Photo: Mike Beaudoin
LETTER from the PRESIDENT
TAMMY COOK-SEARSON President, Kitsaki Management
Tansi. Hello.
I am excited to introduce Kitsaki’s spring 2024 newsletter, showcasing the inspiring journeys of individuals working within Kitsaki’s group of companies. Through these stories, we hope to highlight the incredible career opportunities and growth that Kitsaki offers to more than 1,500 employees and community members.
At Kitsaki, we manage 11 diverse lines of business across various industries, and our success is firmly rooted in our commitment to professionalism and delivering exceptional service and work. As President of Kitsaki Management Limited Partnership, I take immense pride in the outstanding work our companies perform and the consistent dedication to excellence that we bring to all our customers. As you read through the stories in this newsletter, you will see how individuals from diverse backgrounds have found their place within Kitsaki’s group of companies.
LETTER from the CEO
As I write this message for our spring 2024 newsletter, I reflect on the incredible journey we’ve been on here at Kitsaki. I have watched our teams tackle challenges head-on, seize new opportunities, and continue to build companies that honour our roots, embrace innovation, and drive progress.
Our priority moving ahead is to continue creating training programs while focusing on growing mentorship opportunities, such as our Co-op student program. By raising awareness about the diverse opportunities available within Kitsaki’s group of companies among younger generations and showcasing the inspiring stories of our employees, like in this newsletter, we are trying to spark interest and attract talented young individuals under the Kitsaki umbrella. Also, by creating clear pathways for diverse opportunities
within our organization, we remain committed to encouraging the next generation of leaders who will drive our success and make a positive impact in the communities we operate in.
As we move forward, I want to challenge each and every one of you within the group of companies to think about how you can step up as a leader in your own way. Maybe that means mentoring a younger colleague or taking on a stretch assignment that pushes you to learn new skills. Maybe it means speaking up when you see an opportunity for improvement or supporting your team around a shared goal.
Together, we are building something extraordinary here at Kitsaki, striving to widen the circle of opportunity.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey.
Our employees, from dedicated frontline workers, brilliant scientists, and meticulous janitorial staff, to utility tree trimmers, innovative engineers, creative chefs, skilled professional drivers, and insurance specialists, are the driving force behind our success in numerous industries, both within the province and across the country. It is wonderful to see many Lac La Ronge Indian Band Members now having the opportunity to venture into careers in IT, software testing, and insurance.
Together, all of us working within Kitsaki are creating a future where our people are leaders in every industry, our talents and skills are recognized and valued, and we can all share in the benefits of economic prosperity.
I invite you to be a part of this journey just like those highlighted on these pages, and I hope you see yourself as an integral part of Kitsaki’s story.
Tiniki. Thank you.
RON HYGGEN CEO, Kitsaki Management
GROUP of COMPANIES
Lac La Ronge Indian Band
LUANNE REDIRON:
Rooted in Community
Luanne Rediron, a member of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band, finds immense value in working for a company that is 100 per cent Indigenous-owned.
When Luanne Rediron joined Kitsaki Vegetation Services (KVS) in November 2015, she had no idea that her career would take her from the office to the field. She started as a Project Administrator, responsible for project reporting and paperwork for all of the company’s jobs.
Over time, her role evolved, and she began to take on additional responsibilities, including scheduling, onboarding other employees and managing the company’s fleet of vehicles.
Rediron’s commitment to her work is obvious, and she mentions, “Terry [Helary] told us years ago, ‘Whatever it takes to get the job done, that’s what we need to do.’ So, we’re always on standby, answering calls and assisting the field staff — doing what is necessary to complete the work.”
As KVS grew, so did Luanne’s responsibilities. She began compiling invoicing packages, training new employees on the company’s systems and workflows, and ensuring a smooth flow of paperwork from the field staff to the office. All of this led to
Rediron taking on the role of General Foreman for KVS’s herbicide division, immediately embracing the opportunity, and enrolling in a five-day project management course to enhance her skills. She is now working towards becoming a Certified Project Manager, once again demonstrating her commitment to personal and professional growth.
