ISSUE #4 JUNE 2026
FEATURES IN THIS ISSUE • LEADERSHIP MESSAGE • NATIONAL EVENT • RECRUITMENT UPDATES • CAREER GROWTH & CURRENT OPENINGS • HEALTH & SAFETY • LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT • EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT • CELEBRATING OUR PEOPLE: MILESTONES & RETIREMENTS • BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & SALES • PROMOTIONS 1
EDITORS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Taravat Sahebnasagh Rodrigo Tertuliano Mélody Langelier
Leadership Message........................................................................ 3
CONTRIBUTORS
Recruitment Updates...................................................................... 5
Eduardo Piccinini
Welcoming Our FIFA Hires!..................................................................... 5
Rupinder Kaur Jasmine Sekhon Sylvana Hof Alex Lecompte Jason Huberdeau Jessica Mantik Robert Clark Operations Team Sales Team
Career Growth & Current Openings.............................................. 6
National Event.................................................................................. 4 Supporting the Shoppers Drug Mart Run for Women from East to West!..................................................................................................... 4
Health & Safety................................................................................ 7 Maintaining FLRA & TMP Compliance................................................... 7 Learning & Development................................................................ 8 TCP Renewal Dates.................................................................................. 8 Upcoming UGU Courses......................................................................... 8 Employee Spotlight.......................................................................... 9 Celebrating Our People: Milestones and Retirements.............. 10 Business Development & Sales.................................................... 11 FIFA World Cup 2026™ – Vancouver & Toronto................................. 11 Traffic control contract - Quebec city.................................................. 12 Revive I-5 Project – Seattle, Washington............................................. 12 Promotions..................................................................................... 13
UNIVERSAL GROUP CANNOT THANK YOU ENOUGH FOR YOUR HARD WORK AND DEDICATION. PLEASE STAY HEALTHY AND SAFE. 2
LEADERSHIP MESSAGE
Quebec in Motion, Driven by Its Teams. Our logo was recently aligned with that of Universal Group, a change that reflects our place within a national group of companies. On the innovation front, we are rethinking our internal tools and processes to fully leverage artificial intelligence. Yet our people remain our top priority: equipping each team with tailored tools, adapted to their reality, puts them in a position to succeed. By giving them the right means, we give them the opportunity to excel and deliver real value through their strengths, and that is what gives us a competitive edge.
The numbers speak for themselves: the collective efforts made by everyone in 2025, in a turbulent market, have paid off this winter and continue to be felt as we head into the summer season. In Quebec City, we have secured two new contracts with the City: the supply of TCPs as well as the installation and rental of equipment for large-scale closures on the municipal network. We are also involved in the relocation of public utilities in preparation for the future tramway. The result: an exceptionally busy spring in Quebec City and Lévis. In Montreal, the first TRV10 units have been deployed on job sites for several weeks now, and the field team is growing week over week. This sector is well on its way to becoming a major success. Across the province, our MTQ contracts resumed at full force in May, with up to 74 TCPs mobilized in a single day, from Tremblant to Chicoutimi. At the national level, a new agreement with IRS (Impact Recovery Systems) expands our road safety product offering. If this year is shaping up to be an outstanding one, it is because of you. Thank you all for your commitment! Merci, Matthieu Collin - General Manager, Groupe Signalisation
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NATIONAL EVENT
SUPPORTING THE SHOPPERS DRUG MART RUN FOR WOMEN FROM EAST TO WEST!
Together, our teams helped create safe and smooth experiences for participants, volunteers, spectators, event organizers, and the surrounding communities. From planning and coordination to traffic control support and on-site execution, every region played an important role in helping these events run successfully. What made this initiative especially meaningful was the purpose behind it. The Shoppers Drug Mart Run for Women brings communities together in support of women’s mental health, and we were honoured to contribute to an event that has such a positive impact across Canada.
This year, we were proud to support the Shoppers Drug Mart Run for Women as a National Sponsor and Route Sponsor, helping bring this meaningful event to life in communities across the country. From east to west, our teams showed up with pride, professionalism, and a shared commitment to safety. Groupe Signalisation supported events in Quebec, Beacon Lite Traffic represented us in Ontario, Barricades and Signs supported events across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta, and Universal Group was on the ground in British Columbia.
This was also a great example of the strength of our family of brands. Different teams, different regions, one shared goal: supporting our communities and keeping people safe. A big sincere thank you to everyone who helped make this national event a success. Whether you were involved in planning, coordination, setup, traffic control, event support, or capturing moments from the day, your work helped showcase the best of who we are as a team. 4
RECRUITMENT UPDATES
As Universal Group continues to grow, so does our workforce. During the second quarter of 2026, we welcomed 464 new field employees across our operating divisions. Their contributions will help support our operations and position us for continued success throughout the year.
