Powering progress: Voyageur paves the way for First Nations in the energy sector
In 2021, Voyageur Services, a First Nation-owned company, launched with a mission to not only enter the market but transform it. Specializing in civil construction and facilities maintenance, particularly within the clean energy sector, the company addresses industry gaps by emphasizing meaningful engagement, collaboration, and opportunities for First Nation participation in project development and economic benefits.
With about 50 employees and a head office located at the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, Voyageur Services now stands at the forefront of empowering First Nation communities and has quickly garnered attention for its innovative approach. By integrating extensive industry knowledge with a profound commitment to partnering with First Nation communities, Voyageur is forging a distinct path in today's energy industry.
Since the onset of construction activities at Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) Darlington New Nuclear Project (DNNP) site, Voyageur has been a cornerstone of support, demonstrating unwavering project excellence underpinned by safety and quality. As one of the first contractors to mobilize on site supporting E.S. Fox with the ongoing early site preparation work, Voyageur has been a key player in blazing the trail for North America’s first commercial Small Modular Reactor (SMR).
Our partnership with Voyageur has evolved into a robust alliance founded on trust and shared values. Their dedicated support underscores the transformative impact of collaboration. Together, we are positioned to create a lasting difference in our community and beyond.Dragan PopovicSenior Vice-President, SMR Execution
The company has facilitated the setup of site preparation activities for SMR Unit 1, such as the installation of construction trailers, bulk excavation, grading, as well as establishing temporary construction infrastructure to manage substantial volumes of soil.
Voyageur offers a unique and valuable construction perspective, respecting the traditions passed down through generations. Prior to commencing site construction, Voyageur engaged in traditional ceremonies alongside four Michi Saagiig Anishinaabe First Nations with treaty rights to the land.
Supporting Voyageur in their journey begins with an understanding of their challenges and recognizing industry opportunities. By facilitating access to industry networks and fostering potential partnerships, OPG aims to enhance First Nation commercial construction growth opportunities.
"Our partnership with Voyageur has evolved into a robust alliance founded on trust and shared values," said Dragan Popovic, OPG’s Senior Vice-President, SMR Execution. "Their dedicated support underscores the transformative impact of collaboration. Together, we are positioned to create a lasting difference in our community and beyond."
To date, the company has delivered services and support to the project valued at more than $7 million for Unit 1 early works and site preparation. Looking ahead, the company is optimistic about its ongoing support, particularly for the site preparation on SMR Units 2-4, as announced by the Minister of Energy last year. The next phase, a contract valued at over $18 million, involves bulk excavation and marks a significant step forward in our partnership through the entire project lifecycle. This effort will involve moving two million cubic metres of soil.
"By supporting the early site preparation of DNNP, we enhance the project's value through safe and high-quality work completed on time and within budget,” said Clint Keeler, President of Voyageur. “We also ensure that economic benefits return directly to treaty rights holders." When asked how they manage to get it all done safely, and with quality, Clint said, “One scoop at a time.”
This collaborative effort exemplifies the power of teamwork, commitment, and shared goals in achieving meaningful outcomes. Together, we've not only achieved early work site preparation safely, with high quality, but also created a positive impact that resonates beyond just our project.
DNNP Partnership Spotlight: Voyageur Services
About Voyageur
Specializing in clean energy, civil infrastructure, and commercial buildings, Voyageur leverages its expertise to drive sustainable development and community engagement initiatives forward. As a Certified Aboriginal Business, Voyageur is a majority First Nation-owned company, with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation’s Noozhoo Nokiiyan Limited Partnership (NLLP) serving as a primary equity holder. NLLP, the economic development arm of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, ensures that proceeds from Voyageur’s operations directly benefit the First Nation and future Michi Saagiig Anishinaabe First Nation investors.
Engaging with other Michi Saagiig Anishinaabe First Nations in southern Ontario – including Alderville, Hiawatha, and Curve Lake and the Mississaugas of the Credit – Voyageur seeks to foster employment and economic opportunities for First Nation community members and businesses. The company actively participates in job fairs and trade shows within these communities to recruit skilled tradespeople and align their expertise with current energy sector demands.
Voyageur plays a crucial role in facilitating the involvement of smaller First Nation companies in the energy sector by subcontracting with them, thereby breaking down barriers and fostering inclusive economic growth.
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