When asked what she loves most about her work at KVS, she highlights the variety and the opportunity to help others succeed. “Every day is different,” she says. “I like the challenge of what’s going to happen that day.”
Rediron takes great pride in seeing the KVS field staff grow within the company, and she has seen many people who started with a chainsaw certificate and went on to become certified Utility Tree Trimmers. She also enjoys supporting and helping others within KVS in achieving their goals, “I like pushing them to do better for themselves. I like seeing other people succeed. I like helping, assisting, whatever I can do to help them get there.”
If you’re considering a career with Kitsaki’s Group of Companies, her advice is simple: “Take the leap and come work with us. This company is a place where you can truly grow and thrive. I’m living proof of that. When I started as a Project Administrator, I never imagined I’d be where I am today, working as a General Foreman out in the field. But that’s the beauty of working here for KVS and Kitsaki — there’s always room for growth.”
Rediron’s remarkable journey from Project Administrator to General Foreman is evidence of her dedication and hard work. It highlights the company’s growth opportunities available within Kitsaki’s group of companies and the supportive environment that allows employees to grow and thrive.
Luanne Rediron’s passion for her work and community shines through in everything she does, making her an invaluable asset to KVS and an inspiration to those around her.
At AGI Envirotank, Michael Brewer Finds Balance
Nestled in Biggar, Saskatchewan, AGI Envirotank is one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to providing opportunities for those in the trades seeking a balance between their professional and personal lives.
Michael Brewer’s journey from residential plumbing to his current role as an on-site plumber at AGI Envirotank began in Alberta, where he honed his skills in residential plumbing before transitioning to the commercial and industrial sectors. His work on the commercial and industrial side eventually brought him to job sites in Fort McMurray, which provided him with valuable experience, but the demanding schedules eventually led him to seek a more balanced life.
Drawn to the small-town atmosphere of his home province, Brewer discovered AGI Envirotank, a leading fabricator and erector of steel storage tanks. The company’s location in Biggar, conveniently close to his home and family, presented the perfect opportunity for Brewer. As the years passed, Brewer began being trained to operate AGI’s plasma table with the coiler and other equipment.
One of the aspects Brewer appreciates most about his work at AGI Envirotank is the diversity of his daily tasks. ”I don’t like monotony,” he says, ”so coming into work knowing that each day brings something different is truly enjoyable.” From ensuring the functionality of furnaces to operating the plasma table, rolling cylinders for vertical tanks, cutting parts, and repairing equipment, the variety in his work keeps him engaged and motivated.
Starting as a Plumber and Maintenance worker, Brewer has sharpened his skills over time and transitioned into his current role, where he handles a variety of responsibilities.
Brewer also values the camaraderie he shares with his colleagues at AGI Envirotank. The friendly banter and strong team spirit make the workday enjoyable, and even on rare, slow days, the positive atmosphere makes a significant difference. ”The combination of diversity in my work and great coworkers makes me look forward to coming to work each day,” Brewer remarks.
A typical day for Brewer at AGI Envirotank is dynamic and everchanging. During the winter months, much of his time is dedicated to maintaining furnaces and boilers, ensuring a comfortable working environment for his colleagues. As the large doors open and close throughout the day, keeping the shops warm is crucial, as it’s challenging to work with freezing hands.
The ever-changing nature of his work is what he finds most appealing about his role at AGI Envirotank.
Looking back on his time with the company, Brewer takes pride in several milestones, particularly his involvement in the BHP Jansen mine shaft project. This project marked his first experience on the plasma table, cutting sheets to size and assisting in rolling, fabricating, and setting up crucial components.
”It’s really interesting to be on both sides of it over the years,” he said, noting the satisfaction of experiencing the project from start to finish.
For those considering a similar career path, Brewer offers sage advice: ”Finish your ticket because it’s always something you can fall back on. It can never be taken away.” He also emphasizes the importance of seizing learning opportunities, even if they seem unrelated at first. Gaining knowledge in areas like electrical work or mechanics can prove unexpectedly valuable in the long run.
