North America Outlook - Issue 33

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Issue 33

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An Oklahoma agency of excellence, the Grand River Dam Authority is proud to be the state’s largest public power electric utility

GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY A collaborative approach to the design, integration, and deployment of technology has fueled the growth of Connection, according to President and CEO, Tim McGrath

HAPAG-LLOYD AUSTRALIA

SUGAR CORPORATION OF UGANDA LIMITED

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SOMET | GO PLC

FG GOLD

SWICK MINING SERVICES

REMA TIP TOP ROSH PINAH ZINC

The cornerstone of Namibian mining

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DHL EXPRESS AUSTRALIA

Time-definite international courier

KONČAR GROUP

Where a century of heritage meets the technology manufacturing of tomorrow

T4 NZ DATA CENTRES

On a quest to enhance New Zealand’s digital realm

An Oklahoma agency of excellence, the Grand River Dam Authority is proud to be the state’s largest public power electric utility

ORICA EMEA

Digital and sustainable solutions across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa

Digital and sustainable solutions across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa

DARSH INDUSTRIES

Crafting exquisite condiments in Tanzania

ORICA EMEA

Digital and sustainable solutions across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa

CORICA MINING SERVICES Skilfully combining deep local expertise with international best practice, Corica Mining Services is helping to define the next chapter of mining in Africa

May & Baker Nigeria Plc is at the core of the nation’s healthcare advancement, driven by excellence, people, and purpose. Patrick Ajah, Managing Director and CEO, discusses

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CAMCO ENGINEERING

Dronamics is on a mission to transform the face of Europe’s logistics industry. Svilen Rangelov, co-Founder and CEO, joins us to discuss the Black Swan cargo drone platform, which could democratise air freight as we know it

Glenn Bailey, CEO, reflects on his company’s 30th anniversary and outlines recent investments in new facilities, equipment, and product lines

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A collaborative approach to the design, integration, and deployment of technology has fueled the growth of Connection, according to President and CEO, Tim McGrath

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A leading private healthcare provider in Southern Africa, Life Healthcare Group exemplifies the profound impact of an unwavering commitment to quality patient care and innovation

Vickum Nawagamuwage, Founder of Santani Wellness Resort, discusses the importance of engaging more deeply with adaptive wellness practices the importance of engaging more deeply with adaptive wellness practices Vickum Nawagamuwage, Founder of Santani Wellness Resort, discusses commitment to quality patient care and innovation Life Healthcare Group exemplifies the profound impact of an unwavering A leading private healthcare provider in Southern Africa,

GROUP HEALTHCARE LIFE

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FREIGHTER GROUP

Freight it for life

AURUM GROUP

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Working to support Australian ports to be sustainable and efficient gateways to international and national trade, Ports Australia serves as a national voice and plays a crucial role in the future of the industry

A diverse fleet of vessels and distinguished vertical integration

Chart Industries is a global leader in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of process technologies and equipment for gas and liquid molecule handling

Equipped with purposedriven design and a passion for modern living, Aurum Group is an award-winning space and business innovator with a steadfast focus on the future of people

MICHIGAN SUGAR COMPANY

Neil Juhnke, President and CEO, outlines the growerowned cooperative’s latest developments, new facilities, and ongoing commitment to sustainability

JONATHAN PHILLIPS, CEO of Newage Software & Solutions, delves into the company’s advanced technological support for a multitude of freight forwarders

Heroes Vodka is the ‘Official Spirit of a Grateful Nation’. Trisha Cancilla, Vice President of Marketing and Brand Strategy at R.S. Lipman Company, tells the full story

DYWIDAG’s technologies have been integral to some of the most iconic infrastructure projects in the US. Mike Kelley, President – Americas, details its growth and expansion

company’s advanced technological support for a multitude of freight forwarders JONATHAN PHILLIPS, CEO of Newage Software & Solutions, delves into the

of Marketing and Brand Strategy at R.S. Lipman Company, tells the full story Heroes Vodka is the ‘Official Spirit of a Grateful Nation’. Trisha Cancilla, Vice President

projects in the US. Mike Kelley, President – Americas, details its growth and expansion DYWIDAG’s technologies have been integral to some of the most iconic infrastructure

gas and liquid molecule handling and manufacturing of process technologies and equipment for Chart Industries is a global leader in the design, engineering, vertical integration distinguished of vessels and A diverse fleet

sustainability and ongoing commitment to developments, new facilities, owned cooperative’s latest CEO, outlines the growerNeil Juhnke, President and

TELL US YOUR STORY, AND WE’LL TELL THE WORLD LTD MARINE PTE OFFSHORE VALLIANZ

in precision firearms A long-standing leader

Freight it for life

GROUP FREIGHTER

DEFENSE, INC. GLOBAL ARMSCOR

burden of disease South Africa’s quadruple Conducting research on

COUNCIL MEDICAL RESEARCH SOUTH AFRICAN

OUTLOOK

Unpeeling the flavours of success www.foodbeverage-outlook.com

VALLIANZ OFFSHORE MARINE PTE LTD

Rick Cordaro, Vice President of Radar and Sensor Systems at Lockheed Martin, discusses building the next-generation missile defence shield Martin, discusses building the next-generation missile defence shield Rick Cordaro, Vice President of Radar and Sensor Systems at Lockheed

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SAFRESCO

RINCHEM

A leader in specialised chemical supply chain management

A long-standing leader in precision firearms

LIFE HEALTHCARE GROUP

The Caribbean’s largest tea producer

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SOUTH AFRICAN MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL Conducting research on South Africa’s quadruple burden of disease

T H E F O R K

Larvotto Resources is on track to become Australia’s largest producer of antimony.

Ron Heeks, Managing Director, discusses its flagship Hillgrove Project

JAMAICAN TEAS LTD ISSUE 7

ARMSCOR GLOBAL DEFENSE, INC.

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FinanceMalta is the public-private initiative set up to promote Malta as a global financial centre. George Vella, Chairman, reveals all the latest developments

INSTITUTE OF MENTAL HEALTH An ecosystem of support in Singapore centred around a holistic approach

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management supply chain specialised chemical A leader in

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COMPANY SUGAR MICHIGAN

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GROUP AURUM

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flavours of success Unpeeling the

RINCHEM

SAFRESCO

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largest tea producer The Caribbean’s

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a holistic approach Singapore centred around An ecosystem of support in

focus on the future of people innovator with a steadfast space and business Group is an award-winning for modern living, Aurum driven design and a passion Equipped with purpose-

the industry plays a crucial role in the future of serves as a national voice and and national trade, Ports Australia efficient gateways to international ports to be sustainable and Working to support Australian

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With original and exclusive content compiled by our experienced editorial team, we look to promote the latest in engaging news, industry trends, and success stories from across the globe.

Your company can join the leading industry heavyweights enjoying the free exposure we provide across our platforms with a free marketing brochure, extensive social media saturation, enhanced B2B networking opportunities, and a readymade forum to attract new investment and help you grow your business.

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WELCOME FROM THE EDITOR

GRAND GESTURES

EDITORIAL Head of Editorial: Jack Salter jack.salter@outpb.com Deputy Head of Editorial: Lucy Pilgrim lucy.pilgrim@outpb.com

Welcome to our 33rd edition of North America Outlook.

Stretching across this issue’s front cover, and a mile

Senior Editor: Lily Sawyer lily.sawyer@outpb.com

across the Grand River Valley, is the Pensacola Dam – the

Editor: Ed Budds ed.budds@outpb.com Editor: Rachel Carr rachel.carr@outpb.com Copy Editor: Lauren Kania lauren.kania@outpb.com PRODUCTION Art Director: Stephen Giles steve.giles@outpb.com Senior Designer: Devon Collins devon.collins@outpb.com Designer: Louisa Martin louisa.martin@outpb.com Production Manager: Alex James alex.james@outpb.com Digital Marketing Director: Fox Tucker fox.tucker@outpb.com Website Content Manager: Oliver Shrouder oliver.shrouder@outpb.com Social Media Executive: Jake Crickmore jake.crickmore@outpb.com BUSINESS CEO: Ben Weaver ben.weaver@outpb.com Managing Director: James Mitchell james.mitchell@outpb.com Chief Technology Officer: Nick Norris nick.norris@outpb.com ADMINISTRATION Finance Director: Suzanne Welsh suzanne.welsh@outpb.com Finance Assistant: Victoria McAllister victoria.mcallister@outpb.com CONTACT North America Outlook Norvic House, 29-33 Chapelfield Road Norwich, NR2 1RP, United Kingdom

world’s longest, continuous multi-arch dam.

It was built by the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA), Oklahoma’s largest public power electric utility.

For the past 85 years, since its completion in 1940, the Pensacola Dam has been used to create renewable hydroelectricity for the state.

“As a public power provider, we are owned by the people we serve,” insights CEO, Dan Sullivan.

“We are not driven by a profit motive and use a cost-of-service model to provide our power at the cost it takes to generate and transmit it to the customer.”

After the devastation of Hurricane Melissa – a Category 5 hurricane that made landfall in Jamaica in 2025 – Digicel Jamaica (Digicel) is helping to rebuild the country and support those most in need.

Digicel possesses a single laser focus – ‘Reconnecting Jamaica’ – which is a clear demonstration of its vital and unwavering disaster recovery products.

Going above and beyond its telecommunications responsibilities, the company is working alongside the Jamaican government to shape the country’s disaster recovery.

“Following the catastrophic event, we came up with ‘Reconnecting Jamaica’ because that’s our job today,” asserts Stephen Murad, CEO. Mesa Power Solutions (Mesa) not only builds and operates power systems, but also innovates how we think about distributed energy, reliability, and customer service.

With the US energy and utilities sector at a turning point, it’s an exciting place to be for both Mesa and Cruz Cabral, Vice President of Operations.

Sales: +44 (0) 1603 804 445

“We’re not waiting for the grid to catch up – we’re building what comes next,”

Editorial: +44 (0) 1603 804 431

he affirms.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Tel: +44 (0) 1603 804 431 jack.salter@outpb.com www.northamericaoutlookmag.com Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on X: @OutlookPublish

Our first edition of 2026 also showcases what’s next for FYidoctors, Smith Industries, the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority, and more in the year ahead.

We hope that you enjoy your read.

Jack Salter Head of Editorial, Outlook Publishing North America Outlook Issue 33 | 3

18 Food & Beverage Juicy Journey The real squeeze

33| CONTENTS

TO P I C A L F O C U S

22 Food & Beverage

REGULARS

A New Premium Beer Experience

6 NEWS

World-class beer and brewing craft without the consequences

Around North America in seven stories

8 EXPERT EYE Defining the 2026 smart factory

BU SI N ESS I N S I G H TS

10 Technology

4 | North America Outlook Issue 33

Calm the Confusion of IT

186 THE FINAL WORD

Guiding the connection between people and technology

What advice would you give to your younger self?

NORTH AMERICA OUTLOOK CONTENTS

144 GARFIN

F E AT U R E S

Fortifying Grenada’s Financial Future Innovative initiatives to enhance the economic environment

ENE R GY & UTILITIES

30 Grand River Dam Authority

MA N U FAC TU R I N G

156 Rohrer Corporation

Power to the Public Oklahoma’s largest public power electric utility

Practical Presentation All Wrapped Up Premium packaging that elevates brands

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106 Huntington Hospital A Heritage of Healing and Pioneering Care Meeting the community’s unique needs

OI L & G AS

40 Mesa Power Solutions Powered Up Reliable power for mission-critical operations

112 Smith Industries Built for the Future of Energy Quality craftsmanship since 2004

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162 GEDIA Automotive Group Next-Generation Engineering

T EC H NOLOGY

Actively shaping mobile transformation

56 Digicel Jamaica

CO N STR U C TI O N

Reconnecting Jamaica, One Smile at a Time

172 Kingspan Light + Air North America

Critical disaster recovery services

Crafting Naturally Enhanced Environments

112

122 SLB Striking a New Energy Balance Energy innovation for a more balanced planet

56

78 Northwestel Fiber that Empowers Igniting the power of the North

FINANCE

134 Cayman Islands Monetary Authority Firm Financial Foundations Safeguarding the territory’s financial landscape

86 Rowan Digital Infrastructure

172 Healthier, smarter, and more sustainable buildings

180 Turner Construction A Journey of Innovation and Impact The principles of prefabrication, partnerships, and people

Powering Progress Sustainably Customized, sustainable data center infrastructure

H EALT HCA RE

94 FYidoctors New Vision for Canadian Eye Care Canada’s largest eye care provider

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North America Outlook Issue 33 | 5

NEWS

Around North America in seven stories…

TECHNOLOGY

TIKTOK TAKEOVER

R E TA I L

A RECIPE FOR TRANSPARENT TRADE CANADA IS GRADUALLY implementing a voluntary grocery code of conduct to promote fair dealings among grocers, suppliers, wholesalers, and primary producers. This initiative aims to enhance transparency, fairness, and predictability within the industry.

The code is regulated by the Office of the Grocery Sector Code of Conduct and features provisions

on trade rules, a governance model, and a process for adjudication and dispute resolution.

The country’s five largest grocery chains – Empire, Loblaw, Metro, Walmart Canada, and Costco Canada – have officially registered to participate. Ultimately, this code may lead to lower prices, shorter supply chains, and increased choices for consumers.

TIKTOK HAS ENTERED into a joint venture (JV) agreement for its US operations with three managing investors – Oracle, Silver Lake, and Abu Dhabi-based MGX. Shou Zi Chew, CEO of TikTok, announced that the new entity, TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, will be primarily owned by US investors.

It will be governed by a new sevenmember board of directors, all of whom are American, and will operate under terms designed to protect the data of US users and ensure national security.

Following the announcement, Oracle’s shares rose by five percent during after-hours trading. The JV will manage global product interoperability and specific commercial activities such as e-commerce, advertising, and marketing.

Additionally, it will focus on retraining the app’s core content recommendation algorithm.

H E A LT H C A R E

SWALLOWING THE COMPETITION GLOBAL HEALTHCARE COMPANY Novo Nordisk has launched a weight loss pill in the US, offering an oral alternative to the injectable version of Wegovy.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the tablet form in December last year, while rival Eli Lilly’s obesity pill, orforglipron, is still 6 | North America Outlook Issue 33

under review.

The Novo Nordisk pill contains 25 milligrams of semaglutide, the same active ingredient found in the injectable medications Wegovy and Ozempic. It may also have similar side effects, including nausea and diarrhea.

In the third phase of clinical trials, participants lost approximately 14 percent of their body weight, while those who continued the treatment lost around 17 percent.

R E TA I L

STRONG SEASONAL SPENDING

OIL & GAS

CHEVRON SHARES SURGE SHARES IN CHEVRON, the only US oil company operating in Venezuela, recently rose by up to 10 percent in pre-market trading.

This increase followed US President Donald Trump’s call for “total access” to Venezuela’s vast oil reserves after the arrest of its President, Nicolás Maduro, raising hopes for eased restrictions on the country’s crude exports.

Chevron’s stock climbed 7.3 percent, while refiners like Phillips 66 and Valero Energy saw gains ranging from five to 16 percent.

Venezuela’s oil production has drastically declined from 3.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in the 1970s to approximately 1.1 million bpd last year, primarily due to underinvestment and sanctions.

Although Chevron is likely to benefit from a policy shift, analysts warn that a significant recovery in production will take time, hindered by political and infrastructural challenges.

A E R O S PAC E

STARLINK’S SAFETY SHIFT IN SPACE TO ENHANCE SPACE safety, Starlink plans to reconfigure its satellite constellation by lowering all satellites currently orbiting at approximately 550 kilometers (km) to 480 km throughout 2026.

This decision follows an incident in which one of Starlink’s satellites experienced an anomaly in space, resulting in a small amount of debris and disrupting communications with a spacecraft at an altitude of 418 km – a rare kinetic event in orbit.

The affected satellite, part of a network that includes nearly 10,000 satellites for broadband

internet, quickly descended by 4 km, indicating an explosion may have occurred onboard.

The number of spacecraft in orbit has increased significantly in recent years as companies and countries compete to deploy tens of thousands of satellites for internet constellations and other space-based services, such as communications and Earth imaging.

VISA AND MASTERCARD reported a four percent increase in US holiday retail spending, driven primarily by the electronics and apparel sectors, with both outperforming the festive average.

As in previous years, e-commerce growth outpaced sales at traditional brick-and-mortar stores, with Mastercard experiencing a 7.4 percent increase and Visa rising by 7.8 percent.

However, despite the acceleration in online spending, physical stores still accounted for the majority of holiday payments, representing 73 percent of the total volume.

Consumers combined online and instore purchasing to find the best deals and enhance convenience. This season, Klarna also reported impressive yearon-year growth in the entertainment, experiences, and automotive sectors.

TECHNOLOGY

SERVING A DASH OF INNOVATION HYPHEN, A ROBOTICS start-up, is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into the restaurant industry to help major chains like Chipotle and Cava achieve two key objectives in a highly competitive market – increased throughput and improved customer service.

Last year, Hyphen secured a Series B round of financing, with Cava investing $10 million and Chipotle contributing $25 million through its Cultivate Next venture fund.

Currently, Chipotle’s automated Hyphen makeline in San Jose, California is undergoing modifications following an in-restaurant test. Meanwhile, Cava is preparing to test and pilot Hyphen’s technology for a second makeline designed to handle digital and takeout orders from the back of the kitchen.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 7

The Dawn of Agentic Autonomy: Defining the 2026 Smart Factory If 2025 was defined by the cautious exploration of “experimental pilots” and the collection of vast data lakes, 2026 marks the year that data finally gains a mind of its own, writes Dijam Panigrahi, co-Founder and COO of GridRaster Inc. Writer: Dijam Panigrahi, co-Founder and COO, GridRaster Inc.

T

oday’s manufacturing industry has reached a new era as we enter the new year.

We are witnessing a transition from passive automation to integrated, agentic autonomy – a shift that moves beyond simple programmed responses toward systems capable of independent reasoning and real-time 8 | North America Outlook Issue 33

optimization. This evolution is not just a technical upgrade; it is a fundamental restructuring of how industrial value is created, de-risked, and scaled in an increasingly volatile global economy.

From Automation to Agentic Reasoning For decades, factory automation was a linear affair – machines followed

pre-set instructions to perform repetitive tasks. Even early artificial intelligence (AI) integrations were largely diagnostic, alerting human operators to anomalies without the agency to fix them.

In 2026, the arrival of “Agentic AI” will rewrite this script. These systems function as intelligent agents that don’t just flag a delay in the

EXPERT EYE TECHNOLOGY

supply chain or a spike in machine temperature; they independently reason through the implications, plan corrective actions, and re-optimize production schedules on the fly.

By shifting from “human-in-theloop” to “human-on-the-loop”, manufacturers are achieving a level of operational fluidity that was previously impossible, allowing the factory floor to breathe and adapt with the speed of software.

The Industrial Metaverse as an Operating System This move toward autonomy is anchored by the maturation of the Industrial Metaverse. No longer a buzzword for virtual reality headsets, the metaverse has become the functional operating system of the modern facility. High-fidelity digital twins now serve as the primary environment for strategic decision-making.

These are not static 3D models but living, breathing digital replicas that mirror every physical asset and energy load in real time.

By utilizing these twins, engineers can stress-test radical production changes or simulate complex energy-intensive cycles in a virtual space before a single physical machine is engaged.

This “sim-to-real” workflow effectively de-risks massive capital investments, ensuring that when a physical change is finally implemented, it has already been perfected a thousand times in the digital realm.

Reshoring through Strategic Job Redesign The rise of the agentic factory has paradoxically sparked a renaissance in domestic labor. As production becomes more software-defined, the old narrative of machines replacing humans is being replaced by “Strategic Job Redesign”.

Manufacturers are decomposing traditional roles into granular tasks, strategically delegating high-precision

or high-risk actions to collaborative robots (cobots) while elevating human workers into tech-enabled roles.

We are seeing a massive “resharing” and “reskilling” effort where the manual laborer of yesterday is becoming the robotics coordinator or data interpreter of today. This evolution ensures that domestic production remains competitive not by matching the low wages of the past, but by maximizing the unique cognitive strengths of a highly skilled, tech-fluent workforce.

The Evolution of Digital Offshoring As domestic facilities become more automated, the nature of global trade is also transforming. The traditional model of offshoring – the hunt for the lowest manual labor costs – is being phased out in favor of “Digital Offshoring”.

In this new paradigm, global centers of excellence manage the software architectures, AI model training, and cloud-based infrastructure that power domestic, highly automated facilities.

This shift allows companies to tap into global specialized talent to maintain the “digital brain” of the factory while keeping the physical production “muscle” close to home. This model provides a hedge against volatile trade policies and shipping disruptions, creating a decentralized yet deeply interconnected manufacturing network.

Efficiency, Sustainability, and the Double Win One of the most profound benefits of this shift is the emergence of the “double win”: the simultaneous optimization of operational speed and environmental sustainability. By migrating the heavy computational burdens of AI and augmented reality to the cloud, manufacturers are reducing the physical footprint and heat output of on-site hardware.

Furthermore, agentic systems are now capable of predictive, AI-timed power consumption. By analyzing grid demands and production

requirements, these systems can shift energy-heavy processes to off-peak hours, stabilizing the local energy grid while lowering costs. This level of granular control turns the factory from a passive energy consumer into a proactive participant in the regional energy ecosystem.

Building a Resilient, Software-Defined Future Ultimately, the transition we will observe in 2026 represents the birth of a more resilient, software-defined industrial base. The competitive advantage of a nation or a firm is no longer determined by raw labor costs, but by the sophistication of its humanmachine collaboration.

By embracing agentic autonomy and the Industrial Metaverse, manufacturers are creating a “de-risked” environment that can withstand labor shortages and global supply shocks.

The smart factory of today is not just a place where things are made; it is a dynamic, learning organism that integrates human ingenuity with machine precision to build a more stable and prosperous future.

ABOUT THE EXPERT Dijam Panigrahi is co-Founder and COO of GridRaster Inc., a leading provider of cloud-based platforms that powers compelling high-quality digital twin experiences on mobile devices for enterprises.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 9

Connection corporate headquarters, located in Merrimack, NH. In 1998, Connection completed its renovation of a former strip mall, designing a green, state-of-the-art facility that features automated energy management and rainwater recovery systems, among other environmentally friendly innovations

CALM THE CONFUSION OF IT Connection delivers industry-leading technology solutions to enhance growth, elevate productivity, and empower innovation.

We connect with President and CEO, Tim McGrath, and Chief Growth and Innovation Officer, Jamal Khan Writer: Jack Salter

10 | North America Outlook Issue 33

CONNECTION TECHNOLOGY

Since 1982, we have set the standard for customer service in the IT industry.”

A collaborative approach to the design, integration, and deployment of technology has fueled the growth of Connection, according to President and CEO, Tim McGrath.

This approach has also earned the global IT solutions provider a reputation as a trusted advisor to customers worldwide.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 11

CONNECTION TECHNOLOGY

“Empathy – for the challenges technology presents to people – is at the heart of Connection’s culture and serves as a foundation for longlasting and rewarding partnerships with organizations of every size and industry,” McGrath affirms.

Everything Connection does is driven by exceptional customer service, building strong relationships that grow deeper over time.

The company connects people with the right technology to enhance growth, elevate productivity, and empower innovation – before that, however, it needs to build trust.

“We need to listen, understand, and

Located in Wilmington, OH, the TIDC boasts 7.5 million cubic feet of warehousing and configuration lab space dedicated to world-class integration services. Equipped with the latest technologies and powered by industry-leading methodologies and certifications – including ISO 9001:2015 and SOC 2® certifications – this cutting-edge facility delivers more than 750,000 custom technology configurations each year

serve as a true advisor. The reason customers trust us is encapsulated in our vision and brand purpose to calm the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and

technology,” outlines McGrath.

“Naturally, we couldn’t accomplish any level of success without our dedicated teammates working together to drive our mission with team spirit to always achieve more.”

Long-lasting, loyal relationships and a deep bench of expertise ensure Connection is well-positioned to deliver exceptional value to customers.

As they face challenges caused by the ever-evolving world of business and technology, the company’s experts are there to provide solutions, services, and capabilities backed by real-world experience and deep knowledge.

Tim McGrath, President and CEO, shares his vision for the year ahead as he delivers the keynote address at CNXN Live, the company’s annual conference that brings together more than 2,600 employees and partners

“ W E N E E D T O L I S T E N , U N D E R S TA N D , A N D S E RV E AS A T R U E A DV I S O R . T H E R E AS O N C U S T O M E R S T R U S T U S I S E N C A P S U L AT E D I N O U R V I S I O N A N D B R A N D P U R P O S E TO C A L M T H E C O N F U S I O N O F I T, G U I D I N G THE CONNECTION BETWEEN PEOPLE AND TECHNOLOGY” – T I M M C G R AT H , P R E S I D E N T A N D C E O , C O N N E C T I O N

CONNECTION VALUES – AT A GLANCE RESPECT – Respect starts with empathy, listening, and learning about customers’ challenges and goals as if they were the company’s own.

EXCELLENCE – Connection continuously looks for ways to

“Whether it’s reassessing cybersecurity posture, optimizing a digital workspace, or modernizing infrastructure, Connection is there to help customers find the right solution for their unique needs,” adds Jamal Khan, Chief Growth and Innovation Officer.

IT MADE SIMPLE An award-winning company commended by the likes of Time, Forbes, Newsweek, Dell Technologies, HP, Intel, Lenovo, Microsoft, and Samsung, Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors.

Publicly traded on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol CNXN, it offers expertise across several areas, including artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, data centers, digital workspace, multi-cloud, and technology services.

The company has three distinct

business units – Connection Business Solutions Group (BSG), Connection Enterprise Solutions Group (ESG), and Connection Public Sector Solutions Group (PSG) – each with its own audience, focus, and approach.

Collectively, they tailor offerings for a variety of industry verticals, including healthcare, government, education, retail, manufacturing, and financial services.

The company employs more than 2,600 staff members and is headquartered in Merrimack, New Hampshire (NH), generating annual revenues of approximately $2.8 billion.

It also operates facilities in Keene, NH; Boca Raton, Florida (FL); Schaumburg, Illinois (IL); Rockville, Maryland (MD); Exton, Pennsylvania (PA); and Dakota Dunes, South Dakota (SD), along with the fullservice Technology Integration and Distribution Center (TIDC) in Wilmington, Ohio (OH).

better serve its customers and strives for long-lasting relationships that grow stronger over time.

TEAMWORK – Working together drives innovation and success.

Connection is accountable to customers, employees, and shareholders by being curious about how it can better help them grow.

The company’s curiosity inspires it to ask better questions, which leads to better solutions.

INTEGRITY – Connection is honest and direct; integrity comes from transparency, which leads to excellence. Earning trust is job number one.

CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP – Connection fosters a socially responsible culture that supports inclusive excellence, drives environmentally sound business practices, and encourages engagement in local communities.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 13

CONNECTION TECHNOLOGY

Through its TIDC, which conducts order fulfillment, warehousing, and advanced configuration, Connection offers customers turnkey solutions for all their IT needs.

These include hardware configuration, imaging and provisioning, asset management, remote management, white glove enrollment services, kitting, custom packaging, and depot repair services.

“This 268,000 square foot facility completes more than 725,000 custom configurations each year – including personal computing devices, servers, mobile devices, and networking hardware – while championing industry-leading conservation, recycling, and waste reduction strategies,” McGrath informs.

Connection holds multiple ISO certifications for its TIDC and associated delivery services, ensuring the highest levels of quality, safety, and security throughout its operations.

The company also secured System and Organization Controls 2 (SOC 2®) certification as part of ongoing efforts to deliver unsurpassed performance and security through its TIDC operations.

“This exclusive industry certification, based on a cybersecurity compliance framework developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, ensures Connection meets the highest standards for security, availability,

Connection Technology Integration and Distribution Center (TIDC)

“WHETHER IT’S REASSESSING CYBERSECURITY POSTURE, OPTIMIZING A D I G I TA L W O R K S P A C E , O R M O D E R N I Z I N G INFRASTRUCTURE, CONNECTION IS THERE TO H E L P C U STO M E R S F I N D T H E R I G H T SOLUTION FOR THEIR UNIQUE NEEDS” – J A M A L K H A N , C H I E F G R O W T H A N D I N N O VAT I O N O F F I C E R , C O N N E C T I O N

processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy,” Khan acclaims.

THE BENEFITS OF AI AI offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity for organizations to achieve rapid gains in productivity and efficiency.

As a trusted technology provider, it’s Connection’s job to help customers sort through the noise and adopt new technologies with confidence and clarity.

Thus, in December 2023, the company launched the CNXN Helix™ Center for Applied AI and Robotics (CNXN Helix).

CNXN Helix brings together industry-leading experts, resources, and support designed to help businesses of all sizes realize the benefits of AI. The center offers a portfolio of AI solutions and advisory services to assist with every need, from deeply technical engineering discussions to organization-wide introductory AI workshops.

It also provides expertise across a range of topics, including data orchestration; infrastructure design and optimization; machine learning (ML) operations, data operations, and support management; modeling, training, and inference; and AI skills development training.

With proven applications in manufacturing, healthcare, and finance services, CNXN Helix enables organizations to scale intelligently, improve outcomes, and embrace the future of automation.

“This investment underscores Connection’s unwavering commitment to driving transformative change in the AI landscape,” highlights Khan, who also heads CNXN Helix.

“Our strategic approach to helping organizations adopt and integrate AI involves a keen focus on key verticals, allowing us to tailor AI solutions that align with specific industry demands.

“Beyond technology, our commitment to advisory excellence remains paramount. We believe in

CONNECTION TECHNOLOGY

Jamal Khan, Chief Growth and Innovation Officer at Connection and Head of CNXN Helix, delivers a lecture at a recent CNXN Helix MasterClass. The event brings Helix™ Pro-certified sales professionals together for advanced training and hands-on experience with cutting-edge AI technologies from top CNXN Helix partners, including NVIDIA, Microsoft, Apple, Intel, Kore.AI, and Vaidio

CONNECTION INDUSTRY VERTICALS – AT A GLANCE HEALTHCARE – Custom-centric IT solutions to healthcare payers and providers, supporting every stage of care. Through these comprehensive solutions,

equipping our customers with the insights and guidance needed to make informed strategic decisions and achieve the most favorable outcomes,” he tells us.

CNXN Helix is therefore not just about technology – it’s about catalyzing growth, inspiring innovation, and elevating the success stories of clients and partners.

“At Connection, we recognize the profound impact of AI and the potential it represents for businesses and industries, and CNXN Helix stands as a testament to our dedication in delivering against this promise. Our mission is clear – to create exceptional AI value outcomes for our customers,” urges Khan.

There was also a keynote address from CNXN Helix at the Connection Technology Summit Series 2025, hosted in Miami, Nashville, and Phoenix, bringing together industry peers and subject-matter experts.

Connection helps healthcare organizations optimize workflows, safeguard sensitive data, and enhance both patient and provider experiences.

GOVERNMENT – Helps federal agencies optimize their technology investments, improving both efficiency and cybersecurity. Connection also provides comprehensive technology solutions to state and local governments faced with increasing budgetary constraints and shifting federal-state dynamics.

EDUCATION – Supports educational institutions by offering a wide range of technology solutions, including wired and wireless networking, cabling, and infrastructure modernization, as well as enabling remote and hybrid learning environments.

RETAIL – Solutions designed to enhance mobile enablement and elevate the customer experience. Connection provides comprehensive support for Apple iPad and iPhone deployments, ensuring seamless integration of mobile devices into retail operations.

MANUFACTURING – Verticalized thought leadership and benchmarking, offering tailored solutions for operational technology, maintenance management, and workplace safety. The company also fosters strategic partnerships and emphasizes continuous education for sales representatives, enabling manufacturers to optimize operations and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

FINANCIAL SERVICES – Secure infrastructure and compliance-ready solutions designed to meet industry regulations and safeguard sensitive data. It also delivers strategic marketing and sales enablement programs that help financial organizations enhance their outreach and effectiveness. Additionally, Connection offers custom procurement strategies and contract expertise.

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CONNECTION TECHNOLOGY

The series provided attendees with valuable opportunities to network, explore emerging technology trends, and gain actionable insights for organizational readiness.

CONNECTION BUSINESS UNITS – AUDIENCE, FOCUS, AND APPROACH

ADVANCED TOOLS AND INSIGHTS

FOCUS – Deliver industry-leading technology solutions to help organizations

Along with CNXN Helix, Connection also recently launched ConnecTrack, an AI-driven platform designed to enhance customer experience and outcomes by providing advanced tools and insights that drive greater efficiency, transparency, and satisfaction in partner environments.

Initially rolled out with Cisco and later with Microsoft, ConnecTrack supports comprehensive lifecycle management from procurement and deployment through to maintenance and decommissioning.

“The platform facilitates upgrade planning to keep systems current and integrates with Cisco to offer a single pane of glass view, uniting live subscription data, asset inventory, and service contract information in one application,” explains McGrath.

“Cost and budget optimization features help identify underutilized or redundant assets and streamline financial planning with up-to-date data.”

Proactive maintenance and support are enhanced through consistent, collaborative workspaces that facilitate renewals and ensure data accuracy, reducing the time spent managing contract inventory for renewals by 80 percent.

Sustainability initiatives within ConnecTrack also simplify analysis and options for environmentally friendly technology migrations, target equipment replacements for significant energy efficiency improvements, and demonstrate both the financial and environmental benefits of sustainable upgrades.

These align with Connection’s longstanding commitment to sustainable business practices and its continued progress toward key development goals.

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CONNECTION BSG AUDIENCE – Small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

grow, boost productivity, and drive innovation.

APPROACH – Provide exceptional service, customizing offerings to meet each customer’s unique needs. Connection’s expertise spans multiple technology areas, and robust services help optimize performance for SMBs.

CONNECTION ESG AUDIENCE – Large enterprises.

FOCUS – Provide advanced technology solutions tailored to the complex requirements of large corporations.

APPROACH – Deliver customized services, leveraging a customer-centric approach and deep expertise in areas like AI, cybersecurity, data centers, digital workspace, multi-cloud, and technology services.

CONNECTION PSG AUDIENCE – Government and education.

FOCUS – Offer technology solutions designed to meet the specific needs of public sector agencies and institutions.

APPROACH – Tailor solutions for federal, state, and local governments, as well as education. The team’s deep vendor partnerships, contract expertise, and extensive certifications ensure best-in-class products and services, including support for AI, cybersecurity, digital workspace, and more.

Jamal Khan, Chief Growth and Innovation Officer at Connection and Head of CNXN Helix, speaks at the Trust Summit, an annual conference that connects AI thought leaders and executives from leading companies to exchange ideas and help shape the future of AI

CONNECTION TECHNOLOGY

CNXN Helix wins first place in a US Department of the Navy prize challenge for pioneering a secure generative AI platform that offers a flexible, scalable solution for real-world naval applications

The company recently published its inaugural Sustainability Report, which provides detailed accounts and insightful statistics on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities.

As Connection’s first formal ESG report, it underscores the organization’s dedication to sustainable growth and meaningful community engagement.

“The report marks a significant milestone in our ESG journey. Key achievements include advancements in energy efficiency and carbon emissions tracking, the promotion of fair labor practices and employee training, and the implementation of ethical business practices, alongside responsible supply chain management,” notes Khan.

Connection fosters a socially responsible culture that not only drives environmentally sound business practices but also supports inclusive excellence and encourages community engagement.

“Our culture is deeply rooted in a series of shared values – respect, excellence, teamwork, corporate

Tim McGrath, President and CEO

citizenship, and integrity above all else. We believe in treating people the way we would like to be treated,” McGrath asserts.

These values are evident in the company’s employee-driven Connection Cares program, which empowers staff members to make a difference both within the business and its communities.

The program builds upon four pillars – a welcoming, accepting, and fair workplace; sustainability; charitable contributions; and employee recognition.

HONORING SUPERHEROES Another Connection program, the annual IT Superhero Awards, honors the overachievers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly, often without seeking recognition or praise.

These awards are designed to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of IT professionals who consistently go above and beyond to ensure operations continue seamlessly.

“Every day, our teams witness IT professionals stepping up and making a difference, which is why we are delighted to celebrate their efforts with these well-deserved accolades,” prides Khan.

2025 honorees included Jackie Lovell of St. John the Apostle Catholic School in Virginia (VA) as Best Team Leader, Lucas Reynard of Roanoke City Public Schools in VA as Best Rookie, Daymel Feliu Delgado of Brevard Public Schools in FL for Best

Catch, Michael Jordan of Amports in FL as Most Unshakeable, and Ankur Khare of SAP America in PA for Best Superpower and Ultimate IT Superhero.

“There’s no greater advocate for the potential of technology – or the power of IT professionals – than Connection.

We created the IT Superhero Awards program to celebrate these unsung heroes and recognize the individuals who propel their organizations forward with innovative ideas, bold strategies, and critical problemsolving skills,” Khan smiles.

CUSTOMER INTEGRATION Connection’s focus is always on customers, helping them to adapt and prepare for what comes next, as evidenced by numerous case studies conducted by the company in modern infrastructure, digital workspace, supply chain and lifecycle, and multi-cloud.

“Technology comes in waves, and our ability to transform and help our customers navigate these waves is mission-critical to our success,” concludes McGrath.

“Looking ahead to 2026, those crucial areas will be advanced technology solutions, including modern infrastructure, multi-cloud, cybersecurity, and AI. These are complex solutions that require an in-depth understanding of each organization’s unique environment, users, and business demands.”

The company’s success hinges on its ability to integrate closely with customers and meet their needs.

“We will continue to drive growth in advanced technology solutions and services by increasing our customer base through new client development and expanding our existing accounts through closer integration with our loyal customers,” Khan closes.

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JUICY JOURNEY Providing 100 percent cold-pressed lemon and lime juices, Twisted Alchemy is on a mission to ‘end the squeeze’ for bartenders and home-cocktail connoisseurs alike. Kim Holstein, co-Founder, shares more about how the company has gone from strength to strength, offering ‘simply the zest’ pure fruit products to its clientele Writer: Lily Sawyer

A

s North America’s beverage industry continues to undergo significant evolution, it has seen consumers move away from sugars and artificial sweeteners towards choosing products for their health and wellness benefits.

