophy case, Pure Technologies is pleased and grateful to be recognized with an Export Award nomination.

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Streamline Automation Ltd. Dwayne Lehman & Jacob Groen

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ou’ve seen their work; those iconic sculptures that characterize Las Vegas’ massive hotels, dimensional signage with 3D images, the statues in Disneyland, intricately detailed architectural finishes and lifelike displays in museums. As you pause to admire the realism and fine detail, did you ever stop to wonder who was behind it all?

Streamline Automation is a powerhouse in the automated 3D carving industry, and their focus and drive has seen the company rise from idea to international success in just 14 short years. With applications for 3D carving in virtually every industry including arts, automotive, construction, medical and hospitality, Streamline supports an impressive client list on every continent and in dozens of countries worldwide.

“Dwayne (Lehman) automated the ice sculpture process,” says Jacob Groen of his co-founder. “Then he started streamlining automated production processes for large sculptures.” Groen’s induction into Streamline Automation was almost accidental. “I was Dwayne’s accountant,” he laughs. “I financed his original company and as the company grew, I got more and more involved in it.” Today the results of this dynamic duos work can be seen around the globe. In fact, the world’s tallest sculpture (525 feet) is currently being built in India using Streamline Automation’s system.

The source of Streamline’s success is their FROG3D® system.

FROG3D® (Foam Replication of Organic Geometry) is a stateof-the-art, automated 3D carving solution. Fully integrated, the system is built around Streamline’s FROGMill™, a sophisticated four-axis CNC carving router that carves foam, plastic, wood and aluminum. With cutting-edge 3D scanners, FROGScan™ and FROGScan™ Flash (a portable version) to generate exact 3D digital copies of any (and they mean any) physical object; FROGWare™, a complete line of 3D digital modelling software; FROGWire™, an industry-leading hot wire cutter; and FROGSkin™, a delivery system for a specialized range of FROGCoat™ protective coatings for finished works, FROG3D® takes a project from design through to completion with speed, precision and stunning results.

“I think one of the most interesting things that happened along the way was that we slowly started building our own manufacturing systems,” says Lehman. “We manufacture 75 per cent of our own equipment now. We have our own brand and we manufacture. We are like Apple Inc. in that we control everything from start to finish.”

While the co-founders were surprised at their nomination, Groen had to admit, “It made sense. We export everything we make!” Groen and Lehman thank their incredible staff who have helped them achieve this industry recognition.

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SAIT Polytechnic

Dr. Alex Zahavich

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ithout educational institutions developing the bright minds of Alberta’s export leaders, the export industry would not thrive. Dr. Alex Zahavich, vice president of corporate development and applied research at SAIT Polytechnic explains, “The vice president, corporate development and applied research, has the responsibility of developing and executing on opportunities, locally and globally, outside of SAIT’s core business of grant-funded education. This includes providing learning opportunities for individuals developing their careers through continuing education at SAIT or at a distance. As well, it involves meeting the training needs of corporate clients and other institutional partners. In addition, the division meets the needs of industry through applied research and innovation services, which assists in the development of products and processes while providing students the unique opportunity to develop their entrepreneurial skills through these industry-led projects.”

Alberta’s post-secondary education system is critical in developing the competencies that students will need in order to be prepared for careers in today’s global marketplace. A wide variety of academic and industry-based training programs are available in Alberta’s post-secondary institutions to support growth in this area. For instance, supply chain management, both domestic and international, is taught in many of Alberta’s post-secondary institutions.

SAIT does more than provide an educational link in the export chain. SAIT exports a valuable commodity as well. “For more than 20 years, SAIT has been a significant exporter of educational services to labour markets around the world,” says Dr. Zahavich. “In particular, SAIT has been involved in developing energy-based educational training programs and facilities across the globe.

This includes SAIT’s workforce nationalization training programs, which were the basis of SAIT’s submission for an Alberta Export award. These programs have been offered to oil and gas industries based in many different countries, including Angola, Kazakhstan, Australia, Trinidad and Tobago, Syria, Libya and Venezuela.”

SAIT is pleased to be recognized with a nomination for its efforts in workforce nationalization and wishes to thank the Province of Alberta, the Government of Canada and, most important, its industry and institutional partners for the years of continued support.

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THIS CHANGES INDUSTRY. Our commitment to research, innovation and technology set in motion 10 years ago has made SAIT Polytechnic Canada’s number one research college today.

SAIT is setting new standards in applied research and innovation.

Take, for example, the laser induced breakdown spectrometer, LIBS. One of the first in Canada, this technology precisely blasts a tiny piece of solid material to provide instant composition analysis.

For our industry partners LIBS means access to new approaches that boost productivity and profit.

