KDM WWW.KDMCO.CA CONSTRUCTING A COMMUNITY FOCUS CONSTRUCTORS
CONSTRUCTING A COMMUNITY FOCUS KDM CONSTRUCTORS AT A GLANCE KDM CONSTRUCTORS L.P. WHAT: A First Nations majority-owned industrial construction and maintenance service provider offering various services, including general contracting, site services, underground construction, earthworks, millwrighting, structural steel and fabrication, electrical, carpentry, and janitorial services. WHERE: Yorkton, Saskatchewan WHERE: www.kdmco.ca FOSTERING ECONOMIC GROWTH WITH PROJECTS THAT HELP BUILD LOCAL INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES 1 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 08
G KDM Constructors L.P. is a significant force in Saskatchewan’s construction and maintenance sector, representing optimism and development for the Kawacatoose, Day Star, and Muskowekwan First Nations. Formed in 2016 and formally incorporated in 2017, KDM Constructors is a majority First Nations-owned company focused on uplifting communities through employment and economic development. The company name, “KDM,” is derived from the initials of the three founding communities, which hold a 60% ownership stake, with SECON Group of Companies owning the remaining 40%. 2 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 08
Establishing KDM Constructors has paved the way for substantial local benefits from largescale projects like the BHP Jansen project. KDM fosters economic growth within the First Nations communities by ensuring these projects generate essential employment opportunities. The strategic partnership enhances local economies and empowers the indigenous population by providing significant roles in construction and maintenance projects. Through various initiatives and collaborations, KDM aims to strengthen the economic foundation of Indigenous communities while promoting selfsufficiency and resilience. The company’s vision extends beyond construction and maintenance, encompassing a broader social and economic empowerment mission for First Nations people in Saskatchewan. PARTNERSHIPS FOR PROGRESS KDM Constructors’ origin story is deeply rooted in community collaboration and foresight. The company’s formation was driven by recognizing a gap in the BHP Jansen project—a need for a First Nations entity to maximize the benefits of such a significant development. With BHP’s investment projected to reach CAD $15 billion by 2030, the alliance aims to ensure that local Indigenous communities would participate in and benefit from the economic opportunities presented. Cole Raiwet, Chief Operating Officer of KDM Constructors, underlines the company’s commitment to its mission: “Our main goal is the employment piece for First Nations people and working towards the truth and reconciliation that’s been put forth in this country.” PILLAR OF PROGRESS The company’s success in achieving significant levels of Indigenous participation is truly impressive. Raiwet proudly shares, “At the BHP Jansen site, we have achieved nearly 40% Indigenous involvement or participation among employees.” With around 100 full-time direct employees, KDM Constructors subcontracts to sister companies and other contractors, ensuring a minimum of 20% Indigenous participation. These figures meet and 3 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 08 KDM CONSTRUCTORS
exceed industry standards, demonstrating the company’s effectiveness in promoting inclusivity and providing meaningful employment. Focusing on creating long-term career opportunities, KDM Constructors offers entry-level positions and exposes workers to the mining sector and other projects. This approach helps individuals develop skills and gain experience for future careers, benefiting employees and contributing to the broader goal of economic empowerment and community development. MAJOR PROJECTS AND EXPANSIONS The BHP Jansen project is a cornerstone of KDM Constructors’ operations and represents a sizable portion of its work. The company handles site services on the surface and is preparing to expand into the underground portion of the project later this year. The Jansen project is a significant potash mine development in Saskatchewan, set to become one of the largest potash mines globally.With an investment of CAD$14 billion, it will eventually produce 8.5 million tonnes of potash annually, focusing on sustainability and local community support. Beyond BHP, KDM Constructors works extensively with Nutrien, the world’s largest potash producer, and K+S, a German company operating a solution mine in Southern Saskatchewan. These projects are crucial in maintaining and expanding the potash industry, a vital sector for Saskatchewan’s economy. In addition to its work in the potash industry, KDM Constructors is expanding into the Crown Corporation space, working with SaskEnergy, SaskPower, and SaskTel.The expansions reflect the company’s ability to diversify its operations and tap into various sectors, contributing to Saskatchewan’s economic growth. SKILLED LABOR SHORTAGES The mining, energy, and infrastructure industries are fundamental to Saskatchewan’s economic development. Raiwet emphasizes the importance of these sectors: “The rest of the world sees the value in Canada and its resources, hence the reason for global companies like BHP coming in and spending 4 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 08
the money to develop projects and extract some of these resources.” However, the industry faces significant challenges, particularly in skilled labor. Raiwet explains, “The day’s topic is labor or skilled trades; with all the projects in Western Canada, there’s not enough skilled trades and labor force out there.” Despite this industry-wide issue, KDM Constructors has been fortunate to find labor, especially from Indigenous communities, mitigating some of these challenges. INDUSTRY ADVOCACY SIMSA, the Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association, is an organization that supports and advocates for the mining sector in Saskatchewan. By representing local companies globally, SIMSA plays a crucial role in fostering relationships and creating opportunities within the industry. Through its various initiatives, including roundtable events with major industry players like BHP and 5 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 08 KDM CONSTRUCTORS
