Laying the Groundwork

This week on Red Army Radio, Francis sits down with Superintendent Nicolas Simoneau and Operations Manager Kent MacCaskill to explore the journey of building a successful career within the construction field at Tomlinson. Drawing from their combined decades of experience, Nicolas and Kent share their personal stories, from their first roles as operator and laborer to their current leadership positions. They offer valuable insights into the mindset, mentorship, and opportunities that fuel professional growth in this demanding industry.

Throughout their conversation, Nicolas and Kent discuss the characteristics of individuals who thrive and advance, emphasizing the significance of taking initiative, embracing challenges, and maintaining a positive attitude. They reflect on the pivotal moments and influential figures in their careers, the evolution of the industry, and the importance of continuous learning. Listeners will gain practical advice on navigating the path from entry-level positions to management, highlighting the balance between individual drive and company support in achieving long-term success.

Episode Highlights:

• Nicolas Simoneau and Kent MacCaskill’s journeys within Tomlinson and the industry.
• Identifying key traits for success and advancement in the field.
• The impact of mentorship and strong leadership on career development.
• Overcoming challenges on complex projects (Ottawa Hospital Parking Garage, Domtar Cornwall).
• The shift in workplace dynamics and expectations post-COVID.
• Balancing company support with personal responsibility for growth.
• Advice for aspiring laborers and foremen seeking advancement.
• The role of positivity and a learning mindset in career progression.
• Bridging the gap between experienced workers and new technology.
• Adapting leadership styles through personal and professional experience.

Key Takeaways:

• "When I watch workers, you can see the ones proud of their work. You can also see the ones just putting in time." - Kent MacCaskill
• "That's key to having people grow is ask them questions and let them solve their own problems." - Kent MacCaskill
• "Never say no to the customer. Always be positive, even when it's tough." - Kent MacCaskill
• "Turn everything into a learning possibility... There's always a better way to be faster, more efficient." - Nicolas Simoneau
• "We need employees to tell us where they want to be... the company's role is to help them get there." - Kent MacCaskill
• "Show what you can do and that you want to grow. Don't just tell people where you want to be." - Nicolas Simoneau
• "The age difference in our industry is nice. People can help each other bridge the gap with technology." - Nicolas Simoneau
• "Keep doing what you're doing... Don't be shy to put yourself out there and show people... what you can do." - Nicolas Simoneau

Welcome to the third episode of 'In the Hot Seat'! Join us as we introduce two members from our Kingston shop: apprentice mechanic Mara Heitman and lead hand mechanic Carl Bowes. Discover how Mara ended up joining our team as she shares candid insights from her time with Tomlinson and learn about Carl’s role as a lead hand mechanic. In this exciting episode, Mara and Carl discuss the challenges they face, share advice for newcomers, reveal unusual skills they've acquired on the job, and much more! Get ready for laughs, spice, and valuable career insights that will leave you inspired and entertained!  

Episode Highlights:  

Meeting Mara & Carl: Hear about how Carl recruited Mara from a shop across the road and why he decided to pursue this career.

The Garlic Fresno Glares: Starting with a mild and chunky sauce, Mara and Carl talk about the challenges they’ve faced, giving us a unique look into the differences between a new and a seasoned employee.

Wisdom & Buffalo Sauce: Mara and Carl discuss advice they would give to someone pursuing a career in their field. Despite their different levels of experience, advice on tools was a common theme for both!

Smokey, Sweet & a Little Bit Unusual: Learn about some of the unusual skills our mechanics have acquired in their roles – both mentally and physically.

The Apollo Look Ahead: Turning up the heat and overcoming fears to finish our spicy challenge; discover where Mara and Carl see themselves in 50 years.

Tomlinson Group Website: https://tomlinsongroup.com/ 

Join us for a special episode of Red Army Radio in celebration of Women in Construction Week! Our special host, Megan Tomlinson, welcomes Graziela Girardi, Vice President of Tomlinson Infrastructure. Starting her journey in Brazil, Graziela shares insights into the differences in building practices, unique experiences on job sites, and her remarkable rise through various roles. Tune in to hear about the skills and determination that have driven her success. 

