An Indigenous-owned venture focused on industry fabrication has signed a supplier agreement with Bruce Power.
Bruce Power says Makwa Development Corp., which is owned by Nawash residents Scott Lee and Shane Chegano, has joined forces with one of Canada’s largest construction companies, Cahill Constructors Ltd. to create Makwa-Cahill.
A release says, “In the spirit of Maawanji’odiwag, which means ‘coming together,’ Makwa-Cahill will collaborate to deliver services to nuclear and energy clients through its fabrication facility in Owen Sound.”
Makwa Developments President Scott Lee says in a statement, “The nuclear industry is vital to meeting the electricity needs of Ontario,” adding, “We are pleased to have Makwa-Cahill enter into this supplier agreement with Bruce Power, and ensuring that our Indigenous communities will have a key ongoing role in the nuclear industry.”
Makwa-Cahill President Mike Benham says it is a fully qualified Indigenous fabrication company, adding, “Once we are in the work-execution phase, we will hire and provide on-the-job training for skilled tradespeople to meet the needs of Bruce Power and other energy sector clients in Ontario.”
Bruce Power President and CEO Mike Rencheck, says Bruce Power’s Life-Extension Program sets a long-term framework for the relationship, noting, “The Makwa-Cahill joint venture will advance job creation for skilled tradespeople from Georgian College and the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, helping provide Bruce Power and our nuclear supply chain with the skillsets required to advance our long-term investment program.”
Ontario Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry, Greg Rickford, applauds the partnership, saying “These are the types of partnerships that support economic development, create good jobs, and provide opportunities for First Nations communities to share in Ontario’s prosperity.”
Learn more about Makwa-Cahill at makwacahill.ca