FUEL SMARTER – CONSTRUCT EXCELLENCE WITH DMM ENERGY In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, finding a partner that combines reliability, experience, and a deep commitment to customer service can be a challenge; but it doesn’t need to be. With a legacy rooted in the fuel distribution industry, DMM Energy has been a trusted name for decades. Our seasoned expertise and unwavering dedication to our customers and communities set us apart as a leading provider of fuel solutions for businesses of all sizes. Founded by industry veterans with decades of experience, DMM Energy brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to excellence to every partnership. Our team of fuel experts understands the unique challenges faced by businesses across various sectors. Through optimized logistics, delivery systems, and innovative technologies, we continuously find ways to provide competitive pricing while ensuring reliability and high-quality fuel products. Investing in the future of Indigenous communities is a shared value with both DMM Energy and KDM Constructors. By aligning our expertise in fuel distribution and construction services, we create sustainable solutions that uplift and empower local communities. Through our combined efforts, we aim to build a brighter future for Indigenous communities, together, by building long last relationships and opportunities through bulk fuel distribution and construction services. SMARTER BULK FUELING FOR STRONGER CONSTRUCTION 306-514-8380 dmmenergy.ca OUR SERVICES Bulk ESSO Fuel Fuel storage solutions Fuel monitoring systems info@dmmenergy.ca Want to learn more? Local, reliable deliveries Fuel security systems Tank rentals
Premium Equipment Sales & Rentals was founded in April of 2021 by Sean, Raynelle, and Zachary Murray. Located just ten minutes south of Saskatoon, our central location helps us to serve all our customers in Saskatchewan. Our family run business specializes in the rentals and sales of yellow iron, heavy trucks, and agriculture equipment. No rental is too big or small, whether we are renting a stand on skid steer to a local homeowner or multiple thirty ton rock trucks to a contractor at a potash mine. Premium Equipment strives to always provide low hour, late model, heavy equipment to its customers to ensure they are satisfied and have minimal downtime. If a piece of equipment ever has a major breakdown, Premium Equipment pulls together inventory to have its customer a replacement as soon as possible to keep the project timeline on schedule. Premium Equipment as well has a sales division. We specialize in buying heavy equipment and trucks. Once purchased the equipment is brought into our shop and is put through a thorough mechanical inspection as well as any cosmetic repairs that it may need. Our goal is to always provide the buyer with a quality machine for a reasonable price. PREMIUM EQUIPMENT SALES & RENTALS We take pride in our premium heavy equipment! Our equipment is available for sale or rent. We offer competitive rental rates, low commission consignments for those looking to sell, and reasonable prices for buyers. From farm, to construction, to semis, we do it all! Quality Equipment Competitive Rates Saskatoon, SK, Canada zach@premium-equip.com (306) 716-3044 KDM CONSTRUCTORS
Being part of SIMSA allows KDM Constructors to participate in roundtable events with major companies like BHP and Nutrien, fostering relationships and exploring new opportunities for Indigenous suppliers. The collaborations are vital for the company’s growth and the broader goal of integrating Indigenous businesses into the mainstream economy. “For the last three years, post-COVID, when conferences got back and people were allowed to go and shake hands again, it has grown. This last year, the show was as big as ever; there were over 2,500 people and over 400 exhibitors. Those events Nutrien, SIMSA enables companies like KDM Constructors to explore new opportunities and integrate Indigenous suppliers into the mainstream economy. The organization’s efforts are vital for the growth and development of local businesses, particularly in the post-COVID era, where networking and partnerships have become more essential than ever. The company is an active member of the Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association.“SIMSA is a great organization.They represent Saskatchewan and the Mining Association very well,” says Neault. 8 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 08
FUTURE GENERATIONS Despite its significant contributions, KDM Constructors remains humble about its achievements. Raiwet shares, “We’re a pretty humble company. We don’t boast too much about what we do. We like to stay out of the limelight and do the work we know we’re good at.” KDM Constructors’ work is not just about the present; it’s about laying the groundwork for future generations. Raiwet reflects on the importance of their efforts: “The biggest thing for me is always about the employment piece because there can be allow us to connect and create new partnerships, which is valuable.” The SECON Group of Companies is instrumental in supporting KDM Constructors. Raiwet stresses the partnership’s significance. The SECON Group’s backing equips KDM Constructors with the necessary resources and expertise to tackle large-scale projects and ensure its successful completion. The partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration and the positive results achieved when different entities unite with a common purpose. 9 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 08 KDM CONSTRUCTORS
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n DMM Energy Inc. www.dmmenergy.ca DMM Energy is the reliable partner you need for your bulk fuel. We pride ourselves on delivering premium fuel products and services, including storage and monitoring solutions. With our expertise, we strive to find innovative and costeffective solutions tailored to meet your unique needs. Trust us to power your success. n Premium Equipment Sales & Rentals www.premium-equip.com Premium Equipment is a heavy equipment sales and rentals company based out of Saskatoon SK. We strive to provide our clients with late model, low hour equipment to keep our customers moving efficiently and having minimal downtime. Visit our website (premium-equip.com) to view our current “for sale” inventory which ranges anywhere from heavy trucks to agriculture equipment. Group of Companies in the site services and the underground mining sectors and maintaining potash mines.” As KDM Constructors grows, its commitment to Indigenous communities remains at the forefront of its operations. By providing employment opportunities and fostering skills development, the company is helping to build a better future for these communities. Its work lays the groundwork for future generations, ensuring that the benefits of economic development are shared with those who need it most. KDM Constructors is more than a construction and maintenance company; it is a catalyst for change for Indigenous communities in Saskatchewan. Its dedication to employment, collaboration, and community benefits is building a legacy that will benefit future generations. a generational impact. I’m happy to be here laying the groundwork and working on the foundations.” FUTURE ASPIRATIONS KDM Constructors is well-positioned for future growth. With extensive experience in site services and underground mining backed by the SECON Group, the company is ready to take on new challenges and expand its operations. Raiwet is optimistic about the future: “The future looks pretty good for KDM. We represent three of the six local opportunities, agreements, and nations with BHP. We have extensive experience backed by the SECON 10 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 08
WWW.KDMCO.CA WWW.BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE.COM AS FEATURED IN KDM Constructors
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