2024 Engineers Nova Scotia Award Winner
F.H. Sexton Gold Medal: Aubrey Palmeter, MBA, ICD.D, P.Eng. For exceptional career achievements in their chosen field of engineering practice contributing to the economic and social benefits of society.
“Its really a culmination of a career which I hope is not over but it symbolizes a successful career so far and for that I am very grateful. I have had way more hardships than successes but if you fail, that’s ok, that’s how you learn just never give up, prevail, just keep going and find a way.” Aubrey Palmeter’s remarkable career spans over 40 years, the majority of it in the consulting engineering industry. As the CEO of EastPoint, a Nova Scotian firm, Aubrey has led the transformation of the company from a start-up to a national service provider with 150 employees. His commitment to quality, collaboration, and ethical practice sets a benchmark for engineering excellence, embodying the core values of the profession. His influence is probably best described by community leaders who have collaborated with him over the years and provided the following words about him. From Jamie Wright, Senior Architect and former director of IBI Group: “Aubrey is a builder. He has created opportunities for his employees
and the broader region without moving EastPoint’s centre of operation.” From Janet MacMillan, Senior Counsel, NATIONAL Public Relations: “Aubrey has an amazing ability to look around the corners, to see far ahead what’s coming, and to frame a vision and a plan. He is fearless yet thoughtful in his approach.” From Melanie Nadeau, P.Eng. CEO at Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship (COVE): “Aubrey’s entrepreneurial spirit and innovative mindset have allowed for several partnerships, ideas, and projects to materialize. He is the person I call when times are complex and the path forward is not clear.” Aubrey’s focus on sustainable growth, continuous learning, and fostering a close-knit culture defines EastPoint’s values, and has secured its recognition as one of Canada’s Top Growing Companies for several consecutive years. Under his guidance, EastPoint embraces innovative practices and technologies, positioning the firm to tackle increasingly difficult challenges in an ever-evolving industry.
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Beyond his work at EastPoint, Aubrey has been a vocal advocate for the advancement of the engineering profession, championing the role of engineers as key contributors to economic and social progress. He has served on over 30 boards, including Dalhousie University’s Board of Governors and the COVE, contributing his leadership to education, innovation, and economic development. Aubrey’s volunteerism and dedication to mentoring emerging professionals has established a legacy of growth and opportunity for the next generation of engineers. Aubrey actively mentors 20 emerging professionals at EastPoint, sharing insights from his own experiences, and encouraging others to view obstacles as opportunities for growth, much like a sailor adjusting their sails to harness the winds of change. As he often says, “it’s not just about knowing what you’re doing; it’s about how you navigate the journey ahead.” His leadership and advocacy for engineering continues to make a lasting impact within the profession.