Brewer encourages accepting diverse learning experiences,”If you say no, that just limits what you can do with your career path, so say yes to those opportunities.”
KRISTY TODD: Her Diverse Role at CanNorth
Growing up in Northern Saskatchewan, Kristy Todd was a self-described “bush kid,” spending most of her time outdoors, exploring nature. Todd was always moving, which earned her the nickname “kamamakos” (butterfly in Cree) from her mushum. Todd’s parents also ensured they were instilling a deep connection to her Cree heritage, northern people and the land.
“When I was young, I knew early that I wanted a career that involved the natural world, to be outside as much as possible,” Todd said.
After obtaining a natural resources diploma from Lakeland College in Alberta and gaining experience in uranium mines and with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment, Todd pursued conservation enforcement at Lethbridge Community College. However, she quickly realized that enforcement wasn’t her true calling.
“I knew when I was in school that I didn’t want to be a Conservation Officer but I didn’t want to drop out either, so I finished the program. I still learned a lot and I found my interests were leaning towards the scientific side of environmental work,” she said.
Todd’s diverse career path included a role as an Environmental Technician at Golder Associates Ltd. (now WSP), which led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Aquaculture from Vancouver Island University in Nanaimo, B.C. to further her career as an Aquatic Biologist. While in school, Kristy worked for the Nature Trust of BC and A-Tlegay Fisheries Society in Campbell River, learning from Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast. She eventually returned home to La Ronge, spending several years working at Northlands College in teaching and administrative positions.
Seeking to reignite her passion, Todd reached out to CanNorth with a compelling pitch. After meetings with the company’s leadership, she found her fit in the Human Environment Division as a Human Environment Specialist.
“A consulting business brings diversity, and I love diversity. I look forward to coming to work each day knowing that I have a variety of projects that challenge me. With my biology background as a
foundation, I am continually building my skill sets, the business allows me to learn from other professionals as well as providing opportunities to research and grow. I am happiest when I am busy and learning,” Todd said.
In her role at CanNorth, Todd tackles a range of tasks, from analyzing data and writing reports to brainstorming ways to attract new clients. She also works closely with communitybased teams, focusing on capacity building and mentorship.
“CanNorth can provide so many technical services and opportunities for clients and communities, ranging from scientific research and analysis to consultation and engagement to training, hand-on learning and mentorship. There is a focus on providing support and capacity building to Indigenous groups, which really means a lot to me as an Indigenous person. My hope is that one day more Indigenous groups will have the capacity to manage environmental projects on their own to ensure that lands are managed in a productive and sustainable way, that doesn’t only benefit Indigenous people but all people, wildlife, land and water.
Todd’s advice for others seeking a fulfilling career within Kitsaki’s group of companies is, “Don’t be afraid to push outside your comfort zone. You may have to move away from home to gain experience; it is only for a little while, and when you come back, you’ll have so much to share and contribute.”
Todd credits her experiences as the motivation for her career with CanNorth, recognizing the role they play in making meaningful contributions to the north. She wouldn’t trade them for anything.
“I will be forever grateful for this opportunity CanNorth has given me. I am back to a career I am passionate about, and I get to be home with my friends and family,” Todd said. “I can’t explain how thankful I am to my band, my friends and family for supporting me through all these years. LLRIB paid for the majority of my post-secondary education; they were always there when I needed them. If I didn’t have that support, I don’t know if I would be the person I am today.”
FROM COOK TO DIRECTOR: Ray Edwards’s Inspiring Journey at Athabasca Catering
“He (Kevin Danchuk) was a guy that saw something in me, he brought me along.
In Northern Saskatchewan, where mining camps and exploration sites dot the landscape, Ray Edwards has had quite a remarkable career journey powered by his determination, hard work and the transformative opportunities provided by Athabasca Catering Limited Partnership (ACLP).
Edwards, now the Director of Northern Operations at ACLP, began his journey with the company back in 1992 as a young cook. Little did he know that this entry-level position would be the first step in a career spanning over three decades, filled with growth, challenges and triumphs.