“It’s been crazy exciting to see how bartenders, food and beverage directors, and those in the hospitality

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industry have come to value the quality and impact of fresh juices on cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks, and culinary creations,” introduces Kim Holstein, co-Founder of Twisted Alchemy.

Providing high-quality cold-pressed juice for the craft cocktail industry, Twisted Alchemy is a juice company with a difference.

TWISTED ALCHEMY FOOD & BEVERAGE

Selling 750 milliliter bottles of its award-winning juices and mixers at hotels, restaurants, and bars around the US, alongside having recently launched its products in Whole Foods Market (Whole Foods) and Sprouts Farmers Market (Sprouts), the company is taking the juice sector by storm.

Having featured in the US reality TV series, Bar Rescue, Twisted Alchemy’s ability to help hospitality establishments be successful – from cafés, craft bars, and restaurants to the likes of The Ritz-Carlton, Nobu, and Hilton – is unmatched.

“We are proud to elevate menus with our fresh, cold-pressed juices,” she smiles.

ENDING THE SQUEEZE Providing bars and restaurants with an honest and effective alternative to squeezing fruit on-premises, Twisted Alchemy is gaining immense traction in the hospitality industry.

“When our clients replace juicing on-premises with our cold-pressed juices, they have a more efficient option that saves on labor and has zero waste,” Holstein prides.

Indeed, squeezing on-premises presents various obstacles, with varying yield levels often impacting overall cost.

Boasting up to 180 days’ shelf-life, Twisted Alchemy’s cold-pressed juices offer a far superior alternative, particularly thanks to their ability to maintain high levels of quality and yield.

“We also manage Brix (°Bx) and PH levels, which ensures consistency of sweetness,” she tells us.

From watermelon to passion fruit, blood orange, pomegranate, and more, the company creates juices that its customers can count on.

Notably, it also supplies juices throughout the year from fruits that cannot be juiced year-round on-premises due to their seasonality.

“We ‘end the squeeze’, enabling bartenders and food and beverage managers to save their ‘creative juices’ for menu development and other more ‘fruitful’ projects!”

Utilizing a High-Pressure Processing (HPP) cold pasteurization technique, Twisted Alchemy is able to retain vitamins and keep natural enzymes intact.

“It’s exciting technology that uses pressure instead of heat, which means we don’t kill the important enzymes and vitamins.

“You can really taste the difference between cold-pressed versus heatpasteurized juice, and this impacts guests’ experience of the cocktail or culinary creation,” Holstein reflects.

QUENCHING THE THIRST OF A NATION In addition to proudly providing its award-winning lime and lemon

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TWISTED ALCHEMY FOOD & BEVERAGE

HOW DOES USING THE °BX MEASUREMENT AND HAND-SQUEEZING YOUR JUICES ENABLE YOU TO MAINTAIN CONSISTENT SWEETNESS LEVELS AND HIGH-QUALITY FROM BOTTLE TO BOTTLE? Kim Holstein, co-Founder: “The °Bx measurement is important to ensure consistency in sweetness. If you juice your own fruit, you will have varying sweetness in the juice, and it’s not reliable.

“With Twisted Alchemy, you can count on a measured sweetness due to °Bx management.

“With our lime juice, we use hand-squeezing to eliminate pith, and flavor impact is often delivered by machines that masticate the limes.”

juices to bars and restaurants around the country, Twisted Alchemy has witnessed growing interest from the consumers and bartenders in their own home, seeking the freshest juices for their kitchen creations.

With approximately 19 limes or 16 lemons in each bottle, the company’s 100 percent cold-pressed lime and lemon juices offer extensive shelf life for customers’ favorite marinades, vinaigrettes, cocktails, or nonalcoholic beverages, among other creations.

Having recently announced its expansion into Sprouts across the country, Twisted Alchemy is widening its net and customer base.

Holstein reflects upon this significant milestone.

“With our distribution from Sprouts’ 450+ stores, we can reach so many more customers nationwide” she highlights.

Thanks to its Eureka Lemon and Persian Lime juices being Whole30 Approved and containing zero additives, preservatives, concentrates, or added sugars, Twisted Alchemy stands out from 20 | North America Outlook Issue 33

other products on the market.

As the only non-alcoholic juice brand to have this approval, the company’s 100 percent cold-pressed juices – alongside its pure fruit, farmto-bottle philosophy – certainly fit the profile of the wildly popular Whole30 Approved health and wellness program.

While other juices on the market contain concentrates, syrups, water, or are heat pasteurized, Twisted Alchemy’s products are pure juice.

“We are so excited about being Whole30 Approved!” Holstein exclaims.

SQUEEZING THE DAY By choosing polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic packaging, Twisted Alchemy’s products offer beneficial environmental and performance qualities.

“This is very important to me, and we are continuing to work on getting better options to support sustainability,” Holstein reflects.

With up to 100 percent PET and green packaging at every touch point, the company is seizing numerous opportunities to reduce its carbon footprint.

TWISTED ALCHEMY FOOD & BEVERAGE

Elsewhere, Twisted Alchemy’s Lemonade Stands for Change initiative is empowering children to make a difference by turning the everyday lemonade stalls into critical tools for change.

Through the program, children utilize the company’s lemon juice to make lemonade for their stand, learning about both entrepreneurship and impacting the world in a positive way.

“This initiative means a lot to me.

As an entrepreneur for the past 30+ years, I’ve loved empowering kids to learn about entrepreneurship,” she shares.

The years ahead, meanwhile, are ripe with potential for evolution and continued innovation.

“I’m excited about our growth on all fronts as we serve our mission to elevate the spirits of cocktails, culinary experiences, and people,” Holstein remarks.

What started with a vision of ‘ending the squeeze’ for bartenders morphed into cold-pressed juices with purpose.

“Today, we’re elevating spirits both at the bar and in the kitchen for foodies, cocktail enthusiasts, home bartenders and chefs, people hosting and entertaining, those passionate about health and well-being, and oh so many more,” she insights.

It’s also been exciting for the company to provide great value for the consumer. With limes and lemons costing up to 99 cents in today’s economy, Twisted Alchemy provides a solution to the increasing problem of affordability.

“ I ’ M E XC I T E D A B O U T O U R G R OW T H O N ALL FRONTS AS WE SERVE OUR MISSION T O E L E VAT E T H E S P I R I T S O F C O C K TA I L S , CULINARY EXPERIENCES, AND PEOPLE” – KIM HOLSTEIN, CO-FOUNDER, TWISTED ALCHEMY

“Customers can purchase a bottle of our lime or lemon juice for just $6.99 to $7.99, containing purely 19 limes or 16 lemons respectively, and the bottle can be re-opened and sit in the fridge for up to 120 days!” closes Holstein.

Bringing its 100 percent coldpressed juices to the world with the freshest product from farm to bottle, consumers can now find Twisted Alchemy’s award-winning juices in the refrigerated section at Whole Foods and Sprouts.

I

n the summer of 2023, actor Tom Holland opened up about his decision to stop drinking alcohol, a conversation that subsequently sparked a movement in the drinks market as he went on a journey to create his own non-alcoholic (NA) beer.

This sector has witnessed a growing presence in the beverage landscape over the last decade, whereby

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TOPICAL FOCUS FOOD & BEVERAGE

A NEW PREMIUM BEER EXPERIENCE Shifting from a lesser alternative to a luxury choice, the non-alcoholic beer space has evolved into a drinks category in its own right. At the helm of this new era, BERO offers a premium product that provides the same beloved craft, world-class flavor, and social energy of beer without the unwanted consequences. We pour a pint with CEO and co-Founder, John Herman Writer: Lucy Pilgrim

NA beer has transformed from a secondary choice into a popular go-to in bars, restaurants, and homes across the globe.

Representing a cultural beverage movement, consumers are now drinking with more intention, balance, and a real desire for quality without sacrifice.

“While NA beer, like so much fueling the consumer-packaged goods

(CPG) space today, started in health and wellness, it has quickly evolved beyond that,” opens John Herman, co-Founder and CEO of BERO. “What used to be a ‘lesser’ alternative is now a premium choice, driven by consumers who want flavor, craft, and connection without the downside of alcohol.”

Now a leader in premium NA drinks thanks to the work of its two creators,

BERO’s founding vision was simple – to brew NA beer that doesn’t feel like a sacrifice.

LEVERAGING PASSION AND KNOWLEDGE Upon early exploration into the NA space, Holland quickly realized there was a huge gap between what people wanted and what the category was delivering.

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TOPICAL FOCUS FOOD & BEVERAGE

“ I N A FA S T- G R O W I N G C AT E G O R Y, B E R O S TA N D S O U T B E C A U S E W E ’ R E N O T CHASING THE TREND – WE’RE BUILDING T H E F U T U R E O F W H AT P R E M I U M N A B E E R SHOULD BE” – JOHN HERMAN, CEO AND CO-FOUNDER, BERO

something better. The momentum we’re witnessing now tells us the world was more than ready for it,” Herman insights.

SAME TASTE, DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE

At the same time, Herman had similar thoughts from a brand and consumer lens, where people were looking for balance, inclusion, and products that match the way they live.

“Honestly, it was just an opportunity to create something that made the category aspirational and cool in order to attract new customers. That alignment and those opportunities are what sparked the beginning of the company,” Herman reveals.

Together, the co-Founders shaped a beer line-up that reflects the expectations of modern consumers, ranging from a European-style pilsner to great IPAs – all elevated, intentional, and globally inspired.

“Tom brought a deeply personal perspective on belonging and authenticity; I brought experience in building premium lifestyle and CPG brands while also understanding what modern consumers expect and, of course, how to get the product to market,” he expands.

This winning combination gives the company’s products both authenticity and ambition, which can be felt by the company’s global consumer base.

“BERO is the result of two people seeing the same opportunity from different angles and deciding to build 24 | North America Outlook Issue 33

With the NA beer category growing exponentially over the last five years, BERO is set apart by the fact that it never actually set out to make what was considered a ‘good’ alcoholic beer.

“We set out to make a great beer full-stop, which happens to be at <0.5 percent – that mindset shapes everything,” Herman states.

By utilizing maltose-negative yeast, BERO maintains traditional brewing methods while also keeping the beer at a negligible alcohol percentage.

Significantly, this method omits the need for dealcoholization or stripping out flavor.

Such careful consideration in the crafting process means the brand’s products can stand shoulder-toshoulder with not only other NA beverages, but the best beers in the world.

BERO is further distinguished by its status as a premium global lifestyle brand rather than a functional NA product.

“The design, storytelling, partnerships, and communities we show up for all ladder into something more aspirational. Consumers immediately feel the difference when they pick up a can or see us in the world.”

BERO’s flavor profiles stand on equal level with top alcoholic beers

thanks to the company’s first hire – a brewmaster with an incredible legacy, which was tapped into to make drinks consumers love and enjoy.

“We’re creating beers people want to drink for the experience, not just for the absence of alcohol.

“In a fast-growing category, BERO stands out because we’re not chasing the trend – we’re building the future of what premium NA beer should be,” Herman impassions.

POURING THE PERFECT PINT BERO is promoted as the perfect balance between pleasure and moderation – a strategy which started with a simple truth – people don’t want to choose between feeling good in the moment and feeling good the next day.

TOPICAL FOCUS FOOD & BEVERAGE

“Modern consumers want both, and they expect brands to meet them there,” Herman attests.

“The pleasure is real – proper brewing, real craft, premium design, and world-class flavor profiles. The moderation is effortless; you get the social energy, ritual, and taste without the downsides.”

Indeed, BERO is not trying to define new beer drinking occasions but instead tapping into those that have existed throughout history, unlocking vast groups of people trying to live with more intention but still wishing to find pleasure in drinking.

To appeal to health-conscious consumers, the brand leans into authenticity rather than preaching, as its approach is more lifestyle-driven rather than clinical and advisory.

“We show people enjoying BERO in the moments that matter – an afternoon with friends, a weeknight dinner, between meetings, or a party where they want clarity without feeling

left out. It’s about empowerment, not restriction,” Herman urges.

For a generation that increasingly cares about performance, wellness, and belonging, BERO fits naturally into that rhythm, allowing consumers to stay sharp and social while still enjoying something that feels premium.

“That’s the balance we’re building the brand around, and it’s resonating everywhere we show up.”

BRITISH IDENTITY, AMERICAN CRAFT ‘Born in London, Crafted in America, Enjoyed Worldwide’ isn’t just a motto for BERO, but the foundation of the brand.

BERO blends the attitude and heritage of modern British culture with the scale, innovation, and flavor ambition of the American craft beer movement – giving the beer a universality that travels across the globe.

“The British side brings a sense of character, wit, inclusivity, and understated style. It’s that London energy – creative, international, effortlessly cool – that shapes our brand worldwide.

“The American craft influence shows up in our brewing – bigger flavor expression, richer profiles, and a relentless focus on quality and technique,” Herman details.

Together, these two worlds create beers that feel familiar but elevated, classic but modern.

For instance, BERO’s Kingston Golden Pils has a crisp European backbone with a brighter American finish.

Its IPAs, meanwhile, bring West Coast and New England-style craft to create more expressive hop profiles.

“The result is a line-up that feels both at home but also differentiated around the world – culturally rooted but globally resonant.

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TOPICAL FOCUS FOOD & BEVERAGE

REDEFINING A LUXURY LIFESTYLE Combining the decadent luxury of one of Britain’s automotive titans and the evolution of premium drinking, BERO’s partnership with Aston Martin is a reflection of the world the brand is building from.

“From the start, we set out to create NA beer that lives comfortably in a premium, design-driven, and highperformance environment. Aston Martin represents that standard of craftsmanship, heritage, innovation, and an unmistakable sense of taste,” Herman enthuses.

Becoming the official NA beer partner of Aston Martin is a landmark moment in BERO’s journey, aligning with a brand that shares the same values and believes in precision, intentionality, and elevating everyday moments.

“Aston Martin drivers and guests want the best of both worlds – a luxury experience and the clarity to fully enjoy it. BERO fits naturally into that mindset.”

That’s the power of combining British identity with American craft – the beer becomes universal, and BERO becomes a brand the world can connect to.”

CLUB BERO BERO clearly recognizes that today’s consumers are not looking for pureplay products but rather experiences that can be shared with those close to them.

With this in mind, it launched CLUB BERO, a membership group where its most engaged fans, creators, chefs, and partners come together to shape the brand.

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“CLUB BERO is our way of building something deeper than a customer base. We’re building a community around intentional living, premium taste, and the culture that sits around this new wave of NA drinking,” Herman prides.

Those in the club obtain a BEROMASTER membership, a toptier community in the NA space as members gain exclusivity to early drops, limited releases, small-batch experimental brews, and early access to collaborations.

However, the real value of BEROMASTER can be found in the abundance of experiences on offer,

The partnership highlights how modern luxury is no longer about excess, but choice, balance, and surrounding yourself with things that are beautifully made and category-defining.

“When people see our beer in an Aston Martin environment, it sends a message – NA doesn’t mean less, it means you’re living with purpose, staying sharp, and still choosing something exceptional.”

TOPICAL FOCUS FOOD & BEVERAGE

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TOPICAL FOCUS FOOD & BEVERAGE

such as invites to private events, tastings, partner experiences, and curated moments where the brand truly comes to life.

The membership also acts as a direct line to team feedback loops, co-creation, and a role in the evolution of BERO. Although still in its early days, BEROMASTER has already helped inform flavors, packaging tweaks, merchandise, and even launch markets.

It is hoped the community will become brand and loyalty-defining, driving exclusive and limited moments.

“CLUB BERO is our cultural engine; BEROMASTER is the inner circle.

Together, they let us build something that feels personal, premium, and global – exactly the kind of modern lifestyle brand we set out to create,” Herman tells us.

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF BEER As the NA beer sector enters the mainstream over the next five years, Herman believes it will become an everyday choice rather than the alternative option consumers reach for.

“As the category increases in momentum, it will become a normal, automatic part of how people drink, particularly as consumer behavior is shifting fast, and the taste has finally caught up to the promise,” Herman attests.

The beverage sector is also seeing NA beer move from a functional space into a premium lifestyle product.

“People aren’t looking for products that simply remove alcohol; they’re looking for brands that match how they live – design-forward, culturally relevant, and globally inspired. It stops being about what’s missing and becomes fully about what you gain.”

As this movement evolves, brands that show up in the right cultural moments – such as sporting, music, and luxury events, alongside 28 | North America Outlook Issue 33

hospitality, travel, and wellness – are the ones who will define the space.

This is where BERO comes in, as it will shape the next era of the NA drinks space. The company is proving what <0.5 percent beer can be with a level of craft, flavor, and design that stands up to the best beers in the world, supported by a global lifestyle brand and innovative partnerships.

Analysts estimate that NA beers will represent 20 percent of the broader alcoholic beverage market in coming years, and for this to materialize, BERO strives to excite and inspire new consumers to look for innovative solutions and brands.

“If the last decade was about

proving that NA belongs, the next five years will be about defining who leads it, and I fully believe BERO is going to be at the front of that movement.

We see this as being a sub-category that will redefine the future of beer,” Herman closes.

Tel: +14126065328 john@berobrewing.com www.berobrewing.com

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Pensacola Dam

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GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY ENERGY & UTILITIES

P OW E R TO THE PUBLIC An Oklahoma agency of excellence, the Grand River Dam Authority is proud to be the state’s largest public power electric utility. Dan Sullivan, CEO, tell us more about the authority’s drive, stewardship of the land, and goals for the future Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Molly Foss

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GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY ENERGY & UTILITIES

C

ommitted to the charge of being a good steward of natural resources in Oklahoma (OK), the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) is dedicated to supplying ‘power for progress’ that boosts economic development and quality of life across the state.

Created by the OK Legislature in 1935 to serve as a conservation and reclamation district for the waters of the Grand River, GRDA is OK’s largest public power electric utility, fully funded by revenues from electric and water sales instead of taxes.

“The vision was for GRDA to build the first hydropower generation facility in OK, which was completed in 1940,” introduces Dan Sullivan, CEO. This was the Pensacola Dam – the world’s longest, continuous multi-arch dam that stretches for a mile across the Grand River Valley to create Grand Lake and harness the power of falling water. For the past 85 years, the Pensacola Dam has been used to create renewable hydroelectricity for the state.

Currently, GRDA’s only retail service is in the MidAmerica Industrial Park in Pryor, OK, which is the third-largest industrial park in the US and hosts many industrial and manufacturing facilities, including the world’s second-largest Google data center.

With a workforce of approximately 600, the authority generates and transmits power to wholesale customers in OK, Kansas, Arkansas, and Missouri using 1,200 miles of highvoltage transmission lines.

“As a public power provider, we are owned by the people we serve,” insights Sullivan.

“We are not driven by a profit motive and use a cost-of-service model to provide our power at the cost it takes to generate and transmit it to the customer.”

As such, the affordability and reliability of GRDA’s vital power allows its customers to economically thrive.

With electricity costs being significant for both homeowners and businesses, keeping it affordable allows companies to expand and create more jobs.

Salina Pumped Storage Project

“ G R DA H AS N E V E R B E E N A F R A I D O F T H E FUTURE. AS THE FIRST HYDROPOWER FA C I L I T Y I N O K , W E H AV E L E D T H E WAY W I T H T H E O N LY P U M P E D H Y D R O P O W E R FA C I L I T Y A N D B Y B U I L D I N G A S U P E R E F F I C I E N T N AT U R A L G A S C O M B I N E D - C Y C L E UNIT IN 2017” – D A N S U L L I VA N , C E O , G R A N D R I V E R D A M A U T H O R I T Y

32 | North America Outlook Issue 33

GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY ENERGY & UTILITIES

Grand River Energy Center (GREC) Unit 3

“Our municipal customers find the margin they make on electricity sales as an important source of revenue for their communities. Municipal electric systems are run by the people in their communities for the people in their communities; that local connection provides additional incentives to make sure the lights stay on,” details Sullivan.

AN AGENCY OF EXCELLENCE Sullivan spent 23 years practising law in Tulsa, OK and served seven years in the OK House of Representatives before joining GRDA in December 2011.

“My hometown is a customer of GRDA, and my time in the legislature showed the significance of public power and how it can promote economic development,” Sullivan reflects.

“The more I learned about GRDA, the more I was interested in working with an organization that makes an important contribution to people’s daily lives.”

34 | North America Outlook Issue 33

HOW DOES GRDA EMPOWER ITS TEAM MEMBERS AND RECOGNIZE THE CONTRIBUTIONS THAT THEY MAKE? Dan Sullivan, CEO: “One of the biggest ways that we show our employees that we value them is by providing them with a safe working environment. I believe in hiring people to do their jobs and letting them do it.

“We also recognize that it is part of the human condition to make mistakes. Learning from those mistakes and improving for the future is the way we will continue to grow as an organization.”

GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY ENERGY & UTILITIES

One of the things Sullivan appreciates about public power is how the authority looks for win-win solutions to problems.

“Coming from a legal background, that was a major paradigm shift for me. Since we are not driven by a profit motive, we look for the best solutions for our customers that provide mutual benefit,” he expands.

This allows for a refreshing pace where the authority, its customers, and partners have positive relationships of all types.

Additionally, GRDA has recently joined three other public power utilities in Nebraska to form a consortium to study advanced nuclear energy. It believes that nuclear generation is a part of the long-term strategy to meet growing customer needs and would be a great supplement to the generation portfolio that the authority currently owns.

“I am excited about the opportunity to explore this new technology with other public power utilities to prepare for the future,” enthuses Sullivan.

LEADING THE WAY IN ENERGY GRDA has prepared itself for the future by upgrading its facilities and building new generation, alongside other endeavors.

“If you’re not adapting, you’re dying as an organization,” asserts Sullivan.

GRDA’S MISSION To deliver affordable, reliable electricity with a focus on

GREC Unit 3

efficiency and a commitment to environmental stewardship. The authority is dedicated to economic development, providing resources, and supporting economic growth.

GRDA’s employees are its greatest asset in meeting its goal of being an OK agency of excellence.

36 | North America Outlook Issue 33

The authority completed its first natural gas combined-cycle plant in 2017 with a Mitsubishi M501J, while construction is underway on a simplecycle Mitsubishi M501JAC that will be the first of its kind in the US. Additionally, GRDA is undergoing a major renovation of the six Salina Pumped Storage Project (SPSP) units

that were completed in two phases in 1968 and 1971.

“Engineering plans are progressing to provide more efficient units that offer greater flexibility for the project to maximize the benefits of a pumped storage project in today’s Southwest Power Pool market,” informs Sullivan.

GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY ENERGY & UTILITIES

Go hydropower.

Congratulations to Grand River Dam Authority on 90 years of bold leadership in hydropower—driving sustainability, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.

Emerson shares this purpose, empowering progress through our innovative Ovation™ Automation Platform to help make the world healthier, safer, smarter, and more sustainable.

Learn more at Emerson.com/Hydro

The Emerson logo is a trademark and a service mark of Emerson Electric Co. © 2025 Emerson Electric Co.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 37

Pensacola Dam

Pensacola Dam powerhouse turbine generators

GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY ENERGY & UTILITIES

“ H E A LT H Y R E L AT I O N S H I P S I N V O LV E T R U S T, A N D W E S T R I V E T O F O S T E R T H AT AT M O S P H E R E W I T H C O M M U N I C AT I O N . G R E AT PA R T N E R S H I P S E N A B L E G R DA TO B E T T E R S E R V E T H E C U S T O M E R S R E LY I N G O N U S T O DELIVER THE POWER THEY NEED FOR THEIR COMMUNITIES AND BUSINESSES” – D A N S U L L I VA N , C E O , G R A N D R I V E R D A M A U T H O R I T Y

Market dynamics dictate more operational flexibility, and the authority’s partners are assisting in upgrading the units to meet such demands.

As GRDA has embarked on large projects such as refurbishing existing units and building new ones, its philosophy has been to engage partners, not vendors. Any large project has its ups and downs, and the authority seeks partners who will work with it to find solutions rather than look for scapegoats.

“We have been blessed with partners who have helped us navigate large projects and find small ways to make the effort successful,” dictates Sullivan.

“Healthy relationships involve trust, and we strive to foster that atmosphere with communication.

Great partnerships enable GRDA to better serve the customers relying on us to deliver the power they need for their communities and businesses.”

PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE As GRDA looks towards a further 80 years of supporting the community, generation completion and planning remain a big priority for 2026.

“GRDA has never been afraid of the future. As the first hydropower facility in OK, we have led the way with the only pumped hydropower facility and by building a super-efficient natural gas combined-cycle unit in 2017,” acclaims Sullivan.

Renewable generation resources

such as hydropower have been augmented over the years with wind generation, and the authority embraces an ‘all of the above’ philosophy when it comes to generation.

“It’s also important for us to listen to our customers regarding the type of generation that they need to meet their objectives,” he details.

As GRDA brings on a new gas unit, it is also working through the renovation of its SPSP facility.

Meanwhile, the authority is working with customers to plan for the future by leveraging its resources as a member of The Energy Authority (TEA) – created by public power to serve public power.

GRDA became a full member in July 2024 and is leaning on TEA resources to increase its expertise in serving customers and planning ahead.

“Increased natural gas utilization and preparing for system growth are big tasks, and our TEA membership provides resources that we would not be able to acquire on our own,” concludes Sullivan.

Tel: 918-256-5545 questions@grda.com

www.GRDA.com

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 39

40 | North America Outlook Issue 33

UP

MESA POWER SOLUTIONS ENERGY & UTILITIES

POWERED

The name is new, but the power behind it is stronger than ever – Mesa Power Solutions designs, assembles, and supports the equipment that keeps essential industries running. We find out more about the fullservice power provider with Cruz Cabral, Vice President of Operations Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Molly Foss

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 41

MESA POWER SOLUTIONS ENERGY & UTILITIES

From where I sit within Mesa Power Solutions (Mesa), the energy and utilities industry in the US is in one of its most dynamic and uncertain phases in decades – but also one of the most promising.”

Demand for reliable, distributed power has never been higher, according to Mesa’s Vice President of Operations, Cruz Cabral.

Between data centers, manufacturing growth, electrification, and general grid instability, the need for flexible, on-demand energy solutions continues to expand faster than the traditional utility model can keep up with.

“What we’re seeing across the industry is tension between legacy infrastructure and future demand. Utilities are struggling with aging transmission systems, slow permitting, and the complexity of integrating renewables at scale,” Cabral insights.

“Meanwhile, customers – whether industrial operators, municipalities, or data centers – can’t wait for that infrastructure to catch up; they need reliability today.”

Companies like Mesa have been able to bridge this gap, providing modular, natural gas-powered generation systems that bring gridlevel reliability directly to the point of use.

Natural gas continues to play a critical role in the US energy mix and is the most viable bridge fuel for the transition toward a cleaner, decentralized grid.

“What excites me is how our offerings – combining power solutions and intelligent controls – are evolving. We’re starting to see serious momentum around microgrids, load management, and energy resilience as service models,” notes Cabral.

“From my standpoint, the opportunity isn’t just about selling

equipment – it’s about being a strategic energy partner. We’re focused on reliability, efficiency, and scalability – the fundamentals that matter regardless of which way the policy winds blow.

“I think that’s what differentiates the next generation of energy service companies – those that can operate like an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), think like a technology firm, and execute like a disciplined field organization,” he affirms.

With the US energy and utilities sector at a turning point, it’s an exciting place to be for both Mesa and Cabral.

“We’re not waiting for the grid to catch up – we’re building what comes next.”

A REWARDING JOURNEY At Mesa, Cabral has had the privilege of being part of a company that

MESA POWER SOLUTIONS ENERGY & UTILITIES

not only builds and operates power systems, but also innovates how we think about distributed energy, reliability, and customer service.

Over the years, his role has evolved from learning the technical details of generators to designing and leading large-scale operational systems – spanning hundreds of units, multiple facilities, and full-service support teams.

“What keeps me driven in this industry is winning in the leadership realm – solving complex problems with real-world impact,” Cabral tells us.

“I’m proud to have grown alongside Mesa as we’ve transformed from a rental fleet operation into a forwardleaning, trusted power solutions provider.”

It has been a challenging, rewarding journey for Cabral, one that feels like an extension of the same mission mindset he learned in the US Marine Corps (USMC) – live with purpose, lead by example, and never stop improving.

Cabral learned the fundamentals of leadership, teamwork, and operational discipline in the USMC, where he was also instilled with a deep respect for planning, accountability, and mission execution – values that have stayed with him in every role since.

“My career has been anything but linear – it’s been built on adaptability, discipline, and seizing opportunities that often didn’t look like opportunities at first,” he reflects.

After leaving the USMC, Cabral didn’t set out to work in the energy industry. In fact, his transition into energy services was a happy accident.

“I was looking for a challenge – something that demanded the same level of precision, teamwork, and problem-solving that I had in the USMC — and I found that at Mesa.

“What started as an opportunity to contribute turned into a passion for reliable power generation and operational excellence,” Cabral shares.

CORE ADAPT VALUES From day one, Mesa’s culture has been shaped by a commitment to action, integrity, and service.

Its core values – captured in the acronym, ADAPT – are how the company approaches every project, partnership, and challenge: ACTION-ORIENTED – Mesa employees are problem-solvers. At all levels of the company, employees take the initiative when issues arise, act quickly, and respond accordingly.

DISCIPLINED – The pillars of safety, quality, and productivity require employees to have the discipline to do the little things right that maintain high standards.

ACCOUNTABLE – Nobody is perfect, and when things go wrong, staff members own up to their actions. The team takes accountability for everything it does – good and bad.

PASSIONATE – Mesa believes in the value of a positive workplace.

Employees show passion for their jobs through their dedication, positivity, flexibility, and the fun they have with their teams.

TRUSTWORTHY – Teams can only accomplish their goals when members trust each other. Mesa employees have integrity, which allows their coworkers to trust them to make the best decision in any situation.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 43

(The view of G-TECH headquarters in Yangju)

TOTAL COOLING SOLUTIONS Making customers comfortable!

We are pioneering the future of radiators through value and trust.

Since we established our first factory in 1981, G-TECH Co., Ltd has become one of the leading companies to provide ‘radiators for generators’ in South Korea.

G-TECH is transforming into a ‘TOTAL COOLING SOLUTION PROVIDER’ by producing and developing cooling modules for construction equipment, hydrogen, industrial fields, fuel cells, and renewable energy sources, filed through the innovation of technology with consistent R&D.

With a management philosophy of “Let’s go together”, G-TECH Co., Ltd has the passion and courage to try our best to ensure customers are satisfied with their various requirements, through consistent innovation of technology and improvement of quality.

We are eager to take a step forward to achieving our new vision, which is to take the global market by storm using the 40 years of know-how and knowledge we have gained in this field.

For many decades. G-TECH’s cooling modules for generators are being supplied to customers globally, including Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the US.

Where there is HEAT, There is G-TECH G-TECH History Established Factory

Start Daeheung Radiator Co., Ltd

1989

2001

1981

Established Company

2000

Mass production of Forklift

2007

2008

Factory extension Mass production of MFR -Move to Yanju CityCertification of ISO9001:2008 & ISO14001:2004

Invention of Heat Exchanger for Fuel cell

MFR Factory extension

2012

2009

Established Factory for AL Radiator

2016

2018 2021

Change of Mass production of company name cooling module for G-TECH Co., Ltd. renewal energy Certification of CE PED [Green Technology]

G-TECH & MESA Solutions MESA Solutions is a strategic partner based on trust for G-TECH. We are dedicated to building a long-term partnership based on trust and shared growth.

Since the early stages of MESA’s generator development, G-TECH has worked closely with MESA to develop the optimal cooling modules.

Even now, G-TECH continues to make every effort to address MESA’s requests for new product development and performance improvement. * MESA Series

G-TECH - GX22_Horizontal

Model

Application Mounting

Power (kWm) 500

Heat rejection (kW) 453

GV22 PU GV22 653kW

Horizontal

653

562

GX22-MV

Mounting

577

475

GX22

Horizontal

800

716

GX12

Mounting

280

325

MESA Generator

SIZE (G-TECH available)

Heat rejection range (kW)

Small

22 ~ 100

Medium

100 ~ 400

Large

400 ~ 1,000

Extra-Large

1,000 ~ 4,500

1) For Generators • More than 75% of the cooling modules for Korean generators are produced and • sold by G-TECH. • The heat rejection range that can be designed and manufactured. (22KW ~ 4500KW) • Air on Temper : MAX. 62℃ / △P 13mmAq(External pressure drop)

WP2.3D47E2-A 22KW

DP222LC 750KW

QSK60G10 2000KW

QSK60G6 RV4F 2000KW

20V4000G63L 2850KW

C175-20 RV4F 4000KW

2) For Power Plants (MFR- Multi Fan Remote Radiator) • The Multi-Fan Remote Radiator is a next-generation solutions free from capacity limitations.

• Both horizontal and vertical configurations are available to suit site conditions.

* overseas sales

Horizontal

Vertical

www.gtech81.com

3) For Industrial Equipment

G-TECH - CUSTOMERS

• Forklifts, Rock drill, Excavator and Agricultural machinery etc.

BAR TYPE

• For industrial equipment cooling modules, they must be highly durable to withstand high pressure and strong vibrations.

• Therefore, it uses a bar plate type core, as shown in the photo (above.)

4) For Special Business • Battery Module Cold Plate, HVAC Condenser and Evaporator, Drone Cooling System etc.

• These are G-TECH’s future business products, developed through joint research, development, and investment partnerships with major corporations in South Korea.

• Battery module Cold Plate

• Drone cooling system

• HVAC, Chillere Condenser and Evaporator

• Heat Exchanger

MESA POWER SOLUTIONS ENERGY & UTILITIES

RELIABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS Mesa was built to deliver resilient, reliable energy solutions where they’re needed most.

Its roots are in oil and gas, where the company has established a reputation for rugged, dependable generators capable of running on wellhead, stranded, or natural gas, giving operators flexibility, fuel savings, and environmental advantages in the field.

“We began by delivering distributed power solutions primarily to oil and gas customers across the Central and Western US,” Cabral outlines.

Mesa’s natural gas-powered equipment is trusted by leading oil and gas producers to deliver consistent power that performs in extreme conditions.

48 | North America Outlook Issue 33

From remote well sites to large-scale refining operations, Mesa’s generators deliver continuous, reliable power for every phase, keeping production moving and downtime off the table.

Along with oil and gas, which remains a core market, Mesa now also serves the data center and utilities industries.

As data centers require missioncritical reliability, the company delivers scalable solutions that grow with demand while reducing reliance on the grid.

Mesa also partners with utility providers to deliver dependable, modular power systems that safeguard grid stability.

“Our commitment to reliability, comprehensive service offerings,

and cutting-edge telemetry systems quickly established Mesa as a trusted partner in the energy sector,” acclaims Cabral.

“Over time, we evolved into a fully fledged engine and generator manufacturer, expanding our capabilities to meet a broader range of energy needs.

“Today, we provide a complete portfolio of distributed and interconnected power solutions, including primary, standby, and bridge power systems – whether standalone or grid-connected,” he confirms.

SERVICE EXCELLENCE Across the oil and gas, data center, and utilities industries, the company stands out thanks to its impressive combination of unmatched service,

“ W H AT E X C I T E S M E I S H O W O U R O F F E R I N G S – COMBINING POWER SOLUTIONS AND I N T E L L I G E N T C O N T R O L S – A R E E V O LV I N G .

W E ’ R E S TA R T I N G T O S E E S E R I O U S M O M E N T U M A R O U N D M I C R O G R I DS , LOA D M A N A G E M E N T, A N D E N E R G Y R E S I L I E N C E A S SERVICE MODELS” – CRUZ CABRAL, VIC E P RE S I DE NT OF OP E RAT I ONS , ME SA P OW E R S OLU T I ONS

technical expertise, and engineering flexibility.

“Our industry-leading two-hour service guarantee, backed by robust preventive and predictive maintenance programs, ensures exceptional uptime and reliability for

our customers,” Cabral highlights.

In addition to service excellence, Mesa’s ability to manufacture and rebuild engines to OEM specifications allows it to offer a deeper and more versatile range of solutions tailored to meet evolving operational demands.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 49

WORLD

LEADERS

IN COMPRESSION AND FABRICATION Offering compressors, parts, and equipment, from start to finish, Compression Leasing Services, Inc. is here to confidently build what you need, when you need it, with its expert team and resources.

Offering services for compression and custom equipment and parts, Compression Leasing Services, Inc. (CLS) is the nation’s leader in high-pressure compressor fabrication, sales, service, and support.

We manufacture equipment for applications large and small, with rental, leasing, and sales options to meet any compression needs.

Based in Casper, Wyoming, CLS sells parts for all major compressor brands – including discontinued models – offering original and aftermarket parts in new and used condition. Four fully stocked parts departments in Casper and Gillette, Wyoming; Denver, Colorado; and Houston, Texas, ensure your equipment keeps running when you need it most.

CLS distributes and services desiccant dryers, coalescer filters, fuel tanks, and other compressor and engine-related accessories. We partner with top product lines like Quincy Compressor, Sullivan Palatek, ZEKS, Sullair, Prevost, FS Elliott, and Atlas Copco to provide quality packages and unmatched service.

While known for compressors, CLS is certified to build ASME Section VIII Division 1 pressure vessels and perform National Board Inspection Code alterations and repairs. Our formal in-house quality control ensures every project meets the high standards CLS is known for.

We rent, lease, and sell packages for air drilling, pipeline construction, power generation, oil and gas refining, and food and chemical production. With in-house design, drafting, fabrication, machining, and quality control, CLS builds your project right the first time.

FAMILY-OWNED AND OPERATED

Family-owned and operated for over 40 years, CLS is dedicated to providing the highest level of customer sales, service, and support, no matter how big or small the project.

The CLS owners care about our customers and employees and value each as if they were family.

As a family-owned business, CLS will treat you like family, ensuring you leave satisfied and that your product is built right the first time.

In 1998, CLS was reincorporated

by Ben and Daron Gruner, 17 years after their father founded the business. Along with a small group of dedicated employees, the brothers set out to change the compressor industry by integrating products, processes, and services into the sector.

In 2006, CLS expanded with a custom-built fabrication shop housing an ASME code vessel shop, skid fabrication, unit assembly, full-service machine shop, and drafting and engineering offices - furthering our reputation for quality and innovation.