TOTAL HIRES Barricades and Signs 3.9 % Beacon Lite 8.8 %
D&H Flagging 14.2 %
Groupe Signalisation 17.9 %
Universal Traffic 55.2 %
WELCOMING OUR FIFA HIRES! To kick off the FIFA season, our Talent Acquisition Services team hosted an engagement event to welcome our FIFA hires. The event gave our new team members an opportunity to connect with their managers, meet representatives from our OHS team, and learn more about the support and resources available to them during their journey with Universal Group. Attendees also enjoyed refreshments and received welcome goodie bags as a small token of appreciation. We believe that creating a positive first impression lays the foundation for success. Events like these help build connections, strengthen engagement, and ensure our employees feel welcomed and supported from day one. A big sincere thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success!
Universal Traffic: 256 hires Groupe Signalisation: 83 hires D&H Flagging: 66 hires Beacon Lite: 41 hires Barricades and Signs: 18 hires Total: 464 hires
This growth is a testament to the dedication of our employees, leaders, and recruitment teams. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to attracting, developing, and retaining talented individuals who contribute to our success and support our vision for the future. 5
CAREER GROWTH & CURRENT OPENINGS
Ready for your next career move? We invite employees to check out our current office and leadership openings. Whether you’re interested in expanding your expertise, taking on new challenges, or stepping into a leadership role, these opportunities can help you advance your career within the company.
CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES Traffic Control Person- Lower Mainland, Interior, Vancouver Island, BC
Talent Acquisition Coordinator (Contract)- Langley, BC
Lane Closure Technician- Lower Mainland, Interior, Vancouver Island, BC
Human Resources & Labour Relations Assistant (Contract)- Langley, BC
Install Technician- Langley, BC
Traffic Labourer– Winnipeg, MB
Traffic Planning Designer– Langley, BC
Install Superintendent - Calgary, AB
Business Development Representative– Prince George, BC
Install Labourer - Edmonton, AB
Production Coordinator– Langley, BC
Human Resources & Labour Relations Business PartnerOttawa, ON
Senior Accountant- Langley, BC
Traffic Control Flagger – USA, Portland, Salem, Eugene, OR
Junior Accountant- Langley, BC
Temporary Traffic Control Flagger – USA, Bend, OR
Inside Sales Representative- Langley, BC
Diesel Mechanic – USA, Auburn, WA
If you are interested in any of these roles or in advancing to a Lane Closure Technician position, please apply on our job postings or speak with your Manager to discuss your career progression.
CONTACT US recruiting@theuniversalgroup.ca
1.884.944.4737
SCAN the QR CODE
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HEALTH & SAFETY
MAINTAINING FLRA & TMP COMPLIANCE Recent inspections have identified several issues with Field Level Risk Assessments (FLRAs) and Traffic Management Plans (TMPs). Incomplete or inaccurate TMPs increase the risk of injury to workers, TCPs, motorists, and the public. Top 5 FLRA issues that need to be addressed. 1. FLRAs not completed before work starts 2. Hazards and risk ratings were not properly identified 3. Missing worker signatures 4. FLRAs are not updated when conditions change 5. Traffic-related hazards were not documented TMP Requirements All TMPs must be accurate, site-specific, and followed as approved.
Hand-drawn TMPs must be site-specific. Generic or reused plans are not acceptable. All TMPs must remain onsite and be reviewed by all workers before work begins. TMPs must be updated whenever site conditions change. Required Actions • Verify TMP accuracy before starting work. • Device spacing and TCP positioning with escape routes must be added to TMP. • Participate in FLRA discussions. • Correct unsafe or non-compliant setups immediately. • Exercise your Right to Refuse Unsafe Work if proper traffic control or worker protection is not in place and contact an OHS Advisor. Safety Reminder FLRAs and TMPs are critical safety tools that protect workers and the public. Failure to comply may result in injury, WCB orders, or discipline. Plan the work. Identify the hazards. Follow the TMP. Work safely.