“I was eager to learn,” Edwards recalls, reflecting on his early days with the company. Recognizing his potential, ACLP’s leadership invested in his development, providing on-the-job training and sending him to various courses to hone his skills in administration, bookkeeping and professional communication.
Under the guidance of mentors like Alan Cole and Kevin Danchuk, Edwards quickly rose through the ranks, transitioning from Cook to Lodge Manager, overseeing camps and ensuring the smooth operation of ACLP’s services. His ability to adapt to change and embrace new challenges caught the attention of his superiors, who promoted him to the position of all sites manager in the early 2000s.
Edwards’s journey with ACLP is intricately tied to the growth of the company itself. He remembers being part of the team that serviced the McArthur River exploration camp from its humble beginnings as a 10-capsule camp to its eventual expansion into a thriving 750-person operation. “Being a part of that and seeing it grow from the very grassroots of exploration to building a mine, it was really exciting for me,” Edwards shared.
Throughout his career, Edwards has witnessed firsthand the impact ACLP has had on the lives of countless individuals from
the north. “It’s great to see all the northern folks that I kind of grew up with getting a good shot at supporting their families and being a part of the community,” he remarks, emphasizing the importance of providing opportunities for growth and development to the region’s workforce.
Today, as the Director of Northern Operations, Edwards oversees a diverse range of responsibilities, from managing exploration camps to ensuring the smooth operation of logging camps and SaskPower sites. His days are filled with coordinating logistics, addressing client needs and tackling the ever-changing challenges that come with managing a large-scale operation in the north.
When asked about the advice he would give to someone considering a similar career path within Kitsaki’s Group of Companies, Edwards highlights the importance of being open to change. “Things change on a daily basis. The people around you, I’ve seen people come and go all the time. You have to be open to change. That’s the biggest piece of advice I would give somebody,” he says, underscoring the need for adaptability in an ever-evolving industry.
Ray Edwards’ inspiring journey from Cook to Director at Athabasca Catering serves as a powerful example of the opportunities for growth and advancement that exist within Kitsaki’s Group of Companies.
As ACLP continues to grow and expand its operations, it remains committed to providing opportunities for individuals from the north to build meaningful careers and contribute to the economic well-being of their communities. With leaders like Ray Edwards at the helm, the future looks bright for Athabasca Catering and the many lives it touches along the way.
I Knew I Wanted to be Part of Something Greater” “
As we highlight career paths within Kitsaki’s group of companies, we asked Insurance Broker, Jazmin McCracken about her journey into the insurance industry with Kitsaki’s LaRoche McDonald Agencies.
Why did you choose to pursue a career in insurance?
In 2017, I came upon a job posting for a Motor Licensing Issuer and decided to apply. Freshly graduated from high school, I didn’t know what I wanted to do or what classes I wanted to take and I didn’t want to rush into anything. But little did I know that this job would be the catalyst for a career in the insurance industry that I love.
What sparked your decision to take on a Broker role at LaRoche McDonald?
It was a pivotal moment at the SGI Convention in 2022 that sparked a desire for something more. Watching LaRoche McDonald receive its 60-year award, I realized I wanted to be part of a company with a rich history and a commitment to excellence and protecting clients.
Can you share an achievement you are particularly proud of during your time at LaRoche McDonald Agencies?
I have been working towards my full insurance designation through the Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker program, and most recently earned my Level 2 Property and Casualty licence. For those who do not know, these are heavy textbooks, with a three-hour long proctored exam, and require a 60 per cent or higher to pass. These exams are offered through an instructor-led course or self-study. I have completed all three of my exams so far via the self-study method. With my passion for insurance, I am also grateful to be serving my second year with the Insurance Brokers Association of Saskatchewan (IBAS) on their Emerging Broker Council (EBC).
Working with IBAS on the EBC, I have been privileged to sit on
their executive team this year as the secretary and be a part of the Workforce Development Committee. This is where we discuss initiatives to elevate the insurance broker career and pathways to success.