Episode Highlights: 

• Graziela’s introduction and background in the industry. 
• Stories for the early days of her career in Brazil. 
• Highlights from her second week as a Project Manager on highway 34. 
• Stories from Power Road, the dispatch guys and looking for a challenge.  
• Exploring some of the challenges and biases women in this industry face and her tips for overcoming them. 
• Graziela shares her approach to being a mentor before flipping the question to our host. 

Key Takeaways: 

" I don’t know how to bake a cake, but I was very good in building mixed design on a job site. " 

" I want to apply for this job. He said, why? I said, because I can do it." 

" I had to drive, to do 200 kilometers takes like six hours, because there's no asphalt " 

" you’re always being challenged” 

 “You give them a challenge, we gotta get it done.  If you say it's impossible, we'll say no, it's not impossible. We'll get it done.”

Links:

Tomlinson Group:  https://tomlinsongroup.com/

Welcome to the second episode of "In the Hot Seat"! Join us as we introduce two members of the Tomlinson Infrastructure (TI) project management team: Junior Estimator Honglin Li and General Manager Joel McIntyre. From 10 months to 20 years, discover the career journeys that led them to where they are today. In this sizzling episode, Honglin and Joel share insights into their roles, the challenges they've faced, and the remarkable personal growth they've experienced at Tomlinson. Get ready for a blend of humor, authenticity, and valuable career insights that will leave you inspired and entertained! 

Episode Highlights: 

• Meeting Honglin & Joel: Hear about Honglin's journey from a co-op student to his first 10 months at Tomlinson as a junior estimator, and Joel's impressive 20-year tenure. 
• The Garlic Fresno Kickoff: Starting with a mild sauce to kick off the challenge and discuss cool projects, from fish rehabilitation to Amazon warehouses. Get ready to hear about the most interesting projects Honglin and Joel have worked on at Tomlinson. 
• The Buffalo Swap: Joel and Honglin discuss positions they find interesting and would like to try for a day. While Honglin shares his interest in job sites, we learn about Joel's interest in the Human Resources world. 
• Smokey Sweet Memories: Learn about some embarrassing moments that have happened to our Tomlinson Infrastructure team members and how they have grown and learned from their hurdles. 
• Habanero & Career Goals: Discover the career goals of Honglin and Joel and how they plan to achieve them. From getting more time on site to sharing their experiences to help others grow in their roles. 
• Apollo Pepper Zinger: Through tears and glasses of milk, Joel and Honglin share what aspects of their jobs most excite them while battling the heat to finish our spicy challenge. 

Tomlinson Group Website: https://tomlinsongroup.com/ 

Join host Francis Brazeau as he welcomes the long-awaited guest, Chris Kollar, a true icon and veteran of the Tomlinson Group. With a career spanning nearly four decades (split into two separate stints), Chris shares his remarkable journey from painting crushers as a teenager to his current multifaceted role. This episode dives deep into the history of Tomlinson, offering a unique perspective on its evolution, the values that have shaped its culture, and the lessons learned along the way. Chris recounts memorable projects, technological advancements, and the colorful characters he’s encountered, all while peppering the conversation with his signature sayings and euphemisms.

Episode Highlights:

• Chris Kollar's introduction and background, spanning nearly four decades with Tomlinson Group.
• Reminiscing about his early days painting crushers, working on blasting crews with Kenny Tomlinson, and hauling rock at the Moody Drive quarry.
• Anecdotes about missing his high school graduation while working and earning his diploma on the job.
• Stories from the 416 highway project, including dramatic equipment failures and quick-thinking solutions.
• A discussion on the evolution of safety practices at Tomlinson, transitioning from common-sense approaches to formalized policies and procedures.
• Highlights from Chris's experience in the waste management business, including managing landfills and the demolition of the south side stands at Lansdowne Park.
• Insights into the capital equipment process at Tomlinson, focusing on the adoption of GPS technology in yellow iron and the use of T-Pass leasing for staying current.
• A look at the transition in the trucking industry with the implementation of DPF filters and the growing exploration of CNG vehicles.
• The origin and significance of Chris’s unique euphemisms and sayings.

