A Year of Dynamic Growth and Bright Futures: RWC Systems’ 2023 in Review

Dear RWC Systems Family and Friends,

As we wrap up this incredible year, I’m thrilled to reflect on our journey filled with significant achievements and exciting growth. The vibrancy and dynamism at RWC Systems have been more palpable than ever!

New Projects and Achievements:

Progress on Flagship Projects:

Internal Growth and Celebrations:

Here’s to a year filled with growth, success, and joy. We’re excited to carry this momentum into the coming year, building a brighter, more connected world!

Warmest regards,

Larry Robertson,
CEO, RWC Systems

Meet The Team: Rod Robertson – Director of Operations

RWC Systems is pleased to work with a team with talented staff who are the reason to our success. We will be sharing the people ‘behind the projects’ we work on.

Rod Robertson has worked his way to the Director of Operations where he overlooks all the projects on the field. This includes managing and coaching the Project Managers and foremen and making sure that each project is run smoothly.

How did you initially get into construction?

I initially got into construction though my dad, Garth. In high school, I enrolled in an apprenticeship program where I received hands on work experience in the construction field. Through this experience, I developed a passion for construction work.

What do you find most exciting about the field?

I find that being a part of a project that enhances a community and benefits the public is most rewarding. In addition, I also find working on unique and innovative ceiling projects that RWC has completed exciting. Over the years there has been quite a bit of effort and time that has gone into these projects and the outcome have always been impressive.

What advice would you give to others interested in pursuing a career in construction?

Those who are interested in a career in construction should take note: they should be willing to do anything that is asked of them and they must show up on time.

What is your most memorable project so far at RWC & why?

I would say the most memorable project to date at RWC was Emily Carr University project, due to its complexity, size and project turnaround time.

What would you like to share about working at RWC?

Working at RWC is not like any other ordinary construction company. At RWC we have a great team with an amazing attitude. And we have developed an inviting culture here from weekly recognition meetings to Friday Bakers Box where team members bake goodies for the office, a fully stocked kitchen and a sports gym to blow off some steam. We care about the people that work here and we treat them like family.

What can you share about your experience in working in a family business?

Working in a family business allows us to challenge other family members (including the president) and it allows for a good debate… with no hard feelings.

What makes a successful operations team in your opinion?

The people who work as a team help make a successful operations team. Operation team members are solution driven and each member has field experience (first hand knowledge). This combination makes it easier for our clients to communicate their needs to us.

What does your typical work week look like as a Director of Operations?

My typical work week consists working with and coaching the project managers and foremen. I also work closely with the estimating, pre-construction and accounting teams.

Meet The Team: Desiree Helder – Project Coordinator

At RWC Systems, we encourage our team members to get involved in our apprenticeship program(s) to further aid in their skill set and to grow and thrive in this industry.

Desiree Helder is a perfect example of a team member who worked in the field and completed the apprenticeship program which enhanced her skills. This led to her being promoted to a Project Coordinator. As Project Coordinator, Desiree coordinates the logistics of several projects which includes, ordering supplies, submitting purchase orders, monitoring & reporting labour costs with the Foreman and much more!

How did you initially get into construction?

I initially got into construction because of my dad who has been a foreman for RWC for over 10 years. He was looking at hiring multiple labourers and asked if I was interested in this opportunity. Once I was hired as a labourer, I made sure to ask questions and ask if there was anything additional that I could do to assist in projects. After six months of showing perseverance and eagerness to learn, I was taught how to build components of walls & ceilings. After that, I was given the tools that allowed me to cut steel and drywall for my fellow colleagues. Once I become accustom with this new task, I started the RWC Training Academy apprenticeship program six months later.

What do you find most exciting about the field? Most Challenging?

I find that seeing the finished product at completion the most exciting part of working in the field. It is exhilarating seeing a beautiful building and knowing I helped build that!

The most challenging part of working in the field would be the tie between the physical labour required and having to keep up with the sometimes more physical men. There is also a stigma in this industry that women do not belong in construction. My personal approach is to remind myself that I can do it and that I do belong in this industry. In addition, the more effort I take to understand key aspects of this industry and equip myself with answers to questions, then the sky’s my limit!  

What advice would you give to others interested in pursuing a career in construction?

Those who are interested in a career in construction should stick with it! It is hard but it is so worth it. Stick with it, and never ever be afraid to ask questions.

What is your most memorable project so far at RWC & why?

That’s an easy one for me, the Audi Dealership in Burnaby was by far my most memorable. The curved walls were so much fun to build and it was very interesting learning how to build a radial wall and a cone shaped bulkhead.

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

I am most proud of how well I’ve done in the transition from field work to Project Coordinator in the RWC head office.

When I started in construction I was intimidated because I was so young and inexperienced in the field.  However, with the support of my great colleagues I was able to pick up the tools of the trade and remain successful.

What can you share about working with RWC?

RWC is incredible and have supported me along my progression.  RWC is always looking to further your skill in this industry by providing training opportunities to grow your career, this is because they want you to succeed!

What does your typical work week look like as a Project Coordinator?

Every week is different depending on the project we are working on. Mornings are for getting all your questions and information in order. In the Afternoon, I will connect with clients and field staff regarding key aspects of a project. At the end of the day, I send out documents that I have been pricing and I complete my product list of items that need to be ordered.

What differentiates the RWC Operations team in your opinion from other organizations?

The majority of the Operations team have come from the field which give us the ability to understand what is needed to complete the project tasks. In addition, we have a deeper knowledge of what is going on within the project; that being said we all have unique experiences in the field so we can talk openly and honestly to each other and we can pick each others brain when we get stuck on tasks or are looking for an alternative solution.

January 2019 GEM Award Recipient – Kevin R.

Congratulations to Kevin Robertson for winning the January GEM award at our head office location. Kevin continually supports his team and offers insight to complex issues that arise. Kevin is always willing to assist others by lending a supportive hand, answering questions and leading others to success in various types of projects and or difficult situations. Kevin
is dependable, focused and supportive to all that he interacts with.

Way to go Kevin- keep up the great work!

December GEM Award Recipient – Roger D.

Congratulations to Roger Daigle for winning the 2018 December GEM award at our UBC site.

Roger has shown exceptional commitment to RWC over the years as he continually arrives early for his shifts, stays late when required and is always willing to lend a helping hand to others.  On behalf of RWC we want to thank you for your excellent work ethic, professional attitude and all around dedication to what you do!  We couldn’t do it without the team members we have like you!

November GEM Award Recipient – Colin R.

Congratulations to Colin Robertson, our November GEM Award recipient, for going above and beyond hisduties. Colin joined the RWC team back in 2013 and he has continually excelled in his role as an Accounting Assistant. He always puts in the extra mile to fulfill his responsibilities and he continuously helps out when needed.

Keep at it Colin!