A WORLD-CLASS PORTFOLIO

At CLS, we understand the importance of reliable, highperforming compressors across the oil and gas, manufacturing, and construction sectors. In oil and gas, compressors are integral to natural gas processing, gas flow operations, and refining. In manufacturing and construction, they power pneumatic tools, automated systems, and other essential equipment, ensuring efficiency and productivity. CLS is a trusted expert in these globally significant industries. CLS is a trusted expert when it comes to these globally significant services and industries.

In 2025, CLS proudly completed its Ecoloop Mobile Compressor rebuild project.

This eight-month journey of collaboration, craftsmanship, and technical excellence is a prime example of the industry-leading initiatives the company is known for.

The project kicked off with a full teardown of the unit, with every piece of equipment being removed, assessed, and either refurbished or replaced. This

Our team designed and fabricated a groundbreaking drill module capable of delivering up to 1000 SCFM at 500 PSI, setting a new standard in drilling performance.

This fully integrated system operates at three selectable pressure set points with a loaded drive speed input range of 1200 to 2100 RPM. Engineered for both power and practicality, the module features large, latched side doors for tool-free maintenance access and quick component removal.

Despite its robust capabilities, the unit maintains a compact footprint—measuring 64¼”L x 58”W x 54¼”T and weighing 3700 lbs.

was more than just a standard maintenance cycle; it was a complete transformation aimed at restoring peak performance and extending the compressor’s life.

The result of all this work is a fully revitalized, high-performance mobile compressor unit that looks sharp and runs even sharper.

Ultimately, this project stands as a shining example of what happens when departments pull together with purpose, pride, and technical expertise.

Another innovative project CLS completed in 2022 is the 1100 CFM/500 PSI Drill Module.

To meet the client’s demanding space and performance requirements, CLS employed advanced 3D CAD modeling, leveraged decades of combined fabrication experience, and collaborated with a trusted network of vendors. The result: a compact, high-performance module complete with a 500-horsepower air end, oil cooling system, dual air cleaners, and a custom-designed air/ oil separator tailored to the customer’s drilling rig specifications.

Achievements like these reinforced CLS’s reputation as a leader in high-pressure compressor innovation and custom-engineered solutions.

CLS’S VALUES

• Quality – Each product looks and performs as designed because of our dedication to detail and excellence.

• Full-service – Our full-service machine shop, drafting, on-call service, and fullystocked engineering and parts departments will help you build your project and keep you running after completion.

• Urgency – Our 24/7 availability means you don’t have to wait when you have an emergency.

• Relationships – We value our customers and have an unwavering commitment to service and support.

No matter the project, CLS provides expert services and personalized offerings. Contact us today to learn how we can meet your compression, custom equipment, and parts needs.

Phone: +1 307-265-3242 Website: www.cls-inc.com Facebook: CLSINC307

MESA POWER SOLUTIONS ENERGY & UTILITIES

VETERAN SUPPORT Mesa doesn’t just support veterans – it’s strengthened by them.

Military values shape the company’s people, products, and promise to customers, with US veterans actively sought for roles across engineering, assembly, and field service.

Many of Mesa’s team members are veterans, bringing a mindset of service, discipline, and action, directly contributing to the performance and reliability Mesa’s clients have come to count on.

More than a strong ethic, they also bring values that seamlessly align with Mesa’s core ADAPT values – action-oriented, disciplined, accountable, passionate, and trustworthy.

Through dedicated hiring, mentorship, and advancement programs, the company helps veterans thrive in civilian roles while continuing their mission of service and

The company’s in-house engineering and applications teams also design and deliver custom-built power systems based on individual needs, regulatory requirements, and site-specific conditions.

“Our end-to-end capability – from design to deployment – positions Mesa as a trusted energy partner across industries,” prides Cabral.

This is evidenced by the company’s client base, which now includes large commercial and industrial organizations seeking dependable energy solutions.

With a growing footprint and team of nearly 1,000 employees distributed across 35+ facilities throughout the US, Mesa continues to deliver innovative, scalable power systems to these clients, meeting the demands of modern energy infrastructure.

EXPANDING FOOTPRINT The company’s footprint is expanding even further with the construction of a new 200,000 square foot (sqft) manufacturing and assembly facility in Evansville, Wyoming.

A huge ground-breaking ceremony was held for the state-of-the-art facility on 30th January this year, with operations expected to begin in Q3 2026.

“It will consolidate several of our dispersed operations under one roof, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and unit throughput,” Cabral informs us.

By centralizing production, Mesa will be able to offer its sales and rental customers even faster delivery timelines and an elevated level of service.

52 | North America Outlook Issue 33

leadership.

Mesa has been recognized with numerous awards for its leadership in recruiting, employing, and retaining veterans.

These honors – including the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, HIRE Vets Medallion Awards, and Extraordinary Employer Support Award – affirm Mesa as a place where veterans thrive.

The company is also proud to partner with the federal Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge program, which supports activeduty service members as they transition into civilian life.

As part of this initiative, Mesa developed an assembly and shop technician internship program based in San Antonio and Pleasanton, TX. This hands-on internship offers valuable training and real-world experience in its dayto-day operations, providing service members with a clear pathway to civilian employment in a supportive and skilled environment.

DSEG8600 Parallel Genset Controller with Integral Heater The DSEG8600 Advanced Paralleling Controller has been developed specifically to handle the demanding power requirements of complex data center applications — delivering intelligent, resilient control when it matters most. It can be configured for single-set, multi-set, AMF, or group control, offering the flexibility to manage diverse site architectures — including systems with up to 4,032 generators.

DSE335 MKII Auto Transfer Switch Controller The DSE335 MKII Auto Transfer Switch Controller is a key component in complex data center applications, ensuring seamless power transfer between the primary (S1) and secondary (S2) power sources when instability is detected. Its advanced closed transition functionality allows for load transfer between S1 and S2 without interruption, maintaining continuous power delivery and operational reliability.

IMPACT BEYOND POWER SYSTEMS Beyond power systems, Mesa’s impact is built through leadership, opportunity, and values in action.

From developing its people to strengthening its culture, every part of the company reflects a commitment to purpose and action.

LEADERSHIP – Mesa’s leadership team combines technical expertise and hands-on experience to guide its growth across industries. Their decisions reflect the company’s commitment to innovation, integrity, and service-built excellence.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES – At Mesa, every role contributes to powering critical industries. The company invests in its people through training, opportunities, and a culture built on teamwork and accountability.

VALUES – Mesa’s ADAPT values define how the company works, leads, and delivers for every customer, every day.any situation.

54 | North America Outlook Issue 33

“This strategic expansion reflects our commitment to growth, innovation, and meeting the evolving needs of our clients with speed and precision,” he emphasizes.

Construction of the manufacturing and assembly facility follows on from the opening of a secondary assembly facility in San Antonio, Texas (TX) in Q4 2024, which expanded Mesa’s overall manufacturing capacity and strengthened its presence in a key geographic region.

Marking new beginnings and a bright future in the city, it was an important milestone as the company ramps up to meet growing demand and increase its impact.

“Our San Antonio location was strategically selected to better serve our legacy customer base, which operates throughout the Permian and Eagle Ford Basins, enabling faster delivery and more responsive support,” Cabral sets out.

“Additionally, the San Antonio

MESA POWER SOLUTIONS ENERGY & UTILITIES

With passion, we can create a cleaner world ECUBE Solution, a joint venture between HD Hyundai and Sejong Group, develops and supplies advanced aftertreatment solutions for various IC engines. We are also expanding our business into GHP in the HVAC industry.

Aftertreatment for Diesel Application (HD Hyundai)

Through our global manufacturing network, we deliver high-quality and customized aftertreatment solutions that meet diverse customer needs.

We are committed to the sustainable growth of customer value and a cleaner world for future generations.

Aftertreatment for Gas Genset (Mesa)

Aftertreatment for GHP (Samsung Electriconics)

Contact us: +82 31 215 0980 contact@ecubesolution.com www.ecubesolution.com

“ T O D AY, W E P R O V I D E A C O M P L E T E P O R T F O L I O O F D I S T R I B U T E D A N D I N T E R C O N N E C T E D P O W E R S O L U T I O N S , I N C L U D I N G P R I M A R Y, S TA N D B Y, A N D B R I D G E P O W E R S Y S T E M S – W H E T H E R S TA N D A L O N E OR GRID-CONNECTED” – C R U Z C A B R A L , V I C E P R E S I D E N T O F O P E R AT I O N S , M E S A P O W E R S O L U T I O N S

facility positions Mesa closer to major ports of export, enhancing our ability to serve international customers with greater efficiency and reduced lead times.”

BROADER CUSTOMER NEEDS Moving into 2026, Mesa remains focused on delivering end-to-end power solutions – from design through to deployment – for an increasingly diverse and global customer base.

The company’s goal is to continue expanding its reach across North

America and international markets by offering scalable, high-performance energy systems.

“We’re also investing in a larger, more powerful portfolio of primary, standby, and bridge power systems, designed for both distributed and interconnected operation,” closes Cabral.

“These advancements will allow us to meet a broader range of customer needs with greater flexibility and reliability.”

Lastly, Mesa is prioritizing supply chain refinement to ensure timely

delivery and reduce exposure to global trade uncertainties.

By strengthening its logistics and sourcing strategies, the company aims to maintain consistent service levels and support continued growth.

Tel: +1 (844) 247-MESA info@mesangs.com

247mesa.com

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 55

Reconnecting Jamaica, One Smile at a Time Widely recognized as a beloved brand across the island, Digicel Jamaica is a cornerstone of the community with industry-leading telecommunications solutions that are purposefully made to serve the population. Stephen Murad, CEO, emphasizes the company’s critical disaster recovery services following Hurricane Melissa, which are underpinned by the enduring spirit of the Jamaica people Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Jakub Tyl

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cross the world, telecommunications (telecoms) organizations have historically stood as incumbents to liberalization and key markers of a nation’s progress, whether it be the creation of a national telephone service or introduction of a landline.

This is certainly the case for Jamaica; at a time of great economic liberalization in the late 1990s, the Government of Jamaica launched a tender for a new license contract that telecoms 56 | North America Outlook Issue 33

operators could bid for, therefore helping to drive competition in the country.

Winning the bid and sparking an era of change in the nation’s industry landscape was Digicel Jamaica (Digicel), officially launched on 19th April 2001 and now the beating heart of telecoms on the island.

“Digicel excelled at tried and tested things that are now standard in the industry, changing the face of the telecoms space and being key to the mobile phone sector exploding in the

last 20 years,” opens Stephen Murad, CEO. Indeed, the company spearheaded the effective distribution of products, ensuring that there were enough retail outlets on the streets to service customers wherever they were, as well as promoting SIM card use and the latest mobile phones to attract people to the network.

“Digicel did well at building a real brand from scratch, which Jamaica was ready to embrace,” he enthuses.

DIGICEL JAMAICA TECHNOLOGY

DIGICEL JAMAICA TECHNOLOGY

PAINTED IN RED The Digicel brand soon took off across the nation, as the company’s products could be found on bus shelters and sold by red-bibbed street sellers alongside everyday groceries.

“People often said, ‘Digicel painted the town red’. In a country where green, black, and gold symbolize

CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE BRAND LOYALTY JAMAICAN PEOPLE HAVE FOR DIGICEL? Stephen Murad, CEO: “There are so many things Jamaicans love about the Digicel brand; their loyalty is phenomenal.

“This was very apparent when I came to the Caribbean a decade ago – you can feel it on the streets because the population isn’t that big in the grand scheme of things, so it’s generally easy to get recognized as the CEO of the company.

“I was not attached to my mobile phone number in the UK at all, but here, people are proud of it. Even if they migrate, they still hold on to their Digicel number and will use it when they come to visit their family or friends on holiday as a returning resident.

“This surprised me at first, but when you live somewhere and get the feel of the vibe and understand it, it makes perfect sense. It’s like supporting your favorite football team – that’s the same kind of feeling people here have with Digicel.”

58 | North America Outlook Issue 33

national pride, the sudden splash of vibrant red marked a bold transformation in Jamaica’s telecoms landscape,” Murad recounts.

The company also tapped into and focused on concepts that are important to Jamaican culture, to include music, sport, and athletics in particular. Jamaica has some of the world’s most famous Olympians, such as Usain Bolt who became an ambassador in 2004 and lifetime ambassador in 2016, and ShellyAnn Fraser-Pryce who became an ambassador in 2008.

“Digicel also had the foresight to focus on other things like supporting music events and getting ‘on the ground’ in the communities. For example, whenever a mobile tower was switched on, there would be a local street party with music, food, Red Stripe, and rum to celebrate.

“It was such an occasion because it meant everyone in the community had access to a service they could use at an affordable rate,” he continues.

More broadly, Digicel introduced many innovations that are now taken for granted as industry

standard, such as mobile phone contracts that use per-second billing.

“The company really flooded the market and got a huge sway, ultimately changing the competitive landscape and making operators reflect on what they were doing and what could be done differently.”

Today, the Jamaican market stands shoulder to shoulder with the global telecoms sector and is experiencing a rapid increase in the use of smartphone technology.

“There is very high smartphone penetration in Jamaica, so we have to ensure we have the right products and services to serve our customers,” Murad affirms.

SECURING CONNECTIVITY Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Digicel is proud to be born and bred in Jamaica, at the helm of a global footprint comprising 25 different countries across the Caribbean and Americas.

As a growing group of companies, the organization boasts a vast product portfolio serving business customers in ICT services, cybersecurity, cloud, and wireless access networks, to name a few, as well as boasting the only Tier 3 data center in Jamaica.

A key element of the company’s disaster recovery efforts is its advanced security-as-a-service capabilities, including artificial intelligence (AI)-based CCTV, vulnerability assessments, cyberthreat protection, and much more.

Meanwhile, its softwareas-a-service (SaaS) products allow users to use cloud-based apps, services, and emails, including Microsoft Office, of which Digicel is a key reseller.

The company also creates products that are tailored to fit Jamaica’s

corporate and commercial needs, including pre- and post-paid business services for consumers and delivering full-fiber networks to both homes and businesses.

The company operates predominantly through 32 businessowned retail stores alongside over 400 third-party resellers. These include mom-and-pop grocers, electronics stores, lottery outlets, and gas stations, where customers can buy a SIM card, top up, buy a phone, pay their bill, and access a plethora of other services.

Digicel also has a large digital footprint where its customers can access a wealth of products and useful services online from the convenience of their device, facilitated through its state-of-the-art ‘MyDigicel’ app.

The company is proud to service

over two million mobile customers in Jamaica, delivering cutting-edge solutions to a sizeable proportion of the country’s population.

RECONNECTING JAMAICA Digicel possesses an unwavering focus – ‘Reconnecting Jamaica’ – which is a clear demonstration of its vital and unwavering disaster recovery products.

Following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa – a Category 5 hurricane that made landfall in October – the company is helping to rebuild the country and support those most in need.

“Following the catastrophic event, we came up with ‘Reconnecting Jamaica’ because that’s our job today,” Murad asserts.

Going above and beyond its telecoms responsibilities, Digicel is

Digicel served as the official telecoms partner for the ‘I Love Jamaica’ Hurricane Melissa Relief Telethon hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, helping raise funds to support rebuilding efforts in the island’s western communities

working alongside the government to shape the country’s disaster recovery.

“I was in Parliament recently giving an update on our ‘Reconnecting Jamaica’ efforts, where MPs asked questions around rebuilding, restoration, and recovery. There were also queries on how dependent Digicel is on the national grid, road networks, and other forms of infrastructure,” Murad details.

With this in mind, the company must make key considerations around how it revives national commerce, adopting a two-pronged approach that revolves around Jamaican businesses, government services, hospitality, manufacturing, and business process outsourcing (BPO) sectors, to name but a few.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 59

Connect with Us. Power Your Progress.

From telecom (fibre cables, fibre-to-the-home) to power (main transmission & distribution line), Qingdao Powtech Electronics Co., Ltd is here to offer you a complete telecom & power transmission solution from design to delivery.

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t the forefront of technological innovation, bridging the gap between reliability and progress, is Qingdao Powtech Electronics Co., Ltd (Powtech Electronics).

Through the integration of cutting-edge engineering, stringent quality, and sustainable practices, the company empowers industries to build resilient networks and energy systems for a connected future.

Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Qingdao, China, Powtech Electronics has worked diligently over the past three decades to become a trailblazing hightech enterprise dedicated to designing,

manufacturing, and supplying advanced solutions for telecommunications (telecoms) and power transmission industries.

With over 30 years of expertise, the company proudly combines innovation, precision engineering, and customer-centric values to deliver reliable, sustainable technologies worldwide to its many customers.

Through its mission of offering reliability from design to delivery and a vision of pioneering green technologies that connect communities and power global progress, Powtech Electronics provides its clients with complete solutions from start to finish.

POWTECH ELECTRONICS – AT A GLANCE • 30+ years of industry leadership in production and exporting expertise.

• Sold to 180+ countries and regions around the world.

• An OEM and ODM factory that’s over 10,000 square metres.

• Advanced manufacturing of 50+ machinery units, ensuring rapid production cycles.

• Globally certified with robust quality systems and in-house testing capabilities.

• Strategic alliances with top-tier operators to drive global connectivity and energy resilience.

The company leverages a dual-brand strategy, allowing it to cater to diverse industry needs through its core brands and solutions. Specifically, these include its Optelec and Jetpower brands.

Optelec is a leader in optical communication and power transmission distribution, whilst Jetpower – an innovator in renewable energy and power systems – spans solar street lighting projects and customised power supply solutions for telecoms towers and industrial applications.

LIMITLESS INNOVATION

Powtech Electronics was invested in by Taiwan and is an independently owned international corporation offering an established and effective range of power supply and fibre optical products sold to a broad spectrum of telecoms and power industry organisations.

The company’s competitive edge is established by its hard-working and friendly associates, who create a unique and supportive corporate culture.

Additionally, Powtech Electronics boasts a manufacturing powerhouse and a unique supply chain advantage through

its advanced production capabilities.

Namely, the company has over 50 precision machinery units, which include 30+ injection moulding machines for cable accessories and insulators, 10+ hydraulic press systems, three extrusion lines for cable sheathing, two laser cutting machines for high-precision components, 20+ stamping machines for metal parts, and 10+ welding systems for structural assemblies.

POWTECH ELECTRONICS’ GUIDING BELIEFS • Respect – Every associate’s opinion is heard and respected. Managers are considered ‘servant leaders’ who help each associate realise their full potential through training, praise, and constructive feedback. An ‘opendoor’ management philosophy encourages associates to raise questions or concerns in a supportive atmosphere.

• Customer service – The customer is always the boss, and everything possible is done to ensure they have a friendly, pleasant experience. The company’s satisfaction guaranteed policy allows customers to feel confident in Powtech Electronics’ production, services, and quality.

• Striving for excellence – Powtech Electronics associates share an exceptional commitment to customer satisfaction. At the start of each week, company associates gather to share experiences, review business from the previous week, and discuss upcoming goals.

The scalable output of the company is a combined capacity of 2.5 million units annually, supporting both standardised and customised orders. Its agile logistics allow for integrated production-to-shipment workflows, ensuring 48-hour response times and on-time delivery across global markets.

Equally, Powtech Electronics guarantees quality and compliance excellence through its various certifications, standards, and inhouse testing. These each comply with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and rigorous type-testing protocols, alongside having an ISO-certified laboratory to ensure end-to-end quality control from R&D through to delivery.

OFFERING CUSTOMERS COMPLETE SOLUTIONS

Powtech Electronics boasts a global impact and strategic partnerships that allow it to remain a leader in the telecoms and power transmission industries.

The company is trusted by British Telecom (BT Group), Orange, Digicel, Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), Kenya Power & Lighting Company Plc (KPLC), Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM), and major Brazilian power companies.

With a global reach spanning over 50 countries, Powtech Electronics boasts agile logistics, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and original design manufacturer (ODM) flexibility, and sustainability for telecoms and energy infrastructures.

For its national network, products are distributed to the electric power and telecoms construction enterprises across 32 provinces, cities, and autonomous regions.

The company’s world network exports to Romania, Bangladesh, Australia, Germany, Vietnam, Mongolia, Singapore, Sudan, Ethiopia, and more, making it a true one-stop partner of power transmission and disruption solutions.

Equally as important to the company are its quality assurances of quick delivery, competitive pricing, high quality, and longterm service to its customers.

Powtech Electronics prides itself on qualityfirst and limitless innovation, ensuring that it delivers on its mission of offering reliability from design to delivery every day, asserting its status as an expert with over three decades of experience in telecoms and power transmission.

Tel: +86 532 88721735 Cell/Whatsapp: +86 13608965318 Email: sales@powtech-cn.com www.powtech-cn.com www.jetpowerups.com.tw

POWTECH’S PRODUCTS Telecoms Industry •

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DIGICEL JAMAICA TECHNOLOGY

“ T H E PA S S I O N OF THE PEOPLE AND THEIR RELENTLESS DRIVE TO R E CO N N E C T A S Q U I C K LY A S POSSIBLE IS KEY TO A S P E E DY R E COV E RY ” – Murad addresses the nation during a parliamentary hearing in November 2025, outlining the company’s disaster recovery and reconnection efforts

“Jamaica serves as a key holiday destination, particularly for the US, Canada, and UK. In fact, hospitality is an approximately USD$4 billion industry in the country with about four million visitors per year, so it’s a significant sector,” Murad points out.

In support of the hospitality sector, Digicel is reconnecting hotels to ensure they have the effective internet connectivity to run smoothly, facilitating their internal booking systems, wireless guest networks, on-premises internet protocol television (IPTV), and much more.

The second area of focus is reconnecting Jamaica’s BPO sector, which utilizes Digicel’s cutting-edge technology to create customer contact centers for the east coast of the US and Canada. Digicel’s Jamaican operations are ideally situated to serve these areas due to the country’s proximity and minimal time difference.

Jamaica is also home to a significant population of highly educated and trained workers, with three reputable universities recognized across the region as top educational institutions.

As a result, the country has a high population of English speakers who have a good understanding of UK and US culture. Therefore, many companies across North America take advantage of these factors, making 64 | North America Outlook Issue 33

– STEPHEN MURAD, CEO, DIGICEL JAMAICA

Jamaica a key hub for customer contact centers.

More broadly, Digicel is also helping to boost the local economy by providing connectivity to businesses that were impacted by the hurricane.

This, in turn, will allow customers to effectively utilize and pay for services.

“Many companies suffered immense damage to their operations, which means they had to move to a temporary location or relocate entirely, so we’ve made sure they’re well-connected.

“The quicker we get them back online, the sooner these industries can

‘Gift a Smile’ winner

generate cash again,” Murad states.

IN TUNE WITH THE NATION’S PROGRESSION As part of its ongoing disaster recovery efforts, Digicel is paying attention to Jamaica’s existing infrastructure and assessing how this can be improved to not only provide greater connectivity but also futureproof the country against other extreme weather events.

“We have many climate issues in the hurricane belt, but we have to manage and deal with these things as efficiently as possible.

“Jamaica is at a crossroads; it’s looking at changing the building codes again and adapting infrastructure, coupled with the fact we’re going to get hit again in the future, so it’s been a wake-up call,” Murad attests.

As such, Digicel is in tune with many major changes being made to the country’s infrastructure, which subsequently inform the company’s ongoing projects and investment decisions.

For instance, if new building codes are introduced, the company will need to assess how this will impact the provision of home internet services.

On the flip side, Digicel is also assessing how Jamaica’s development will impact its trajectory going forward.

“We are making investment decisions that revolve around how best to protect the business in Jamaica while also still continuing to grow,” he deliberates.

Over the post-COVID-19 pandemic years, Digicel has been growing at an unprecedented rate, which evokes a lot of confidence in Jamaica’s economy and has a ripple effect on those operating within the country.

Within this context, the company is laser-focused on infrastructure and how it can be leveraged to best service customers and build connectivity across Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa.

Case in point, Digicel recently signed an agreement with a highway operator to implement underground

duct infrastructure for better fiber connectivity, safeguarding internet access from future catastrophic events or natural disasters.

“Fiber is critical – we are a fiberonly business as we don’t have the legacy infrastructure that other operators do.

“We are therefore putting more fiber in the ground that will help protect and generate incremental revenue, so we’re able to better serve people with super-fast speeds.”

AT THE FOREFRONT OF OPERATIONS Although it may not be the largest in terms of population, Jamaica stands as the most significant contributor to the Digicel Group across the Caribbean, with the greatest revenue and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA).

The launch of a newly installed solar and battery system at a Digicel site in Jamaica, part of a major initiative to fortify the network against outages and storms. Through a partnership with US-based Caban Energy, more than half of Digicel’s 925 sites will be solar-powered

This is demonstrated by the number of international businesses operating in the country – including Sandals Resorts, DHL, and PwC, among others – alongside significant banking infrastructure, making it stand out in the Caribbean business landscape.

This unparalleled position across the region can be attributed to the tenacious spirit of the Jamaican people, who have a forward-thinking approach to business and operational expansion.

“Jamaica is a phenomenal place to do business and grow. It has so many elements of untapped potential, and I think it’s the jewel of the Caribbean, with the environment and people to make a company successful,” Murad prides.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 65

INAMI Management Services Limited:

Driving Infrastructure Excellence Across the CACA Region

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ince its establishment in 2013, INAMI Management Services Limited (INAMI) has cemented its position as a regional leader in infrastructure development and engineering solutions. Registered in Jamaica, the company was founded and owned by two highly experienced individuals whose combined expertise spans over 50 years in the infrastructure, telecommunications, and engineering industries. This depth of knowledge underpins INAMI’s commitment to providing comprehensive, turnkey solutions throughout the Caribbean and Central America (CACA) Region. Operating from its head office in Kingston, Jamaica, INAMI has demonstrated very high growth within the last five years, a trend fundamentally driven by its strategic focus on deploying next-generation technologies. This highlights the company’s capacity, stability, and growing influence in a vital regional sector.

INAMI distinguishes itself by offering a complete suite of services executed by fully trained and equipped technical staff.

The company’s integrated approach allows it to function as a single-source partner for complex infrastructure projects. At its core, INAMI is a telecommunications powerhouse, specializing in cellular operations, the meticulous deployment of fiber optic networks, and advanced network testing and optimization services essential for maintaining the high standards demanded by modern digital connectivity.

Beyond traditional telecoms infrastructure, INAMI has strategically expanded its capabilities into adjacent critical sectors. This includes providing end-to-end solar solutions, encompassing design, supply, installation, and maintenance, aligning with the regional push for sustainable energy. Furthermore, the company handles extensive civil and construction works, along with sophisticated electrical and logistic system integration. To support these activities, INAMI offers specialized services such as rigorous project management, crucial

CEO Donovan Betancourt

Supporting Education With Purpose - INAMI proudly contributes to nurturing future innovators and professionals. infrastructure disaster mitigation and management, and the supply and rental of heavy-duty equipment, enabling total control and efficiency over project lifecycles.

The caliber of INAMI’s client base speaks volumes about its operational excellence and reliability. The company currently partners with several globally recognized blue-chip corporations on various high-stakes projects across Jamaica and the wider CACA region. This distinguished client roster includes industry giants such as Digicel Group, Phoenix Tower International, ZTE Corporation, Ericsson AB, Huawei, and FLOW. The scale of these operations requires a significant and highly skilled workforce, currently comprising over 200 direct and indirect staff led by CEO Donovan Betancourt and a robust technical management team. This combination of world-class partners and localized, technically proficient leadership ensures that every project is executed to the highest international standards.

INAMI AND DIGICEL JAMAICA

The partnership between INAMI Management Services and Digicel Jamaica stands as a powerful testament to mutual benefit and complementary strengths, having evolved into an integral alliance since 2016. INAMI serves as Digicel’s reliable partner, bringing diversified solutions and an integrated, proactive approach to network maintenance and expansion.

The complementary strengths are clear: Digicel, a leading regional mobile operator, benefits immensely from INAMI’s deep, localized technical expertise and resource mobilization capability.

INAMI can rapidly deploy specialized teams and cutting-edge equipment for tasks ranging from routine cell site maintenance to the complex construction of new cellular facilities and crucial fiber backbone deployment. This ability to deliver high-quality, diversified solutions allows Digicel to streamline its supply chain, confidently outsourcing specialized tasks or intricate civil engineering work to a single, trusted vendor. Furthermore, INAMI’s integrated proactive approach to maintenance

Phone: (876) 754-2341 Email: corporate@inamimanagement.com www.inamimanagementservices.com Instagram: @inami_innovations TikTok: @inami_innovations

INAMI: Integrated expertise across telecom, solar, fiber infrastructure, and heavy equipment.

INAMI and Digicel Foundation: Frontline commitment for Hurricane Beryl relief.

significantly reduces network downtime, which is vital for Digicel’s service commitment. This reliability ensures that Digicel’s core teams can remain focused on strategic development, customerfacing services, and market innovation, knowing the underlying physical infrastructure is secure and optimized. In return, the consistent flow of major, complex projects from a partner of Digicel’s scale provides INAMI with the financial stability and project volume necessary to continuously invest in training, specialized equipment, and its own research and innovation efforts, ultimately elevating the quality of service returned to Digicel and the entire region.

School for the Blind, as well as support for various schools and NGOs.

INAMI’s commitment to its partners is perhaps most visible during times of crisis. The company’s infrastructure disaster mitigation and management services were put to the ultimate test in recent years.

Following the impact of Hurricane Beryl and Hurricane Melissa, INAMI played a critical, frontline role in rapid restoration efforts for key partners, including essential telecommunications and utility infrastructure. This swift response capability not only secured the operational continuity of its clients but was also vital for community and economic recovery in the affected regions, showcasing a commitment that extends beyond commercial contracts.

INAMI’S FUTURE

CORPORATE AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Furthermore, the company extended this crisis response through its corporate social responsibility initiatives, partnering with the Digicel Foundation for Hurricane Beryl relief. With its generous donation, INAMI enabled the foundation to procure essential items for its hurricane relief efforts. Beyond these relief efforts, INAMI engages in numerous outreach programs, embodying a strong culture of community support. This includes long-term support for the Early Childhood Centre of Excellence in Orange Bay, Portland, an institution for children with disabilities, where, for over eight years, we have supported the school by providing two meals daily to the students. INAMI also sponsored the recent ‘Follow the Trail, Invest in Braille’ campaign, led by the Digicel Foundation, enabling the foundation to supply 107 Braille machines to the Salvation Army

On the development side, INAMI consistently demonstrates execution excellence in greenfield and brownfield projects. A recent highlight includes the successful project management and infrastructure delivery of six major cellular facilities on time over the last seven months. This achievement illustrates the team’s ability to manage complex logistics, adhere to strict deadlines, and scale operations efficiently, a crucial requirement for telecommunications companies rapidly expanding their footprints.

What truly differentiates INAMI from the competition is its dedication to three core pillars: innovation and research, strong management, and comprehensive partnership. The company actively commits resources to utilizing the latest technologies and methodologies, ensuring all solutions are future-proof and efficient. This commitment is guided by strong technical management, which guarantees project quality and operational integrity. Combined with its wide scope of integrated services and strong partnership with global OEMs (ZTE, Ericsson, Huawei, etc.), INAMI operates as a one-stop shop that provides unmatched value and scalability across the CACA region.

Looking ahead, INAMI’s key priorities and goals are clearly defined. The company intends to deepen its relationships with existing partners, such as Digicel, by continually enhancing service quality and responsiveness. Simultaneously, INAMI is actively seeking new strategic partnerships to expand its market reach and scope. Above all, the company remains dedicated to increasing value-added services in a safe and environmentally responsible manner, ensuring all operations continue to meet the highest international standards for quality, safety, and sustainable practice. This forward-looking commitment positions INAMI Management Services Limited not just as a contractor but as a critical partner in the CACA region’s infrastructural and digital future.

DIGICEL JAMAICA TECHNOLOGY

DIGICEL PRODUCTS CONNECTIVITY AND NETWORKING • Broadband • Managed dedicated internet access • Global private network • Managed local area network • Managed wide area network (WAN) • Managed software-defined WAN • Managed Wi-Fi • Metro Ethernet MOBILE SOLUTIONS • Voice • Data • Roaming • Wi-Fi BUSINESS CONTINUITY • Computer-as-a-service • Virtual machines • Azure Stack Hub • Cloud back-up • Disaster recovery • SaaS • Colocation CLOUD AND COLLABORATION • Hosted private branch exchange (PBX) • Session initiation protocol (SIP) trunking • 360 Comms push-to-talk (PTT) • Microsoft 365 and Teams CYBERSECURITY • Managed next-generation firewall • Breach detection • Endpoint protection • Managed endpoint security • Penetration testing SMART SOLUTIONS • Enterprise surveillance • Cloud video management systems • Vehicle tracking • Smart city apps

68 | North America Outlook Issue 33

Beyond Jamaica, Digicel extends its disaster recovery efforts across the Caribbean with a comprehensive business continuity management team who manages operations on a group-wide level.

“You can get two or three Caribbean islands hit by hurricanes in the same year. So, we need to be the captain or quarterback of the team to manage key logistics and decisions in such an event, especially looking at how we transport materials and ensure they are kept outside of the hurricane belt,” he reflects.

Indeed, Digicel stores essential infrastructure in places such as Panama and Trinidad, where they can be easily accessed and transported in critical situations.

Extra materials and crew from areas such as Trinidad and Haiti have also been brought in to help with the restoration efforts in Jamaica, emphasizing the power of the group.

Elsewhere, having relied on generators in recent months due to the national grid losing power, the company also regularly assesses mass fuel distribution methods as a precautionary measure.

“You need to have a sufficient supply of fuel to service generators that could be running for months on end or even replace faulty parts,” he explains.

Digicel additionally runs regular drills and physical table-top exercises in case of emergencies, ensuring all staff remain safe at work.

HEART OF THE COMMUNITY Digicel cares deeply for the well-being of its people, particularly in times of natural disaster. The company has been focused on providing immediate relief for its 1,000-strong staff base.

“We provided each of them access to care packages as they have also been seriously impacted by the hurricane. Some staff have lost the roofs of their homes or had to live with their friends and family,” Murad notes.

Employees have also been on

the ground in local communities delivering care packages containing simple but vital items such as drinking water, diapers, wipes, and chargers for electronic devices.

The company has also introduced temporary stores for people to replace their phones if they have been lost or damaged.

Moreover, as part of its work with the government, Digicel is helping to restore important documents that were lost in the flooding for locals.

“Communities have lost everything and it’s heartbreaking to see, so we’ve been taking essential agencies with us on the road to help people get

“J A M A I C A I S A P H E N O M E N A L P L A C E T O D O B U S I N E S S A N D G R O W. I T H A S S O M A N Y E L E M E N T S O F U N TA P P E D P O T E N T I A L , A N D I T H I N K IT’S THE JEWEL OF THE CARIBBEAN, WITH THE ENVIRONMENT AND P E O P L E TO M A K E A C O M PA N Y S U C C E S S F U L” – STEPHEN MURAD, CEO, DIGICEL JAMAICA

their important documentation back,” assures Murad.

This is particularly vital for people who may not be able to travel to the capital, Kingston, or other metropolitan areas, making Digicel’s outreach programs even more important.

“It may seem a bit odd for a

telecoms company to do that, but that’s the Digicel DNA that I go back to all the time – we are completely unselfish,” he urges.

The company’s laser focus of ‘Reconnecting Jamaica’ is underpinned by the unwavering dedication of its staff.

“Nobody is taking a day off because they are fully committed to recovering our country. That is the energy and pride Jamaicans have in abundance.

“The passion of the people and their relentless drive to reconnect as quickly as possible is key to a speedy recovery,” Murad prides.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 69

Your Vision. Our Expertise.

One Extraordinary Experience RYAN “TANGO” PRENDERGAST CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER “Tango” has a strong passion for music and entertainment, backed by decades of experience in the industry. He’s known for his effective management strategies, professionalism, and charitable work.

Over his career, he’s managed top talents worldwide and toured various regions, bringing joy through music and roots play.

ALANA R. PRENDERGAST, M.A. CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER In this feature, we speak with COO, Alana R. Prendergast, who shares insight into the mission, services, and vision of Tango’s Entertainment Production Ltd., along with its ongoing commitment to excellence in the entertainment sector.

Please briefly introduce us to Tango’s Entertainment Production Limited.

Tango’s Entertainment Production Ltd. is an international entertainment agency specializing in talent management, marketing, and fullservice production. With decades of experience, serving the entertainment industry since 1991, we provide professional, high-quality services tailored to clients across media, live events, brand promotions, and creative production.

Based in Jamaica, we are home to some of the island’s finest talents and have built longstanding relationships with top clients locally and internationally. Our reputation is anchored in reliability, creativity, and a consistent commitment to delivering exceptional results at an affordable price. Whether supporting artists, managing productions, or executing branded activations, Tango’s Entertainment Production Ltd. has earned industry trust through experience, professionalism, and a results-driven approach.

Can you expand upon the wide range of services you offer?

Tango’s Entertainment Production Ltd. delivers a comprehensive suite of entertainment and production services designed to support every stage of an event, campaign, or talent initiative.

Talent Management and Bookings: We represent and book a diverse roster of

professionals, including local and international artists, hosts, comedians, actors and actresses, DJs, promotional ambassadors, and dancers.

Event Planning and Production: Our production services cover backdrop and decor, business proposals, 3D concepts, drone management, and photo and videography.

From planning to on-site execution, we ensure seamless event delivery.

Marketing and Promotions: This includes social media marketing, digital marketing, website development, brand marketing, and promotional campaigns. We help clients maximize visibility and strengthen brand positioning.

Project Management: We offer consultancy support, budget oversight, site visits, and team management to guarantee that projects run efficiently, stay within financial parameters, and meet operational goals.

Rentals: We provide a variety of rental options such as stages, sound and lighting equipment, tents, furniture, and decorative elements to support events of any scale.

This full-service model allows clients to rely on us as a one-stop solution for entertainment, production, and promotional needs.

This combination allows us to deliver comprehensive, thoughtfully executed entertainment solutions that few agencies offer within the same structure.

Could you elaborate on your partnership with Digicel Jamaica?

Our partnership with Digicel Jamaica is built on mutual shared goals in entertainment, community engagement, and brand visibility. Tango’s Entertainment Production Ltd. provides Digicel with high-quality talent, production solutions, and promotional support for their campaigns, events, and public engagements. In return, Digicel Jamaica’s strong national presence and brand influence amplify our reach, allowing us to consistently showcase our capabilities on major platforms.

