KDM Constructors

Constructing a Community Focus

Fostering economic growth with projects the help build the community

KDM Constructors 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, while SECON Group owns the remaining 40%.

Establishing KDM Constructors has paved the way for substantial local benefits from large-scale 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 self-sufficiency 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 $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 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 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 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), which represents the mining sector in Saskatchewan and advocates for local companies globally. “SIMSA is a great organization. They represent Saskatchewan and the Mining Association very well,” says Neault.

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 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.

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 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 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.

AT A GLANCE

KDM Constructors

What: A First Nations majority-owned industrial construction and maintenance service provider offering various services, including general contracting, mechanical and piping, structural steel and fabrication, electrical, civil works, carpentry, site services, and janitorial services.

Where: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Website: https://kdmco.ca/