Every TMP must include: • Street and cross-street names • Posted speed limit • Traffic flow direction • Work area address with city or town • TCP positions and escape routes • Advance warning signs with distances as per speed limit • Taper lengths, device spacing, lane closures and pedestrian accommodations (if required)
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LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT
TCP RENEWAL DATES Is your TCP ticket expiring soon? Don’t miss our ONE-DAY renewal courses happening! Langley July 11, 2026
Saturday
8:00 - 4:00
August 08, 2026
Saturday
8:00 - 4:00
September 18, 2026
Friday
8:00 - 4:00
Burnaby July 18, 2026
Saturday
8:00 - 4:00
Vernon August 15, 2026
Saturday
8:00 - 4:00
Victoria August 14, 2026
Friday
8:00 - 4:00
REGISTER NOW! CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS
Important Update: UHS Burnaby Office Relocation Our Burnaby office will close on July 31, 2026, and the team will temporarily relocate to 9770 199A Street, Langley Township, BC V1M 2X7, effective August 1, 2026. Please keep this update in mind when timing your TCP recertification dates or planning any office-related visits. Phone numbers, email addresses, and regular business operations will remain the same throughout the transition
UPCOMING UGU COURSES Enhance your skills and stay sharp with upcoming UGU courses focused on respect, safety, cultural awareness, and customer experience. • Asphalt Paving Guide Paving operations are intricate and fast-paced, involving multiple machines that work in coordination. As a Traffic Control Person (TCP), your role is essential to ensuring crew safety, managing public traffic, and facilitating a seamless workflow. This course details milling, paving, and finishing operations, outlining step-by-step responsibilities, safety protocols, and communication procedures. • MASH In collaboration with Barricades & Signs, these courses have been developed to train the team on MASH standards and the history and development of these standards. • HubSpot Training In collaboration with the Marketing department, these courses have been developed to train teams in the basics of HubSpot so we can maintain more accurate records, sales pipelines, and tracking of ongoing leads. 8
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Natalie McLaughlin – Application Technician, BSL Natalie is one of our longest-tenured Application Technicians and has played an important role in supporting production at the Edmonton facility. If you have seen extruded products leaving the facility, chances are Natalie has had a hand in them. She is a positive, friendly, and team-focused individual whose strong work ethic and supportive approach have improved production flow, team output, and the overall experience in the New Hire Training Program. Her dedication and influence make her a valued and trusted member of the team. Mike O’Connor – Warehouse Supervisor, BL Mike has been with the company for many years and has grown through several roles. Starting on the road, he has since transitioned into different areas of the business and now supervises the warehouse. In addition to his daily responsibilities, Mike supports plowing and yard maintenance throughout the winter, often coming in very early to ensure the yard is clear and ready for the teams. His reliability, hard work, and willingness to step in wherever needed make him a valued and trusted team member. Brock Wegscheider – Safety Supervisor, D&H Flagging Brock has been with D&H Flagging for 15 years and has played an important role in supporting safety, training, and field operations. As Safety Supervisor, he has mentored team members at all levels, from new hires to experienced Traffic Control Supervisors. A Certified Trainer, Brock teaches our Traffic Control flagger certification course and continues to improve the overall training. His leadership on complex projects, from freeway closures to Ironman Triathlons, makes him a valued and trusted team member today. Mellissa King – LCT, UG Mellissa is being recognized for her dedication, professionalism, and true team-first attitude. She completes her responsibilities with care, steps up wherever needed, supports her coworkers, and brings positivity to the workplace. Her reliability and commitment to excellence stand out, whether she is handling challenges, helping others succeed, or going the extra mile to ensure things are done right. Mellissa’s impact reaches beyond her daily work, helping create a stronger, more supportive team environment, making her a valued and trusted team member every single day. Brian Voghell - Ops Coordinator, ATC Brian Voghell, our Ops Coordinator, has made a strong impact in a very short time. Since joining the team only one month ago, Brian has already become a valuable asset to ATC. Although he did not come from a traffic control background, he quickly stepped into the role with confidence, making decisions and contributing within his first two weeks as though he had been here much longer. His ability to learn quickly, adapt to new challenges, and support the team has helped put ATC in a stronger position to better serve our valued customers. We are excited to see the continued impact Brian will have as he grows in his role.
CELEBRATING OUR PEOPLE: MILESTONES AND RETIREMENTS
This quarter, we are proud to recognize three remarkable team members whose dedication, leadership, and long-standing commitment have helped shape our family of brands. Through years of service, mentorship, customer relationships, and hands-on contributions, Herb Madlung, Stoney Biddle, and Jim Shelaga have each left a lasting impact on the people and businesses around them. Stoney Biddle — Universal Group After years of leadership, vision, and dedication, Stoney Biddle has officially begun his well-earned retirement as of June 30. Since the early days of Universal Flagging in 2008, Stoney’s passion, authenticity, and drive have helped build and shape the company into what it is today. His ability to connect with clients, support teams, and lead with a hands-on approach has had a lasting impact on our culture and our business. As he enters this new chapter, we are grateful that Stoney will continue to support the company as an advisor, sharing his knowledge and experience with the team.
Jim Shelaga — Beacon Lite This year, we are also proud to celebrate Jim’s incredible 50-year milestone with Beacon Lite. Five decades of service are a rare and meaningful achievement, reflecting loyalty, dedication, and a deep commitment to the work and the people around him. Over the years, Jim has been part of Beacon Lite through many chapters of leadership and industry change, from the days of flashing kerosene lights to today’s advanced electronic devices. Through it all, his commitment has remained constant, and we are grateful for everything he has contributed over the years.