What differentiates Tango’s Entertainment Production Ltd. from the competition?

1. A Comprehensive, Full-Service Partner for Artists and Events Tango’s Entertainment Production Ltd. offers a comprehensive model that brings together: • Talent representation • Artist booking and logistics • Full event production By integrating these services, we can support both the artist’s performance needs and the event’s operational requirements with seamless coordination. This approach enables us to provide clients with professional performers tailored to a wide range of events and productions, while ensuring smooth communication, efficient planning, and consistent quality at every stage of the process.

2. Skilled, Qualified, and Experienced Team A defining strength of Tango’s Entertainment Production Ltd. is our team of experienced entertainment professionals who understand the industry from multiple angles.

Our leadership includes CEO Ryan “Tango” Prendergast, whose long-standing contributions and visible role as a driving force behind major events and community-centered projects demonstrate industry knowledge and the capacity to execute large, multi-partner productions.

This expertise allows us to navigate complex entertainment landscapes with professionalism and efficiency.

3. Strong and Recognizable Brand Identity Tango’s Entertainment Production Ltd. has cultivated a distinct presence within Jamaica’s entertainment landscape. Our consistent visibility on social platforms and within the industry strengthens a recognizable brand identity that resonates with both audiences and partners.

In addition, our commitment to delivering affordable, high-quality services reinforces this identity. We aim to provide premium results while remaining cost-conscious, ensuring that clients at various budget levels have access to professional, well-executed entertainment solutions.

4. Active Involvement in Community and Cultural Events Over the years, we have participated in a variety of community-driven and cultural initiatives, including: • Back-to-school fairs supported by major sponsors such as Digicel • Participation and sponsorships in summer shows, holiday events, and other seasonal experiences This reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting Jamaica’s creative sector and community-centered programs. Beyond booking talent, we help create enriching community and entertainment experiences.

5. Proven Ability to Collaborate With Corporate Partners Our history of collaborations with major brands and large-scale events demonstrates our capacity to operate at a commercial and corporate level.

We bridge the gap between entertainment production and business strategy, offering sponsored experiences, brand activations, and corporate-aligned entertainment solutions. This streamlined approach saves time, reduces risk, maintains quality control, and ensures consistent creative direction.

In essence, we separate ourselves from the competition by being: - An integrated talent and events company - A brand-forward production partner - A team experienced in both entertainment business strategy and live cultural production

Digicel Jamaica utilizes our expertise in event execution, creative promotions, and entertainment-driven brand experiences, while we in turn value Digicel Jamaica’s extensive audience reach, strong technology infrastructure, and long-standing commitment to supporting innovative local partners. Together, we collaborate to deliver meaningful initiatives that resonate with consumers and contribute to the continued growth and visibility of both brands within the Jamaican market.

Are there any recent projects or initiatives you would like to highlight?

We recently expanded our service offerings and refined our portfolio to reflect the evolving needs of the modern entertainment industry.

This includes elevated production elements, such as 3D design, drone operations, and integrated digital marketing, allowing us to support more immersive event experiences.

Can you please tell us about your client-first philosophy and how this shapes Tango’s Entertainment Production Ltd.?

We understand that no two events, artists, or brands are alike. Our process begins with careful listening and collaboration so we can tailor every service to the client’s specific needs, timeline, and budget.

Another highlight is our deep commitment to professionalism and high-class execution, values that have defined us since 1991. Whether managing a major concert, coordinating a corporate activation, or booking talent, we maintain the same level of excellence every time.

Tango’s Entertainment Production Ltd. is more than a service provider; we are a long-term partner. Our clients trust us not only for individual projects, but also for consistent, ongoing support that strengthens their brand and elevates their events year after year.

Phone: 216-855-1399 876-881-7777 786-848-1099 Email: alana@tangosentertainment.com tango@tangosentertainment.com Instagram: tangosentertainmentproduction

DIGICEL JAMAICA TECHNOLOGY

DIGICEL AT A GLANCE

25 YEARS IN BUSINESS

25 MARKETS WORLDWIDE

8.8+ MILLION CUSTOMERS LONG-TERM EVOLUTION AND 4G IN ALL MARKETS

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BUILDING COMMUNICATIONS At the heart of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy is the Digicel Foundation, which was founded as an independent facet of the business dedicated to helping the community.

The foundation’s focus areas are education, special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and community development. In the last 21 years, the foundation has contributed over USD$48m to supporting these pillars.

This includes the launch of 21 smart labs in schools in recent years, each equipped with next-generation technology.

“We train teachers on how to use technologies like Google Classroom or smart boards and get the best

out of them as a teaching resource,” Murad tells us.

Participating schools sign a mutual pledge to take care of the teaching technology and achieve target grades. Alongside smart classrooms, the Digicel Foundation keenly supports numerous schools for people with disabilities by providing purpose-built therapy rooms and sensory gardens.

“As well as helping from an education standpoint, there’s also a key element of quality involved in that education too,” Murad observes.

Furthermore, the foundation’s Safer Internet Together (SIT) Program, which was rolled out at the beginning of last year and highlights the importance of online safety, digital responsibility, and cyber awareness.

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ENGINEERING; More than a job, it’s a way of life Our Merits

• Unique and innovative solutions that exceeds clients expectations not only by realizing their business objectives, but particularly by our strict adherence to the engineering principles of Telecommunications • Creative approaches to clients’ special needs in order to find unique and tailored engineering solutions • Professional quality of services provided by a highly skilled and motivated team • Fast and efficient response to clients in crisis • Strong technological background and project management skills

“Aratel’s approach to service is to design and implement solutions that exceeds our client’s expectations while creatively maintaining the management triangle of quality, cost, and time. From its inception, quality has been the hallmark of Aratel. This we have achieved through adherence to stringent ethical and engineering standards.

The carefully balanced combination of in depth knowledge of the telecommunications Industry, innovative design tactics, and experienced staff enhance Aratel’s capabilities to effectively meet our customers’ needs.”

- Somara Newman PE

Phone: +1876 813 0279 | +1876 381 5285 | E-Mail: aratel@outlook.com

DIGICEL JAMAICA TECHNOLOGY

The Digicel Foundation also excels in getting small local businesses off the ground by offering grants to both existing companies who want to achieve a new goal or emerging startups who need help finding their feet.

A RECONNECTED FUTURE Over the next year, Digicel plans to advance its ‘Reconnecting Jamaica’ efforts by adopting a sustainable approach.

For example, the company aims to convert a large proportion of its mobile towers to solar power and explore alternative energy solutions to reduce its dependence on unstable resources such as the national grid.

“The environment plays a huge part in that. We can harness the power of the sun to provide connectivity through cell towers when services go down due to natural disasters and extreme weather events,” Murad highlights.

“ D I G I C E L E XC E L L E D AT T R I E D A N D T E S T E D T H I N G S T H AT A R E N O W S TA N D A R D I N T H E I N D U S T R Y, C H A N G I N G T H E FA C E OF THE TELECOMS S PAC E A N D B E I N G K E Y TO T H E M O B I L E P H O N E S E C TO R EXPLODING IN THE LAST 20 YEARS” – STEPHEN MURAD, CEO, DIGICEL JAMAICA

THE POWER OF RECOGNITION Correlating with the company’s ethos of championing Jamaica, Digicel is proud to have a staff base completely comprised of Jamaican nationals, with the company’s leadership all promoted from within.

“A lot of our senior management team – all Jamaicans – started in customer care and have worked their way up the ladder – that’s the thing that makes me most proud,” Murad smiles.

Indeed, Murad has worked hard to teach, train, and upskill his teams over the last decade, clearly recognizing the talent of his employees.

“I’m a big believer in empowering our teams, pushing and challenging them to develop because I know they can excel and take on incremental responsibility,” he adds.

This ethos fosters a sense of camaraderie and trust among the team as each employee is valued for their contribution and integral to the smooth running of

“As part of the initiative, we hold educational sessions in schools with kids and teachers, while inviting family members to come along too. Being a key industry player, we recognize the part we need to play in helping and educating people on how best to protect themselves online.”

74 | North America Outlook Issue 33

the company.

“I often say that the industry is like changing the wheels of a Formula 1 car at 200 miles per hour, because no customer can ever afford for their mobile phone not to work.

“Therefore, I want our staff to understand the power they have and role they play in driving economy, trade, and social interaction through smartphones.”

www.facebook.com/johnsonspetroleum | www.instagram.com/johnsonspetroleum

FUELING JAMAICA

— Any Volume. Anywhere. Anytime.

Fuel. Serve. Deliver.

Johnson’s Petroleum is a leading Jamaican petroleum marketing company providing energy to the Jamaican market. We boast a wealth of experience, knowledge, and expertise spanning over twentynine (29) years in the petroleum industry.

Johnson’s Petroleum has built a reputation for offering high-quality products at affordable prices, supported by service of the highest standard and exceptional convenience. Our company owns and operates several petrol service stations across the island of Jamaica.

We maintain our own fleet of small, mid-sized, and large tanker trucks, as well as a variety of below-ground and above-ground storage and dispensing facilities. This affords us the unique opportunity to provide agile, flexible, and convenient service, allowing us to stay true to our slogan: “Any Volume, Anywhere, Anytime.”

All of our petrol service stations and delivery tanker trucks operate under the highest safety standards and are equipped with the relevant firefighting equipment.

At Johnson’s Petroleum Company Limited, we take great pride in our commitment to “Promising What We Deliver” and “Delivering What We Promise.” All of our customers receive personal attention from an experienced and knowledgeable staff who are dedicated to exceeding expectations and providing the highest quality service—designed to make your organization even more successful. We provide our customers with safe and environmentally responsible services that exceed expectations in both quality and value. We distribute the highest quality fuel from Petrojam, which powers motor vehicles, commercial and industrial equipment, and emergency generators during times of crisis.

Beyond everyday operations, Johnson’s Petroleum plays a critical role during times of national challenge. During natural disasters, including Hurricane Melissa, we ensured a continuous fuel supply to support our stakeholders and essential services. By maintaining fuel connectivity and operational continuity across Jamaica, we supported government agencies, hospitals, telecommunication companies, electricity providers, banks, transportation businesses, manufacturers, and many other key services—helping them remain functional and reliable when it mattered most. Our reach spans urban centers as well as deep rural and remote locations.

Our flexible delivery capability allows us to respond quickly to changing demands while maintaining the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and service excellence. All deliveries are conducted in a safe and professional manner, and we provide 24-hour, seven-days-aweek customer service. Reliability is at the core of everything we do.

Johnson’s Petroleum Address: 50 Lyndhurst Road, Kingston 5 Jamaica West Indies.

Phone: 876-968-5553 / 876-960-0380 / 876-906-2984 Email: admin@johnsonspetroleumgroup.com

DIGICEL JAMAICA TECHNOLOGY

This is even more prevalent given the recent devastation of Hurricane Melissa and the company’s reliance on generators to power its towers after the national grid was damaged.

“The grid is being rebuilt as quickly as possible, but Jamaica is a relatively large island and it’s a huge effort to restore it quickly, so we definitely want to diversify into alternative energy solutions,” he sets out.

Digicel will also continue to keep pace with major government infrastructure projects to better navigate disaster recovery in the future.

“Will they rebuild in different places and move homes from floodprone areas? If that’s the case, we need to rethink where we put our infrastructure and towers,” Murad asserts.

Indeed, the company will begin to analyze where populations relocate, particularly those moving from rural areas to major towns and cities for greater protection and stronger 76 | North America Outlook Issue 33

infrastructure.

Home-building projects in particular will majorly accelerate in the next 12 months to help rebuild the country.

“This will facilitate the need for home internet access, so we need to have a clear idea of where these homes are going to be built and map our infrastructure accordingly to best service them.

“Being in step with these plans will be critical to ensuring we can continue ’Reconnecting Jamaica’,” Murad concludes.

Tel: 876-619-5000 reconnectingjamaica@digicelgroup.com

www.digicelgroup.com/jm/en

DIGICEL JAMAICA TECHNOLOGY

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RMP & Associates Limited is an Information Technology Company based in Kingston, Jamaica. The company prides itself in having the technical competence to provide efficient, high quality, leading edge Information Technology solutions, backed by exceptional customer service to its clients.

We offer Proven Expertise in Web, Mobile & Client-Server Application Development, Consultancy Services and Systems Integration,and best of Breed Hardware Solutions from partners like Lenovo, Zebra, Kaspersky, Lexmark & Honeywell.

This blend of Expertise and Partnerships added to our client centric philosophy makes us the perfect choice for your IT Partner.

Services: • Microsoft .NET Software Development • Android Applications Development • Hardware Solutions • Consultancy Services

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 77

FIBER THAT EMPOWERS Operating across some of Canada’s most remote regions, Northwestel is on a mission to connect the North through its telecommunication services and products. We link up with Tammy April, VP Strategic Growth, to learn more about the company and her passion for the industry Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Jakub Tyl

Telecommunications (telecoms) sits at the heart of Canada’s digital economy, and the pace of innovation – especially in Northern Canada – is thrilling.”

As expressed by Tammy April, VP Strategic Growth, this enthusiasm toward the ever-crucial telecoms industry, which continues to shape the way individuals and businesses alike access daily necessities, is epitomized

by Northwestel – the largest telecoms provider in Northern Canada.

Operating in 97 communities across the Yukon, Nunavut, Northwest Territories, Northern British Columbia (BC), and Alberta – all of which represent highly diverse and culturally rich traditional Indigenous territories – Northwestel is passionate about igniting the power of the North and providing services and products that connect people and communities.

78 | North America Outlook Issue 33

“Our operating area covers almost 33 percent of Canada but is home to only 0.3 percent of the nation’s people,” details April.

“We have some of the harshest weather and climates Canada offers, making our operations and network management extremely complex.”

The company boasts a team of 550 Northern Canadians, and of the 97 communities it serves, 31 are fly-in, 56 have fewer than 500 residents, and there are more than 19 Indigenous languages alongside countless dialects in its operating area, which spans 3,500 kilometers (km) from east to west.

In the mass-market space, Northwestel offers internet, TV, and phone services, while, for its business and enterprise markets, it provides a complete suite of custom telecoms solutions, from Layer 1 connectivity through to managed network services.

NORTHWESTEL TECHNOLOGY

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 79

NORTHWESTEL TECHNOLOGY

Having worked in telecoms for the entirety of her career, April notes that one of the most exciting aspects of the industry is that – like many tech-based sectors – it is constantly evolving both in hardware and infrastructure and in terms of the software and services offered.

“At the same time, we make a crucial impact on daily lives as people rely on us to connect with loved ones and operate their businesses – now more than ever,” she insights.

“We’re in a place where fiber infrastructure is becoming critical. It’s taken for granted in urban centers, but it’s something that makes a meaningful difference for people here.”

CONNECTING THE NORTH The telecoms industry is at an invigorating point, with robust and resilient infrastructure providing remote communities access to virtual healthcare, distance learning, and e-commerce opportunities that connect them to the global economy.

“It is both exciting and fulfilling to be part of a company – and an industry – helping to improve the lives of people in Northern Canada,” April enthuses.

Northwestel has led the roll-out of world-leading fiber technology in large swaths of the nation, proudly transforming connectivity in many communities. Fiber is the strongest option in telecoms today, as it is

low-latency, multi-directional, and future-proof. Unlike copper or satellite, fiber will continue to meet the exploding demand for cloud services, artificial intelligence (AI) workloads, and real-time communication without replacing the physical infrastructure.

“Across much of Canada, fiber is the backbone of modern networks, whilst in northern communities, its arrival has been transformative,” expands April.

Although deployment in remote regions is challenging, fiber remains the benchmark, ensuring connectivity is essential for resilience and equity.

For communities not connected to fiber, Northwestel is deeply engaged

COULD YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) PRACTICES NORTHWESTEL PARTAKES IN? Tammy April, VP Strategic Growth: “CSR is critical at Northwestel. Our community investment portfolio totals approximately CAD$700,000 annually, supporting initiatives that matter most in the North – arts and culture, youth programs, mental health, and Indigenous culture.

“One of our proudest partnerships is with the Arctic Winter Games (AWG). As a legacy Arctic champion and sponsor, we help deliver a world-class experience for athletes and spectators. This isn’t just about sponsorship – it’s about connection. This AWG, we plan to provide connectivity over fiber and LEO solutions with network management in partnership with Fortinet to ensure every venue is ready for a tech-forward event that reflects the spirit of the North.

“Our responsibility also extends to environmental stewardship.

We’re reducing reliance on diesel at remote microwave sites by installing solar panels. Our Whitehorse headquarters is a top-tier, environmentally friendly facility, designed with energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials to minimize our footprint.

“These initiatives reflect our commitment to sustainability and to protecting the land that sustains northern communities.”

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NORTHWESTEL TECHNOLOGY

“ O U R M I SS I O N I S R O OT E D I N A S I M P L E B U T P OW E R F U L I D E A – H E L P I N G M A K E A N O R T H E R N C A N A DA W H E R E W E C A N A L L PROSPER AND THRIVE” – TA M M Y A P R I L , V P S T R AT E G I C G R O W T H , N O R T H W E S T E L

in pioneering low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite solutions that extend reliable connectivity to Canadian communities and businesses.

“Our goal is to blend all these technologies with in-community fiber delivered directly to customers’ homes and multi-orbit satellite technologies providing the backhaul for capacity and redundancy,” explains April.

This aligns with the company’s mission of connecting the North with services and products that join Northerners to each other, businesses, and the rest of the world.

“Our mission is rooted in a simple but powerful idea – helping make a Northern Canada where we can all prosper and thrive,” she asserts.

Geography and climate create unique challenges in this part of the country, but Northwestel works to ensure this doesn’t limit access to education, healthcare, commerce, or culture. Hence, the company invests in world-class technologies such as fiber-powered networks and LEO satellite solutions.

Connecting the North means more than delivering the fastest internet over the best network; it’s about building resilient infrastructure so Northerners can stay connected during emergencies and thrive in everyday life.

“We design our services to reflect the North’s diversity and strength. Every km of fiber we lay and partnership we form moves us closer to a future where living in the North means having the same digital opportunities as anywhere else in Canada,” expands April.

BUILDING THE FIBER RAILWAY Connecting communities through telecoms is often compared to the enormity of building the railroad. To accomplish such a feat, Northwestel categorizes its priorities into four sections.

These include connecting communities to each other and the world through leading technology; seeking a shared pathway to an even better North; striving to have operations that reflect the communities the company serves; and deepening its understanding of the North’s unique Indigenous cultures.

The success of Northwestel’s endeavors can be directly seen through a handful of recent projects, such as the Every Community Project, Canada North Fiber Loop (CNFL), and its recent rollout of gigabit speeds.

The Every Community Project has proudly transformed connectivity

across Yukon, Northwest Territories, and beyond, bringing the very best internet technology to dozens of remote and rural communities.

“This landmark initiative was not only about fiber-powered internet, but also about people and the ways stronger connections can change lives. We’re grateful to the many Indigenous rightsholders and government partners who helped make the Every Community Project such a success,” details April.

In November 2025, Northwestel celebrated the first anniversary of the launch of CNFL, which brought much-needed resilience to the North’s internet and cellular networks.

Spanning nearly 4,000 km, CNFL helps protect against disruptions like those caused by natural disasters or other types of damage.

“Over its first year, the CNFL has already proven its worth,” informs April.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 81

NORTHWESTEL TECHNOLOGY

Northern Canada's fibre network Greenland

KEY Northwestel Fibre Network Fibre assets - Yukon First Nations Telco LP

Grise Fiord

Dempster Fibre Line – Government of Yukon

Arctic Ocean

Mackenzie Valley Fibre Link – Government of Northwest Territories Whatì Fibre Link – Tłįchǫ Government Great Slave Lake submarine fibre (proposed) – Yellowknives Dene First Nation

Sachs Harbour

Pond Inlet Arctic Bay

Alaska

Tuktoyaktuk

Old Crow

Yukon

Tuktoyaktuk Fibre Line – Government of Northwest Territories (2024)

Aklavik

Clyde River

Inuvik Ulukhaktok

Fort McPherson Tsiigehtchic

Paulatuk Qikiqtarjuaq

Atlin Fibre Line

Dawson City

Satellite-served communities

Mayo

Beaver Creek

Atlantic Ocean

Kugaaruk ᑰᒑᕐᔪᒃ

Faro Tulita

Ross River

Haines Junction Champagne Whitehorse Carcross

Sanirajak

Gjoa Haven

Kugluktuk ᖁᕐᓗᖅᑐᖅ

Norman Wells

Carmacks

Pangnirtung

Cambridge Bay

Fort Good Hope

Pelly Crossing Burwash Landing Destruction Bay

Igloolik

Taloyoak

Colville Lake

Stewart Crossing

Territorial capital Communities

Resolute Bay

Wrigley Tagish

Teslin

Atlin

Naujaat

Northwest Territories

Gamètì

Good Hope Lake

Jean Marie River

Yellowknife

Fort Providence Fort Liard Kakisa Hay River Enterprise

Dettah

Nahanni Butte

Dease Lake

Fort Nelson

Chesterfield Inlet

Lutselk’e

Fort Resolution

Rankin Inlet ᑲᖏᖅᖠᓂᖅ Whale Cove Arviat

Fort Smith

Prophet River Fort Ware

Kimmirut

Coral Harbour Baker Lake

Behchokǫ

Fort Simpson

Telegraph Creek Iskut

Kinngait

Whatì Upper Liard

Watson Lake

Iqaluit

Nunavut

Wekweètì

High Level

Smith’s Landing

Hudson Bay

Fort Fitzgerald

Wonowon Fort St. John Dawson Creek

NORTHWESTEL’S DIFFERENTIATORS • A fiber-powered network.

• One gigabit per second download speeds in Whitehorse and Yellowknife.

• A full-service provider in the business market space, where Northwestel provides end-toend connectivity solutions.

• A strong local team of 550 Northerners.

• A deep commitment to economic reconciliation.

• CAD$700,000 annually in community giving.

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“Maintenance activities that used to mean downtime for customers now happen invisibly, with traffic rerouting seamlessly while our crew gets the job done. Even when wildfires swept across fiber lines, our investments in brushing and sanding along infrastructure paid off, as our services stayed live, providing Northerners with connectivity they can rely on.”

Whilst Northwestel is thrilled about the success of both the Every Community Project and CNFL, it has no intentions of slowing down.

Already, some of its internet customers in Whitehorse, Yellowknife, and Atlin, BC, are enjoying speeds of one gigabit per second (Gbps). In 2026, the company will be announcing the arrival of gigabit speeds in even more

Sanikiluaq

communities – another milestone for the North and a significant achievement for Northwestel.

One such example of the company making a crucial impact on local communities is its work in Atlin.

“Before 2023, Atlin lived with what could only be called limited connectivity – no modern terrestrial internet connections and absolutely zero cellular service,” details April.

That changed when responsibility for local services moved from a southern carrier to Northwestel, which set to work closing the digital divide with the installation of a fiber line.

By December 2024, fiber transport to Atlin was complete, enabling a Bell Mobility cellular service in the community.

Building Tomorrow’s Networks Today

I

n an era where seamless connectivity powers everything from global commerce to everyday life, the foundation of every reliable network is rock-solid infrastructure. That’s where Put Put Contracting Inc. excels. As a full-service telecom construction leader with over 45 years of proven experience, we design, build, and maintain infrastructure across the Northern Arctic and beyond.

From coast to coast, we deliver end-to-end solutions: fiber-optic deployment, underground and aerial cabling and full network upgrades.

Whether it’s lighting up rural broadband for underserved communities, fiber to the home or full scale long haul backbone builds we bring the same relentless commitment to quality, safety, and on-time delivery.

Our team operates with one goal: zero rework, zero excuses. We self-perform the toughest scopes—directional drilling under busy highways, water bodies or environmentally sensitive areas and trenching through frozen ground— so schedules stay intact and budgets stay predictable. Whether its flying a 40,000 pound directional drill into the remote arctic to complete a 7000M Fiber re-route in below - 40 degree Celsius weather or plowing along major highways with the latest GPS-guided boring machines,

plows, fusion splicers, OTDR testing gear, and drone surveying technology we have what it takes for any project.

Safety isn’t a poster on the wall; it’s our culture.

We maintain a full COR certified health and safety plan and haven’t had a lost-time incident in over four years. Clients sleep better knowing their projects are in the hands of a contractor that puts people first.

We’re also built for speed. We own all our own equipment from bucket trucks, cable plows, directional drills, hydro vacs and forestry equipment to complete all our jobs in house and limit delays or issues. Our in-house mechanics department and long-standing relationships across Canada enable us to react fast to issues and deploy the proper personnel for needed repairs weather its in field or at one of our shops.

When the next generation of connectivity is on the line, you need a construction partner who’s already built thousands of kilometers of it. You need Put Put Contracting Inc. Let’s connect the future—together.

Contact us today for a no-obligation site assessment or bid package review.

WWW.PUTPUTCONTRACTING.COM

NORTHWESTEL TECHNOLOGY

In 2025, FTTH internet services became available, allowing the community to be the first in Northern Canada to enjoy gigabit internet speeds.

Ultimately, the company has many more bold plans to upgrade infrastructure in communities in Northern BC – and it can’t wait to get started.

Northwestel and Eutelsat OneWeb at Klondike Road Relay

Northwestel videos on Facebook

Voices along the line: Looking back at the Every Community Project

Our Shared Pathways - Yukon’s First Nations-owned community fibre

security and sovereignty in the North.”

It’s also an important example of dual-use infrastructure, which can benefit both civilian and military applications.

Some of the key points the company

is championing include asserting sovereignty through connectivity, enhancing security and emergency responses, advancing scientific research, and strengthening economic and geopolitical influence.

ASSERTING ARCTIC SOVEREIGNTY Important to Northwestel is the topic of Arctic and Canadian infrastructure sovereignty.

“Canadians are coming to the realization that we need to be able to stand on our own two feet in an increasingly complex world. One of the big topics of this national conversation is Arctic sovereignty,” expands April.

“For us, the message is clear: telecoms isn’t just infrastructure – it’s a strategic asset, vital to Canada’s

“A C R O S S M U C H O F C A N A D A , F I B E R I S T H E B AC K B O N E O F M O D E R N N E T WO R KS , W H I L ST I N N O R T H E R N C O M M U N I T I E S , I T S A R R I VA L H A S B E E N T R A N S F O R M AT I V E ” – TA M M Y A P R I L , V P S T R AT E G I C G R O W T H , N O R T H W E S T E L

Specifically, to support military and security forces, fiber networks and LEO satellites can provide secure, resilient communication channels for military operations and search-andrescue missions. To support military and security forces, fiber networks and LEO satellites deliver secure, resilient communication channels for operations, enhance search and rescue missions, and strengthen surveillance and intelligence gathering efforts.

As Northwestel continues to look toward a connected, empowered

future, it has a number of priorities and goals to reach, such as rolling out faster gigabit speeds in more places and advancing its mission to expand satellite community connectivity to meet the broadband standards of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), including unlimited monthly data.

“We want to expand our fiber footprint into Northern BC, implement the CRTC’s northern internet subsidy – which will see internet rates decline – and support our government

partners to assert Arctic sovereignty, which cannot happen without local infrastructure investment,” concludes April.

“Ultimately, our goal is to connect Northerners with the world. Going forward, that continues to be both our opportunity and challenge.”

Tel: 1 888 423 2333

www.nwtel.ca

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 85

POWERING PROGRESS S U S TA I N A B LY On a mission to deliver customized, sustainable data center infrastructure for its hyperscale partners, Rowan Digital Infrastructure is redefining North America’s data center landscape. We sit down with Charley Daitch, CEO, who outlines the company’s latest initiatives and projects Writer: Lily Sawyer | Project Manager: Jakub Tyl

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ROWAN DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNOLOGY

O

ver the past five years, the North American data center industry has shifted dramatically.

Demand has surged, driven by artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and cloud workloads, pushing hyperscale operators to prioritize speed, sustainability, and scale.

Power density per rack has also increased, with many data center campuses in the US now exceeding 1,000 megawatts (MW).

“This growth creates opportunities for developers like us to lead with power-first strategies and turnkey solutions,” introduces Charley Daitch, CEO of Rowan Digital Infrastructure (Rowan).

On the other hand, Daitch notes how some of the challenges from five years ago still persist, such as utility interconnection delays, supply chain constraints, and escalating capital costs.

“These hurdles have opened doors for Rowan to innovate, such as creating bridging power strategies and green financing frameworks, accelerating delivery while enabling our customers to meet their aggressive climate goals,” Daitch insights.

Delivering customized hyperscale data center campuses through powered shell and turnkey models, Rowan’s services span site origination, permitting, energy and water infrastructure, sustainable engineering, construction, and

operations.

“We partner with the world’s leading technology companies to deliver the IT infrastructure they need to provide cutting-edge computing,” he shares.

Rowan’s customers are US-based Fortune 50 companies that provide internet and computing services used by hundreds of millions of people every day.

Since the company was founded in 2020, it has grown from just a handful of employees to over 125 across its headquarters in Denver, Colorado and an office in Seattle, Washington.

Across its portfolio, Rowan has more than 3.5 gigawatts (GW) in development, including active construction on projects representing

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ROWAN DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNOLOGY

1.6 GW across Frederick County, Maryland (MD); San Antonio and Temple, Texas (TX); and Boardman, Oregon (OR).

A SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE As a company which seeks to de-risk and deliver customized data center campuses for hyperscale partners efficiently and sustainably, Rowan prioritizes its customers as its ‘North Star’ – evident in every decision the team makes.

Meeting customer demand by planning ahead, the company eliminates the common barriers that typically delay hyperscale data center development, such as infrastructure constraints, regulatory hurdles, local opposition, and skilled labor shortages.

“We anticipate and address challenges early – conducting rigorous site evaluations to avoid environmental or permitting risks, engaging local stakeholders early on to ensure community alignment, and structuring financing and infrastructure plans to maintain accelerated project timelines,” Daitch tells us.

Rowan’s design and construction practices, meanwhile, reflect the same discipline. Each campus incorporates

“ I A M I N C R E D I B LY P R O U D O F T H E P R O G R E S S W E ’ V E M A D E FO R O U R C U STO M E R S I N A R E L AT I V E LY S H O R T A M O U N T O F T I M E ” – C H A R L E Y D A I T C H , C E O , R O WA N D I G I TA L I N F R A S T R U C T U R E

renewable energy access, water conservation systems, and materials strategies that reduce lifecycle carbon impact.

“By combining foresight, sustainability, and execution, we enable our hyperscale partners

to deploy capacity efficiently and reliably,” he adds.

As the company celebrates its fifth anniversary, Rowan is proud of this significant milestone, which reflects the resilience and ambition of the entire team.

ROWAN DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNOLOGY

“I am incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made for our customers in a relatively short amount of time,” Daitch reflects.

“For me, this anniversary isn’t just about scale – it’s about proving that sustainability and speed can coexist in hyperscale delivery.”

HYPERSCALE FUNDING Having recently secured over $3 billion in project financing for its flagship Bauxite data center campus, this major achievement validates Rowan’s model and sets the tone for nationwide growth.

The campus currently comprises three projects – Bauxite I, II, and III – all located within a 2,000-acre industrial development near Frederick, MD. Rowan’s Maryland campus is the state’s first hyperscale development and offers proximity to the world’s largest cluster of data centers in Northern Virginia. The site spans 2.2 million square feet and will deliver more than 630 MW across several phases.

The company secured the most recent round of financing under its new Green Finance Framework, rated as ‘Strong’ by Sustainalytics, a leading independent provider of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) research and ratings, underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainable growth.

“This project defines how Rowan works – transparent, collaborative, and focused on anticipating hyperscale partner needs,” Daitch shares.

From day one, the company has prioritized sustainability, pursuing building research establishment environmental assessment methodology (BREEAM) certification and embedding responsible resource management into every phase of the project.

“Bauxite also became a model for community engagement for us, with investments in local partnerships, workforce programs, and education initiatives,” he details.

SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE As a company that is always looking to its community partners to help identify initiatives that are important beyond data center project boundaries, Rowan invests meaningfully in local partnerships with intentional emphasis on empowering communities through technology.

This is why it has invested in two new Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation STEM Centers – one at Carroll Manor Elementary and one at Lincoln Elementary – as well as a Rowan Tech Lab at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Frederick County.

It also supports Frederick Community College through various means, like building out a new Trades Lab to help with electrician education and other training – all because the company deeply understands the importance of educating and inspiring the next generation.

Aware of the need to help build more housing in the areas where it operates, Rowan additionally supports Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County with both time and resources.

“For us, philanthropy means creating lasting value beyond the data center footprint,” Daitch surmises.

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As such, Rowan has built a strong coalition of support in the region that is helping it to lead the conversation around data center development.

“What began at Bauxite established the foundation for Rowan’s industryleading, community-driven approach to digital infrastructure.

“We’re now taking that model to other key markets across the country, starting with our hyperscale projects in TX,” Daitch adds.

With a focus on renewable power, water conservation, and efficient infrastructure, the Bauxite campus sets a new bar for sustainable delivery.

Boasting 100 percent renewable energy access, advanced cooling systems to cut water usage, and 90 | North America Outlook Issue 33

estimated energy cost savings of 16.7 percent versus the baseline, it offers a more sustainable option for Rowan’s hyperscale clients.

PROLIFIC PROJECTS Elsewhere, Rowan is developing a 300 MW hyperscale Temple data center campus in Central TX, which represents a transformative opportunity for the state.

“Beyond delivering more than 700 acres of hyperscale-ready infrastructure, we anticipate over 600 construction jobs and significant long-term tax revenue – a minimum $700 million investment in the region,” Daitch explains.

All told, this project is similar in

size and scale to the Bauxite projects, with more than $3 billion in planned investment.

This not only supports Temple’s growth as a digital hub but also positions Rowan to meet the scaling needs of hyperscale clients in a dynamic and expanding market.

Project Cinco in Medina County, TX, meanwhile, is a standout project for the company, with more than 300 MW currently under active development and over 600 construction jobs created.

“Our work here has been in close collaboration with local leaders, who have unanimously approved voluntary development agreements that really set the tone for how we’re building this capacity,” confirms Daitch.

ROWAN DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNOLOGY

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“ W E A I M TO B E T H E I N D I S P E N SA B L E PA R T N E R F O R H Y P E R S C A L E A N D A I I N F R A S T R U C T U R E O P E R AT O R S – D E L I V E R I N G S P E E D , S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y, A N D C E R TA I N T Y IN A MARKET DEFINED BY COMPLEXITY AND URGENCY” – C H A R L E Y D A I T C H , C E O , R O WA N D I G I TA L I N F R A S T R U C T U R E

The company is also advancing projects in OR and exploring expansion into emerging AI-driven markets.

“Each of our sites reflects our strategy – power-first, sustainabilityled, and meeting our customers where they need us most,” he says.

SCALING FOR THE FUTURE Looking ahead, Rowan’s focus is on scaling rapidly and strategically.

This involves expanding turnkey

and powered shell delivery while growing its pipeline to more than 7 GW across key US markets.

In just five years, Rowan has grown into a multi-billion-dollar platform with more than 3.5 GW in development.

Over the next five years, Rowan aims to further expand its global footprint and remain at the forefront of enabling efficient, resilient capacity for its hyperscale partners across key geographies.

“We’re deepening partnerships with hyperscalers and AI-first customers while continuing to make sustainability a core competitive advantage,” Daitch posits.

Indeed, international expansion and diversification into AI infrastructure are firmly on the horizon for Rowan.

As such, the next chapter is about disciplined growth and innovation.

“We aim to be the indispensable partner for hyperscale and AI infrastructure operators – delivering speed, sustainability, and certainty in a market defined by complexity and urgency,” he confidently concludes.

Tel: 971-219-5561 nbrown@rowan.digital

www.rowan.digital

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 91

Brand new exclusive content, delivered safely to your inbox As organizations worldwide navigate the new healthcare landscape, defined by technological innovation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, now is the time to showcase the strides being taken in this critical sector.

A multi-channel brand, Healthcare Outlook brings you the positive developments driven by organizations across the healthcare industry through its various platforms. Discover exclusive content distributed through its website, online magazine, social media campaigns and digital dispatches, delivered safely to your inbox with a bi-weekly newsletter.

Through these compelling media channels, Healthcare Outlook continues to foreground the movers and shakers of the industry.

To participate as a featured company and join us in this exciting endeavor, contact one of our Project Managers today.

SUBSCRIBE NOW TO THE DIGITAL MAGAZINE

www.healthcare-outlook.com

FYIDOCTORS HEALTHCARE

NEW FOR CANADIAN EYE CARE Proudly standing as Canada’s largest eye care provider, FYidoctors remains doctor-led, professionally managed, and patient focused. We speak to Founder and CEO, Dr. Alan Ulsifer, about the company’s transformative approach to eye health Writer: Ed Budds | Project Manager: Callum Ovenstone

T

he global eye care industry is a booming, multi-billiondollar worldwide market encompassing eye health products and state-of-the-art medical devices, driven by aging populations, rising digital eye strain, and increasing eye health awareness.

A plethora of exciting developments continue to accelerate across the industry including technology integration, digital health, market consolidation, and a growing focus on preventative care.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is also rapidly transforming the healthcare industry, and eye care and health is no exception.

As such, optometry, a complex field deeply rooted in intricate precision and patient care, stands at the very precipice of this technological evolution.

At the forefront of this growing sector is FYidoctors, Canada’s largest eye care provider, operating under the broader FYihealth group banner.

Founded in 2008 by a small group of independent, like-minded optometrists across Canada, the company has been leading the way ever since.

“We were determined to provide excellent, personalized care first when many in our industry were putting profits over patients, and our values have helped us grow to have clinics spread across the nation from coast to coast. Through it all, we’ve kept our patients first,” notes Dr. Alan Ulsifer, Founder and CEO. North America Outlook Issue 33 | 95

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“WE BELIEVE EVERY CHILD H AS A R I G H T TO UNOBSTRUCTED SIGHT” – ALAN ULSIFER, FOUNDER A N D C E O, F Y I D O C TO R S

end-to-end vision care, from exam to eyewear.

Proudly made in Canada, the organization is rooted in the belief that better sight leads to better lives.