Key Takeaways:

• "Every excavator and bulldozer at Tomlinson is GPS equipped."
• "Safety was common sense. You got an earful if you did something unsafe."
• "It's technology is going to move us forward"
• "You just had to get back on the horse"
• "Technology moves so fast"
• "No matter where you go, there you are" - Chris Kollar

This week, we're turning up the heat, both literally and figuratively, on "In the Hot Seat"! Join us as we welcome Tomlinson Environmental Services (TES) team members Phil Simser, a seasoned Truck Foreman, and Connor Pederson, a dynamic Front-end Truck Driver. In this engaging episode, we explore the diverse career journeys within TES's trucking division, contrasting the experiences of a long-term employee with that of someone newer to the company. As they navigate our signature spicy wing challenge, Phil and Connor offer candid insights into their roles, the challenges they face, and the growth they've experienced at Tomlinson, all while highlighting the company's commitment to its core values. Get ready for some laughs, some spice, and some genuine career wisdom!

Episode Highlights:

• Meeting Phil and Connor: Hear about Phil's impressive 15-year journey from driver to Truck Foreman and Connor's rapid progression from driver helper to front-end driver in just three and a half years.
• The Garlic Fresno Warm-Up: Kicking off the spicy wing challenge with a mild start and discussing how Tomlinson has supported their professional development, including license upgrades and opportunities for growth.
• Navigating the Tight Spots (and Dispatch): Connor shares the daily challenges of maneuvering large trucks in tight urban environments, with a lighthearted nod to the dispatch team.
• Buffalo Wing Blues and Weirdest Encounters: As the heat turns up, Phil recounts a memorable police investigation involving his garbage truck, while Connor shares some of the more bizarre sights from his downtown routes.
• Advice from the Driver's Seat: Practical tips for those considering a career in the field, emphasizing safety, diligence, and the importance of spatial awareness.
• Smokey Sweet Surprises and Unexpected Skills: Discover the unusual skills they've acquired on the job, from Phil's encyclopedic knowledge of city routes to Connor's expert-level backing-up abilities.
• Qualities for Success: Patience and People Skills: Explore the essential attributes needed to thrive in their roles, highlighting the importance of patience when dealing with diverse personalities and challenging situations.
• Career Highlights and Habanero Heat: Phil and Connor reflect on their proudest career moments at Tomlinson, coinciding with the increasing intensity of the spicy wing challenge.
• Driven by Incentive and Work-Life Balance: How Tomlinson's incentive program has impacted Connor's motivation and improved his work-life balance, while also contributing to a decrease in accidents.
• Facing the Apollo – The Real Heat Begins: Experience their unfiltered reactions to the notoriously hot "Apollo" wing, showcasing the humor and camaraderie fostered by the challenge.
• Future Forecast: Where Will They Be in 30 Years?: Both Phil and Connor express their satisfaction with their careers at Tomlinson and their potential for continued growth within the company.

Tomlinson Group: https://tomlinsongroup.com/ 

In this episode of Red Army Radio, host Francis Brazeau delves into the crucial topic of CVOR (Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration) compliance with two key members of the Tomlinson team: Mathew Lavallee, Tomlinson's CVOR/Fleet Compliance Advisor, and Rod Oattes, a 26-year veteran in the trucking division and recent recipient of the Eastern Ontario Driver of the Year award for 2024. Together, they explore the intricacies of maintaining a strong CVOR rating, the importance of safety in the trucking industry, and the benefits of a culture of pride and professionalism within Tomlinson. This episode offers a valuable insight into the efforts that go into keeping Tomlinson’s fleet safe, compliant, and operating at the highest standards.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to Mathew Lavallee (CVOR/Fleet Compliance Advisor) and Rod Oattes (26-year trucking veteran and 2024 Eastern Ontario Driver of the Year).
• Explanation of what a CVOR is and its significance in commercial vehicle operations in Ontario.
• Discussion of Tomlinson's recent achievement of an excellent carrier rating and its rarity in the industry.
• Changes in trucking culture, including a shift towards safety and proactive vehicle maintenance.
• The role of senior drivers in mentoring and guiding new team members.
• The impact of a strong CVOR on daily operations and the potential consequences of non-compliance.
• Interactions with Ministry of Transportation (MTO) officers at weigh scales, emphasizing professionalism and respect.
• The company's commitment to maintaining clean and well-maintained vehicles and the positive effect that it has on the public's perception.
• Rod Oattes’ recognition as Eastern Ontario Driver of the Year and the criteria used for the award.
• Advice for aspiring truck drivers, emphasizing the importance of choosing a company that values its employees and offers mentorship opportunities.
• The benefits of Tomlinson's in-house training programs, specifically a new program on the horizon for driver certification renewals.
• An overview of Tomlinson’s Super Load program and its capabilities in moving large and oversized equipment.
• The difference between public sector and private sector approaches to safety and efficiency.
• The importance of proactive measures, continuous improvement, and networking within the trucking industry.