What do you love about your role?
Working alongside Jason Dunn, Keith Klassen, and the others who make up our great team, I mainly focus on commercial insurance, assisting business owners in finding protection for their assets and liabilities. I take pride in being there for them during both the good times and the challenging moments, always striving to be their biggest advocate. Also, nothing is tedious about insurance; every day is different and it’s what keeps most of us around. The diversity in work is rewarding.
What would you tell someone an average day as a Broker looks like?
A day in the life of a Broker looks different every day, and a lot of individuals enjoy the diversity in work. Each client is unique and brings variety to my daily tasks. I spend my days connecting with clients via email, phone or in person, learning about businesses, their processes, products and goals, as well as property owners or people with simple insurance-related questions. This then leads to connecting with insurance companies and adjusters or researching markets for clients. Brokers also spend a significant amount of time continuously learning and networking to ensure we are up to date on the changing world and finding the best solutions for clients.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career path like yours within Kitsaki’s group of companies?
If you have ever thought about it, my answer is, do it. You are never too young or too old to learn something new, and working in insurance, there are over 50+ different roles or paths you could take, and some don’t require any previous experience or training. There is a place for you.
Glen Ertell reflects on a 25-year career at NRT
“And I think it’s a testament that we [NRT] must be doing something right to have drivers who have been with NRT for 37 years.”
Glen Ertell, who’s been a staple at Northern Resource Trucking for 25 years, is retiring.
Ertell’s journey in the trucking industry began 50 years ago when, at the age of 18, he obtained his chauffeur’s license. “The only criteria to get it was it had to be in a vehicle that had a standard transmission,” he laughs. “I had a 1967 Mustang with a standard transmission, and in Tisdale, it wasn’t really all that hard.
From those beginnings, Ertell’s career took him through various roles, including Gravel Truck Driver, Concrete Plant Operator, and Truck Owner Operator. However, it was in 1998 that a chance encounter with a friend led him to Northern Resource Trucking (NRT).
“He said, ‘You should come over to where I am and have coffee. This is really pretty unique place,” referring to NRT’s Indigenous ownership group. and hauling into the northern mines.
Starting as a dispatcher, Ertell witnessed first hand the company’s growth and evolution. “I think when I started, there might have been 50 trucks. A few months after I got there, Cameco slowed down big time, and we had to lay off a lot trucks to get right sized. “Despite the challenges, Ertell remained dedicated to NRT, working his way up to Operations Manager, Branch Manager, and eventually, Vice President.
When asked about the future of trucking, he said, “Canada’s trucking and logistics industry is growing, and it is hard to explain how important it is to Saskatchewan and Canada’s economy. There are careers outside of driving, so I remind young people that there are roles for Mechanics and Dispatchers and that the industry offers lots of opportunities for those seeking a dynamic and rewarding career. Ertell is a strong advocate on getting an education, he was fortunate to have great mentors and by taking available courses to help his career grow including completing post secondary Business Admin at The University of Saskatchewan when he was 53. NRT is committed to training and developing skilled professionals, so really, there has never been a better time to consider joining the trucking and logistics industry.”
“Trucking is never the same,” he says. “I told Dave (McIlmoyl) lots of times, ‘There’s probably only a couple of days in my career that I wished I would have phoned in sick.’ But it’s always that crazy curiosity that makes you want to come back the next day to see what happened overnight.”
For more information on the careers available with NRT, please visit: nrtlp.com
ALISON AURAMENKO : Paving the Way for Indigenous Opportunities
“I think just having the opportunity to work with our Indigenous partners and communities, seeing success, whether it be big or small, just brings me joy.”
Alison Auramenko, a member of Clearwater River Dene Nation, has taken an unconventional path to her current role as Corporate Indigenous Relations Specialist with Kitsaki Procon Partnership (KPP). With a commerce degree and a finance major, Auramenko found herself drawn to working with Indigenous communities, a passion instilled in her from a young age through her father’s work with Aboriginal Business Canada.