For our students this means leading-edge learning opportunities.

Find out how SAIT can make a difference for you.

THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING. SAIT.ca

Champion Petfoods LP

Frank Burdzy

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hampion Petfoods® is a proud Alberta-based agricultural company with a long history in rural Alberta.

“As Canada’s largest independent pet food maker, our three-part mission is to make Biologically Appropriate™ dog and cat food from fresh regional ingredients that are never outsourced,” says president and CEO Frank Burdzy. “Our brands, ACANA and ORIJEN, are found in over 70 countries and more than 100,000 pet specialty retailers. At Champion, we’re committed to building trust with pet lovers, supply partners, our local community and public institutions worldwide.”

Champion is no stranger to the world markets. Exports have long been a key to their growth. The company was founded over 196 dog years (28 human years) ago with a clear emphasis on the global marketplace. The founder, Reinhard Muhlenfeld, had the vision of providing dog and cat food to feed pets worldwide, and this vision remains a focus today. Now, as in the past, the whole Champion team is dedicated to pet lovers all around the world.

Over the past 20 years, Champion established lasting distributor partnerships in each export market, where distributors, exclusive to ACANA and ORIJEN brands, are focused on educating and selling only to pet specialty shops — there are no mass market sales.

The progressive company also invests in their local and regional community. “Champion invests $500,000 in Morinville and Sturgeon County families,” Burdzy explains. “Champion is proud to partner with several local organizations, including the Morinville Library, Cultural Centre, Festival Society, Chamber of Commerce, Youth Basketball Association, Community High School, as well as several regional animal rescue organizations.”

Champion Petfoods® is no stranger to winning awards, having already gained a Nashville Paw Award, a six-dog ranking from Dogfoodanalysis.com, three consecutive “Pet Food of the Year” Awards, Alberta’s Premier’s Award of Excellence (2007), Manufacturer of the Year (2008-2009), first place in SPOT Magazine’s Top Dog Awards – ORIJEN (2013) among many other awards and distinctions.

“Being a finalist for the 2014 Alberta Export Awards in the agricultural and consumer products category is an honour,” smiles Burdzy. “Our 250 teammates work very hard to export our Biologically Appropriate™ foods to over 70 countries. They drive our innovation.”

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Green Prairie International Inc.

John Van Hierden

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reen Prairie International Inc. embodies the sentiment “necessity is the mother of invention.” Over his career, John Van Hierden, company founder and president, applies persistent creativity until he finds solutions to problems facing the company.

Located near Lethbridge, Alberta, Green Prairie is a wholesale supplier of forage hay products, primarily timothy and alfalfa. The company’s main markets are in Asia and the Middle East.

At its beginning, the hay exporting industry was faced with high shipping costs. Technology at the time only allowed shipping eight tonnes in a container with shipping costs priced per container and not by weight. With the industry tackling this problem, Green Prairie invented and patented a machine to compress bales to allow 26 tonnes to fit into a container and to improve production from four bales to 12 bales per minute. Another feature of the machine was a finished bale slicer for production of smaller packages that are easily handled by Green Prairie’s export customers. This new machine also allowed farmers to bale hay into large 4x4x8 bales instead of the typical small square bales.

This change introduced efficiencies in baling and transportation.

The company sold the patent to an Alberta manufacturer and this machine became the world’s top selling hay press, used on every continent. After this success Green Prairie worked with the manufacturer to design and build another press that produces a large 450kg package, now one of the industry’s most popular packages.

Today Green Prairie is in another growth stage, increasing production capacity and introducing to Canada a new production line to dehydrate and dry long-fibre hay for its export markets.

Last year Green Prairie International Inc. celebrated their 25th anniversary and was recognized as an industry leader with a Dale Carnegie award. Even so, the Export Award nomination still managed to catch Van Hierden by surprise. “It’s a great thing,” says the company founder. “I am proud to be part of the growth in Canada. I really am thankful for all the staff. I have great support and a great attitude from our team. Our success comes from the entire team working together.”

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EMSCAN Corp.

Stéphane Attal

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MSCAN develops and sell worldwide real-time lab bench electromagnetic measurement test solutions. EMSCAN’s systems not only require low CAPEX and OPEX, but they also deliver significant return on investment for clients’ R&D through immediate reduction in outsourced/allocated anechoic chamber costs, higher revenues from substantially shortened time-to-market, increased designer productivity, lower costs and elevated innovation. Further expansion will come from transforming testing for clientsmanufacturing processes as well.

