About
I was raised in a small farming community in Central Alberta named Edberg. In fact, my parents still live in my childhood home. After graduating high school, I started my path in the construction industry working for a private agricultural building contractor. After 10 years there, I knew that I had reached my ceiling and an opportunity to join the Boilermakers Union and start an apprenticeship came about. With two young kids at home, I quit my job and started my apprenticeship by attending technical training at NAIT. Keep in mind, I had not worked a minute in the trade at that point, this was a real risk but one that I have not regretted one time since doing it.
After completing my apprenticeship, I became more involved in the Union. Eventually, this led to a role in the administrative staff as a Business Representative. This was my introduction to Labour Relations, a field I have developed a tremendous passion for.
My role at the union necessitated me to understand contract negotiation, interpretation and administration, Alberta Labour Relations Code, Employment Standards, and Occupational Health and Safety legislation. Additionally, union/contractor and union/client relations were a significant component of the day-to-day function of the role. Finally, conflict management and interpersonal relationships have become essential attributes that I have developed.
Eventually, I decided to further my career by moving to the employer side of the bargaining table. I spent a couple of years as a Proposal Specialist where my skills in Project Coordination were broadened. Effective time management and responding to and navigating deadlines became further skills I exemplified.
I then established Element Labour Relations Consulting Ltd. and the first contract was on the LNG Canada site. I spent two years on the project. Initially in the role of Industrial Relations Manager and then as the Senior Industrial Relations Manager for the main contractor on the construction activities for the project. Managing a team of six Labour Relations professionals I oversaw the Labour Relations function for the contractor and took their craft requirements from 600 to 3800 craft in that time as the peak of major construction was reached.
In April 2023, an opportunity presented itself to take on another role, this time on a major project in the Edmonton region and overseeing the labour relations matters for a global industrial gases manufacturer in the construction of a "net zero blue hydrogen" manufacturing facility. This role provides me with the opportunity to develop skills in the delivery of a major project from an owner's perspective. The project has received Division 8 status from the Province of Alberta which is rare opportunity for a labour relations professional to oversee and experience. I am excited about this opportunity and the ability to further the service options for Element Labour Relations Consulting Ltd.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
(780) 940-6110