TRUSTED CARE

Ulsifer believes the realm of eye care is a truly unique and fascinating industry that holds exceptional possibilities and boundless potential.

“We can learn so much about the whole body from the eyes, so the impact optometrists can have for the broader field of healthcare is 96 | North America Outlook Issue 33

extremely exciting to be involved in,” he enthuses.

FYidoctors delivers an unparalleled patient experience built on trust, quality, convenience, and care.

Through vertical integration, leading technology, and its doctor-led model, the company offers personalized,

Since 2008, FYidoctors has directed a laser-sharp focus on providing the people of Canada with cutting-edge eye care based on the mantra that good eye health equates to wholebody health.

What began as a small group of independent optometrists in 2008 has evolved into one of North America’s fastest-growing doctorowned healthcare organizations, now encompassing in excess of 370 locations across multiple brands in Canada and the US, along with over 4,000 dedicated team members, including more than 730 optometrists.

FYidoctors’ vision is to create a future where every patient has access to exceptional eye care, where clinicians can thrive within a collaborative ecosystem, and where innovation continually redefines what’s possible in eye health and wellness.

“Together, we form a collective of doctors who prioritize the highest possible standard of care – nothing is more important to us than the health and happiness of our patients,” Ulsifer emphasizes.

FYIDOCTORS HEALTHCARE

With each clinic being doctor-led, patients receive genuine, personalized care from optometrists and team members who are truly invested in their well-being.

“In Delta, British Columbia, we own Canada’s largest and most technologically advanced ophthalmic lab, which produces more than one million pairs of customized lenses for patients every year,” he sets out.

From its doctor-led advisory committee and R&D initiatives to its patented Patient Pathway, FYidoctors keeps patients at the center of everything it does.

“As optometrists, we never stop learning. That’s why we continually invest in lens technology and cuttingedge diagnostic tools in our clinics.

“From our Optomap ultra-wide-field retinal imaging to our technologically advanced exactFit Freeform lenses, we use innovation and technology to give our patients the eye care they deserve.”

Now offering custom-crafted exactFit lenses, FYidoctors is proud to be one of the first labs in North America to use Freeform technology.

Every pair of glasses made is tailored not just to a patient’s prescription, but how they like to wear them, and perfectly tuned and quality-controlled

to ensure all details are precise.

“With a focus on continuous innovation, from advancements in AI and automation to laser technology, we relentlessly update and innovate to manufacture the best lenses available,” Ulsifer divulges.

All clinics are equipped with advanced diagnostic technology, including optical coherence

tomography (OCT) and widefield retinal imaging, ensuring comprehensive examination capability in every exam.

FYidoctors is one of the only Canadian eye care networks using a common electronic medical record (EMR) platform across all clinics, enabling consistent patient care and data-driven insights.

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HOW PROUD ARE YOU TO LEAD FYIDOCTORS AND WHAT LED YOU TO THIS POSITION? ALAN ULSIFER, FOUNDER AND CEO: “I am extremely proud to be leading the largest doctor-led, professionally managed, and patient-focused organization focused on delivering outstanding eye care.

“My career journey started out in Western Canada after I graduated from the University of Waterloo as an optometrist in 1990. After my studies, I became one of the founders and the managing partner of Northern Vision Centre, which developed into one of the nation’s largest independent optometric practices.

“I’ve always been fascinated by the entire spectrum of eye care and have been involved at political, clinical, and executive levels of the field, including my work with various not-for-profit boards, including the Alberta Optometric Association, Rotary, Optometry Giving Sight, Alberta Freestyle Ski Association, and Grande Prairie Chamber of Commerce.

“Then, in 2008, I oversaw the creation of FYidoctors, which still stands as the largest business merger in Canadian history in terms of the number of companies involved.

“Our founding group of optometrists came together and began purchasing the specialized equipment needed alongside acquiring a small optical laboratory. This was the beginning of our journey and when we officially formed the organization.”

Other recent innovations include AI processes and diagnostic improvement plans in eight areas, predictive analytics to optimize scheduling and recalls, and AI-powered marketing and call center platforms for personalized engagement.

ENHANCING LIFE MONTH Every October, FYidoctors celebrates Enhancing Life Month.

What started as a grassroots initiative to fundraise for a good 98 | North America Outlook Issue 33

cause on World Sight Day years ago has turned into an annual tradition across the organization, fundraising hundreds of thousands of dollars for a wide variety of causes and initiatives.

Each clinic chooses its own charity that they care about and organizes different fundraising initiatives all month long.

The organization has raised over CAD$450,000 for registered Canadian charities this past year alone.

“As a pillar of the community, we successfully partner with charitable organizations that benefit from our wide reach. Through these efforts, we fulfill our dream of enhancing lives beyond our clinics’ doors,” Ulsifer prides.

“Each of our individual clinics is home to a unique team of individuals with distinct interests and philanthropic priorities. For this reason, every FYidoctors location chooses a specific organization to support.”

ONLY Optos Captures a 200° Retinal Image in a Single Shot Improving the sensitivity of a traditional dilated exam by up to 30%

Industry-leading ultra-widefield imaging, combined with an open, enterprise-ready platform, delivers clinical insight and operational efficiency unmatched by any other device.

www.optos.com Brown. Comparison of image-assisted versus traditional fundus examination. Eye and Brain, 2014.

FYIDOCTORS HEALTHCARE

The company celebrates the personal stories attached to why each charity is chosen and the impactful reasons behind its people’s investment in individual foundations, which cover a multitude of worthy causes ranging from youth health and animal welfare to community food banks and suicide prevention, all with a core belief in improving lives.

“Recently, we’ve opened up fundraising efforts to run throughout the entire year as we’ve had many within the organization who are 100 | North America Outlook Issue 33

passionate about giving back to our communities and supporting causes they care about,” he explains.

BETTER SIGHT. BETTER GRADES FYidoctors’ accessible eye care program, ‘Better Sight. Better Grades’, ensures every kindergarten-aged child receives a complimentary pair of glasses if needed, regardless of their family’s financial situation.

“We believe every child has a right to unobstructed sight,” says Ulsifer.

“If a child is prescribed eyewear, we

provide their first pair at no charge, adjust them, and help them adapt.”

This initiative is critical. One in four school-aged children has vision problems that can severely impact their learning, yet these issues are often difficult for children to communicate or for parents to detect.

Since learning is predominantly visual, from reading whiteboards to observing teachers and working on screens, undiagnosed vision problems can lead to frustration and academic struggles from an early age.

FYIDOCTORS HEALTHCARE

AWARD WINNERS FYidoctors’ people-first culture continues to earn recognition at national level.

The organization has also been proud to be a six-year repeat honouree of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, recognized for leadership, innovation, and sustained growth.

The company has also been a Great Place to Work®-certified organization since 2023, named among the top 50 Best Workplaces™ in Canada, and awarded Globe and Mail’s Report on Business Best Executive Awards and Canada’s Top Growing Companies since 2022.

Elsewhere, Ulsifer was selected as EY Entrepreneur of the Year for all of Canada in 2013.

Additional accolades include Best Workplace™ for Inclusion, Best Workplace™ with Most Trusted Executive Team, and Best Workplace™ for Women.

These accolades reflect an ongoing commitment to being the first choice for eye care professionals to practice and the number one place for people to work.

“By making eye care accessible, we can address vision problems before children encounter learning difficulties,” Ulsifer explains.

“This not only helps them reach their full potential but also allows for early detection and treatment of conditions like myopia.”

The program has served families across the country and empowers teachers to help students access the quality eye care they need.

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LOOKING AHEAD One of the most prominent priorities for FYidoctors moving forward is to continue its mission to improve access to eye care for all.

By leveraging the latest cuttingedge technology into its practices, the company also strives to remain at the forefront of optometry as the sector evolves and enters a new era of innovation.

FYIDOCTORS HEALTHCARE

Kering Eyewear, founded in 2014, is part of the Kering Group and is the most relevant player in the Luxury Eyewear market segment.

The company designs, develops and distributes eyewear for a complete and well-balanced portfolio of 14 brands, which includes the proprietary brands LINDBERG, the undisputed design luxury Danish eyewear company.

Wide Guyz Big Al frame, inspired by your fearless leader Dr. Al Ulsifer.

Discover your perfect frame

Maui Jim, recognized for its outstanding lens technology and distinctive Hawaiian heritage, and Zeal Optics, the sustainable eyewear for outdoor adventurers, as well as the Houses brands Gucci, Cartier, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, Chloe, Alexander McQueen, Montblanc, Dunhill, Alaïa and Puma.

The Gucci Eyewear Fall Winter 2025 collection effortlessly blends innovation with the House’s heritage, reinterpreting classic silhouettes with cutting-edge details.

Chic Murphy frame

Success 399 frame

“Visual Eyes is proud to support FYI with reliable service, quality product, and a partnership built on trust. We value the momentum we’ve created together and look forward to bringing even more innovation in the future.”

Contact Jeff Speiran:

- Michael Hyman VP of Sales Visual Eyes Eyewear

Head of Corporate Accounts, Buying Groups & Sport Channels Mobile: +1 (604) 649-0047 Email: Jeff.speiran@kering.com

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INTRODUCING OPTIKAM – PRECISION, SIMPLICITY, AND A SUPERIOR EYEWEAR EXPERIENCE Optikam revolutionizes the way eyewear measurements are captured, now offering the flexibility to take precise measurements with or without a device attached to the eyewear.

The OptikamPad app is the ultimate tool for eye care professionals, helping to: Drive multiple pair sales Upsell premium lenses Capture precise measurements the first time OptikamPad enhances the customer experience by: • Assisting in frame selection • Showcasing the benefits of premium lenses • Seamlessly capturing all necessary eyewear measurements Deliver a personalized, efficient, and accurate dispensing experience with OptikamPad - where precision meets innovation!

www.optikam.com sales@optikam.com Telephone: +1-514-667-4178 (Toll-Free North America: 888-356-3311)

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“ TO G E T H E R , W E FO R M A CO L L E C T I V E O F D O C TO R S W H O P R I O R I T I Z E T H E H I G H E ST P O S S I B L E S TA N D A R D O F C A R E – N O T H I N G I S M O R E I M P O R TA N T T O U S T H A N T H E H E A LT H A N D H A P P I N E S S O F O U R P AT I E N T S ” – A L A N U L S I F E R , FO U N D E R A N D C E O, F Y I D O C TO R S

FYIDOCTORS HEALTHCARE

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS Community Connection is woven into FYidoctors’ identity, inspiring national and local initiatives that make a measurable difference.

Additional community connection initiatives include: • Mobile Optometry Clinic – FYidoctors has launched Canada’s first fully equipped Mobile Clinic – a custom-built optometry clinic on wheels featuring a modern exam lane, 400+ frames, prescription lens dispensing, wheelchair accessibility, and solar power. It aims to bring comprehensive vision care directly to remote communities, workplaces, and underserved populations. This turnkey solution eliminates barriers like travel and long wait times by delivering complete eye care services from exams to frame selection and prescription fulfillment, all under one mobile roof, with plans for a national roll-out across Canada.

• Glasses Recycling Program – In partnership with Lions Club of Canada, this program provides donated eyewear to individuals in developing countries who otherwise wouldn’t have access to proper vision care.

This initiative not only supports global access to vision care but also reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainability and community involvement.

• National Natural Disaster Glasses Replacement Program – Provides Canadians with complimentary eyewear replacements that may have been broken, forgotten, or lost during Wildfire evacuations, including eye exams if needed.

• Optometric Education – With a strong history of supporting optometric education in Canada, FYidoctors recently donated CAD$5 million to the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry and Vision Science to fund construction of the Waterloo Eye Institute, a state-of-the-art facility supporting advances in vision research, optometric education, and patient care.

For example, the integration of AI into the field of optometry promises to transform the eye care sector in new ways.

By enhancing diagnostic accuracy, personalizing treatments, and streamlining operations, AI has the transformative potential as not merely a tool but a partner in delivering exceptional care.

“The challenge now lies in embracing this technology thoughtfully, ensuring it complements rather than replaces the human elements that define the profession,” Ulsifer muses.

Ultimately, AI’s potential in optometry is not just about efficiency or precision – it’s about redefining what’s possible.

By leveraging these tools, practitioners in organizations such as FYidoctors can elevate their practice, prioritize patient relationships, and continue to lead the way in innovative, compassionate care.

“By embracing innovation and dedicating ourselves to offering optimised eye care, we have worked tirelessly to clearly define what it will take to deliver the sense of pride we all want to feel every day coming to work.

“As a result, we look forward to continue enhancing the lives of the patients and customers that we serve, the people we work with each and every day, ourselves, and the communities in which we work and live,” he concludes with a smile.

Tel: 1-855-960-3937 support@fyidoctors.com

www.fyidoctors.com North America Outlook Issue 33 | 105

A H E R I TAG E OF HEALING AND PIONEERING CARE Huntington Hospital has evolved from its humble beginnings over a century ago to become a beacon of advanced healthcare. President, Dr. Nick Fitterman, discusses the hospital’s specialized services while embracing education through its partnership with Northwell Health

Cath lab

Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Callum Ovenstone

I

n 1916, the town of Huntington, New York was undergoing a significant transformation from a small farming community to a burgeoning urban area.

As the population expanded and economic growth advanced, new residents arrived seeking opportunities, which prompted the construction of a new hospital to provide essential healthcare services.

In response to the demand, Huntington Hospital was founded by Cornelia Prime, who recognized the 106 | North America Outlook Issue 33

community’s urgent need for medical care and generously donated the land and resources necessary to begin building.

As a visionary philanthropist who played a crucial role in addressing community needs, she contributed not only financial support but also a strong commitment to improving local healthcare infrastructure.

At a time when women had limited rights, Prime’s leadership solidified her status as a trailblazer in Huntington.

Today, Prime’s legacy is recognized in the town with streets renamed in her honor and various community events celebrating her impact on the town, ensuring her remarkable support is never forgotten.

“Over the last 110 years, Huntington Hospital has established itself as a trusted partner in the community it serves, and we have done so by providing high-quality care and focusing on the needs of the community,” introduces Dr. Nick Fitterman, President.

HUNTINGTON HOSPITAL HEALTHCARE

“Becoming part of Northwell Health (Northwell), a large integrated health system, afforded us even more opportunity to grow and advance care,” he continues.

Northwell’s Center for Learning and Innovation (CLI) and Institute for Nursing (IFN) provide Huntington Hospital employees with unlimited access to ongoing education.

By sharing best practices throughout the system, the hospital can both contribute to and benefit from the collective knowledge of

thousands of team members.

“We have a culture of always wanting to do better tomorrow than we did today. Never becoming complacent from past or current successes keeps all our partners eager to learn, innovate, and evolve,” Dr. Nick highlights.

TAILORED EXCELLENCE While a typical community hospital will attempt to provide a wide range of services for everyone, Huntington Hospital has the advantage of being part of an integrated system with

specialty, tertiary, and quaternary hospitals.

These facilities are all accessible within minutes via robust transfer services, including ambulances, helicopters, and planes.

This allows the hospital to focus on the most prevalent needs of its community and develop programs of excellence, such as those for cardiovascular disease.

“We were one of the first cath labs in New York State without on-site open-heart back-up.

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HUNTINGTON HOSPITAL HEALTHCARE

WHAT DOES CORE IDEOLOGY MEAN IN THE CONTEXT OF HOSPITAL CULTURE, AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? Dr. Nick Fitterman, President: “Core ideology transcends business strategy and is embedded in the MVVs of an organization. Ours is that excellence in clinical care is the best business strategy.

“We lean on this when difficult decisions arise, such as adding a new, expensive drug to our pharmacy or building a unit for an uncommon procedure. If our community needs it, we do it – even if at financial risk.

“We know that if we do what is right for our community, they’ll reward us by bringing all their other healthcare needs to us.”

Over 30 years later, we still have a very active lab that was recently refreshed with two rooms capable of doing all the advanced procedures one expects in such a lab. Therefore, we can treat any acute or chronic heart disease that does not require open-heart surgery,” informs Dr. Fitterman.

“Moreover, we included the CoroFlow Cardiovascular System in both labs to complement our women’s health program as it can diagnose microvascular angina, which predominantly impacts women, and no such lab existed in our area.”

The hospital also refreshed its very active electrophysiology (EP) lab and is planning to revise a second one.

This addresses the changing landscape of arrhythmia treatments – notably atrial fibrillation and the increasing role of ablation as a primary therapeutic option.

“Huntington Hospital also supports an aging community that needs the expansion of two additional programs – cancer treatment and orthopedics, including spine care,” Dr. Fitterman outlines.

“We have a disease-specific Advanced Certification in Spine Surgery from the Joint Commission and a clinically and academically active orthopedic residency program, which published over 40 articles in peer-reviewed journals last year.”

This type of academic currency helps the hospital attract a higher caliber of learners and attendings, further elevating the care provided.

EP lab

Along with its orthopedic residency program, Huntington Hospital has podiatric surgery and pharmacy residency programs, exemplifying the hospital’s commitment to medical education.

“We will be developing our own internal medicine program in 2027 to help meet the need for more primary care in the area we serve and to create a pipeline of talent for future recruitment,” Dr. Fitterman adds.

The hospital also has high-quality programs meeting the needs of the most common cancers in the region – lung, breast, prostate, and colorectal.

“ B E I N G P A R T O F T H E K AT Z I N S T I T U T E F O R W O M E N ’ S H E A LT H A L I G N S U S W I T H O T H E R S Y S T E M W I D E C O L L A B O R AT I O N S T O A D VA N C E T H E C A R E O F W O M E N ” – D R . F I T T E R M A N , P R E S I D E N T, H U N T I N G T O N H O S P I TA L

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HUNTINGTON HOSPITAL HEALTHCARE

Mother and baby unit

“We participate in clinical studies, cancer genetics, and collaborate with the world-renowned Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. This year, we have introduced the most advanced linear accelerator for cancer treatments called the Varian Ethos™.”

ELEVATING WOMEN’S HEALTH Women’s health is often neglected in healthcare, and Huntington Hospital has addressed this by establishing a women’s health center nearby its main campus.

Women can receive comprehensive care for all their primary and subspecialty needs at the center, which complements the hospital’s mother-and-baby unit with beautiful suites for couples and their newborns.

“We are a center of excellence for minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, and our expert surgeons train others in these techniques,” Dr. Fitterman imparts.

Furthermore, Huntington Hospital is expanding its labor and delivery

suite to accommodate an increasing number of deliveries.

“We will continue to grow our laborist and neonatal intensive care programs. We are a site that trains and educates future obstetricians and gynecologists, thereby creating a pipeline of talent.

“Being part of the Katz Institute for Women’s Health aligns us with other systemwide collaborations to advance the care of women,” he elaborates.

Every unit and department has an alignment board visibly posted as a reminder of Huntington Hospital’s mission, vision, and values (MVVs) and strategic objectives.

The purpose is to ensure that all 2,100 team members and partners understand how every task they perform aligns with the greater mission.

“MVVs help instill a sense of purpose – this is vital in all professions but especially healthcare, which is personal, people-dependent, and a privilege to be part of.

INNOVATION IN HEALTHCARE With the implementation of the state-of-the-art Hillrom Nurse Call system, Huntington Hospital represents a significant advancement in patient care.

By enabling more effective monitoring and a proactive approach to addressing patient needs, this innovative technology aims to enhance patients’ overall safety and wellbeing and empower healthcare staff to respond promptly and efficiently.

This initiative underscores the hospital’s commitment to improving patient outcomes and fostering a supportive environment for both patients and staff.

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IR suite

“Our mission statement – ‘The right care, every touch, every time’ – is a credo we all model and live by. That is what helps drive accolades, such as the 5-star rating by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, more than any dashboard metrics,” Dr. Fitterman earnestly expresses.

ENHANCING CARE THROUGH STRATEGIC SPECIALIZATION There has been significant activity at Huntington Hospital recently with the refurbishment of an interventional radiology (IR) suite.

This is part of a broader strategy to address cancer by relocating diagnostic and therapeutic procedures traditionally performed in operating rooms to IR suites and 110 | North America Outlook Issue 33

Wound center

support the expansion of its growing vascular surgery program.

The hospital has also opened a state-of-the-art wound care center, which includes two hyperbaric oxygen chambers, and plans to introduce a thrombectomy program to become a thrombectomy stroke center.

“As a designated primary stroke center, we are seeing more patients with acute ischemic stroke becoming candidates for thrombectomy; we feel our community needs this service closer to home,” emphasizes Dr. Fitterman.

Equally, there are plans to advance Huntington Hospital’s Level 3 trauma designation to Level 2, which it will formally achieve by adding just a few additional on-call services.

HUNTINGTON HOSPITAL HEALTHCARE

“OUR MISSION S TAT E M E N T – ‘ T H E RIGHT CARE, EVERY TO U C H , E V E RY T I M E ’ – IS A CREDO WE ALL MODEL AND LIVE BY” – D R . F I T T E R M A N , P R E S I D E N T, H U N T I N G T O N H O S P I TA L

IMPROVING ACCESS TO CARE Disparities in the US healthcare system mean a significant number of people often forgo necessary medical care due to affordability concerns.

However, to help address this issue, Huntington Hospital opened a health center for the underinsured and uninsured, regardless of documentation status, over 30 years ago.

In the past year, the hospital relocated the center closer to the community it serves and expanded its clinical footprint.

The needs of the community drive the decision to specialize in specific programs over others. If there is a need the hospital cannot meet for any reason, such as not having enough high-quality surgeons or specialists for a particular disease, then it partners with sister hospitals across Northwell.

“We would rather transfer to a program of excellence, if we don’t have one, than build a program of mediocrity,” Dr. Fitterman declares.

“This center speaks to our core ideology. While we must support it financially, without it, a large segment of our community would have no such access to healthcare.

“We created a beautiful office setting and provide a high quality of care. We never want a patient to feel like they are going to a clinic,” Dr. Fitterman assures.

EMPOWERING THE FUTURE Huntington Hospital is proudly committed to investing in the growth and development of current and future leaders as well as frontline staff.

“In addition to CLI and IFN, we collaborate with top-notch programs at Harvard University, Cornell University, and The Health Management Academy,” Dr. Fitterman reports.

“These complement the robust physician administrative leadership programs at Northwell. These are essentially mini-MBA programs and are as impactful as any I’ve encountered elsewhere.”

This emphasis on comprehensive training and leadership reflects Northwell’s commitment to innovation in patient care.

For instance, the hospital added navigational bronchoscopy, which has expedited the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.

It allows for much quicker and

Huntington Hospital

safer sampling of pulmonary nodules suspected of being cancer, therefore providing better patient outcomes.

In addition to these advancements, Huntington Hospital will be improving its cancer campus with the opening of the Wisser Family Cancer Center, part of the Northwell Cancer Institute.

“When complete, we will have medical, surgical, and radiation oncology on one site.

“This will be coupled with infusion bays, a genetics program, a survivorship center, and imaging, all on a single campus – it will transform cancer care in our community,” concludes Dr. Fitterman.

Tel: (631) 351-2000 huntington.northwell.edu

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 111

BUILT FOR THE FUTURE OF ENERGY Smith Industries, located in the heart of the Permian Basin, remains the oil and gas industry leader in high-quality, on-time product delivery while holding health, operational integrity, and environmental safety as the greatest priority. We find out more with CEO, Sachin Singh Writer: Ed Budds | Project Manager: Scarlett Burke

R

ight now, the US energy landscape finds itself at a crucial inflection point, as if standing on a fault line where two tectonic plates are shifting at once.

Traditional oil and gas production is hitting record levels, while the utility and power infrastructure sectors are exploding with demand, driven by electrification, data centers, artificial intelligence (AI), renewables, and aging grid constraints.

It’s rare to find an industry moment where both sides of the energy equation are expanding at the same time, and that’s the exact crossroads that Smith Industries (Smith) is currently operating at.

112 | North America Outlook Issue 33

SMITH INDUSTRIES OIL & GAS

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 113

SMITH INDUSTRIES OIL & GAS

At present, US oil production continues to hover near 13.5 million barrels per day, rivaling all-time records. Gas markets remain robust with surging liquefied neutral gas (LNG) exports, and North America is expected to lead global LNG supply growth through the decade.

Yet underneath the numbers, the story is more nuanced – margins have tightened compared to the 2021–2023 boom, capital discipline

is replacing ‘growth at any cost’, and companies are increasingly prioritizing automation, quality fabrication, and reliable partners.

“More barrels are produced today with fewer workers, thanks to modern technology. This creates a new competitive environment where execution, reliability, cost certainty, and speed matter more than ever – exactly what Smith is known for,” introduces Sachin Singh, CEO.

“My early world was simple – tools on a table, machines humming in the background, and people working

DOES YOUR ROLE STILL EXCITE YOU AND WHAT SPARKED YOUR PASSION FOR THIS INDUSTRY?

hard with their hands. Maybe that’s

Sachin Singh, CEO: “Some careers

shapes you as much as you shape

begin with a plan; mine began with a spark, a curiosity for how giant energy systems breathe, move, and hold the world together.

“I grew up far from billion-dollar EPC projects, data centers, and giant fabrication yards.

why the energy world pulled me in.

“It was an industry where the work is tangible, honest, overwhelming, and deeply human – the kind of work that it. I’m an engineer at heart, a builder by instinct, and an energy leader shaped by two decades of turning steel, systems, and people into highperforming organizations.

“By 2024, after two decades in mega-projects, my path led me to Midland, the beating heart of American oil and gas.

“Smith offered me something rare – the opportunity to lead a company rooted in the oil field, yet hungry to grow beyond it.

“Today, my job isn’t just running a business; it’s to build a future diversifying from oil and gas into utility poles, grid infrastructure, and data center construction.

“This incredible industry gave me the opportunity to lead global teams, build massive facilities, operate businesses, deliver complex projects, and now the stewardship of an enterprise into its next chapter.

“It’s not just my career – it’s my craft.”

114 | North America Outlook Issue 33

Additionally, the industry is witnessing a wave of generational leadership change – veteran expertise is retiring and digital-native talent is entering.

“Companies need leaders who can move between oil and gas execution, utility manufacturing, and AI-driven operations. Therefore, this moment suits companies like ours perfectly,” he sets out.

UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES Smith is a proudly family-owned engineering, fabrication, and equipment delivery company located at the heart of the Permian Basin in Midland, Texas.

The company’s geographic center gives a unique proximity to the valued customers whose wells, pipelines, and facilities define the US energy landscape.

Today, its flagship facility spans 70 acres with 300,000 square feet of indoor manufacturing capacity, providing the scale, flexibility, and robustness needed to tackle both simple and highly complex jobs.

“We operate fully integrated engineering, drafting, procurement, fabrication, coating, painting, and rigging and trucking operations, delivering end-to-end solutions from raw steel to fully installed, field-ready equipment,” Singh explains.

“Our in-house capabilities include heavy fabrication and surfaceproduction equipment, structural modules, thermal energy storage tanks, and even steel utility poles for broader energy or utility applications.

“Meanwhile, to ensure clients’ uptime and schedule-critical delivery, we maintain our own fleet of trucks and cranes, avoiding third-party delays and adding value through control, reliability, and efficiency,” he expands.

Founded in 2004 by a native of the Permian Basin, the company was built on values of hard work, integrity, craftsmanship, and loyalty.

“Those same values remain

“ W E ’ V E B U I LT A STRONG F O U N D AT I O N AND ARE NOW ENTERING A PHASE O F A C C E L E R AT E D M O D E R N I Z AT I O N A N D S T R AT E G I C E X PA N S I O N ” – SAC H I N S I N G H , C E O, SMITH INDUSTRIES

embedded in the firm today as we continue investing in modernization and technology while preserving our family-owned, client-first ethos.”

Smith has built its geographic presence across Western Texas, Eastern New Mexico, and the broader Permian region, with the trucking and logistics capabilities to support timecritical delivery across its growing footprint.

Its ever-expanding client base currently consists of operators and producers in oil and gas, midstream facility developers, companies requiring surface production equipment, field infrastructure, and

reliable, field-ready modules or tanks, as well as utility and energy infrastructure buyers.

A BRAND-NEW DIVISION SI Utility is the sister company to Smith and represents a strategic expansion beyond traditional oil and gas fabrication into the rapidly growing utility, transmission, and power-infrastructure market.

Built to address a critical gap in the region, SI Utility is the only manufacturer of pre-engineered steel utility poles in Western Texas and Eastern New Mexico, giving utilities, engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) companies, and transmission developers a domestic, ISO-certified, and schedule-reliable partner located close to where the assets are being deployed.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 115

FORGED IN PARTNERSHIP: HOW ALNC SUPPORTS SMITH INDUSTRIES ACROSS THE ENERGY SECTOR

As the U.S. energy sector evolves at a rapid pace, one constant remains: projects succeed when the right partners are in place. For Smith Industries and its SI Utility division, ALNC has become one of those essential partners. A steel and services provider that understands the urgency, precision, and reliability these projects demand.

From its base in Texas, ALNC supports Smith Industries with the material backbone required to deliver design, drafting, procurement, fabrication, and delivery.

Whether a project involves new builds, maintenance, or utility infrastructure, ALNC’s team works closely with Smith’s supply chain and operations teams to ensure the right products are on the ground, in the right quantities, and ready when needed.

Responsiveness is at the heart of the relationship.

Energy work rarely follows a neat schedule, and changes in design, scope, or field conditions can ripple through a project timeline. ALNC is structured to respond quickly from quoting and sourcing to cutting, packaging, and delivery helping Smith Industries keep crews working and projects moving forward instead of waiting on material.

That responsiveness is rooted in strong communication.

ALNC maintains direct lines between its sales, operations, and logistics teams and their counterparts at Smith Industries. By sharing real-time updates on forecasts, inventory, and production schedules both organizations can anticipate challenges before they slow a job and align deliveries with fabrication and field milestones.

Reliability is the other pillar of the partnership. In a sector where delays are costly and safety is non-negotiable; Smith Industries relies on partners that follow through on their commitments. ALNC’s focus on consistent quality, accurate orders, and on-time deliveries enables Smith and SI Utility to build and maintain infrastructure with confidence knowing that the steel arriving on site will meet specification and support long-term performance.

Over time, the partnership has grown beyond simple transactions. ALNC is increasingly involved earlier in the process, supporting Smith Industries with material options, lead-time insights, and practical input from the fabrication floor. That perspective helps Smith make decisions that balance cost, availability, and constructability which is an important advantage as the company continues to expand its footprint and tackle more complex projects.

The collaboration with SI Utility reflects this next chapter.

As Smith Industries launches and scales the division, ALNC stands ready to support the additional demand and specialized requirements that come with utility work.

Whether the need is for standard structural shapes or custom-fabricated components, ALNC’s goal remains the same: provide dependable solutions that help Smith deliver safe, efficient, and resilient energy infrastructure.

For ALNC, being nominated by Smith Industries as a key partner in this North America Outlook project is both an honor and a reflection of the relationship they have worked hard to build. It underscores a shared belief that long-term success in the energy sector depends on strong, mutually invested partnerships and companies that show up consistently, solve problems collaboratively, and grow together.

As Smith Industries moves into its next phase of growth, ALNC will continue to do what it does best: supply the steel, service, and support that keep projects on track and customers ahead of what’s next. Forged in partnership, their work together is helping build the energy infrastructure that communities and industries across the United States rely on every day.

SMITH INDUSTRIES OIL & GAS

“Driven by AI and data center demand, electrification, renewable integration, and aging US transmission lines, the utilityinfrastructure market is experiencing multi-year growth. SI Utility positions our organization to serve both sides of the energy equation,” Singh prides.

Together, Smith and SI Utility create a diversified, future-ready platform serving oil and gas, utilities, and industrial clients, as well as the

broader North American energy system.

There are a number of key differentiating factors that define the division which currently stands as the region’s only manufacturer of preengineered steel utility poles.

That alone is a crucial distinguisher as the closest comparable suppliers are often hundreds of miles away, and SI Utility is perfectly positioned exactly where grid demand is surging.

“Utilities need traceability, compliance, and certainty, and we deliver all three at a speed the national suppliers can’t match. We are closer, faster, more integrated and disciplined, and are built to deliver certainty, not excuses.”

Data centers, renewables, electrification, and aging transmission lines mean that SI Utility is sitting at the vanguard of a generational grid build-out.

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Smith delivers a broad and deep portfolio tailored for both the oil and gas and utility sectors.

• SURFACE PRODUCTION EQUIPMENT AND FIELD MODULES – Storage tanks, separators, heater treaters, free-water knockouts (FWKOs), vapor recovery towers (VRTs), skid mounted test units, and full-surface facility modules.

• PIPE AND STRUCTURAL FABRICATION – Pipe spools, pipe racks/modules, structural steel, supports, and other fabricated components needed in wellsite infrastructure or midstream facilities.

• PRESSURE AND PROCESS VESSELS – Custom-engineered vessels like Pig Launchers and Receivers, pressure vessels, and other equipment built to spec, inspected, and tested.

• ELECTRICAL AND INSTRUMENTATION PACKAGES – Beyond steel and welds, Smith integrates electrical panels, conducts instrumentation, and controls skid-mounted or modular equipment, delivering ‘ready-to-run’ units that reduce field hook-up time and complexity for operators.

• COATING, PAINTING, AND SURFACE TREATMENT – Blast, paint, and protective coating services done in-house for tanks, vessels, steel modules, and structures to ensure corrosion resistance, longevity, and compliance in harsh field environments.

• LOGISTICS, TRUCKING, AND RIGGING – Thanks to its own trucks, knuckleboom cranes, haul-trucks and escort/trucking services – including permitted and non-permitted loads – Smith not only builds but delivers and sets up large modules and equipment, therefore saving clients time and mitigating coordination risks typical with third-party transport providers.

• Tanks for commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems fabricate chilled-water buffer tanks for large-scale HVAC systems in projects that include commercial buildings, hospitals, and data centers.

• Custom design and manufacturing of tubular steel transmission poles and H-frame structures for voltages up to 500 kilovolts (kV): transmission structures, substation structures, pre-engineering wood pole equivalent steel poles, and steel distribution poles.

138 kV steel transmission pole

118 | North America Outlook Issue 33

Odessa, TX | P: 432-381-5131 | sales@precisionflow.com | precisionflow.com

PRECISION FLOW Harsh conditions.

Tight specs.

No margin for error.

Accurate flow measurement for oil & gas.

From low- to high-pressure production, custodytransfer, and other measurement-critical applications, accurate flow data matters. Precision Flow designs and fabricates engineered flow measurement solutions built for real-world oil & gas service, working closely with customers to understand operating conditions and field requirements from the start.

Our meter tubes, assemblies, and custom measurement packages are engineered to tight tolerances, fabricated in-house, and inspected to demanding industry standards. Beyond fabrication, our team remains engaged through execution and installation, providing responsive support and fieldfocused problem solving to ensure reliable, long-term performance—because when flow data drives production, there’s no room for uncertainty.

Custom meter tubes • On-Call Field Service • Oil & gas flow measurement

SMITH INDUSTRIES OIL & GAS

A CLEARLY DEFINED FUTURE

“CSR ISN’T JUST WRITING CHECKS - IT’S A B O U T B E I N G A C O M PA N Y P E O P L E A R E P R O U D T O H AV E I N T H E I R C O M M U N I T Y ” – SAC H I N S I N G H , C E O, S M I T H I N D U ST R I E S

“Most importantly, we are creating a diversified energy and utility manufacturing platform that is built for the next decade, not the last one,” he passions.

Evidently, this isn’t just a side business – it’s a foundational pillar of where the US energy system is heading.

SUPPORT FOR THE COMMUNITY Smith’s approach to social responsibility is simple. The company takes care of the community the same way it takes care of its own people – with heart, consistency, and genuine commitment.

“Community involvement is a core part of who we are, and being a family-built, Permian-based company means we don’t see corporate social responsibility (CSR) as an obligation, we see it as a responsibility to the people and communities that helped shape us,” describes Singh.

Historically, many of its CSR efforts come directly from employees.

“We empower teams to identify local needs and bring forward initiatives whether it’s helping a family 120 | North America Outlook Issue 33

in crisis, supporting a local cause, or organizing a shop-floor charity drive.

This bottom-up approach keeps our giving genuine and rooted in the people who live here,” he divulges.

Elsewhere, the company proudly participates in Wounded Warrior Project® initiatives and supports veteran-focused organizations that help men and women transition, recover, and rebuild their lives.

“We also regularly contribute to local fundraisers, community events, and non-profit efforts across Midland, Odessa, and the broader Permian Basin.”

As part of its commitment to being a good Western Texas neighbor, Smith knows that beyond formal programs, its everyday actions matter.

This includes hiring locally, investing in workforce development, supporting multi-generational family employment, contributing to regional economic growth, and prioritizing safety and environmental compliance.

“CSR isn’t just writing checks – it’s about being a company people are proud to have in their community,” Singh tells us.

Across 2026, Smith’s focus is very clear – scale smart, diversify deliberately, and transform digitally.

“We’ve built a strong foundation and are now entering a phase of accelerated modernization and strategic expansion,” Singh assures.

Concerning digital transformation across every department, the company’s biggest internal priority is to fully digitize the way it works, eliminating paper systems and bringing real-time visibility into every corner of the business.

“This will make us faster and more accurate, transparent, and scalable.

Digital transformation is not an initiative, it is becoming the operating system of the entire company,” he continues.

The overarching strategies employed by Smith are not random or opportunistic – they are directly aligned with the direction of its customers, including leading oil majors, utilities, and data center developers.

Oil and gas remains stable, utility infrastructure is exploding, and data center demand is accelerating, and the company has positioned itself expertly at the forefront of this intersection, becoming a fullspectrum energy infrastructure manufacturer for the next decade.

“We’re building a modern, diversified, and digitally enabled manufacturing platform that can serve wells, grids, substations, and data centers with the same discipline, speed, and reliability that defined our history. The goal is simple – grow fast but grow healthy,” Singh concludes.

Tel: 432-683-9722 info@smithindustriestx.com utility-sales@siutility.com

www.smithindustriestx.com siutility.com

SMITH INDUSTRIES OIL & GAS

Corpus Christi Gasket & Fastener 341 Westchester Dr. Corpus Christi, TX 78408

(361) 884-6366 sales@ccgasket.com www.ccgasket.com

What we offer:

METAL GASKETS

NON-METALLIC GASKETS

U-BOLTS

STUDS AND SPECIALS

CC Gasket & Fastener (CCG) delivers best-in-class gaskets, fasteners, bolting products, and flange insulation kits backed by exceptional customer service.