Herb Madlung — Barricades and Signs After 22 years with Barricades and Signs, Herb Madlung is stepping into a well-earned retirement. As the company’s longest-serving employee, Herb has been part of the team since day one and has truly done it all, from repairing traffic lights and delivering equipment to producing signs for urgent road closures and supporting customers through complex projects. His reliability, work ethic, and customer-first approach have helped shape the foundation of Barricades and Signs and left a lasting impression on colleagues, customers, and industry partners.
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BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & SALES
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026™ – VANCOUVER & TORONTO We were proud to be part of history as the FIFA World Cup 2026™ arrived in Canada. Universal Group and Beacon Lite supported operations in Canada’s two host cities, Vancouver and Toronto, helping keep people safe, traffic moving, and event areas running smoothly throughout one of the world’s largest sporting events.
The scope of work included traffic management, parking and permitting operations, vehicle barrier installations, rapid deployment of traffic control equipment, and the mobilization of hundreds of personnel across high-traffic event areas. 11
This project showcased the experience, agility, equipment, and expertise required to support a global event of this scale. With complex operations taking place across two major Canadian cities, our teams played an important role in supporting safe movement, efficient coordination, and operational excellence throughout this historic event.
This project highlights the importance of maintaining safe and reliable movement through a vital regional freeway while supporting longterm infrastructure resilience. ATC’s work with Min Mountain Contractors reflects the trust placed in our team to help support safe, effective, and coordinated traffic management on large-scale transportation projects.
TRAFFIC CONTROL CONTRACT QUEBEC CITY Groupe Signalisation has been awarded a service contract for the installation and rental of traffic control equipment to support major road closures across Québec City’s municipal road network. The scope of work includes the supply, installation, and rental of specialized traffic control equipment, including traffic signage, variable message signs, and concrete barriers. This one-year contract, with two optional one-year extensions, represents a strategic win and marks an especially busy start to the season for our teams.
REVIVE I-5 PROJECT – SEATTLE, WASHINGTON ATC has started work with Min Mountain Contractors in support of the Revive I-5 project, a multi-year infrastructure preservation initiative led by the Washington State Department of Transportation. The project focuses on repairing, rehabilitating, and extending the lifespan of aging infrastructure along Interstate 5 in Seattle, including critical work on the Ship Canal Bridge. The overall project scope includes concrete repairs, upper bridge deck rehabilitation, expansion joint replacement, drainage system upgrades, and structural improvements designed to strengthen key bridges and improve seismic resilience. As construction progresses, careful traffic coordination will play an important role in helping manage lane reductions, congestion, and access through one of Seattle’s busiest transportation corridors.
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PROMOTIONS
At Universal Group, we are continuously evolving. The following promotions and role expansions from April through June reflect our commitment to developing our teams, strengthening leadership, and supporting growth across all regions and departments. Admin/Finance Daniel Lessard — Assistant Controller
Kirat Singh — Traffic Lead Lewis Brash — Traffic Coordinator Chris Jeni — Repair Technician
Business Development Brigitte Amstutz — Director of Business Development
Sign Shop David Thompson — Purchaser, Procurement & Inventory Control Specialist
Dispatch Naman Jain — Traffic Coordinator Manufacturing Lee Thompson — Director of Manufacturing
Manufacturing/Production Nate Fischer — Production Lead
Traffic Operations Melanie Paradis — Team Leader Justin Rodrigue — Team Leader
Traffic Planning Marley Futerko — TMP Lead West & Central Brooke King — Traffic Management Plan Designer
Operations Ted Martinez — Senior Project Manager Kim Nalupano — Install Technician Vova Davidenko-Shavyrin — Fleet & Maintenance Coordinator
Traffic Services Jonathan Baker — LCT Darion Delorme — LCT
Cesar Caceres — Traffic Plan Designer (TMP)
Alannah Dyck — LCT
Tyler Halliwell — Traffic Control Supervisor
Dianne Forman — LCT 13
Crystal Mosher — LCT
Kiarash Rafiee — LCT
Kaitlynn Staves — LCT
Kourtney Brager — LCT
Logan Denzler — LCT
Melanie Eccles — LCT
Liliya Kudyrko — LCT
Carmine Gulli — LCT
Ankit Aneja — LCT
AJ Jisri — LCT
Alysha Bryce — LCT
Sumit Kumar — LCT
Brett Davidson — LCT
Sebastian Laverriere — LCT
A HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM FOR THEIR EXCEPTIONAL DEDICATION AND LEADERSHIP!
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