PLCAC Staff Visit Mainline Construction Project
Kellie Gamble, PLCAC manager, labour relations and Lianne Appleby, newly-hired associate, communications & member services were on the move recently. The pair visited Waschuk Pipe Line Construction Ltd.’s camp near Wandering River, AB. in February to gain a better insight into the everyday challenges and opportunities in pipeline construction.
PLCAC staff members Kellie Gamble (left) and Lianne Appleby visit Waschuk’s job site near Wandering River, AB.
Gamble and Appleby were hosted by Brian Fowers, office manager for the site, superintendent Doug Denk and security manager Donald “Scotty” MacInnes. MacInnes and Fowers spent two days explaining not only the technicalities and logistics of building a pipeline, but also the challenges employees can face when working away from home for extended periods of time and the more intricate issue of
community relations — be that landowners, giving back to local municipalities or indigenous considerations.
The visitors observed an early morning foremen’s meeting which demonstrated a strong safety culture and recognition of the efforts of the workforce.
Messages from that meeting were then communicated to crews at the ground level.
“We were very pleased to witness the skills and leadership of the Waschuk team and are so grateful for the opportunity to visit with one of our regular members,” says Gamble. “It’s not often we are able to spend time on the ground, interacting on a face-to-face level with workers and management — so every chance to do so is welcomed. Sincere thanks to everyone at Waschuk who took time out of their already busy schedules to spend time with us.”