We manufacture many of our products in-house at our state-of-the-art facility, including a full range of threaded fasteners.

Our coating facility is Whitford-approved, and our gasket and cathodic protection departments ensure materials meet the rigorous requirements of industrial applications.

With extensive expertise in fluid sealing solutions, we help customers achieve

COATING SHOP

optimal performance and reliability across diverse operational needs. To broaden our capabilities, we partner with industry-leading suppliers who share our commitment to precision, quality, and consistency.

CCG is dedicated to providing superior products at competitive prices, supported by timely, dependable deliveries. Whether a product is manufactured by our team or by one of our trusted partners, customers can rely on CC Gasket & Fastener for highquality solutions, technical excellence, and service that sets the industry standard.

Serving Texas and North America for over 50 years

Tank heads and cylinders Carbon, stainless, and aluminum

www.fwfdhead.com

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 121

Striking a New Energy Balance A leading manufacturing and technology operator for the world’s evolving oil and gas industry, SLB is bringing forth energy innovation for a more balanced planet. We explore the company’s cutting-edge products that are increasingly accelerating decarbonization Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Scarlett Burke

122 | North America Outlook Issue 33

SLB OIL & GAS

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 123

SLB OIL & GAS

I

ntrinsically linked to the sustainable progression of the global energy landscape, SLB is a leading manufacturer of next-generation oil and gas products, whose science, engineering, and digital expertise is driving the industry’s decarbonization journey forward.

Creating and deploying technology across a vast geographical footprint of over 100 countries, the company’s forward-thinking products simultaneously reduce emissions and meet global energy demands.

Furthermore, with a growing workforce representing 160+ nationalities across 900 facilities worldwide, SLB boasts an extensive network of expertise that is leveraged to change the way in which the world produces and consumes energy, heralding key innovations in the oil and gas space.

The company boasts an extensive legacy spanning over 85 years in Mexico, Central America, and

124 | North America Outlook Issue 33

Venezuela (MCA), leading the charge in the evolution of the region’s oil and gas landscape.

Today, it operates across 12 countries in Central and South America, including Brazil, Venezuela, Guatemala, and Trinidad and Tobago.

With an ever-expanding presence both geographically and operationally, SLB has four overarching goals – to decarbonize the industry, innovate the oil and gas sector, ramp-up new energy solutions, and deliver digital at scale.

These product divisions are underpinned by the foundations of leading science and technology, all working together to deliver responsible change across the oil and gas landscape.

THE PATH TO NET ZERO Recognizing the need to improve the oil and gas industry as the bedrock of the global energy transition, SLB boasts a plethora of innovative

solutions that drive performance and decarbonize operations.

The company’s vast product portfolio includes reservoir characterization; well construction, competition, and intervention; plug and abandonment; integrated services and consulting; and comprehensive training.

SLB’s reservoir characterization services, for instance, provide clients with a clear overview of their reservoirs in order to help drive performance and make the most out of their operations.

The company’s characterization model draws upon petrophysics, geology, geomechanics, and geophysics to offer a quantitative representation of each reservoir’s ability to store and produce carbon.

More specifically, these services include wellbore interpretation and analysis, rock and fluid laboratory services, surface and downhole logging, reservoir and formation

SLB OIL & GAS

testing, and seismic services, which build a deeper understanding of fluid behaviors in different well environments.

As part of its reservoir and formation testing services, SLB has developed Production ExPRESS™ – a rapid production response toolkit that can tackle and overcome temporary production challenges both on-site and in a production facility.

Production ExPRESS™ was recently deployed by an offshore operator in Malaysia to successfully complete a matrix acidizing campaign using the tool’s fluid preconditioning services. As such, its production response solutions prevented pipeline blockages and avoided major production losses.

Elsewhere, SLB’s well construction solutions involve unmatched drilling and well placement services, solving some of the industry’s most complex challenges.

Case in point, last year the company

was awarded a major drilling contract

by Woodside Energy – an Australian petroleum giant – for the Trion development project in offshore Mexico.

The contract comprises 18 ultra-deepwater wells that will be implemented over a three-year period.

Meanwhile, SLB has also been awarded a series of major drilling contracts by Shell for which the company’s integrated services approach and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled drilling capabilities will be pivotal to improving operational ability and well quality.

The contracts also encompass digital directional drilling services and hardware, logging while drilling, surface logging, cementing, drilling and completions fluids, and wireline services.

TAKING CONTROL OF CARBON At the heart of SLB’s decarbonization objective is its pioneering carbon capture, utilization, and storage

(CCUS) solutions, which continue to derisk clients’ projects and facilitate long-term carbon storage across a vast range of new energy systems.

The challenge of reducing carbon emissions is equally complex as it is critical, as the world’s biggest industries are built on foundations that emit significant greenhouse gas (GHG) levels. As such, the company is committed to helping customers take control of their carbon emissions and start their sustainability journey.

As an integral part of its CCUS solution, SLB’s carbon capture and processing software builds an intelligent overview of what is required to best reach the client’s decarbonization targets and most suited for their industry.

The company is likewise a leader in carbon storage thanks to its Sequestri™ portfolio. Launched in June last year, the tool streamlines the development and management of carbon storage facilities.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 125

DRILEX Reboots Deepwater Solutions with the LAST System Founded in June 2002, DRILEX provides products and services for Mexico’s petroleum sector. The company represents several well-known brands, such as WWT International, Knight Energy Services, Macaroni Tubing, Energy Fishing and Rental Services, and Stewart Tubulars Products. The name “DRILEX”—short for Drilling Experts—highlights the firm’s expertise in drilling, completion, workover, and maintaining oil and gas wells.

DRILEX, in partnership with Knight Energy Services, supplied a 2,000,000 lb capacity 6-5/8” Landing String and LAST System for deepwater operations in the Gulf of Mexico’s Perdido Area. From October 2016 to February 2019, Schlumberger used this system on nine wells and Baker Hughes on one well.

The LAST System is an advanced, slip-less solution that complies with API RP 96 standards. It is built to handle landing operations for heavy casings even at water depths up to 3,000 meters (9,840 feet). With dual-shouldered landing strings, a slipless spider, and a BX elevator equipped with special inserts, the system offers superior reliability and operational efficiency.

DRILEX and Knight Energy Services plan to restart rentals of the Landing String and LAST System for deepwater wells in the Perdido Area in 2026, depending on requirements set by SLB for operations with Woodside at Trion Field.

DRILEX acts as the representative for both Knight Energy Services and WWT International, showcasing their advanced products and services in Mexico’s petroleum sector. Both companies are well-known for their leadership in creating innovative technologies in the Oil & Gas industry.

drilex.com

Elevator

Spider

6-5/8” Landing String

35 Years, Over 7,000 Wells: The Field-Proven Value of WWT NRPs Key Engineering Benefits of WWT NRPs

A Proven Solution: Non-Rotating Protectors (NRPs)

• Up to 90% rotational friction reduction • Prevents tool joint–to–casing contact.

• Mitigates torque, drag, casing wear & heat checking • Clamp-on, lightweight design • MPD/RCD compatible • Fast installation: under 1 minute per protector

Our Non-Rotating Protectors (NRPs) are engineered with a robust, low-friction sleeve, which prevents rotating tool joints from contacting the casing. This provides the stand-off required to break the cycle of deviation-induced wear. Backed by more than 30 years of experience and a track record spanning over 7,000 wells worldwide, NRPs are a trusted, field-proven solution for protecting critical casing strings in challenging well profiles.

The Challenge of High Side-Force In the directional wells of Mexico’s Northeast Marine Region, drilling teams often encounter a persistent challenge when the curved well path forces the drill pipe against the casing.

This generates high side loads that steadily grind away at the steel intended to protect the well for decades. Even with careful planning and advanced modeling, operators frequently discover that simulated casing wear is far higher than acceptable, sometimes exceeding 50%.

The Operational and Long-Term Risk This problem threatens not only the immediate drilling program, but also the long-term value of the well. Excessive wear can shorten casing life, limit future interventions, and increase operational risk. In re-entry wells, where the existing casing is already aged, every millimeter of remaining wall thickness becomes critical.

wwtco.com

Field Results: Casing Protection That Performs When placed in intervals where side forces peak, NRPs transform what were once high-risk zones into reliably protected sections of the wellbore. Based on multiple casing logs, the field results are clear: in sections where NRPs were installed, wells that previously exhibited severe wear, now exhibit casing conditions comparable to new.

Supporting Drilling Performance Across the Region In a region where well complexity continues to rise, WWT NRPs are helping operators drill with greater confidence, protect valuable casing strings, and extend the productive life of their well.

Working on a Complex Well? Contact WWT anytime 24/7 for a complimentary, noobligation torque and drag analysis for your challenging well.

Scan to learn more

SLB OIL & GAS

SLB’S SOLUTIONS – AT A GLANCE PRODUCT OPTIMIZATION – Unlocking the full potential of product assets across an entire project lifecycle.

DATA AND AI PLATFORMS – Engineered AI tailored specifically for the energy industry.

METHANE AND FLARING ELIMINATION – Removing methane and flaring emissions from operations.

CCUS – Accelerating progress with effective solutions across the CCUS value chain.

RECOVERY ENHANCEMENT – Maximizing clients’ return on investment, enabling them to recover more, monetize faster, and produce for longer.

ACCELERATED TIME TO MARKET – Facilitating access to more mature field reserves and bringing green fields online faster with longer sustainable performance.

EMISSIONS REDUCTION – Reducing operational emissions and environmental impact with quantifiably proven and reliable technologies.

DIGITAL OPERATIONS – Driving the next step change in operational performance.

PLUG AND ABANDONMENT – Efficiently decommissioning clients’ wells with integrity.

PERFORMANCE ASSURANCE – Redefining what’s achievable and reaching level optimization.

GEOTHERMAL – Tapping into the Earth’s heat as a reliable, renewable resource.

INTEGRATED ENERGY SOLUTIONS – Integrating subsurface, well, and facilities planning to minimize delays and control costs.

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Effective carbon sequestration and storage requires a deep understanding of each site’s capacity, injectivity, and containment, alongside a clear assessment of regulatory requirements, potential risks, and costs.

As such, the Sequestri™ suite of technologies was crafted from the experiences of 150+ CCUS projects, allowing it to gain a comprehensive overview of each project, simplify complex environments by refining data and workflows, manage risks, and optimize CCUS projects from end-to-end.

This is achieved by offering valuable solutions in site evaluation, carbon dioxide (CO2) injection operations, CCUS well design and construction, and regulatory permittance, making Sequestri™ a trusted tool across every stage of the carbon sequestration lifecycle.

With the belief that captured carbon only goes as far as the strategy to deliver it to utilization or storage, SLB also offers a vast range of technologies for carbon transport operations, such as flow simulators, horizontal pumping systems for pressure, and low-emission valves.

CREATING IMMEDIATE SOLUTIONS We are a proudly Mexican company specializing in drilling services for the oil and gas industry, delivering comprehensive solutions for onshore and offshore projects.

Since 2017, we have been actively engaged in continuous pumping operations in RMSO and RMNE wells, supported by a highly trained technical team and a network of national and international strategic alliances that ensure continuity and reliability in the supply of equipment and gases.

Our fleet, certified to DNV 2.7-1 standards, includes more than 20 nitrogen pumping units and a mobile capacity of over 120 cryogenic tanks, positioning us among the companies with the largest infrastructure and operational capacity in the oil and gas market.

At Olam Energy, we provide end-to-end solutions encompassing nitrogen supply, logistics, technical support, and full project management. Our commitment is to safety, efficiency, and operational excellence.

SERVICES 1. Nitrogen Injection Units | Cryogenic Isotanks 2. Single or Double High-Pressure Units 3. Surface Control Lines, Tubing, and Accessories 4. Managed Pressure Drilling Choke Manifold | Rotating Control Devices (RCDs) | Eco-Meter | Separators 5. Drilling Technologies

NITROGEN INJECTION N2 INJECTION UNIT At Olam Energy, we have a fleet of 19 nitrogen injection units designed for both onshore and offshore operations, with injection capacities ranging from 45 m³ to 85 m³, enabling us to successfully tackle any operational challenge.

Cryogenic Isotanks We have a total storage capacity exceeding one million cubic meters of Nitrogen, aimed at strengthening the cryogenic supply chain for our clients in Mexico.

Certifications and Compliance Our fleet adheres to the highest international standards of safety and performance, including: • DNV 2.7-1 – Equipment certified for offshore operations.

• IMDG / ADR – International regulations for the transportation of cryogenic materials.

HIGH-PRESSURE UNITS Optimize your operational control with our single or double high-pressure units. Featuring safety protections and lighting for nighttime operations, we ensure efficient and continuous operation, day and night SURFACE CONTROL LINES For smooth and uninterrupted operations, choose our pipes.

They are the perfect solution for efficient fluid transportation, both onshore and offshore.

MANAGED PRESSURE DRILLING Intelligent Choke Manifold Olam Energy’s Intelligent System redefines drilling by combining precision and automation. Its ability to autonomously identify and resolve issues ensures safer, more efficient, and cost-effective operations.

Choke Manifold - Manual Our manual system is designed to be robust and reliable, providing exceptional performance under various conditions, both onshore and offshore.

RCDs Ensure a safe and clean drilling environment. Our rotating control devices isolate the drilling floor, safely diverting fluids from the well.

Eco-Meter Utilizes acoustic technology to accurately determine liquid levels in wells. This professional tool is essential for field analysis and production management.

Digital Eco-Meter Employs acoustic technology to accurately gauge liquid levels in wells. This professional tool is vital for field analysis and production management.

DRILLING TECHNOLOGIES AND WELL TOOLS Reamer Shoe: • Ideal for long-reach wells • Capable of handling up to 90 tons Drilling Shoe: • Four-blade design to facilitate Drill Out times • Available in all diameters of Tubular Running (TR) or Liner

Contact us: +52 993 145 3503 +52 938 118 0005 contact@olamenergy.com www.olamenergy.com

SLB OIL & GAS

SLB’S MCA PRESENCE IN NUMBERS

85+ YEARS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATION

3,000+ EMPLOYEES

NINE OPERATIONS BASES

TWO MANUFACTURING PLANTS

TWO EXCELLENCE CENTERS

90+ PERCENT LOCAL TALENT

19 PERCENT FEMALE EMPLOYEES

130 | North America Outlook Issue 33

In this way, SLB offers a vast portfolio of forward-thinking solutions that place CCUS operations right into clients’ hands, who can make the most of the company’s innovative equipment and chemical solutions to deliver extensive results.

MEETING THE ENERGY DEMANDS OF TOMORROW Alongside being a dominant force in CCUS, SLB’s geothermal and energy storage solutions are key to scaling new energy systems and powering the next generation of data centers.

The company harnesses geothermal power and applies it to its asset development, reservoir characterization, and well construction, completion, and production services, maintaining an environmental focus and making sustainable energy more accessible.

Operating in the subsurface oil and gas space for over a century, SLB has an extensive footprint across the world’s geothermal operations.

This growing presence is driven by the company’s GeothermEx™ consulting service, which covers the full remit of geothermal operations

with unmatched expertise, guiding clients throughout their asset lifecycle.

Similarly, Celsius Energy – SLB’s latest energy business venture – offers an innovative heating and cooling solution that uses a shallow form of geothermal energy, which, in turn, reduces the amount of CO2 emissions emitted and saves energy.

SLB’s scaling of new energy systems also involves the advancement of renewable energy storage – an increasingly integral component to the global energy transition.

The deployment of stationary storage solutions has proven to be particularly pertinent, guaranteeing secure access to energy when most urgently needed and supports effective distribution.

SLB additionally leverages renewable energy sources such as solar, thermal, and wind power to generate an oversupply of electricity, which can then be stored and drawn from in times of peak demand or when there is limited renewable energy generation.

Therefore, the company’s energy storage expertise helps to address the issue of unpredictability – one of the biggest challenges to the growth of renewable energy.

DELIVERING DIGITAL SLB’s dominance in the evolution of the oil and gas space is reinforced by its scaling of forward-thinking digital solutions, which simplify complex planning processes, streamline decision-making, and close the digital divide across the industry.

The company’s data and AI platforms accurately interpret clients’ data with an intelligence system that presents new capabilities to users and improves workflows through different domain applications. This also means data tools are easily accessible, creating an improved user experience.

SLB’s data solution specifically offers a wealth of benefits to projects,

Piping Certification, Management Solutions and Frac Tank Services You Can Trust Our clients’ operations are our priority.

At Petrotab, we provide reliable and efficient solutions for the management, certification, transportation, and installation of all equipment related to fluid storage and fluid handling equipment like Frac Tanks, geomembrane liners, flow lines and interconnection components, contributing to our clients’ success and operational continuity.

We operate under high standards of quality and sustainability, promoting continuous improvement in each of our processes, maximizing efficiency, and guaranteeing the safety and continuity of our clients’ projects without interruption.

For over 17 years, Petrotab has been providing high-quality piping certification services and reliable frac tank solutions within the energy sector. During this time, SLB has entrusted Petrotab with the supply of fluid storage solutions during drilling and testing campaigns and services for pressure testing their treating iron in Mexico.

Pipeline Certification and Management

• Certification: With a state-of-the-art pressure test bay and the latest thickness measurement equipment we can certificate your treating iron and other pressure containing equipment so you can focus on planning and executing the job.

• Management solutions: If you need your treating iron or pressure containing equipment to be stored, certified and mobilize whenever required without delays, we’ve got you covered. We offer an efficient system for storage, tracking, maintaining, and managing your equipment, supported by specialized tools and a highly experienced team.

Frac Tanks

• Robust Construction: Designed to provide superior containment of water, chemicals, and flowback fluids.

• Easy Installation: Quick assembly and relocation for fast-paced operations.

• Safety and Compliance: Engineered in accordance with applicable environmental and industry standards and certifications.

Auxiliary Equipment.

• Interconnections components: If you need to interconnect several frac tanks or testing equipment we have all the hoses, manifolds and valves you might need.

• Geomembrane liners: We can provide any size of impermeable barrier to prevent fluid leakage during your operations.

Looking for a reliable partner in fluid storage solutions or pressure-containing equipment certification across Mexico, Central, and South America? Trust Petrotab to deliver expert support, compliance assurance, and tailored solutions for your project’s success. Contact us today to learn how we can help.

PETROTAB DE MÉXICO S.A. DE C.V. | contacto@petrotab.com | www.petrotab.com

such as reducing risk by accurately assessing potential dangers and focusing on predictability.

The company’s data collection services also increase the agility of assets through precise reporting, which helps futureproof organizations.

As well as reporting on each client’s carbon footprint, SLB’s data solution is also trusted to increase the overall productivity of a project by optimizing infrastructure and intrinsically monitoring costs.

Embedded with AI, SLB’s data platform leads to greater decisionmaking and improved workflows, ultimately enabling clients to maximize their projects.

This is demonstrated by the company’s recently signed collaboration with Shell, which – in addition to optimizing well construction – will see SLB develop agentic AI-powered solutions that will boost the capabilities of technical experts and decision makers.

The project strives to deliver an AI infrastructure that unifies data and workflows across production operations in a secure digital environment.

BRINGING BALANCE BACK TO THE PLANET Committed to achieving net zero by 2050, SLB is expertly navigating the fine balance between enabling secure, 132 | North America Outlook Issue 33

accessible, and sustainable oil and gas supply while also meeting growing energy demands.

In order to make a difference to the planet, the company first looks inwards, continually rethinking its strategies and methodologies to reduce emissions and be transparent with its environmental progress.

In fact, SLB is proud to be the first company in the oil and gas space to make a Scope 3 emissions commitment, which extends its environmental targets to both its suppliers and customers with whom it collaborates.

Elsewhere, SLB’s dedications go far beyond decarbonizing just the oil and gas industry, as it also hopes to tackle the long-standing environmental challenges of the steel and cement sectors by leaning on its extensive knowledge of science and technology.

For example, the company’s well construction activities require extensive quantities of cement, thus contributing to the industry’s overall carbon emissions. In order to combat this, SLB has developed the EcoShield™ geopolymer cement-free system, eliminating up to 85 percent of embodied carbon and providing a cleaner alternative to conventional cement methods.

In recognition of its pioneering environmental efforts, SLB won two Sustainability, Environmental Achievement, and Leadership (SEAL)

Business Sustainability Awards last year.

Firstly, the SEAL Sustainable Service Award was attributed to the company’s ongoing efforts in reducing the environmental impacts of lithium production.

SLB additionally won the SEAL Environmental Initiative Award for its ‘Record, Reduce, Replace’ strategy launched in 2020, which led to a 60 percent reduction in CO2 equivalent in its first three years.

The strategy’s success lies in its ability to track emissions data, optimize facility operations, and transition to lower-emission energy sources, thus having a major sustainability impact on the company’s facilities.

The award marks SLB’s third time being recognized by SEAL, having previously won the SEAL Environmental Initiative Award in 2022 for its considerable GHG reductions in oil and gas operations. A year later, the company was awarded the SEAL Sustainable Service Award for its Celsius Energy heating and cooling system.

SLB hopes to continue its trajectory of transforming the oil and gas landscape through an unparalleled portfolio of technologies and new energy capabilities, critical to decarbonizing customers’ operations and having lasting environmental impacts.

SLB OIL & GAS

Giant Oil Tools (GOT)™ — Engineered for Performance.

GOT™ is a trusted global supplier of conventional upper and lower completion tools for leading service companies.

Designed, manufactured, and tested in Canada, our tools combine innovative design, superior quality, and competitive pricing with shorter lead times — helping customers expand market share and profitability. With a strong global supply chain and standard tools stocked worldwide, GOT™ products operate in over 50 countries, delivering proven operational and financial benefits.

COE in Designing and Manufacturing Completion Tools for Service Companies.

Sales: Steven Link Email ID: slink@giantoiltools.com Global Business Development: Komal Singh Email ID: ksingh@giantoiltools.com Headquarter: Reception: 1.403.279.2015 | Website: www.giantoiltools.com

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 133

FIRM FINANCIAL F O U N DAT I O N S Striving to protect and enhance the integrity of the financial services industry in the territory, the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority is safeguarding the islands’ financial landscape. We sit down with Cindy Scotland OBE, CEO, who outlines the authority’s strategic plan for the years ahead Writer: Lily Sawyer | Project Manager: Joshua Mann 134 | North America Outlook Issue 33

CAYMAN ISLANDS MONETARY AUTHORITY FINANCE

D

riven by rapid technological innovation and increasingly stringent international regulatory standards, the global financial services industry has undergone a significant transformation of late.

Digitalization has accelerated, influencing everything from payment systems to customer onboarding and cross-border transactions.

At the same time, geopolitical pressures and macroeconomic shifts have resulted in a complex environment that demands agility, transparency, and strategic foresight from regulators.

Cindy Scotland OBE, CEO

This has also resulted in heightened expectations from international bodies such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS).

For the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA), these changes present both challenges and opportunities.

On one hand, the rapid emergence of virtual assets, artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled financial tools, and new North America Outlook Issue 33 | 135

CAYMAN ISLANDS MONETARY AUTHORITY FINANCE

business models have required the continuous refinement of supervisory frameworks and expertise.

On the other, these developments offer a unique opportunity to enhance regulatory efficiency, adopt more sophisticated technology, and further reinforce the Cayman Islands’ reputation as a globally respected and forward-thinking financial center.

“Our challenge has been to maintain the right balance between encouraging innovation

and safeguarding the jurisdiction, ensuring we remain competitive while upholding our commitment to market integrity and global compliance,” opens Cindy Scotland OBE, CEO of CIMA. As the Cayman Islands’ primary financial services regulator, the authority is responsible for the licensing, regulation, and ongoing supervision of a diverse range of sectors, including banking, insurance, securities business, mutual and

ONGOING PROJECTS ADVANCING THE CRISIS MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK • Earlier this year, CIMA took initial steps toward implementing a framework for early intervention and recovery planning for systemically important deposittaking institutions, establishing the foundation for comprehensive crisis management.

• It hosted an International Monetary Fund (IMF) Technical Assistance Mission in March 2025, which provided valuable insights into global best practices on crisis management, contingency planning, and supervisory coordination.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF INSURANCE COMMISSIONERS (NAIC) • CIMA is actively pursuing NAIC qualified jurisdiction status, a designation that reflects strong regulatory standards and enhances market access for Cayman Islands-domiciled insurers.

• The authority’s active participation at the NAIC’s 2024 Summer National Meeting in Minneapolis saw it engage with regulators, technical working groups, and policy discussions.

DRIVING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION • Working to modernize and future-proof its operations, CIMA has launched an internal digital transformation assessment to thoroughly evaluate its operational processes and digital infrastructure, shaping a long-term digital strategy that enhances efficiency, supports data-driven supervision, and improves service delivery.

STRENGTHENING INTERNAL OPERATIONS • In June 2025, CIMA relocated its staff to the new Pavilion East building, which not only provides the physical capacity needed for future growth but also brings teams together under one roof, enabling closer collaboration, more efficient communication, and a stronger institutional culture.

• The building is also designed with sustainability in mind, and the authority is pursuing leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED) certification, reflecting CIMA’s broader focus on extensive sustainable integration and positioning it for the future.

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private funds, fiduciary services, credit unions, money services, and, more recently, virtual asset services.

“Our mandate extends beyond supervision to encompass the issuance and management of the local currency, as well as providing strategic advice to government on the regulation of financial services and compliance with international standards, national policy, and longterm economic direction,” Scotland declares.

Because of the breadth of CIMA’s regulatory responsibilities, its stakeholder base is equally extensive, including international standardsetting bodies, government ministry and agency partnerships for policy and enforcement, and the general public who rely on a stable, secure, and trustworthy financial system.

“Each group interacts with CIMA in different ways, but all are integral to the overall health and resilience of the jurisdiction,” she details.

RESILIENT, RELEVANT, AND RESPONSIVE On a mission to protect and enhance the integrity of the financial services industry of the Cayman Islands, CIMA maintains a disciplined, riskbased supervisory approach that allows it to identify areas of concern early, respond proportionately, and maintain a strong line of sight across the many facets of the sector.

“We ensure that our regulatory frameworks remain relevant, responsive, and aligned with global expectations and support consumer protection,” Scotland affirms.

At the same time, CIMA works closely with stakeholders to ensure emerging and innovative business models, such as financial technology (FinTech), are supported by carefully designed regulatory frameworks that uphold integrity while safeguarding investor and public interests, in addition to maintaining the jurisdiction’s reputation.

“ W E E N S U R E T H AT O U R R E G U L AT O R Y F R A M E W O R K S R E M A I N R E L E VA N T, R E S P O N S I V E , A N D A L I G N E D W I T H G L O B A L E X P E C TAT I O N S A N D S U P P O R T C O N S U M E R P R O T E C T I O N ” – C I N D Y S C O T L A N D O B E , C E O , C AY M A N I S L A N D S M O N E TA R Y A U T H O R I T Y

“Transparency, accountability, and engagement are central to how we operate.”

Cultivating an internal culture of excellence and ongoing professional development, CIMA enables its teams to carry out their responsibilities with clarity, confidence, and integrity.

“In these ways, we not only uphold our mission but embody it through measurable action,” she states.

The authority’s strategic importance as a regulator lies in its ability to uphold the integrity of the local financial services landscape, actively contributing to and supporting the development of international regulatory standards.

It works closely with global standard-setting bodies and overseas

authorities to strengthen crossborder supervision and combat financial crime.

“Ultimately, our work protects not only the jurisdiction’s economic interests but also its global standing, serving as a guardian of the Cayman Islands’ financial integrity.

“We also work to safeguard public interest by promoting fair, sound, and transparent practices when providing financial services, thereby supporting consumer protection and reinforcing trust in the financial system,” Scotland outlines.

A GUIDING STRATEGY CIMA recently outlined its 2024– 2026 Strategic Plan, which acts as a roadmap for the authority during

this period, articulating the values that define its institutional character and the standards to which it holds itself.

“The plan also introduces a structured delivery model that clearly connects our inputs, activities, and outputs to the outcomes we seek to achieve for the supervision of the financial services industry and the broader community,” Scotland highlights.

Central to the plan are six key objectives, which focus on enhancing technological capability, combatting financial crime, establishing robust frameworks, positioning CIMA as an employer of choice, safeguarding the Cayman Islands’ currency, and expanding public outreach.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 137

BARENTS RE: 30 YEARS OF VISION, LEADERSHIP, AND GLOBAL GROWTH In the world of reinsurance, true strength is not measured by the passing of years, but by the ability to anticipate and lead with vision. At Barents Re, we set the pace of the niche and speciality reinsurers through innovation, agility, and strength.

A

s we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we do not simply commemorate a milestone, but reaffirm a philosophy — one built on anticipation, solutions, and trust.

From its very foundation, Barents Re was born with a distinctive purpose: to be an independent company with a global mindset and focus on building strong, lasting relationships. That vision, guided from the outset by Gerardo García, Chairman of Barents Re, became the cornerstone that allowed Gerardo García | Chairman the company to expand, consolidate, and position itself as a leading player in the competitive international reinsurance landscape.

Thirty years later, that same vision remains intact – more aware of the role that a strong independent organization can play in a world changing faster than ever before.

company has strengthened its organizational structure, obtained an S&P rating, consolidated new lines of business, and expanded its footprint in strategic markets. Gary’s leadership has ushered in a new phase of modernization that balances heritage and accumulated knowledge with a forward-looking culture.

Commitment to clients, brokers, and partners remains at the heart of Barents Re. Across all risk landscapes, the company has demonstrated that success is not measured solely by financial results but by the ability to create sustainable value and long-term relationships.

The Future: A Vision for the Next 30 Years Celebrating 30 years is not just about looking back with pride – it is about looking forward with determination. The next decade represents a new cycle for Barents Re, where experience will serve as the foundation for building an even more innovative, technological, and sustainable company. The organization’s leadership will continue to be crucial in guiding it through this new stage.

Three Decades of Growth and Consolidation The journey of Barents Re reflects a clear purpose: to build a company that transcends borders and generations. The company has evolved from a regional Latin America player into a diversified organization with operations across multiple continents.

That expansion happened through a consistent strategy built on technical rigour, financial discipline, and the ability to anticipate market shifts. Every step forward has been guided by long-term vision and leadership capable of balancing prudence with boldness.

Continuous effort has positioned Barents Re as an international reinsurance reference, recognized for its solidity, transparency, and responsiveness. Every achievement is the result of a corporate culture built on excellence, discipline, and respect for long-term partnerships.

The Present: Strength, Innovation, and Commitment

Gary Callaghan | Chief Executive Officer

Today, Barents Re stands at a point of institutional maturity defined by three essential pillars: financial strength, technical expertise, and continuous innovation.

Under the leadership of Gary Callaghan, Chief Executive Officer of Barents Re, the

Barents Re sponsorship of the Deep Blue Crew for their cross-Atlantic rowing race 2025

A Legacy That Inspires the Future 30 years on, Barents Re represents more than a reinsurance company: it is a story of perseverance, decisive leadership, and shared vision.

As we look to the future, we reaffirm that promise: to remain ahead of risk, setting the pace of an industry that evolves with agility and demands precision, strength, and innovation.

Because, as in the greatest races, it’s not only about staying in the competition – it’s about anticipating every bend and pushing ahead with vision and confidence.

CAYMAN ISLANDS MONETARY AUTHORITY FINANCE

“Together, these objectives form a coherent, forward-looking plan that prepares CIMA for the challenges and opportunities of the coming years.”

In particular, strategies focusing on virtual assets, anti-money laundering (AML), corporate governance, and alignment with international standards are intended to strengthen the authority’s existing regulatory framework.

“The initiatives, which form the backbone of our efforts, are not only relevant to the evolving financial landscape but also resilient and internationally credible,” she adds.

Well-defined licencing regimes, for example, strengthen CIMA’s supervisory methodologies, while the rapid growth of virtual assets underscores the need for clear, robust, and forward-looking regulation.

As such, the authority is ensuring that the Cayman Islands remains a responsible jurisdiction for digital innovation as it balances opportunity with strong safeguards and market integrity.

The authority’s AML and countering the financing of terrorism (CFT) effectiveness is an equally critical component.

“As financial crime continues to grow in complexity, so too must our efforts to identify, assess, and mitigate related risks,” Scotland observes.

Through the enhancement of data systems, refinement of supervisory methodologies, and deepening of inter-agency cooperation, CIMA is better positioned to detect and address illicit activity.

A deep commitment to strong corporate governance is another foundational element of the Cayman Islands’ healthy financial system, alongside the adherence to global best practices which safeguards the long-term resilience of the financial services sector.

“Together, these priority areas reinforce a regulatory environment that is agile, modern, and internationally respected,” she points out.

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GLOBAL PRESENCE As CIMA seeks to establish itself more prominently on the international stage, it’s going forward with a deliberate blend of active engagement, technical expertise, and visible leadership.

“As the global regulatory environment grows increasingly complex, our role extends beyond domestic supervision and into the broader international dialogue that shapes the standards of the financial services sector worldwide,” Scotland discloses.

CIMA is deepening its participation at international and regional bodies such as IOSCO, the BCBS, FATF, the Group of International Finance Centre Supervisors (GIFCS), Financial Stability Board (FSB), International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS), and Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS).

“We engage not only through participation in working groups and consultations, but by contributing substantive, informed perspectives that help shape emerging policy, regulatory approaches, and supervisory frameworks, strengthened by our ongoing investment in technical capacity,” she surmises.

CIMA is equipping its teams with the necessary expertise to offer meaningful contributions to global discussions through assets, risk-based supervision methodologies, and sustainable finance, positioning the Cayman Islands as a jurisdiction that doesn’t simply adopt international standards, but shapes them.

“Just as important as our international participation is the effort we place on transparency and communication. A regulator’s credibility depends not only on the strength of its frameworks, but on its ability to articulate its priorities clearly and consistently,” Scotland sets out.

CIMA is therefore enhancing its visibility by providing increased

domestic and international insight into its regulatory processes, expectations, and strategic direction.

“Through thoughtful communication, we help to demystify our operations and build trust among stakeholders, from industry partners to peer regulators and global standard-setters,” she adds.

In addition, strong partnerships with counterpart regulators have set CIMA apart, enabling collaboration around supervisory matters and ensuring that the jurisdiction’s perspective is represented within influential conversations – particularly those related to emerging risks and opportunities in global finance.

“Ultimately, our aim is to reinforce the Cayman Islands’ reputation as a jurisdiction grounded in excellence, collaboration, and regulatory integrity,” Scotland assures.

“By marrying technical sophistication with proactive engagement and transparent communication, CIMA continues to position itself – and the Cayman Islands – as a thoughtful, credible, and forward-looking contributor to the global regulatory community.”

SUCCESS BUILT ON COLLABORATION It’s important to note that CIMA’s success is not achieved in isolation but built on the strength of its partnerships with key stakeholders across government, industry, and the international regulatory community.

“Effective regulation in today’s interconnected financial environment requires cohesive and coordinated action, and we are fortunate to operate within a jurisdiction that values and prioritizes this collective approach,” Scotland explains.

Cross-governmental engagement is particularly essential, with CIMA’s work closely linked to a range of public-sector partners whose mandates intersect with financial services.

“Close coordination with ministries,

CAYMAN ISLANDS MONETARY AUTHORITY FINANCE

on the strength and dedication of our people,” Scotland adds.

In short, the Cayman Islands’ standing as a respected global financial center is the product of a collective effort, upheld through strong public-private partnerships, constructive industry relationships, meaningful international engagement, and the unwavering commitment of staff.

“Collaboration is not simply beneficial; it is foundational to our continued success and the long-term resilience of the jurisdiction,” she shares.

A MEANINGFUL CONTRIBUTION

“ E F F E C T I V E R E G U L AT I O N I N T O D AY ’ S INTERCONNECTED FINANCIAL ENVIRONMENT R E Q U I R E S C O H E S I V E A N D C O O R D I N AT E D A C T I O N , A N D W E A R E F O R T U N AT E T O O P E R AT E W I T H I N A J U R I S D I C T I O N T H AT VA L U E S A N D P R I O R I T I Z E S T H I S C O L L E C T I V E A P P R OAC H ” – C I N D Y S C O T L A N D O B E , C E O , C AY M A N I S L A N D S M O N E TA R Y A U T H O R I T Y

statutory authorities, and law enforcement agencies ensures that our regulatory efforts are supported by clear policy direction, sound legislative frameworks, and robust enforcement capabilities.”

This multi-agency collaboration strengthens CIMA’s national posture in areas such as AML and CFT, financial crime prevention, and international compliance, ultimately reinforcing the integrity of the entire jurisdiction.

Equally important is the relationship the authority maintains with the financial services industry, which includes active dialogue and a sense of shared responsibility between the regulator and those it supervises.

“This engagement ensures that our frameworks remain relevant, practical, and effectively aligned with global expectations, while still supporting innovation and sustainable growth,” Scotland emphasizes.

International partnerships also play a pivotal role in CIMA’s ability to maintain open communication with peer regulators, participate in global standard-setting discussion, and contribute to international working groups helps it ensure the Cayman Islands’ voice is heard and understood within a broader global context.

“These relationships not only enhance our technical understanding but also reinforce the Cayman Islands’ position as a jurisdiction committed to transparency, cooperation, and regulatory excellence,” she discloses.

None of this, however, would be possible without the dedication of CIMA’s staff, whose deep expertise, professionalism, and commitment are central to everything it accomplishes.

“The complex and evolving nature of global finance demands rigorous analysis, thoughtful supervision, and continual adaptation – all of which rely

CIMA’s commitment to the Cayman Islands extends far beyond its regulatory mandate, as it places significant emphasis on contributing meaningfully to the socioeconomic and educational fabric of the community.

“This philosophy guides many of the initiatives we undertake each year, with our efforts rooted in the belief that a strong, informed, and connected community shapes the foundation of a resilient financial services industry,” Scotland reflects.

Supporting the development of local talent is a key priority, with the authority actively participating in and sponsoring educational initiatives that enhance financial literacy, create pathways into the financial services sector, and nurture early interest in regulation and compliance.

A highlight of this commitment is the annual CIMA Student Mixer & Career Fair, hosted in partnership with local industry stakeholders.

