Engaging Local Service Providers in Remote Regions If you are in the energy and utility (E&U) industry, you know that the success of large capital projects such as pipeline, transmission line or exploration and development programs depend heavily on operating effectively in remote areas. You also know that a hurdle that frequently arises during these projects is sourcing qualified, skilled regional service providers that can meet your project needs. Even when local providers exist, it can be a significant undertaking to ensure they understand your requirements and work hand-in-hand with your people, processes and systems. “One of the challenges energy and utility companies face is how to bridge this gap. They need to have an in-depth understanding of the community and local environment, build working relationships with local service providers, effectively communicate project requirements and ensure the services contracted will meet the scope, standards and scale of the project,” says Rod Neumann, lead of MNP’s Consulting practice in Calgary. Neumann goes on to explain that even if an E&U company has a mandate to partner with regional businesses, they often have to look abroad if they can’t find local partners that meet their needs. That can be costly, cause delays and doesn’t support a longer-term strategy to build trust and support economic development in the region. Regional economic development is then a lost opportunity for both local service providers and the community as a whole.
During training, E&U service providers receive contractor readiness information and consulting support, covering topics such as business planning, training and the basic processes, systems and skills needed to meet E&U standards of safety and performance. In addition, the contractor learns how to efficiently scale its operations to seize new opportunities and effectively service E&U companies.
MNP’s Unique Approach to Building Capacity in Remote Locations One of the reasons E&U companies turn to MNP for help in engaging regional organizations is the firm’s knowledge of and relationships in remote locations, including First Nations and Métis communities. MNP has provided services to more than 800 First Nations clients across Canada and has over 300 staff members that are of Aboriginal or Métis ancestry. Our understanding of the role Aboriginal culture and traditions play in the business decision-making process is important and helps make engaging local leaders in training opportunities that much easier. “Building relationships is fundamental for success. We help our E&U clients understand the regional context, establish communication strategies and develop stakeholder engagement plans,” says Neumann. “But the key to our success lies in our ability to connect and communicate with all of the stakeholders in a meaningful way so they are prepared to work together and achieve a common goal.”
“Often contractors don’t understand what the E&U company wants to achieve and its requirements” says Tony Colabella, Training and Consulting Services Advisor, MNP. “The solution lies in effectively engaging and educating the local contractor on what’s required and providing training that addresses the existing gaps. When that gap closes, the E&U companies are able to develop a regional pool of qualified service providers.”
The E&U sector is a major contributor to the economy. These triple-bottom-line companies envision sharing opportunities with the people who live and work in areas where development is occurring, but may not be aware of who to approach, how to approach them or what they need in order to effectively participate in projects. A customized training program solves those problems while helping E&U companies save money and ensure projects are completed on time.
Closing the Gaps through Training
To find out what MNP can do for you contact Rod Neumann, Calgary Consulting practice Leader at rod.neumann@mnp.ca or 403.298.8480, or Tony Colabella, Training and Consulting Services Advisor at tony.colabella@mnp.ca or 403.537.7665.
With an in-depth understanding of both the E&U sector and an established regional presence, MNP works with various stakeholders to close these gaps. The firm’s Training and Consulting services are focused on understanding the specific needs of the stakeholders and developing customized solutions, like curricula that prepares regional contractors for potential engagement with the E&U industry.