FEATURE
Interior of a residential project by J & G Group
PHOTO COURTESY OF J & G GROUP
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“You used to be able to build a building with ladders and scaffold,
requiring a more substantial workforce. Now the availability
of equipment, such as telehandlers, man baskets and scissor lifts,
provides a safer working environment while allowing a smaller
workforce to build larger, more complex projects,” Crane said.
Technology has played a substantial role in providing smaller
companies and businesses to take on more challenging projects.
From the use of Computer Aided Drafting to 3D modelling, cell
phones and tablets on the job site, to GPS tracking tools and
equipment for precision and accuracy, technology has streamlined
the construction process. It has also reduced change orders
to clients, providing lower costs and better value to their projects.
This is essential, says Crane, especially as larger construction
companies move closer to their workforce in rural areas.
“Innovation and disruption are present in the industry, and if
you don’t stay on top of it or be a part of it you will be left behind,”
said Jacobson. He makes it a priority to set aside time each week to
discuss new, innovative processes and advances in the construction
industry with his team. “Whether it’s software for scheduling
or GPS for heavy equipment – it’s a must for any business.”
Over the years, Jacobson says he and his team have adopted
multiple project-specific software for estimating, scheduling and
document management. They’ve also invested in marketing,
social media and branding, which is uncommon in the industry,
but becoming increasingly necessary to remain competitive.
Another area companies will need to remain competitive is
diversity. Wiebe admits that diversity can be a challenge in the
construction industry. Still, it appears that he and those who have
a role in the future of the rural construction industry want to
change that and create a more inclusive environment.
“Diversity has not only changed the project types, such as
open tender versus design-builds, but also the staff makeup,”
said Jacobson. “Over the past 10 to 15 years, construction has
changed its image to promote a higher level of diversity. At the
Jacobson & Greiner Group, diversity has always been at the
forefront of our growth.”
This pillar also includes hiring or partnering with unlikely professionals
from other fields. For Jacobson, it was the revamping
of their IT personnel and systems. While at the same time, for
Wiebe, it was the expansion of Ben Wiebe Construction Ltd. into
municipal bridge building and repair – something even he didn’t
see coming.
“We connected with a local engineering firm,” he said. “I don’t
remember how, but it’s been a very enjoyable journey because
we’ve been able to expand the scope of work we can do.”
Manitoba’s rural construction industry has been built around
efficiency and hard work. However, its continued commitment to
safety, diversity and innovation has it becoming a strong example
other industries can look to for guidance. Much like in 1913 when
14 construction companies came together to form the Brandon
Builders Exchange – the predecessor to CARM – to discuss
mutual concerns and general and subcontractor rights and obligations
for building work.
Even over a century later, sharing information and expanding
industry’s interests remain the foundation of the association. For
Wiebe, it’s these aspects that make the industry so rewarding.
“If your mind is open to learning,” he said. “Then there will
always be some new skill or tool you can learn.” n
“Handshakes were good enough
and you could start projects with
a promise to submit plans, but
times have changed, it is a lot more
controlled, and it’s for the better for
the most part.”
– PJ Crane, Crane Steel Structures
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