“This event brings students and financial professionals together in a dynamic networking environment, offering young people valuable exposure to career opportunities and mentorship within the sector,” she elaborates.

The fair has become an important bridge between the classroom and the world of work, and an event the authority is proud to champion.

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2024-2026 STRATEGIC PLAN – OBJECTIVES Building on the success of its 2020-2023 Strategic Plan, CIMA’s 2024-2026 Strategic Plan signifies its progression and acts as a crucial roadmap for future development, comprising six strategic objectives: 1. ENHANCING TECHNOLOGICAL CAPABILITIES – Streamlining operations, strengthening data-driven decision-making, and improving overall efficiency.

Training and capacity building will ensure the successful adoption of these technological solutions.

2. EFFECTIVELY COMBATTING FINANCIAL CRIME – In preparation for the FATF Mutual Evaluation, CIMA is improving the systems used to gather, maintain, and analyze data while deepening its collaboration with domestic and international authorities, demonstrating the jurisdiction’s commitment to a robust AML and CFT frameworks.

3. ESTABLISHING PROACTIVE, SUSTAINABLE, AND EFFECTIVE REGULATORY FRAMEWORKS – Harmonizing regulatory acts and enhancing supervisory frameworks and measures in various areas including reinsurance, BCBS’s Basel III requirements, and virtual asset sandboxes to ensure long-term regulatory resilience.

4. POSITIONING CIMA AS AN EMPLOYER OF CHOICE – Investing in human resource capacity, supporting staff development, enhancing operational structure, and upgrading to a larger office site, the Pavilion East building.

5. SAFEGUARDING THE CAYMAN ISLANDS CURRENCY – Improving banknote design and durability, refining the currency redemption cycle, and introducing new banknotes that reflect the change in monarchy.

6. EXPANDING PUBLIC OUTREACH AND EDUCATION INITIATIVES – Increasing dialogue with stakeholders and enhancing public understanding of CIMA’s mandate, operations, and values, strengthening trust in the financial system and promoting a culture of shared responsibility.

CIMA’s broader community engagement is equally meaningful, with CIMA staff regularly volunteering to support charitable organizations, environmental programs, and social initiatives across the islands, while also conducting internal fundraising campaigns throughout the year.

“These efforts reflect a collective desire among staff to give back, and they reinforce a strong sense of purpose within the authority,” Scotland observes.

A signature community endeavor is the CIMA 5K Walk/Run, which supports charitable causes while promoting health and wellness and has become a highly anticipated fixture on the community calendar, underscoring the role the authority plays in fostering unity and social engagement.

Beyond internal efforts, CIMA remains committed to constructive engagement with the financial services industry, hosting a wide range of outreach events that facilitate dialogue, enhance regulatory understanding, and strengthen collaborative relationships.

“These engagements reflect our broader goal of building a transparent, well-informed, and resilient financial ecosystem,” she smiles.

Collectively, these initiatives represent CIMA’s dedication to supporting the long-term well-being, talent development, and community strength of the Cayman Islands.

“We view this work as an extension of our mission, because a strong community and strong financial system go hand in hand,” Scotland imparts.

FUTURE FOCUS Looking ahead, CIMA’s priorities are centered around strengthening its regulatory foundations and preparing the organization for the next phase of growth, innovation, and global integration.

A significant element of this involves continuing to modernize its regulatory framework so it remains 142 | North America Outlook Issue 33

CAYMAN ISLANDS MONETARY AUTHORITY FINANCE

“ U LT I M AT E LY, O U R G O A L S A R E G R O U N D E D I N A C O M M I T M E N T T O E X C E L L E N C E . B Y I N V E S T I N G I N T E C H N O L O G Y, E X P A N D I N G O U R O R G A N I Z AT I O N A L C A P A C I T Y, U N D E R TA K I N G A THOUGHTFUL RESTRUCTURING, AND STRENGTHENING OUR R E L AT I O N S H I P S L O C A L LY A N D G L O B A L LY, W E A R E P R E P A R I N G O U R S E LV E S F O R A F U T U R E D E F I N E D B Y I N N O VAT I O N , C O M P E T I T I V E N E S S , A N D L O N G -T E R M R E S I L I E N C E ” – C I N D Y S C O T L A N D O B E , C E O , C AY M A N I S L A N D S M O N E TA R Y A U T H O R I T Y

agile, globally aligned, and capable of responding to emerging risks and opportunities across the financial services landscape.

This includes refining relevant legislation, enhancing supervisory methodologies, and ensuring that the Cayman Islands’ regulatory architecture continues to reflect the highest international standards.

“Technological transformation remains a priority, and CIMA must continue investing in the systems, tools, and analytical capabilities that support effective, data-driven supervision.

“We are also enhancing operational efficiency by leveraging data-driven decision-making, advancing digital transformation, and establishing centers of excellence across our divisions,” Scotland explains.

As the regulatory environment continues to expand and diversify, capacity building will also be a defining focus for the authority, particularly when it comes to virtual assets, FinTech, sustainable finance, and innovative investment structures.

“This includes growing our team

through targeted recruitment, upskilling existing staff through continuous professional development, and enhancing leadership capacity, ensuring we can maintain the depth of oversight required of a modern, global regulator,” she insights.

In line with these goals, CIMA is preparing for a significant organizational restructuring to improve operational efficiencies, reduce redundancies, and better align its structure with the evolving regulatory landscape to become a resilient, future-ready business.

The jurisdiction continues to see strong interest in emerging sectors such as crypto or virtual currencies, payments innovation, and climaterelated financial products.

CIMA’s responsibility is to ensure this growth is supported by a forwardlooking regulatory environment for whom safeguarding financial stability and maintaining integrity is a priority.

Strengthening engagement and open dialogue with both local and international stakeholders is also a key focus, helping to ensure that

the Cayman Islands’ regulatory ecosystem continues to be understood, respected, and trusted by stakeholders across the world.

“Ultimately, our goals are grounded in a commitment to excellence.

By investing in technology, expanding our organizational capacity, undertaking a thoughtful restructuring, and strengthening our relationships locally and globally, we are preparing ourselves for a future defined by innovation, competitiveness, and long-term resilience,” Scotland passionately concludes.

Tel: +1 (345) 949-7089 contactpublicrelations@cima.ky

www.cima.ky

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 143

FORTIFYING Grenada’s Financial Future Denis Felix, Executive Director of the Grenada Authority for the Regulation of Financial Institutions, outlines its pivotal role in regulating the non-bank financial sector, championing consumer confidence, and fostering a stable economic environment through strategic oversight and modernization initiatives Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Joshua Mann

T

he Grenada Authority for the Regulation of Financial Institutions (GARFIN) was established in 2007 as a statutory body responsible for overseeing and regulating the non-bank financial sector in Grenada, the southernmost country of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU).

GARFIN is dedicated to building and maintaining public confidence in Grenada’s financial system by ensuring its integrity through diligent regulation and thorough supervision of designated non-bank financial institutions, including credit unions with total assets of ECD$1,612.9 million, development banks – ECD$122.3 million, microlending institutions – ECD$18.6 million (total loans), building societies – ECD$17.7 million, insurance companies

144 | North America Outlook Issue 33

Denis Felix , Executive Director

– ECD$600 million (general ECD$252 million and long-term ECD$358 million), and school savings unions – ECD$2 million.

Envisioning itself as a highly professional and effective regulatory

authority focused on ensuring stability, thereby contributing to a strong economic environment, GARFIN has established long-term goals to achieve sustainable growth and development in Grenada’s financial industry.

“As a regulator and supervisor, we strive for a safe, sound, profitable, and well-functioning financial sector that can withstand shocks and contribute positively to the people and economy of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique,” introduces Denis Felix, Executive Director of the authority.

The long-term goals for GARFIN to achieve sustainable growth for non-bank financial institutions include the continuous development of stress testing, especially within the insurance and credit union sectors, which will improve supervision and

enable proactive identification of weaknesses or risks that require attention.

In addition, there will be ongoing modernization of legislation, including the Co-operative Societies Act, the new harmonized ECCU Insurance Act, and the revised Building Societies Act. “We aim to maintain our partnership with regional regulators to establish a standards-setting body

GARFIN’S KEY OBJECTIVES FOR MODERNIZING LEGISLATION • Incorporate international best practices into legislation for the overall strengthening of the non-bank financial sector.

• Make the necessary improvements to regulations based on the experience and observations of the non-bank financial sector.

• Account for changes in technology, new business models, emerging risks, and changes in existing risks.

– the Eastern Caribbean Financial Standards Board (ECFSB). This initiative will help synchronize the regulatory framework in the ECCU,” Felix outlines.

“Additionally, we will collaborate with the credit union sector to enhance the understanding of risk-weighted capital and transition current practices to a risk-based lending methodology.”

ENHANCING ECONOMIC ENLIGHTENMENT Currently, the non-bank financial sector includes credit unions, insurance companies, agents, brokers, adjusters, sales representatives, and underwriters, as well as encompassing pension plans.

Besides money service businesses – such as microlending institutions and money transfer operators – the sector consists of a building society, a development bank, friendly societies, an international betting company, school savings unions, and virtual asset service providers.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 145

GARFIN FINANCE

To strengthen consumer protection, GARFIN is actively implementing several strategies designed to support individuals with varying levels of experience, ensuring all consumers can navigate the financial landscape with greater confidence and security.

“One key initiative is the issuance

of guidelines requiring insurance companies to clearly inform their clients of the need to obtain current valuations of their property when seeking insurance for the first time or during annual renewals.

“This will help clients understand the financial consequences of being

CRITICAL CRITERIA Any potential member of GARFIN’s Board of Directors must undergo a fit-andproper assessment and be recognized and experienced in one or more of the following areas: • Banking • Insurance • Financial co-operatives • Law • Economics • Finance and accounting To assess whether an individual is suitable for appointment as a director, the Minister of Finance will consider various relevant factors, including integrity, competence, and sound judgment in fulfilling their responsibilities, as well as their expected diligence in carrying out their duties.

Consideration may also be given to prior conduct in business, particularly regarding any evidence of fraud, dishonesty, or violence. This includes violations of laws intended to protect the public from financial losses resulting from misconduct in financial services or company management.

Furthermore, any deceitful or oppressive business practices, employment records suggesting impropriety, or associations with questionable business practices that raise doubts about competence and judgment are also relevant.

146 | North America Outlook Issue 33

underinsured,” Felix affirms.

Further to these efforts, GARFIN will continue to collaborate with the government and the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) on ongoing financial literacy programs to empower individuals to make informed, intelligent financial decisions.

“We are working with the Grenada Co-operative League, the umbrella organization for credit unions, to establish a stabilization fund that aims to protect members and depositors.

“GARFIN will also support the creation of the Office of Financial Conduct and Inclusion for the ECCU, which will regulate issues related to financial consumer protection and business conduct,” expands Felix.

SAFEGUARDING FINANCIAL STABILITY Playing a crucial and dynamic role in the financial framework, GARFIN ensures compliance with established standards and fosters a stable economic environment.

To maintain public confidence in the Grenadian financial system, the authority promotes public understanding and awareness. This includes educating individuals about the benefits and risks of various investments and transactions and providing accurate information and advice.

“To ensure consumer protection, it is essential to consider the varying levels of risk associated with different types of financial operations.

Recognizing that consumers possess differing degrees of experience and expertise in relation to various regulated activities is vital,” highlights Felix.

“Additionally, we must address their diverse needs for accurate information and advice while upholding the principle that individuals should take responsibility

“A S A R E G U L AT O R A N D S U P E R V I S O R , W E S T R I V E F O R A S A F E , S O U N D , P R O F I TA B L E , A N D W E L L - F U N C T I O N I N G F I N A N C I A L S E C T O R T H AT C A N W I T H S TA N D S H O C K S A N D C O N T R I B U T E P O S I T I V E LY T O T H E P E O P L E A N D E CO N O M Y O F G R E N A DA , C A R R I ACO U, A N D P E T I T E MARTINIQUE” – D E N I S F E L I X , E X E C U T I V E D I R E C TO R , G A R F I N

for their own decisions. Therefore, a balanced approach is necessary to safeguard consumers while empowering them in their financial choices.”

GARFIN conducts off-site supervision by analyzing monthly, quarterly, and annual returns from regulated entities.

This includes trend and ratio analysis to assess financial performance and ensure compliance with solvency and liquidity requirements.

“Focusing on high-risk areas, we ensure insurance companies maintain adequate assets in their insurance funds to meet policyholder obligations,” he states.

The compiled data is shared with relevant sectors for benchmarking and oversight by entities such as the ECCB, Government of Grenada, and International Monetary Fund.

“Every year, we produce a Supervisor of Insurance Report, which provides a comprehensive

and in-depth review and analysis of the insurance sector, and an Annual Report containing data and analysis on the non-bank financial sector. These reports are tabled before parliament by the Minister for Finance,” Felix tells us.

“On-site examinations involve reviewing a regulated entity’s records, processes, and controls, and findings from off-site supervision determine the need for these examinations, which can be targeted

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 147

GARFIN FINANCE

or comprehensive. An exit meeting is held with management to discuss findings and corrective actions, followed by reporting to the entity’s board.”

Prudential meetings are also held to tackle issues such as regulatory breaches and financial performance, while public members with grievances, particularly those related to vehicular accidents, can submit complaints for resolution.

Moreover, GARFIN has the authority to impose fines, restrict operations, or, in serious cases, appoint managers to ensure fair regulation within the nonbank financial sector.

GARFIN plans to adapt its regulatory approach to address emerging trends and challenges in the financial sector, especially during periods of economic uncertainty, by anchoring it in a risk-based supervisory framework and directing daily regulatory and supervisory activities.

High-risk areas, activities, and regulated entities, including those that receive a high level of complaints, are subject to greater scrutiny through more frequent reporting,

increased reporting requirements, and more in-depth on-site examinations.

“To address difficulties effectively, our employees undergo regular training on emerging risks, best practices in regulations and supervision, and new developments in financial standards to equip them to respond to emerging trends and challenges,” insights Felix.

In collaboration with other ECCU regulators, GARFIN aims to implement a technology solution to automate specific tasks.

This initiative is intended to enhance operational efficiency and give staff more time to concentrate on higher-level responsibilities.

Additionally, it is developing a crisis resolution plan to formalize its regulatory strategy during periods of economic uncertainty.

“Through effective regulation and supervision, we ensure all regulated entities are financially sound, compliant with applicable laws and regulations, and exhibit good market conduct,” Felix emphasises.

“This reduces the probability of an entity failing and undermining confidence in the Grenadian financial system,” he continues.

LEGISLATION

REGULATORY AUTHORITY

Cooperative Societies Act, Chapter

Registrar of Credit Unions

RESILIENT AND RELIABLE REGULATIONS

Insurance Act, Cap 150

Supervisor of Insurance

Building Societies Act, Cap 38

Registrar of Building Societies

Friendly Societies Act, Cap 118

Registrar of Friendly Societies

International Betting Act, Cap 151A

Authority for International Betting

The financial landscape in Grenada is shaped by a blend of regulatory oversight, economic resilience, and adaptability to challenges.

The country boasts a diverse financial sector, which includes credit unions, commercial banks, insurance firms, and investment entities. This sector plays a vital role in supporting economic growth and maintaining stability, which is essential for both consumers and businesses.

The non-bank financial sector, in particular, enhances access to

PROACTIVE PROTECTION

(Cap) 166A

Companies Company Management Act, Cap 58B

Authority for Company Management Companies

International Trusts Act, Cap 152C

Authority for International Trusts

Grenada Development Bank Act, Cap

Authority for Grenada Development

129

Bank

Money Services Business Act, Cap 198A

Authority for Money Services Businesses

Virtual Assets Business Act, 2021

Authority for Virtual Assets Businesses

148 | North America Outlook Issue 33

Achieving this requires ongoing collaboration with key partners, including the ECCB, Eastern Caribbean Securities Regulatory Commission (ECSRC), Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Commission, Financial Intelligence Unit, and Ministry of Finance.

“The authority actively participates in regulatory colleges, where the home regulator – meaning the regulator from the head office’s location – conducts a comprehensive review and discussion of specific entities involving executives and senior management,” Felix details.

“This process ensures regulators possess a thorough understanding of the challenges, performance, and stability of a financial group or conglomerate.”

Additionally, GARFIN collaborates with regional regulators on various issues and initiatives to enhance regulatory oversight.

The Regulatory Oversight Committee (ROC) brings together all 10 regulators, including the ECCB, ECSRC, and national regulators such as GARFIN, every quarter to discuss the ECCU financial sector and initiatives aimed at enhancing regulation and supervision.

GARFIN FINANCE

financial services, fosters competition, and promotes financial inclusion, but these institutions often operate under less regulatory scrutiny than traditional banks, posing potential risks to consumer protection and systemic stability.

To mitigate these risks and ensure the security of the financial system,

proper regulation and supervision are essential as the industry significantly contributes to overall economic growth and financial stability.

As the primary regulator and supervisor of non-bank financial institutions, GARFIN plays a crucial role in ensuring these entities operate within a framework that promotes

GARFIN’S ACHIEVEMENTS • Stabilized the sector and improved the performance of regulated entities.

• Overseen greater compliance from the sector.

• Enhanced both on-site and off-site supervision.

• Increased safety and soundness in the sector.

• Fully complied with monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting.

• Developed and implemented a framework for the supervision of pension plans.

• Enhanced the supervision of school savings unions.

• Obtained excellent support from the government.

• Enacted and modernized legislation, such as the Co-operative Societies Act, ECCU Insurance Act, Money Services Business Act, and the new Virtual Asset Business Act. • Transferred the assets and liabilities of several small credit unions to bigger ones to safeguard members’ deposits.

• Increased confidence of the general public.

• Successfully enforced corrective supervisory action to rehabilitate and resuscitate weak and insolvent institutions.

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integrity and accountability, which in turn strengthens public trust in the financial system.

However, Grenada’s economy has shown impressive resilience, especially in the face of natural disasters like Hurricane Beryl and global challenges such as the COVID19 pandemic.

This resilience is reflected in the financial sector’s ability to adapt and recover, as well as its commitment to robust regulatory practices.

To maintain public confidence in the financial sector, GARFIN administers strict regulations and conducts regular on-site inspections, ensuring the financial industry remains stable and secure.

“Following the conduct of on-site inspections, robust follow-up performance reviews are carried out in order to ensure notable progress is realised in addressing weaknesses previously identified,” Felix emphasizes.

This commitment to thorough assessments underscores the importance of accountability within regulatory practices.

“A good regulatory authority must be prepared to operate with the highest level of integrity and professionalism. It cannot expect others to do things properly if it operates otherwise,” he points out.

This commitment to high standards not only bolsters public confidence but also fortifies the overall health of Grenada’s financial landscape.

In recent years, there has been increased focus on enhancing financial literacy among the population and promoting responsible lending and borrowing practices.

These ongoing efforts aim to empower individuals and businesses, fostering a sense of progress and confidence in making informed financial decisions.

GARFIN FINANCE

“Live Well Financially” 1 (473) 440-2444 www.antillean.biz

Grenville Co-operative Credit Union: A Legacy of Growth and Community Impact From its 1984 rebirth with just 19 members and $1,614 in assets, Grenville Co-operative Credit Union (GCCU) has grown into a leading financial institution in Grenada, with over $147 million in assets and 12,000+ members. Founded on trust and resilience, GCCU has weathered economic crises and natural disasters while remaining a pillar of support for its members.

Recent years have seen significant transformation, driven by its 2022–2025 Strategic Plan focusing on innovation, member service, and sustainable growth.

Investments in digital services, modern Emortelle systems, and the International Debit Card (IDC) position GCCU at the forefront of financial inclusion.

Phone: (473) 442-8602 Email: info@grencu.com Website: www.grencu.com

Beyond finance, GCCU empowers its community through scholarships, SME forums, and staff development. With strong governance and a people-first ethos, GCCU continues to build financial independence, strengthen communities, and lead with purpose, remaining a trusted cooperative where every member truly matters.

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 151

St. George’s Anglican Junior School

The interconnectedness of the global economy poses both opportunities and risks for Grenada, and GARFIN’s proactive supervision and risk management approach helps mitigate potential shocks, creating a sense of security and stability for the audience.

Grenada’s financial landscape is marked by resilience, regulatory integrity, and a commitment to fostering growth while safeguarding the interests of all industries.

The continued efforts of GARFIN are pivotal in navigating the complexities of the modern financial world and ensuring a solid foundation for future economic development.

PIONEERING PROGRESS As it embarks on exciting projects and investments, GARFIN is notably focusing on developing a technology solution for regulatory and supervisory purposes.

“We intend to automate certain functions to allow staff enhanced time to focus on analysis and risk

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“ TO E N S U R E CO N S U M E R P R OT E C T I O N , I T I S E SS E N T I A L TO CO N S I D E R T H E VA R Y I N G L E V E L S O F R I S K A S S O C I AT E D WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF FINANCIAL O P E R AT I O N S . R E C O G N I Z I N G T H AT CONSUMERS POSSESS DIFFERING DEGREES OF EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE I N R E L AT I O N T O VA R I O U S R E G U L AT E D A C T I V I T I E S I S V I TA L ” – D E N I S F E L I X , E X E C U T I V E D I R E C TO R , G A R F I N

assessments. The intent is for this project to be developed in collaboration with our fellow ECCU regulators,” Felix reveals.

The revision of the Co-operative Societies Act has been a longstanding project, with significant consultation and effort dedicated to refining the legislation for practical use.

“The updated draft bill will be completed and submitted to parliament for approval by December 2025, a

significant achievement for GARFIN and a much-needed improvement for the oversight of an ECD$1.6 billion sector.”

For the upcoming year, GARFIN has several plans and priorities, the first of which is to fully implement a practical risk-based supervisory framework for the non-bank financial sector and enact updated legislation and regulations, beginning with revisions to the Co-operative Societies Act and its accompanying regulations.

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consolidated supervision and the creation of the ECFSB, which will include regulators from all eight jurisdictions in the ECCU, along with the ECCB.” Furthermore, GARFIN intends to develop a supervisory framework for virtual assets and promote consolidation within the credit union sector by facilitating the transfer of assets and liabilities from smaller, less efficient credit unions to larger, more viable ones.

“All our initiatives are designed to enhance the regulatory environment and improve overall stability in the financial sector,” Felix assuredly concludes.

Additionally, it aims to develop a crisis preparedness and management plan specifically for the non-bank financial sector. It will also establish internationally accepted prudential ratios for insurance companies and building societies.

“To support this, we will focus on capacity building for industry bodies, particularly in the insurance sector.

Strengthening cooperation among regional regulators is another priority,” notes Felix.

“This initiative will involve

Tel: (473) 440-6575; 405-5668 garfininfo@garfin.org

garfin.gd

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 153

A production-line of exclusive content, delivered straight to your inbox As manufacturing organizations worldwide confront unprecedented change, embracing technological innovations and incorporating critical environmental sustainability agendas, now more than ever is the time to showcase the strides being taken in this dynamic sector.

A multi-channel brand, Manufacturing Outlook brings you the positive developments driven by organizations across the global manufacturing industry through its various platforms.

Discover exclusive content distributed through its website, online magazine, social media campaigns and digital dispatches, delivered straight to your inbox with a bi-weekly newsletter.

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To participate as a featured company and join us in this exciting endeavor, contact one of our Project Managers today.

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P R AC T I C A L P R E S E N TAT I O N ALL WRAPPED UP

We highlight Rohrer Corporation’s approach to packaging innovation, combining sustainable materials and design expertise to deliver customized solutions that protect products and strengthen brand presence in a competitive marketplace Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Poppi Burke

T

he eponymously founded Rohrer Corporation (Rohrer), established in 1973 by brothers John and David Rohrer, has built a trusted reputation in retail packaging solutions, showcasing decades of industry leadership.

After being acquired by Revelar Capital in 2021, the company is now recognized for its innovation, sustainability, and speed, which together deliver exceptional value and reinforce Rohrer’s commitment to progress.

The company’s portfolio includes a wide range of products, such as thermoformed and paperboard 156 | North America Outlook Issue 33

packaging. This encompasses blisters, blister cards, folding cartons, clamshells, trays, sustainable materials, combination and custom tools, heat-seal tooling, and tailored designs.

Moreover, the company offers design services and contract packaging to provide comprehensive solutions for its customers.

With nine strategically located facilities across the US and Mexico – including Ohio, Georgia, Arizona, Illinois, and Rhode Island – Rohrer operates with the scale of a national provider while maintaining the responsiveness of a local partner,

ensuring reliable service.

This geographic footprint enables shorter lead times and reduced transportation emissions, and allows for quick adaptations to changing market demands.

Leveraging these advantages, Rohrer has been dedicated to helping brands stand out on the shelf while achieving their business goals for over 50 years.

Indeed, the company’s capabilities in harnessing technology for its packaging processes are particularly innovative. By combining advanced thermoforming and printing technologies with a customer-first

ROHRER CORPORATION MANUFACTURING

approach, it delivers packaging that is both high-performing and visually impressive.

An example of this innovation is Rohrer’s ezCombo® program, which consolidates multiple orders into a single production run. This process reduces waste, lowers costs, and shortens lead times.

Furthermore, the company’s automation and precision tooling ensures consistency and speed, with the design team utilizing cuttingedge software to create packaging that is both functional and visually appealing.

These capabilities enable Rohrer

to respond rapidly to market trends, helping brands efficiently meet their sustainability and performance goals.

COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTIONS Rohrer offers a comprehensive packaging solution by integrating design, printing, thermoforming, heatseal tooling, and supply chain services all within one organization.

This structure reduces the number of handoffs, which subsequently speeds up the design, approval, and production processes. At the same time, the company’s extensive product portfolio allows customers to consolidate their suppliers and

maintain consistency across their offerings.

To further enhance this efficiency, Rohrer utilizes a strong Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) program which includes minimum and maximum stocking levels, multiplant redundancy, and data-driven replenishment, ensuring a reliable supply and helping to reduce working capital.

These capabilities create a streamlined, agile, and highly dependable packaging partnership for Rohrer’s nine facilities, each with unique strengths. For example, some specialize in high-volume North America Outlook Issue 33 | 157

ROHRER CORPORATION MANUFACTURING

ROHRER’S VISION In the future, Rohrer will focus on executing its ambitious growth strategy to double the size of the business, which the company will achieve through organic expansion, deeper penetration in existing markets, and leveraging its expertise to enter new ones.

In addition to these initiatives, Rohrer is proactively pursuing strategic acquisitions aimed at introducing new capabilities in 2026. Each step of this journey is guided by a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and a relentless pursuit of delivering unparalleled value to customers.

thermoforming for blister and clamshell packaging, while others focus on premium printing and finishing for folding cartons and insert cards.

Additionally, the company provides smart packaging solutions with its radio frequency identification (RFID) capabilities. RFID tags – or QR codes – offer brands detailed visibility of packaging movement, enabling optimization at every step of the supply chain.

Rohrer’s capabilities and specializations ensure that every project benefits from the right combination of technology and craftsmanship.

With its nationwide footprint and integrated services, Rohrer acts as a true partner, helping brands create packaging that performs, protects, and stands out on the shelf.

ENABLING A GREENER FUTURE Rohrer is actively pursuing various sustainability initiatives, 158 | North America Outlook Issue 33

including providing eco-friendly packaging materials.

The ezCombo® program supports these efforts, and the company highlights eco-friendly material offerings that can assist brands at every stage of their sustainability journey, providing practical, highperforming solutions.

In 2024, Rohrer achieved a 30 percent improvement in its Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) rating, reaching a B level. Additionally, in June 2025, the company increased its EcoVadis score by 12 percent,

reaching 57 out of 100, while maintaining its Committed Badge sustainability rating.

These advancements demonstrate Rohrer’s dedication to environmental transparency, ethical sourcing, and responsible operations – areas that are increasingly scrutinized by global brands, retailers, consumers, and investors.

This commitment is exemplified by the EcoVolve™ product line, which represents a significant step forward, beginning with EcoVolve-30™, a blister board made from 30 percent post-consumer recycled (PCR) fiber.

This product is compliant with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®), and designed to maintain print quality and durability while clearly showcasing a brand’s commitment to sustainability.

In addition to EcoVolve™, the company’s portfolio includes 100 percent

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Our Past

Family-owned and operated American business since 1918 Superior Printing Ink Co., Inc. was founded in 1918, and rapidly became known for accurate color matching and “get-it-there-no-matterwhat” delivery. Four generations later, Superior remains a family-owned and operated American business. This continuity of ownership/ management is a key element of Superior’s success. It has provided a solid foundation on which the company continues to build.

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Present

Superior Printing Ink is an acknowledged industry leader in high-performance inks for the commercial and packaging printer. This outstanding reputation has been achieved by a sound investment in the right people, centralized and dedicated facilities, and strategically placed customer service centers in the USA.

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These best practices have now been applied to the design, manufacture, and servicing of our inks at Superior Printing Inks. Printers who use these products can rest assured that they are working with the best total cost solution for ensuring the profitability of their business.

Additives Pressroom Additives Cobalt Drier Scratchproof Drier Combination Drier Aqua-Quest Drying Stimulator “Almost” No Spray

At Superior, we never forget that, first and foremost, ink is about color and color reproduction. We stand ready to assist our customers in achieving the best possible match between proof and press sheet by characterizing their presses with ink and comparing the resultant color gamut with the prepress proof.

Serving the changing needs of the printing industry Superior’s continuing growth currently extends manufacturing branches nationwide, with two subdivisions and numerous in-plant customer service locations. Superior’s employees are all devoted to better serving the changing needs of the printing industry. Our motto, “Modern Technology/Old Fashioned Service”, truly describes our company.

Our Future

Developing new technologies for tomorrow’s printing needs As the press continues to develop and evolve, so do our inks and their capabilities to meet our customers’ needs. From the speed of the packaging press to the concise nature of the cosmetic customer, our inks and technical support have evolved and developed not only to meet, but exceed our customer expectations.

Superior continues to develop our ink sets to meet our customers’ needs. We offer a variety of UV, LED, and sheetfed inks, to meet the needs of commercial and packaging printing. Our ability to color-match, quickly and precisely, continues to set us apart in this fast-moving industry. We stand with our customers, press side, to make sure they are completely satisfied with the printed sheet. From our infancy, we have always put the needs of our customers first. This simple idea is the thread that connects us to our past and continues to drive us forward into the future of the printing industry.

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ROHRER CORPORATION MANUFACTURING

recycled-fiber clay coated news back (CCNB) with 45 percent PCR content, FSC®-certified solid bleached sulfate (SBS) paperboard, lowvolatile organic compound (VOC) water-based coatings, and recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) as an alternative to virgin plastic.

Programs like ezCombo® further reduce waste by consolidating production runs, saving resources and costs while accelerating delivery. These initiatives enable brands to achieve their sustainability goals without compromising on performance or aesthetics.

COMPLIANCE MEETS CREATIVITY The industry currently faces significant challenges, and Rohrer is effectively addressing the increasingly complex packaging landscape.

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Brands are encountering rising expectations from both regulators and retailers, as well as economic uncertainty resulting from tariffs, supply chain volatility, and shifting global markets.

Recognizing these challenges, Rohrer is committed to helping its customers navigate them with confidence.

Compliance has become a core expectation from state and federal agencies, as well as major retailers, and to remain ahead of these standards, the company has made substantial investments.

These include ensuring material compliance with emerging state regulations, such as SB 54, as well as extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs, recycled content mandates, and full transparency through material documentation,

such as ASTM International classifications and third-party certifications.

As well as conducting crossfunctional regulatory reviews of new materials – such as PCR and rPET paper-based packaging and nextgeneration sustainable substrates – Rohrer collaborates closely with customers to ensure packaging meets specific planogram, sustainability, and labeling requirements, thereby minimizing the risk of line reviews or resets.

Despite the fast-changing environment, Rohrer continually updates its processes, materials, and labeling standards so that customers remain compliant without added burden.

One of the biggest challenges today is meeting the demand for domestically sourced packaging

ROHRER CORPORATION MANUFACTURING

ELEVATING CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES THROUGH INTEGRATED EXCELLENCE Rohrer is diligently implementing robust strategies to pursue both commercial and operational excellence, working toward clearly defined goals to ensure seamless alignment between these two elements.

On the operational side, the company is enhancing efficiency through technology and continuous process improvements, unifying both missions under one aspirational goal: to deliver exceptional customer experiences.

The essence of commercial excellence, meanwhile, is built on the strength of integrated commercial and operational teams – an approach known as ‘customer obsessed’. This commitment to customer centricity is driven through a variety of levers, including: • Customer and product focus • Robust sales, inventory, and operations planning (SIOP) and forecasting • Disciplined pricing and value realization • Fast, integrated design, tooling, and production workflows • VMI and multi-plant redundancy • Consistent communication and accountability to customers For Rohrer, being ‘customer obsessed’ transcends being just a phrase – it is the cornerstone of daily operations. This comprehensive approach ensures that the company delivers market-leading speed, quality, and value while simultaneously cultivating a more predictable and resilient supply chain for its valued partners.

that balances speed, flexibility, and sustainability, as brands seek partners who can deliver transparency and quality without compromise.

As it continues to redefine the industry landscape, the company is uniquely positioned to meet these expectations through its nationwide footprint, streamlined processes, and commitment to sustainable materials.

By offering end-to-end solutions and acting as a true partner – not just a supplier – Rohrer helps customers navigate these challenges with confidence.

Tel: 800.243.6640 info@rohrer.com

www.rohrer.com North America Outlook Issue 33 | 161

N E X T- G E N E R AT I O ENGINEERING Proudly manufacturing sophisticated and efficient body components and assemblies for the vehicles of tomorrow, GEDIA Automotive Group is ready for a mobile future. Michael Lehmann, CEO responsible for the North American business, and Markus Engelbertz, Chief Sales Officer and Board Member globally responsible for sales, hop in the driver’s seat and take us for a journey Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Poppi Burke

P

eople have to be mobile to learn, work, and live. Mobility must also be sustainable; good for the environment, good for the climate, and good for people.

This is the mantra that GEDIA Automotive Group (GEDIA) abides by when pursuing next-generation engineering.

GEDIA is a German, family-owned company founded in 1910, with a strong global footprint spanning a century of engineering excellence.

Today, the company operates manufacturing facilities across Germany, Poland, Spain, Hungary, China, India, Mexico, and the US, serving customers worldwide.

“Our core expertise lies in the development and production of highquality structural body-in-white and chassis components and assemblies, utilizing advanced cold and hot stamping technologies and mastering all common joining technologies,” introduces Markus Engelbertz, Chief Sales Officer and Board Member.

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“We place a special focus on safety-critical structural solutions, such as hot-formed and fully assembled B-pillars, which play a vital role in protecting drivers and passengers in the event of a sideimpact crash.”

Globally, GEDIA employs approximately 4,700 people and supplies components to a wide variety of global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) as well as Tier 1 suppliers across multiple regions and vehicle platforms, making it a trusted long-term industry partner.

Michael Lehmann, CEO responsible for the North American business, joined the company in 2020, having grown up in Germany near GEDIA’s headquarters in Attendorn.

Now six years into his journey with the company and having experienced a range of challenging and successful situations, he can confidently say that GEDIA looks after all its stakeholders – employees, customers, suppliers, and shareholders alike.

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This balanced approach is deeply rooted in the company’s guiding philosophy, the ‘3 Vs’, inspired by German words Vertrauen, Verantwortung, and Veränderungsbereitschaft, meaning trust, responsibility, and willingness to change.

“These principles are not just slogans; they actively shape how decisions are made and partnerships are built. Guided by these principles, we have established our own distinctive way of doing business, consistently striving for win-win solutions with all internal and external partners,” Lehmann explains.

This strong values-driven culture, combined with the company’s deep technical expertise in the development and production of high-quality structural automotive components, is a key factor that differentiates GEDIA.

READY FOR THE NEXT CAR Lehmann began his career in Germany, where he had the opportunity to develop a strong foundation in manufacturing and industrial operations.

Following this, he moved abroad, broadening his perspective and sparking a lasting interest in global business. Eventually, Lehmann moved to the US, where he began his professional career in the automotive industry as a Sales Manager before joining GEDIA in 2020, continuing his reign in the ever-exciting sector.

“The automotive manufacturing industry is inherently dynamic and resilient. Over the past 20 years, we have experienced significant highs and lows that have continuously reshaped the landscape,” Lehmann details.

More recently, the industry faced the unprecedented impact of the

HOW DOES GEDIA CREATE SOPHISTICATED AND EFFICIENT BODY COMPONENTS AND ASSEMBLIES FOR VEHICLES OF THE FUTURE? Markus Engelbertz, Chief Sales Officer and Board Member: “GEDIA creates sophisticated and efficient body components and assemblies for vehicles of the future by becoming involved very early in the vehicle development process. Early-stage engagement allows us to influence key design decisions and optimize components from the beginning.

“Our globally networked engineering teams are highly trained to deliver rapid calculations, simulations, and design feedback. They continuously propose improvements to make components stronger, safer, lighter, and more cost-effective – often achieving a combination of all four.

“This technical expertise is reinforced by GEDIA’s global footprint and time-zone coverage, allowing our teams to work in parallel around the clock. The result is fast, professional, and highly responsive development support, giving our customers a decisive competitive advantage in increasingly compressed development cycles.”

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COVID-19 pandemic. For GEDIA, it dealt with stay-at-home orders that dramatically reduced workforce availability while customers demanded an uninterrupted supply. Balancing employee safety with business continuity became an immediate, daily challenge to overcome at the time.

Following this, the industry navigated the global semiconductor shortage and now faces ongoing geopolitical tensions, alongside major uncertainty surrounding the optimal powertrain strategy – whether electric, internal combustion, hybrid, or hydrogen.

“You must remain on your toes at all times in this market, anticipating risks while also being ready to seize opportunities as they arise.

This constant need for adaptation, innovation, and strategic thinking is exactly what makes automotive

manufacturing such a compelling space to work in today,” enthuses Lehmann.

SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE GEDIA drives forward the sector through its various projects, two of which stand out as truly defining moments for the company, perfectly illustrating what its team is capable of achieving under extreme conditions.

One project is the recent short-term takeover program at the company’s facility in Dalton, Georgia (GA).

“Within an extremely compressed timeline of just 15 weeks, we successfully transferred seven existing hot-forming tools to our plant,” expands Lehmann.