After several years working for Procter & Gamble and completing her MBA, Alison took a leap of faith. She applied for a job with Muskowekwan Resources Ltd., despite not meeting all the qualifications. “I thought there was so much opportunity, so much potential, especially for First Nations and individuals; I just wanted to be a part of that project.” Although she didn’t get the job, this would prove to be a turning point in her career. Soon after, another position with Muskowekwan Resources Ltd. became available, marking her entry into the mining industry and opening her eyes to the vast potential for First Nations economic
“The New Miner Training Program is really exciting. We’ve had such great success at Foran and we’re looking at ways to bring it to other sites too,” Auramenko says. The program, a collaboration between Kitsaki Procon Partnership (KPP) and Foran Mining Corporation, provides hands-on training and mentorship to local First Nations community members. Individuals are hired as Foran employees but work alongside KPP crews, gaining practical experience in the mining industry. After completing the program, they receive ongoing support and mentorship for a full year. The program has been hugely successful, with some participants excelling in their roles and even joining specialized teams like mine rescue.
Looking to the future, Alison and the KPP team are exploring ways to evolve the program, providing ongoing training and mentorship as employees progress in their careers and take on leadership roles. With the looming labour shortage in the mining industry, initiatives like these are crucial in creating meaningful opportunities for those in northern remote and First Nations communities.
When asked what advice she would give to someone considering a similar career path, Alison emphasizes the importance of being open to various positions, roles, and organizations. “You never know where they will lead you,” she says.
Prosperous Partnerships
BY NIKITA WEISS DAY
Insights on how to build successful business partnerships that will stand the test of time.
Many factors go into creating a successful partnership, whether it’s between individuals, businesses, organizations, or Nations. When a partnership is founded on genuine collaboration, the mutual benefits to both parties grow exponentially.
For Indigenous peoples in Canada, the business marketplace has provided fertile ground for the development of outstanding partnerships that deliver a range of benefits: economic reconciliation, self-determination, capacity building and wealth transfer, to name a few.
Kitsaki Management Limited Partnership, which manages economic development for the Lac La Ronge Indian Band in Saskatchewan, is one example of an Indigenous business that has prospered thanks to strategic partnerships. As is often the case, its biggest partnership, with energy giant SaskPower, began with an opportunity.
“They were working on a transmission line from one of their hydro projects to the main grid. And they needed cutting along that transmission line to be completed. They were really looking to engage First Nations in that area, which was us,” Kitsaki CEO Ron Hyggen says.
While work initially began in partnership with Valard Construction, Kitsaki was able to build enough capacity throughout the project to take it over.
“We took it in bite-sized pieces, and that was by design, to make sure that we were able to succeed and reduce risk,” says Hyggen. “That really became the beginning of a long-term relationship.
This part of Kitsaki is now called Kitsaki Vegetation, and it completes all integrated vegetation management for SaskPower, ensuring the stability of the provincial power grid.
*This story was originally published in the 40th-anniversary issue of CCAB’s Aboriginal Business Report.
For Hyggen, collaborating with clients isn’t just a matter of fulfilling a contract. It’s about working to make sure both sides know what is really needed from the partnership.
“It’s not just the job for us,” Hyggen says. “We’re trying to fulfil more than that. We have different mandates as a First Nation, on employment, on training – and really on economic development in our Nation and our partner First Nations.”
For many First Nations, says Hyggen, development often starts in the Nation’s own backyard. “A lot of First Nations will build a gas station. And that’s the first real business opportunity to start with. From there, they add on, and they take on more and more companies and different types of operations.”
Over the years, Kitsaki has built a large portfolio of investments across multiple sectors, including transportation, catering, underground mining, engineering, insurance and forestry. When it comes to maintaining a strong partnership, Hyggen believes having a seat at the table is key, along with a mutual understanding of what the long-term goals are.
“The way I look at it is we have 12,000 First Nation members in our band, one of the largest in the country, and that’s all my family,” he says. “Whatever we do for profits actually goes back to them.... So, I always say I have 12,000 bosses.”