Key Takeaways:

• "The CVOR...is basically the right to operate commercial vehicles...on our Ontario roadways." - Mathew
• "We obtained an excellent carrier rating... [less than] 0.01% of all carriers" - Mathew
• "Now [we’re] leaning more towards the safety end of it. Get your loads, but stay safe." - Rod
• "Without that high standard of CVOR, then you've got trucks sitting." - Rod
• "Every clean inspection gives us points...we want those inspections." - Mathew
• "Amongst maybe 150,000 drivers, he was picked to be in on top of that." - Mathew on Rod's Driver of the Year award.
• "Try and pick one that's willing to stand behind their new employees...these are the guys that have the experience. They're there to help out." - Rod
• "Tomlinson is proud. We are not only able to do superloads, we are also able to teach and train people into acquiring a superload certification." - Mathew
• “Status quo will not keep us where we're at.” - Mathew
• “It’s not just driving for yourself anymore, it’s driving for the people around you now.” - Rod

Links:

• Tomlinson Group: https://tomlinsongroup.com/

Welcome to a very special episode of Red Army Radio featuring a Fireside Chat with senior leadership team members: Dana Lewis, Vice President of Human Resources; Adam Hendriks, Vice President for Strategic Implementation and Development; and CEO Ron Tomlinson. This episode offers an intimate look back at the past year, celebrating successes, acknowledging challenges, and exploring the exciting future of Tomlinson. 

Together, our guests delve into the company's three strategic goals: One Team, Operational Efficiency, and Leadership & Skills Development, and how these goals have shaped Tomlinson's growth. This insightful conversation unpacks how Tomlinson navigated this past year by doubling down on process improvements, strategic job selection, and a company-wide commitment to collaboration. The leadership team shares inspiring examples of cross-departmental cooperation and the tangible benefits of the "One Team" philosophy. Furthermore, they emphasize the importance of continuous improvement, adapting to the accelerating pace of change, and empowering employees to own their career development through ongoing training and mentorship. The episode concludes with a glimpse into innovative sustainability initiatives, including waste-to-energy projects and low-carbon concrete solutions. Above all, the team wishes all Tomlinson employees a “Happy Holidays,” and offers them their sincere appreciation for embodying our core value of being Driven, and getting the job done to the highest standards.

Episode Highlights:

• Unified collaboration across departments to achieve company goals.
• Continuous improvement through process optimization and strategic initiatives.
• Commitment to employee growth via training, mentorship, and career ownership.
• Emphasis on innovation and openness to new technologies.
• Focus on reducing environmental impact through innovative projects.
• Pilot project converting waste into clean energy for asphalt production.
• Commitment to sustainable materials through Tomlinson Sustainable Solutions.
• Encouraging career ownership and contributions beyond defined roles.
• Happy Holidays and Thank You!

Key Takeaways:

"We win together when we cooperate together. That's what winning feels like."

"Training needs to happen in the field. Classes polish skills, but real learning is on the job."

"Own your career. Have conversations with your supervisor. Keep pushing for growth."

"Being open to change and trying new things is how we push the team forward."

"The pace of change is getting faster. We must keep up and get ahead."

"Every little improvement multiplied across hundreds of machines makes a big difference."

"Strategy is choosing what to focus on.”"

"Our success comes from people stepping up and going beyond their defined roles."

"The most successful people act like everyone is their customer and give more than expected."

"We embrace those who push limits. More and more stuff is coming, and that's how we succeed."

“Happy holidays, everybody! Thanks for being driven and getting the job done to the highest standards this year! We wouldn't have had the success that we had without you this year. Thanks a lot!”

