Articles from Canadian Consulting Engineer

AtkinsRéalis has extended its partnership with Montreal-based Kinova for three more years, focusing on nuclear robotics. This decision follows successful demonstrations and deployments of Kinova’s robotic arms at various sites, including Sellafield in the UK. The partnership will aim to enhance and broaden the technology's capabilities for global use in handling hazardous materials. Both companies emphasize the integration of commercial technology into nuclear systems to advance remote operations.

Mathieu Bélanger rejoins CIMA+ as the vice-president for earth and environment. Bélanger, who has extensive leadership experience in infrastructure and environmental fields, will lead a team of over 200 professionals. He aims to provide sustainable and innovative solutions for public and private sectors in Canada. He replaces Raymond McNamara, who is retiring soon.

Arcadis Canada has hired Craig Sklenar and Alfredo Landaeta as principals of urban design for its placemaking practice. Sklenar, from Montreal, has a background in planning and design, while Landaeta from Toronto, has experience leading multidisciplinary projects in Canada and internationally. They will contribute to projects such as the Tunney’s Pasture Redevelopment and the Waterfront Strategic Plan in Ontario. Their roles aim to enhance Arcadis' footprint in Quebec and North America, linking transportation with real-estate initiatives.

CIMA+ has appointed Luc Jolicoeur as the new member of their board of directors, replacing Richard Régimbald. Jolicoeur, who joined the company in 2008, has extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, having held roles such as partner and executive VP of buildings. He has been pivotal in developing the firm's sustainability initiatives and ESG strategy. Additionally, CIMA+ announced the appointment of 98 new partners and associate partners during its annual general meeting.

AtkinsRéalis has announced the appointment of two new executives. Louis G. Véronneau will become the COO, based in Montreal, with responsibilities for global operations. Kate Kenny will serve as the CGO in London, focusing on growing the global market and enhancing client relations. These appointments aim to boost the company's strategic initiatives and market presence.

Rio Tinto has contracted AtkinsRéalis for a seven-year refurbishment of the Isle-Maligne hydropower plant in Alma, Quebec, investing $1.7 billion to modernize the facility. This effort, which includes replacing turbine-alternator groups and various upgrades, marks Rio Tinto's largest hydropower investment since the 1950s. The Isle-Maligne hydroelectric plant, operational since 1926, represents a significant component of Rio Tinto's strategy to support low-carbon aluminum production in Canada. The project is expected to be completed by 2032.

BBA, a consulting engineering firm, has acquired Groupe Synergis and CPP Environmental to expand its environmental services. Groupe Synergis, with six offices in Quebec, specializes in biological characterization and landscape studies, while CPP Environmental focuses on biophysical assessments and regulatory compliance in Alberta. The acquisition aims to solidify BBA's presence in the environmental consulting sector with key personnel from both acquired companies joining BBA. The president of BBA highlights their commitment to environmental work and the passion of their new team members.

The Canada Border Services Agency is modernizing the Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle border crossing, Quebec's busiest entry point to the U.S., to enhance security, safety, and technological standards. This $100-million project is part of a national effort upgrading ports of entry with new facilities and upgrades to old structures. Contracts for construction management and architectural services have been awarded, and certain operations have been adjusted during the first phase of work. The port's renovation is necessary due to aging infrastructure that dates back to 1951.