“My entire career has been focused on growing high-tech companies through aggressive worldwide business strategies,” says CEO Stéphane Attal. “On the sales side, I first went to visit every sales channel of EMSCAN (manufacturer’s representatives in the U.S. and distributors overseas) and as many customers as possible worldwide to listen to what they liked and disliked about EMSCAN. Then the team went on to fix everything that needed fixing.

The most critical action item was the development of a ready-towoo demonstration kit, which required a massive investment in equipment but ensured that every demonstration by our sales team was successful each time. I then recruited and/or replaced sales partners globally in every market where there was a need for our products; this continues every year to make sure sales channels are qualified and passionate about selling EMSCAN. I also introduced annual sales meetings for all the sales channels in the three main regions (North and South America, Europe/ Middle-East/Africa and Asia/Pacific) to reward, motivate, inform and train our sales partners.

We then became a partner of Agilent (soon Keysight Technologies); EMSCAN is thus benefiting from the reputation and the marketing might of the largest electronic test and measurement manufacturer in the world. Finally, manufacturing was outsourced to help EMSCAN focus its resources and attention on what was critical to its success.”

In 2010, EMSCAN received the Frost and Sullivan Best Practices Award for Global RF and EMC Measurement Technologies/Customer Value Enhancement. EMSCAN is elated to be nominated for an Export Award in 2014.

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Extreme Telematics Corp.

Mark Scantlebury

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xtreme Telematics Corp. (ETC) is an expert in advanced technology for the oilfield.

“ETC is known for building low power, wide temperature range, hazardous locations approved controls and sensors for the oil and gas industry,” explains president and CEO Mark Scantlebury. ETC’s product line includes a waste-reducing chemical injection system, a reliable plunger lift controller and sensor, solar panels and more.

“We knew that to grow the company, we needed to increase the number of products we sold, diversify into other vertical markets and expand geographically,” Scantlebury continues. “We really focused on solidifying our brand here in Canada first. After we rebranded and started taking over the Canadian market, we focused on rebuilding our main product for a broader market. We designed a second-generation controller and designed it to be certified to an international standard so it could be sold in more markets. This certification, combined with a more cost-effective configuration, allowed us to enter the U.S. market. During the same period, we designed a sensor to complement our controller.

It was also more rugged and reliable than anything on the market. Armed with these products, we made a concentrated push into the U.S. The fact that we have a number of challenges locally with cold temperatures, low sunlight and strict regulations really helps us to build products that can run anywhere in the world.”

With a successful push into the American marketplace, ETC is looking forward to expanding their team, adding additional products and pursuing ISO 9001 certification. Here at home, the energetic company contributes to different charitable causes each year, such as adopting a family at Christmas, supporting the women’s shelter and participating in Movember.

“The success of ETC is truly a team effort,” concludes Scantlebury. “We have amazing people in every area of the business including operations, sales/marketing and technology. None of the growth we are seeing would be possible without our amazing corporate culture and the fact that everyone has bought in and is pulling in the same direction.”

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Hunter Well Science Ltd.

Lane D. Roberts

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unter Well Science delivers world-class products backed by world-class support. The design team has over 100 years of combined experience and creates innovative oil and gas industry solutions for downhole logging and data acquisition products, data transmission, surface acquisition, processing and support. A progressive company, Hunter Well Science develops software to support their products and creates customized parts when applicable.

CEO and company president Lane D. Roberts harboured a vision to deliver to the global industry a new generation of technologies. “The best way to fulfil this vision was to build a company totally focused on it,” says Roberts. He did just that, founding Hunter Well Science in November 2009.

“The industry up to that point had relied on electronics that required component level repair after exposure to harsh downhole environments,” explains Roberts. “Our change was to fully test complete boards that could be plugged in and simply replaced without expensive troubleshooting. The number of different types of electronic boards typically required for inventory numbered in the hundreds to support this technology. Another industry change we created was to move much of the design into firmware, allowing us to standardize our electronic boards.

We now have five different boards ready for programming and overnight global delivery. Much of the top-tier technology was only available from multinational service companies. Our top-tier technologies are made available to service companies located regionally across the world.”

Hunter Well Science is a relatively small company with less than 30 employees and just over 30 international clients, but they are making a big impact at home and overseas; and not just for their outstanding technology. “We support a technical college (Haiti Arise) constructed by a charity organization in Haiti. We are a company made up of technical people and Haiti Arise seeks to deliver technical skills to a nation desperately short of these types of skills,” says Roberts.

As a small and new company, the Export Award nomination came as a surprise for Hunter Well Science, but as they know they have carved out a unique position in the global market, Hunter Well Science is pleased and grateful to be recognized in this way.

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Charles Ma

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harles Ma is the International Business Studies Award winner.