Links:

Tomlinson Group:  https://tomlinsongroup.com/

In this episode of Red Army Radio, host Francis Brazeau sits down with Megan Leahy and Dany Poulin to discuss mental health awareness, particularly during Mental Health Month in November. Megan and Dany share their perspectives on the importance of open communication and support within the workplace, emphasizing the need to destigmatize mental health challenges. They discuss practical strategies for employees and supervisors to create a more supportive and understanding environment.

The conversation explores the impact of mental health on individuals, highlighting the importance of recognizing signs and symptoms. Dany shares his experience fostering open communication within his team, encouraging employees to speak up without fear of judgment. Megan discusses the available resources, including the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which offers confidential support for various challenges, including mental health, financial, and legal advice. They also address the potential pitfalls of social media and the importance of finding healthy ways to decompress and manage stress.

Episode Highlights:

• The importance of discussing mental health in the workplace.
• Creating a supportive environment for employees to share their struggles.
• Addressing the stigma associated with mental health, especially for men.
• Utilizing the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) as a confidential resource.
• Recognizing the difference between everyday stress and deeper mental health challenges.
• The impact of social media on mental well-being and the importance of real-world connections.
• Practical tips for managing stress and anxiety, including hobbies and activities.
• The role of supervisors in listening and supporting their team members.
• The importance of self-care for both employees and supervisors.
• Tomlinson's commitment to building a culture of support and understanding.

Key Takeaways:

1. "Mental health is universal. Everyone experiences it, whether positive or negative. Talking about it is crucial."
2. "Creating a supportive environment requires open-door policies. Encourage employees to speak up."
3. "The stigma around mental health persists. Men especially struggle to admit problems. We must change that."
4. "Our Employee Assistance Program offers confidential support, from mental health to financial advice."
5. "Social media often shows only the good. Comparing yourself to others can spiral into negative emotions."
6. "Find hobbies to shift out of work mode. They help decompress and maintain mental well-being."
7. "Listening is powerful. Sometimes, all someone needs is an ear to lighten their burden."
8. "Don't be afraid to talk. Supervisors are there to listen, not judge. Communication solves many problems."
9. "Building a culture where struggling is okay is vital. We want employees to feel safe and supported."
10. "After listening to someone, take time for yourself. Decompress and recharge to maintain balance."

Links:

Tomlinson Group: https://tomlinsongroup.com/

This week on Red Army Radio, Francis welcomes Tomlinson Health and Safety Team members, Tracy Parks and Matt Szymczyk, for a deep dive into the critical role of health and safety within the construction industry. Sharing personal experiences, including the unique paths that led them to their current positions, Tracy and Matt explore not only the importance of safety in the workplace but also the relationships and culture-building efforts that ensure safety is an ingrained value across every project.

Throughout the conversation, our guests emphasize the often-overlooked challenges of getting workers to prioritize safety, noting that their own roles go far beyond enforcement. From recounting humorous on-site stories to addressing common misconceptions about the Health and Safety Team, they reflect on the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and leading by example. Whether it’s navigating the intricacies of safety regulations or building trust with construction crews, this dynamic duo offer listeners valuable insights on how to create and maintain safer, more effective work environments.

Episode Highlights:

• Tracy Parks and Matt Szymczyk’s roles at Tomlinson
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• Unexpected paths into health and safety roles
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• Importance of building relationships with crews
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• Balance of enforcement and mentorship
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• Use of humor to foster trust and compliance
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• Shift toward proactive safety culture at Tomlinson
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• COR Certification
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• Critical role of project management in safety
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• Flexibility in addressing on-site safety challenges
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• Integrating safety into both work and home life

"The success of Tomlinson is built on its people. Construction is very much a family."

"I've been in the construction industry since I was 15. Safety was ingrained in me."

"We're not safety officers; we're mentors. We're here to coach, not to catch mistakes."

"Building relationships is key. When safety comes on site, it should be a welcome sight."

"Take 60 seconds before starting a task. Look around. It could save a life."

"Ask if you're unsure. There's always someone with more experience who can help."

"COR is an audit of our safety program. It's about practicing what we preach."

"Safety starts from the top down. Project managers need to be present and involved."

"We're here to ensure everyone goes home safe at the end of the day."

Links:

Tomlinson Group:  https://tomlinsongroup.com/