“These tools required extensive refurbishment, and, in some cases, physical modification, including the design and construction of new and adapted laser and welding fixtures to enable full assembly of the finished components.”

“OUR CORE EXPERTISE LIES IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION OF HIGHQ U A L I T Y S T R U C T U R A L B O D Y- I N - W H I T E A N D CHASSIS COMPONENTS AND ASSEMBLIES, U T I L I Z I N G A D VA N C E D C O L D A N D H O T S TA M P I N G T E C H N O L O G I E S A N D M A S T E R I N G ALL COMMON JOINING TECHNOLOGIES” – M A R KU S E N G E L B E RTZ , C H I E F SA L E S O F F I C E R A N D B OA R D M E M B E R , G E D I A AU TO M OT I V E G R O U P

With the project demanding intense cross-functional coordination, rapid engineering adjustments, and flawless execution under significant time pressure, the GEDIA team demonstrated outstanding commitment, going the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction, quality, and performance delivery.

On a broader scale, the company’s state-of-the-art facility in Dalton is another flagship project reflecting

GEDIA’s resilience and strength. It was initiated after the company was affected by a major cyberattack in 2020, followed immediately by the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite the resulting global supply chain disruptions, travel restrictions, workforce limitations, and healthrelated constraints, the facility was executed without missing a single milestone – a powerful testament North America Outlook Issue 33 | 165

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to GEDIA’s ability to deliver large, complex industrial projects under the most demanding conditions.

“Together, these projects demonstrate our execution discipline, engineering flexibility, customer focus, and team spirit – core strengths that continue to differentiate us as a partner of choice in automotive manufacturing,” prides Lehmann.

In addition, GEDIA is working to expand its presence in Mexico.

Specifically, the company is looking to double the size of its current facility while stabilizing what it has already established.

“From the beginning, when we launch a new plant, we design it with future growth in mind. Scalability is a core part of our strategy, ensuring we can respond quickly and efficiently as customer demand and new business opportunities arise,” Lehmann insights.

In Mexico, GEDIA’s current facility is approximately 220,000 square feet (sqft), and it is in the process of expanding it by an additional 27,000 sqft, enabling growth alongside maintaining full control over infrastructure, logistics, and investment timing.

At the same time, GEDIA’s strategy is not growth at any cost; while expanding the company’s physical footprint, it also places equal emphasis on stabilizing and continuously improving existing operations.

“This balanced approach allows us to support both our current customers and future programs with the highest level of reliability and performance,” details Lehmann.

SUCCESSFULLY NAVIGATING TOMORROW Crucially important to GEDIA’s success is a strong and resilient supply chain for both raw materials and components.

“To ensure stability, competitiveness, and quality, we operate with a globally coordinated 166 | North America Outlook Issue 33

“ B Y C O M B I N I N G T R U S T, R E S P O N S I B I L I T Y, A N D O P E N N E SS TO C H A N G E , W E ST R I V E T O C R E AT E A N E N V I R O N M E N T W H E R E P E O P L E F E E L VA L U E D , M O T I VAT E D , A N D R E C O G N I Z E D F O R T H E I M P O R TA N T C O N T R I B U T I O N S T H E Y M A K E E V E R Y D AY ” – M I C H A E L L E H M A N N , C E O, G E D I A AU TO M OT I V E G R O U P

procurement organization, including a dedicated global commodity purchasing team that aligns sourcing strategies across all regions,” details Engelbertz.

Equally, the significance of a strong

localized supply chain has increased in recent years, with the company’s own robust network allowing it to reduce risk, shorten lead times, improve responsiveness, and increase supply security.

However, localization is not enough. It is just as important to keep global sourcing options available to secure the best possible quality, cost structure, and technological capability. Therefore, GEDIA follows a balanced dual strategy – strengthening local supply chains where appropriate while maintaining global alternatives as a safeguard and competitive benchmark.

“I believe this well-balanced approach has significantly improved the robustness of our operations, enabling us to support our customers, even in highly volatile market conditions,” insights Engelbertz.

In parallel, GEDIA recognizes the importance of its team members 168 | North America Outlook Issue 33

and the roles they play in advancing the company through hard work, dedication, and innovation.

The company places a high level of trust in its employees by empowering

them with clear responsibilities and the authority to make decisions within their roles. It believes that true empowerment comes when people are trusted to take ownership of their

GEDIA AUTOMOTIVE GROUP MANUFACTURING

GEDIA’S SHARED VALUES • Market leadership in lightweight components • Encouragement and motivation • Trust and responsibility • Sustainable corporate development • Profitable growth • Quality and customer satisfaction • Long-term partnerships • Corporate development • Economical use of resources

tasks and are supported in doing so.

In return, GEDIA asks for their trust in leadership, creating a strong foundation for engagement, accountability, and performance.

The most significant yet challenging element has been establishing an internal willingness to change or openness to continuous improvement.

“In today’s constantly evolving world, change is not optional; it is essential for long-term success. We actively encourage this mindset by communicating transparently, involving our teams in improvement processes, and recognizing those who embrace change and contribute to progress,” expands Lehmann.

“By combining trust, responsibility, and openness to change, we strive to create an environment where people feel valued, motivated, and recognized for the important contributions they make every day.”

As GEDIA continues to look toward another century of success and industry leadership, its key priorities for 2026 include realignment, execution, and preparing for sustainable future growth.

First and foremost, it is focused on the execution of important production launches in GA and Mexico, which are critical milestones for the company, requiring excellence in planning, industrialization, and operational execution.

At the same time, it is maximizing production output and overall efficiency across existing operations to not only perform well in the shortterm, but to position its plants for long-term, high-volume, and stable production.

Beyond automotive, GEDIA is actively investigating opportunities where its engineering, materials, and expertise can be leveraged to improve products in other industries.

This measured diversification strategy allows the company to reduce dependency on a single sector while creating new growth opportunities that align with its technological strengths.

“In summary, 2026 is about execution, performance optimization, and laying the foundation for future launches and selective diversification,” concludes Lehmann.

Tel: +1 762 219 8044 kontakt@gedia.com

www.gedia.com

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 169

Building exclusive content, straight to your inbox Adding to the success of its regional titles; Africa Outlook, EME Outlook, APAC Outlook, and North America Outlook, Outlook Publishing is proud to introduce a new platform dedicated to the construction sector.

A multi-channel brand, Construction Outlook brings you the positive developments driven by organizations across the global construction industry through its various platforms.

Discover exclusive content distributed through its website, online magazine, social media campaigns and digital dispatches, delivered straight to your inbox with a bi-weekly newsletter.

Through these compelling media channels, Construction Outlook will continue to foreground the movers and shakers of the industry.

To participate as a featured company and join us in this exciting endeavor, contact one of our Project Managers today.

SUBSCRIBE NOW TO THE DIGITAL MAGAZINE

www.construction-outlook.com/work-with-us

CRAFTING N ENHANCED EN

K

ingspan Light + Air North America (KLA NA) was established in 2016 as a gateway to greater geographic expansion for Kingspan Group (Kingspan), diversifying its building envelope offerings beyond insulation and insulated panels.

Over the last nine years, KLA NA has developed a full portfolio of daylighting, ventilation, and smoke control products.

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“Our mission remains focused on helping customers meet sustainability goals through transparency and innovation,” opens Marci Bonham, President – Americas.

Equipped with this steadfast objective, KLA NA provides third-party-verified environmental product declarations (EPDs) that allow architects and building owners to accurately measure their project’s embodied carbon and Scope 3 emissions.

This translates into the provision of state-of-the-art daylighting and natural ventilation systems that cut the reliance on artificial lighting and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units, ultimately reducing operational emissions.

The company continues to invest in digital tools to help customers model potential carbon impacts during design.

“Sustainability is not just an

KINGSPAN LIGHT + AIR NORTH AMERICA CONSTRUCTION

N AT U R A L LY NVIRONMENTS With a vision to make buildings across the US healthier, smarter, and more sustainable, Kingspan Light + Air North America improves its clients’ sustainability outlook through trusted and cutting-edge building envelope solutions. Marci Bonham, President – Americas, shares more Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Sam Warner

initiative – it’s at the core of how the business operates,” Bonham expresses.

ECO-FRIENDLY BUILDING ENVELOPE SOLUTIONS The push towards net zero has dramatically changed the architecture, design, and façade sector in recent years.

“The building and construction industries account for about 39

percent of global carbon emissions, so there’s growing urgency to reduce both operational and embodied carbon,” Bonham informs us.

With this in mind, high performance façades, dynamic shading, and integrated daylighting have become essential for meeting new energy and climate goals.

On top of this, architects are now working more closely with manufacturers to incorporate passive

strategies that improve occupant wellness and reduce energy demand, making the sector a fast-moving and highly rewarding space to work in.

A key operator in the architectural space which takes such industry evolutions seriously, KLA NA provides daylighting, translucent wall solutions, natural ventilation, and smoke vent systems for commercial, educational, industrial, and civic buildings across the US. North America Outlook Issue 33 | 173

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Headquartered in Lake Forest, Illinois, the company’s main offerings comprise UniQuad®, UniGrid®, and PentaClad® translucent wall systems; QuadSpan™ and KlearSky™ skylights; and tubular daylighting devices from Solatube, International Inc. (Solatube), alongside a full range of roof safety and smoke vent solutions.

KLA NA works closely with architects across every project, from the design phases to final completion.

The company’s architectural solutions team provides daylight modeling, custom engineering, and specification support to ensure every solution aligns with the project’s overall vision, performance targets, and building codes.

“For example, we use simulation tools to assess how daylight will enter a space and recommend optimal configurations. We also assist with energy code compliance and product

selection, offering a consultative approach from concept through installation,” Bonham outlines.

Aligning with its sustainabilitydriven strategy, KLA NA’s Planet Passionate program means the company is lowering its embodied carbon by increasing recycled content in the materials it regularly uses, such as aluminum and polycarbonate, and designing products for circularity purposes.

By increasing the availability of lower embodied carbon products and scaling the use of recycled materials across its product range, KLA NA reduces the upfront environmental impact of construction, supporting its customers’ sustainability goals.

STRENGTH THROUGH ACQUISITION Key to KLA NA’s success is its extensive stream of acquisitions

which have been a key driver of both the company’s and Kingspan’s growth over the last decade.

By integrating companies such as CPI Daylighting, Major Industries, Inc., and Solatube in recent years, KLA NA has been able to efficiently expand its product range and technical experience.

“These partnerships have allowed us to serve more markets, develop new innovations, and become a one-stop resource for building envelope solutions.

“Each acquisition has also strengthened our customer network, project experience, and in-house expertise,” she reflects.

Kingspan also recently announced plans for a potential initial public offering (IPO) of ADVNSYS, the group’s advanced building systems segment, slated for Q1 2026.

CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR CAREER TO DATE AND EXPLAIN WHAT DREW YOU TO THE ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN, AND FAÇADE SECTOR? Marci Bonham, President – Americas: “I’ve spent nearly 30 years in the construction and industrial sectors, leading global building product brands across several countries.

“I was drawn to façade and daylighting systems because design and performance directly shape how people experience a space.

“My time managing Kingspan’s Insulated Panels division in Ireland deepened my appreciation for how building envelopes influence energy efficiency and sustainability.

“This sector allows me to combine technical innovation, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility.”

“ S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y I S N O T J U S T A N I N I T I AT I V E – I T ’ S AT T H E C O R E O F H O W T H E B U S I N E S S O P E R AT E S ” – M A R C I B O N H A M , P R E S I D E N T – A M E R I C A S , K I N G S PA N L I G H T + A I R N O R T H A M E R I C A

KLA NA will subsequently be part of the division, contributing its full daylighting portfolio and integrated infrastructure offering.

“ADVNSYS is described by Kingspan as a world-leader in bespoke infrastructure for critical applications, primarily focusing on data centers, ventilation, and daylighting – including support services for other infrastructure such as water,” Bonham tells us.

With demand driven by artificial intelligence (AI)-related, data centerled infrastructure growth, ADVNSYS is poised for accelerated expansion.

More specifically, Kingspan plans to float 25 percent of ADVNSYS while

retaining a 75 percent ownership stake following the IPO. “We’re proud to be part of this next chapter and excited about the opportunities ahead to work as part of ADVNSYS, continuing to develop innovative solutions in this dynamic and fast-growing space.”

PLANET PASSIONATE Aiming to have a long-term and farreaching impact, KLA NA is proud to spearhead Planet Passionate – a 10-year global sustainability program with steadfast energy, circularity, and water usage targets.

“Through Kingspan’s Planet Passionate Communities initiative, we

have supported more than 250 local projects worldwide, from tree planting and recycling drives to renewable energy installations for non-profit organizations,” Bonham prides.

So far, KLA NA’s teams have volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, hosted e-waste events, led neighborhood and beach clean-ups, organized clothing donation drives, and supported school gardening programs.

“The company has hosted a number of events, including an electronics recycling drive in its Lake Forest, Terrell (Texas), and Wausau (Wisconsin) facilities – which have collected over 1,000 pounds (lbs) of North America Outlook Issue 33 | 175

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material; a shoe drive that provided more than 60 pairs of footwear to local groups in need; and area clean-ups at our Santa Ana and Vista locations that brought out more than 70 participants,” she details.

Additionally, the Solatube team in Vista, California recently joined a Planet Passionate clean-up, removing trash from sidewalks and greenspaces.

“They collected 676 lbs of waste – an effort that reflects our mission to not only bring natural light and fresh

air indoors but help keep outdoor spaces clean and healthy for future generations.”

Elsewhere, KLA NA is also proud to support diversity in the construction industry, demonstrated by campaigns centered around building equity, whereby the company supports local charities, youth programs, and disaster relief while maintaining strong ethical sourcing and labor standards.

Bonham has also mentored women

in the engineering industry and served as a judge for the European Women in Construction and Engineering (WICE) Awards.

DECARBONIZATION PROWESS As part of its ongoing growth, KLA NA is working hard to decarbonize operations, with its three main manufacturing sites transitioning to renewable electricity to improve energy efficiency and reduce operational emissions.

“ T H R O U G H K I N G S P A N ’ S P L A N E T P A S S I O N AT E C O M M U N I T I E S I N I T I AT I V E , W E H AV E SUPPORTED MORE THAN 250 LOCAL PROJECTS WORLDWIDE, FROM TREE P L A N T I N G A N D R E C YC L I N G D R I V E S TO R E N E WA B L E E N E R G Y I N S TA L L AT I O N S F O R N O N - P R O F I T O R G A N I Z AT I O N S ” – MARCI BONHAM, PRESIDENT – AMERICAS, KINGSPAN LIGHT + AIR NORTH AMERICA Collin College Technical Campus

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Building Safer, Smarter Schools For Tomorrow.

Envision Glass Handrails with laminated glass provide safety, clarity, and comfort in modern educational environments. Designed for strength and visibility, they reduce sound, block UV rays, and create open spaces that feel secure and connected.

Safetyline Entrance Systems create secure, inviting entrances that enhance energy performance and withstand the demands of high-traffic environments.

Designed for strength, durability, and cohesive aesthetics, they provide lasting value across modern educational spaces.

Digitally printed glass transforms ordinary surfaces into expressive design features that reflect school branding, improve privacy, and maintain color and durability.

KINGSPAN LIGHT + AIR NORTH AMERICA CONSTRUCTION

Los Angeles International Airport

Solatube facility

For instance, the company’s Solatube facility in Vista produces, on average, approximately 1,323 megawatt-hours (MWh) of solar energy annually, while its Wausau and Lake Forest facilities generate around 171 MWh and 419 MWh respectively.

“These installations support our emissions reductions while helping meet operational energy demand 178 | North America Outlook Issue 33

Greenbuild International Conference and Expo

with clean power,” Bonham highlights.

At the group level, Kingspan has reduced its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 61 percent in the last six years and has installed solar photovoltaic (PV) at 57 percent of its sites, aiming for 100 percent by 2030.

KLA NA, meanwhile, applies an internal carbon charge to accelerate decarbonization projects and

continues to increase the use of recycled and low-embodied carbon materials.

“In our supply chain, we are working closely with key suppliers to improve embodied carbon data and emissions reporting. We’ve developed a data scorecard and offer access to training and tools to support supplier engagement and emissions reduction

Santa Ana clean-up

AFAS Center for the Arts

efforts,” she tells us.

Looking to the future, KLA NA is focused on expanding its product innovation, continuing to deliver value for its customers, and scaling sustainable practices.

This will be achieved by investing in lower-carbon materials, digital design tools, and renewable energy across its facilities.

The company likewise plans to grow its presence in sectors like education, life sciences, and technology manufacturing, helping clients meet their carbon goals through transparency and data tools such as EPDs. “These are all part of our goal to make buildings healthier, smarter, and more sustainable,” Bonham concludes.

Lanphier High School, Springfield

Tel: 800-759-6985 info@kingspanlightandair.us

www.kingspanlightandair.us

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 179

A JOURNEY OF INNOVATION AND IMPACT We revisit Turner Construction to provide updates on the company’s activities while emphasizing its dedication to development and sustainability, paving the way for a brighter future in the industry Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Michael Sommerfield

A

s a prominent construction management company known for its wide-ranging services, Turner Construction (Turner) has a strong presence in North America, delivering projects across various sectors including commercial, mission-critical facilities, public, healthcare, higher education, and aviation.

Emphasizing innovation, safety, and sustainability in its operations, Turner has made significant strides in prefabrication and technology adoption.

In addition, the company is committed to community partnerships and workforce development, ensuring projects positively impact the communities it serves.

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Over the past year, Turner has continued to strengthen its presence across North America by successfully delivering major projects on time and with a focus on innovation, safety, and sustainability.

Recent notable milestones, such as advancing prefabrication capabilities, expanding in aviation and healthcare, and accelerating technology adoption,

highlight Turner’s ongoing progress and commitment to innovation.

Turner has also reinforced its commitment to community partnerships and workforce development.

As the industry evolves through technology, lean construction practices, and a growing demand for sustainable solutions, Turner has teams in emerging markets such as data centers, mass timber, and affordable housing, while also embracing prefabrication and digital tools that are reshaping how it delivers projects.

In this dynamic environment, calculated risk is essential for growth; therefore, Turner ensures opportunities are evaluated through a rigorous process that balances clients’

TURNER CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

needs, market trends, and operational strengths.

This proactive mindset has allowed the company to pursue bold projects, such as large-scale prefabrication, while ensuring the protection of its clients, partners, and workforce.

With an increasing emphasis on technology in the industry, Turner is leveraging cutting-edge advancements in xPL Offsite – a recently launched subsidiary that seeks to transform how construction is delivered – which will undoubtedly have a positive impact on future operations.

Incorporating state-of-the-art technology at the company’s xPL Offsite facility, such as advanced building information modeling

(BIM) integration, robotics, and modular assembly systems, enables it to deliver higher-quality work with greater efficiency, reduce waste, and improve safety.

For those reasons, Turner sees off-site solutions as a game-changer that will redefine how projects are delivered in the coming years.

INNOVATING INFRASTRUCTURE The Turner team is constantly innovating, as evidenced by the prefabricated terminal at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).

This was a landmark project for the company, highlighting its ability to efficiently deliver large-scale aviation infrastructure using prefabricated modules that reduced construction timelines and minimized disruption at an active airport.

The innovations implemented here will serve as a model for future aviation projects.

Another significant project is Turner’s work in Oakville, Canada with PowerON Energy Solutions, supporting Oakville Transit’s move to electrify its bus fleet and expand its garage facilities.

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Playing a key role in this critical infrastructure upgrade, Turner is delivering construction that integrates the grid, site, charging facilities, and vehicle operations into a single seamless system.

This is a perfect example of how the company is evolving with the market as the project is deeply sustainable, aligning with zero-emission goals and helping reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) output within the public transit sphere.

Moreover, as the project demands tight integration across various disciplines such as electrical, civil, mechanical, and structural, Turner’s experience with lean construction processes and modular thinking is essential.

The company will use innovation and precision to ensure the infrastructure is futureproof, scalable, and built to support evolving electrification technologies.

Additionally, it is also continuing work on a National Dog Guide Training Center for the Lions Foundation

of Canada Dog Guides (LFCDG) in Oakville – an 89,000 square foot (sqft) facility with classrooms, training rooms, guest accommodations, and indoor and outdoor spaces.

This remarkable project demonstrates that the company’s role extends beyond construction as it is helping to deliver a facility that is entrenched in the community and has lasting social value.

Building on these successes, Turner is also establishing purposeful and strategic partnerships to pursue significant social infrastructure opportunities, including upcoming projects in the airport and healthcare sectors.

These partnerships are critical for expanding its reach, enhancing collaboration, and positioning the company to deliver transformative projects that strengthen communities and public services.

Together, these initiatives, along with Turner’s growing portfolio of astute pursuits, reflect how it

is combining sustainability, social purpose, technical excellence, and innovation to build a better future in its own backyard.

DIVERSITY AND DEVELOPMENT In addition to its innovative projects, Turner is making strategic investments in workforce development, technology platforms, and sustainability initiatives.

One of Turner’s most important priorities is its people, viewing workforce development as more than just training.

Rather, it’s about creating longterm career pathways and ensuring teams are ready to lead the industry into the future by expanding apprenticeship and mentorship programs and investing in leadership development at all levels.

Futhermore, the company is strengthening partnerships with schools, trade organizations, and community groups to cultivate a more diverse talent pipeline.

DFW project

TURNER CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

PowerOn project

TURNER CONSTRUCTION COMPANY FOUNDATION

INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE

Founded in 1983, the Turner

At the Toronto business unit, the company is proud to have been recognized

Construction Company

at the Canadian Building Diversity Awards, which highlights its leadership in

Foundation is a private non-profit

creating equitable opportunities and advancing inclusion within the construction

organization dedicated to making

industry.

a positive impact wherever it operates.

The foundation supports charitable organizations that promote ‘active caring’, wellness, workforce readiness, and inclusion through the company’s local offices.

This mission aligns with its core purpose of supporting organizations that positively affect people and communities, ensuring a sustainable future for the construction workforce.

• 129 fundraising events

Turner is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. For the company, diversity is not just a value – it’s a driver of innovation, collaboration, and long-term success.

This recognition reflects the intentional steps Turner has taken: • EMPLOYEE RESOURCE GROUPS (ERGS) – Supporting active ERGs that create space for employees to connect, share experiences, and advocate for positive change, such as the Women’s Network ERG and Mosaic Network ERG. • MENTORSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT – Running mentorship and leadership programs designed to level the playing field and open doors for underrepresented groups in construction.

• SUPPLIER DIVERSITY – Through partnerships such as with ACCA and initiatives like the Turner School of Construction Management, we provide training and support to help underrepresented businesses thrive.

• COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT – Actively supporting initiatives that build stronger, more inclusive communities.

This includes volunteering during Founders’ Month at organizations such as Youth Without Shelter and The Riverwood Conservancy and providing ongoing

• 20 active states

support to Ronald McDonald House Charities Toronto.

• $17 million donated to charity

Together, these efforts demonstrate the company’s commitment to inspiring future talent, giving back locally, and making a lasting social impact.

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LFCDG project

LFCDG project team

One notable example is Dreamer Day, a student empowerment event designed to motivate and encourage young women to dream big and explore exciting career opportunities in industries like construction.

Proud to sponsor Dreamer Day for the second consecutive year, Turner is engaging directly with students and playing a pivotal role in inspiring the next generation of leaders.

Through this initiative, the company is not only shaping individual aspirations but also contributing to a more inclusive and dynamic workforce for the future.

Another cornerstone of Turner’s workforce strategy is its partnership with the Afro Canadian Contractors Association (ACCA).

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Together with ACCA, the company hosts the Turner School of Construction Management, which provides underrepresented business enterprises with the tools, training, and mentorship needed to grow and thrive in the construction industry.

This program strengthens the company’s supplier diversity and expands opportunities while building capacity across the market by managing its supply chain operations to ensure efficiency and reliability, recognizing that supplier relationships are imperative.

Turner emphasises collaboration and transparency with long-term suppliers as strong relationships are central to its success, especially in today’s volatile market where

resilience and flexibility are critical.

Partnering closely with suppliers not only ensures consistency but also innovation and quality at every stage of a project, and investing in market intelligence helps clients and partners navigate changing conditions.

Each quarter, Turner’s Toronto business unit publishes its Toronto Market Conditions Report, which provides insights into construction cost trends, supply chain pressures, labor availability, and material pricing in the region.

This report supports informed decision-making and helps the company and its trade partners anticipate challenges before they affect projects.

Beyond data, the company’s

TURNER CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

CONSTRUCTING PROJECTS THAT INSPIRE SUCCESS

As a well-established mechanical contractor with nearly four decades of experience in the design/build, construction management, traditional planning and spec contracting, and infrastructure sectors, Sprint Mechanical is an unparalleled industry leader ready to take your project to the next level.

Some of Sprint Mechanical’s recent projects that showcase its industrial expertise include a ServerFarm data center, CPA office renovations, a Mizuno office fit-out, and the University of Toronto’s Woodsworth Academic Tower.

The company is proudly partnered with Turner Construction, working in tandem to produce high-quality, longlasting, and awe-inspiring construction projects.

Sprint Mechanical Inc 50 Woodbine Downs Blvd Toronto, ON M9W 5R2 Tel: 416-747-6059 www.sprintmechanical.com

relationships are built on trust and shared success as it engages suppliers early in the design and planning process, collaborates on prefabrication and lean logistics strategies, and fosters open communication throughout delivery.

This approach allows Turner to align goals, mitigate risks, and adapt quickly when market dynamics shift.

BUILDING TOMORROW Looking ahead, Turner’s priorities for the coming year reflect its ongoing commitment to excellence, growth, and innovation.

The company’s top priority will always be the safety and well-being of people, and this commitment was recently recognized by the Ontario General Contractors Association (OGCA) with a Safety Award, which honors member companies that demonstrate exceptional dedication to health and safety and achieve significant milestones without

lost-time injuries (LTIs).

Turner continues to strengthen its ‘active caring’ approach by integrating wellness initiatives, encouraging proactive engagement, and reinforcing a culture where everyone takes responsibility for safety across all project teams.

Another of Turner’s priorities is expanding the business locally while driving a sustainable, long-term backlog.

That means deepening relationships with existing clients, pursuing new partnerships in core markets, and delivering exceptional value on every project to ensure repeat success.

It is also pursuing larger-scale, more complex projects that align with the company’s technical expertise and reinforce its reputation as an industry leader.

This includes opportunities that challenge Turner’s teams to innovate, collaborate, and deliver best-in-class

solutions for clients.

Lastly, the company is growing its self-perform operations to add scope of work, particularly in its key sectors of data centers, healthcare, higher education, and affordable housing.

This expansion strengthens quality control, improves schedule certainty, and allows the company to bring even greater value to clients by leveraging its internal expertise.

Together, these priorities position Turner to deliver excellence safely, grow responsibly, and continue to lead with purpose within the markets it serves.

Tel: (416) 607-8300 Info_tor@tcco.com

www.turnerconstruction.com

North America Outlook Issue 33 | 185

THE FINAL WORD To round off each issue, we ask our contributing business leaders for their views on the same question Cruz Cabral Vice President of Operations, Mesa Power Solutions “I would tell my younger self to read more books.

Here is one of my favorite lines from a fellow Marine, Jim Mattis – if you haven't read hundreds of books, you are functionally illiterate, and you will be incompetent, because your personal experiences alone aren't broad enough to sustain you.”

W H AT A DV I C E WO U L D YO U G I V E TO YO U R YO U N G E R SELF? Dan Sullivan CEO, Grand River Dam Authority “Be willing to take risks and change. I wasn’t always as flexible in my outlook as I am today. Customer needs change, and we must adapt to meet those needs – that is true whether you’re practicing law or generating and transmitting electricity!”

Charley Daitch CEO, Rowan Digital Infrastructure “Have a ‘North Star’, but embrace changes to your path. When I was coming out of college, I had such a clear plan for what I wanted out of a career and life.

“Naturally, there were some hard left and right turns – the first one driven by the great recession.

I saw those setbacks as being ‘unrecoverable’ to get back on my notion of the right path.

“I now understand that’s all nonsense – there is no ‘right path’.

Keep your ideals and passion at the forefront, embrace life and career pivots, and be grateful for those who helped you along your way.”

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Dr. Nick Fitterman President, Huntington Hospital “I would tell myself that what you are embarking on is a privilege. You will see miracles happen every day thanks to the dedicated, compassionate nurses, doctors, and support staff at Huntington Hospital.”

Michael Lehmann CEO, GEDIA Automotive Group “Focus on the things you can actually influence and don’t get distracted by matters that are outside your control. Time and energy are limited, and where you invest them makes all the difference.

“I would also remind myself to always seek to understand both sides of a story. One-sided information is often misleading, and good decisions require a balanced perspective. Taking the time to listen, ask questions, and reflect usually leads to better outcomes.

“Finally, I would tell my younger self to put challenges into proper perspective before reacting emotionally. Not every issue is as urgent or critical as it may feel in the moment. Acting with perspective, patience, and long-term thinking almost always leads to better decisions and more sustainable success.

“I’m quite certain that if I were to ask my older self again in 20 years, he would give me very similar advice for where I am today, which tells me that these principles truly stand the test of time.”

Cindy Scotland OBE CEO, Cayman Islands Monetary Authority “I would encourage my younger self to be brave in the face of change and embrace new challenges with curiosity and confidence.

“Growth often comes from the unfamiliar, and the willingness to learn, adapt, and evolve is one of the greatest assets you can cultivate.

“Trust the journey, stay openminded, and continue investing in your development, professionally and personally.”

Stephen Murad CEO, Digicel Jamaica “Don’t always take everything too seriously because you can put yourself into an early grave.”

Marci Bonham President – Americas, Kingspan Light + Air North America “It’s all about people.

Choosing those you work for – and later those who work for you – will be some of the most pivotal decisions you make.

“Invest in the relationships that matter and give people chances, knowing some will fall short while others will soar, and always hold others to the same high standards you hold for yourself.”

Are you a CEO/Director with a company story to tell? Contact North America Outlook now!

www.northamericaoutlookmag.com/work-with-us To share in this unrivalled opportunity, contact one of our Project Managers today!

Reaching ever increasing audiences across the continent and beyond, your company can take advantage of this global exposure with a FREE article and FREE digital brochure, as well as access to further digital and print-based marketing tools that could transform your business.

Now, why not tell yours? Our bi-monthly magazine North America Outlook is essential reading for business executives wanting to keep up with the latest in global news and trends affecting US and Canada businesses across all industries.

FULL STEAM

AHEAD

Patriot Rail is redefining rail freight solutions that connect communities and industries, delivering locally and reaching nationally. We sit down with Tom Tisa, CCO, who outlines the company’s latest initiatives and projects

O

ver the last few decades, North America’s rail freight industry has evolved, witnessing consolidation, efficiencyfocused strategies, and technological advancements.

Today, it remains a crucial link in the supply chain, connecting businesses and markets across the continent and overseas.

“During the course of my 30+ years in the rail industry, I’ve seen a lot of change – particularly in how railroads operate and how much more efficient they’ve become,” introduces Tom Tisa, CCO of Patriot Rail (Patriot), whose portfolio of short-line and regional freight railroads continues to grow.

With 32 short-line railroads across

PATRIOT RAIL SUPPLY CHAIN

PATRIOT RAIL SUPPLY CHAIN

PATRIOT RAIL SUPPLY CHAIN

While Tisa believes that the industry’s current focus on industrial development and short line engagement will lead to growth opportunities, he notes how freight rail also needs to see continual improvements in overall pricing to

compete with the trucking sector.

“Competitive rates, combined with the outstanding first mile and final mile service that short lines provide, can together lead to increased market demand,” he posits.

RAILPROS PARTNERSHIP

HOW HAS WORKING WITH RAILPROS ENABLED YOUR COMMUNICATION TEAM TO ACHIEVE STRONGER RESULTS?

ADVANCING INDUSTRY GROWTH One way that Patriot is advancing growth in the rail freight sector is through industrial development.

As such, just outside Denver, Colorados, on the Union Pacific (UP) Railroad, it has partnered with the new Rocky Mountain Rail Park (RMRP) to serve the Mountain states freight market beyond Colorado, including Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming.

The company recently announced the arrival of its second locomotive at the rail park, further developing its operations on the Front Range (FR) Railroad.

Issue 33

Grand River Dam Authority has told its story.

Writer: Lily Sawyer | Project Manager: Michael Sommerfield

A collaborative approach to the design, integration, and deployment of technology has fueled the growth of Connection, according to President and CEO, Tim McGrath

GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY

An Oklahoma agency of excellence, the Grand River Dam Authority is proud to be the state’s largest public power electric utility “We are excited about our recent expansion in Colorado, and to start serving the customers in this new rail park which will be operational by the end of the year,” says Tisa.

RMRP’s strategic location offers room to grow. Patriot’s transloading company HYDRA will use one of the sites at the rail park to set up an operation that offers truck-to-rail and rail-to-truck services for various commodities.

“The team is ready to assist and guide customers with rail services solutions tailored to meet both their current needs and long-term goals, and we have the ability to invest where we see an attractive rate of return” he details.

Tom Tisa, CCO (TT): “Patriot has maintained a productive and ongoing collaboration with RailPros

“ W E S TAY F O C U S E D O N U N D E R S TA N D I N G LO C A L A N D R E G I O N A L DY N A M I C S W H I L E U N D E R S TA N D I N G T H E G L O B A L M A R K E T A N D TRAFFIC FLOWS” – T O M T I S A , C C O , P AT R I O T R A I L

Elsewhere, the company is establishing a new industrial park in Denton, Texas, in partnership with Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) on its main network.

“This multi-commodity transload facility will provide reliable, competitive transload services and logistics solutions to customers in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan

area – one of North America’s fastestgrowing regions,” Tisa outlines.

Patriot looks forward to growing with CPKC as it continues to serve the cement, aggregate, and lumber markets, and creating a more sustainable supply chain for the region to meet its future needs.

“We expect this site to be operational by the end of 2026,” notes Tisa.

www. no rtha m e r i ca o ut l o o k m a g .co m

over the past year, focused on producing corporate, employee, and safety training videos.

“RailPros consistently delivers high-quality media featuring engaging visuals, crisp sound, and flawless editing - supported by smooth, professional project management. Their team stands out for its attention to detail and dedication to helping clients tell their stories effectively, making them highly recommended for top-tier media production and technical expertise.

“Since partnering with the RailPros team, we’ve been able to connect more 23 states covering over 1,200 milesdeeply However, while rail remains a with our employees and communicate in new, engaging ways - using videography invital job briefings, our the employee portal, in quarterly corporate of track, the company has a national partonof freight network, videos, and through new safety training modules. network in the US. competition from the trucking “We are currently testing the use of virtual reality in our training videos, allowing Its principal operations center employees to conduct industry to increase. trainingcontinues directly on their mobile devices and tablets prior team discussions. around rail freight transportation to job briefings and“The challenge is that we “This past August, the RailPros media production team filmed and produced and ancillary rail services, includingour11rebrand town haven’t seen the growth in volume hall, including event setup and management. Whether in studio or before a live audience, RailPros delivers amodes top-tier product. compared to other of transloading locations and industrial and transportation departments have also utilized RailPros’ development and railcar storage. “Our engineering transportation, especially given the engineering and field services.”

“We even have four excursion HOW CAN improved productivity in rail freight VENDORS LIKE RAILPROS BE A STRONGER PARTNER TO THE PROCUREMENT TEAM? lines!” Tisa adds. operations,” he observes.

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D I G I C E L JA M A I C A | F Y I D O C TO R S

TT: “We continue to see added value in working with a vendor like RailPros.

Their expertise is a great complement to smaller operations such as short line railroads, where a slight extension of internal talent is often needed on a project basis.”

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– D A N S U L L I VA N , C E O , G R A N D R I V E R D A M A U T H O R I T Y

“ G R DA H AS N E V E R B E E N A F R A I D O F T H E FUTURE. AS THE FIRST HYDROPOWER FA C I L I T Y I N O K , W E H AV E L E D T H E WAY W I T H T H E O N LY P U M P E D H Y D R O P O W E R FA C I L I T Y A N D B Y B U I L D I N G A S U P E R E F F I C I E N T N AT U R A L G A S C O M B I N E D - C Y C L E UNIT IN 2017”

Pensacola Dam

Salina Pumped Storage Project

ommitted to the charge of being a good steward of natural resources in Oklahoma (OK), the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) is dedicated to supplying ‘power for progress’ that boosts economic development and quality of life across the state.

Created by the OK Legislature in 1935 to serve as a conservation and reclamation district for the waters of the Grand River, GRDA is OK’s largest public power electric utility, fully funded by revenues from electric and water sales instead of taxes.

“The vision was for GRDA to build the first hydropower generation facility in OK, which was completed in 1940,” introduces Dan Sullivan, CEO. This was the Pensacola Dam – the world’s longest, continuous multi-arch dam that stretches for a mile across the Grand River Valley to create Grand Lake and harness the power of falling water. For the past 85 years, the Pensacola Dam has been used to create renewable hydroelectricity for the state.

C

Currently, GRDA’s only retail service is in the MidAmerica Industrial Park in Pryor, OK, which is the third-largest industrial park in the US and hosts many industrial and manufacturing facilities, including the world’s second-largest Google data center.

With a workforce of approximately 600, the authority generates and transmits power to wholesale customers in OK, Kansas, Arkansas, and Missouri using 1,200 miles of highvoltage transmission lines.

“As a public power provider, we are owned by the people we serve,” insights Sullivan.

“We are not driven by a profit motive and use a cost-of-service model to provide our power at the cost it takes to generate and transmit it to the customer.”

As such, the affordability and reliability of GRDA’s vital power allows its customers to economically thrive.

With electricity costs being significant for both homeowners and businesses, keeping it affordable allows companies to expand and create more jobs.

OKLAHOMA’S LARGEST PUBLIC POWER ELECTRIC UTILITY

Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Molly Foss

GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY ENERGY & UTILITIES

An Oklahoma agency of excellence, the Grand River Dam Authority is proud to be the state’s largest public power electric utility. Dan Sullivan, CEO, tell us more about the authority’s drive, stewardship of the land, and goals for the future

P OW E R TO THE PUBLIC

30 See page

GRAND RIVER DAM AUTHORITY ENERGY & UTILITIES

Oklahoma’s largest public power electric utility...

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