Ma is a fourth-year bachelor of commerce student at MacEwan University. He took part in the inaugural MacEwan University International Trade Simulation (ITS). Competing against five teams, Ma and his business partner secured the (simulated) trades and deals that gained them first place and the coveted ITS Best Company Award.

Ma also participated in MacEwan University’s Florianopolis, Brazil field study. “It was an exciting, unique and nerve-racking adventure,” laughs Ma. “The trip meant working in several groups alongside Federal University of Santa Catarina students. We developed a corporate education strategy for the CERTI Foundation – a business incubator for technology and market innovations in Brazil. Additionally, we were given the opportunity to become junior consultants for a startup technology company called, Nanovetores (that specialized in nanotechnology). Our task was to research the logistics of expansion and development into North America, which led to collaborative help from Canadian business incubator, TEC Edmonton.

Following his experience in Brazil, Ma was thrilled to be accepted into the exchange program between MacEwan University and Switzerland’s Lucerne University, where Ma will complete his international management and economics major during the winter 2014 term.

“I am steadfast in contributing to the international business and trade industry that supports our global economy,” says Ma. “After graduation, I plan to attend law school in Canada. I wanted to create experiences and memories that I could not only look back on, but also look forward to as well. MacEwan University created the environment and offered the opportunity in order to make that happen. My friends and family also played a pivotal role in supporting and encouraging me to pursue my career and life goals – I definitely didn’t get to where I am now on my own.”

An avid tennis player, Ma plans to capitalize on the opportunity to attend the Roland Garros tournament (French Open) in Paris, and will also be volunteering his time for the upcoming Rogers Cup tournament in Toronto when he returns from Switzerland.

He hopes that his next big international experience will be participating in Alberta Abroad’s Externship Program next summer.

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John Cotton

J

ohn Cotton, senior affiliate with Ian Murray and Company (IMC), has been nominated for an Export Award due to his 30-plus years of government work in the field of international relations; a nomination, Cotton feels, is ironic. “I thought it was important to recognize the work of our exporters. I was on the founding committee for the Alberta Export Awards,” says Cotton.

“Now I’ve been nominated for one!”

The journey behind the nomination started in 1982 when Cotton took a job in federal/provincial relations. When an opening came up in international relations, Cotton was ready. “I had an interest in that area and had training for it. This was an opportunity to build on that.”

For over three decades Cotton worked tirelessly, collaborating with and advising Alberta’s many industries to work with the government in making Alberta an export leader. “We developed sophisticated advocacy programs for the energy industry to promote an accurate picture of our oilsands development,” says Cotton of one of the many initiatives he spearheaded. “Image is important when looking for new markets.

“I think through a career with the Alberta government, we have always looked for innovative ways to work with associations to promote the industry internationally. Government has an important role to play in helping companies take advantage of opportunities in international markets. The quality of life Albertans enjoy is because of our ability to export our products and services worldwide.”

Retiring from that position hasn’t stopped Cotton from international pursuits. He enjoyed five years in Japan, working in the Alberta trade office, and now with IMC continues to promote the business interests of the company’s clients. Cotton enjoys contributing to the United Way, is a member of the Rotary Club of Edmonton, is the vice president of E4C and sits on the advisory committee for the business program at Grant MacEwan, among many other altruistic pursuits.

“I was quite shocked by the nomination but also honoured that people I worked with throughout the years felt that way about my involvement in the industry,” smiles Cotton. He would like to thank Patricia Glen and Doug McNeil from the Export Awards committee, his past and present colleagues, and all those who supported him over the years.

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Message from the Honourable Cal Dallas

O

n behalf of Premier Dave Hancock and the Government of Alberta, welcome to the 2014 Alberta Export Awards. Today’s event is a unique opportunity to thank all of you for the pivotal role you play in both Alberta’s and Canada’s economic sustainability. Making up one-third of our economy, Alberta’s success is driven by our global exports. With more than $102 billion in goods exported last year alone, Alberta companies are leading Alberta’s economic growth by keeping their sights on the world stage.

Alberta companies are among the most innovative in the world. You form relationships between our province and new markets, showcase Alberta’s innovative products, services, technologies and solutions and exhibit the entrepreneurial spirit Albertans are known for.

Through Alberta’s international office network and dedicated staff, we are committed to working with all of you to develop and grow markets abroad.

Key to the Building Alberta Plan, new markets mean more economic opportunity, better jobs and fairer prices for Alberta’s products and services.

Thank you for your inspired vision and unwavering dedication to helping unlock long-term opportunity for our province. On behalf of the Alberta government—and all Albertans—I wish you even more achievements and success in the year ahead.

Cal Dallas Minister of International and Intergovernmental Relations

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