In the dynamic world of maintenance and construction, where precision and reliability are paramount, KPIC Maintenance Services has carved out a niche as a trusted partner for companies seeking comprehensive solutions. With a robust portfolio that spans from routine maintenance to complex construction projects, KPIC offers an unparalleled blend of expertise, safety, and client-focused service.
KPIC Maintenance Services stands out in the maintenance industry by offering a wide array of services that cater to various client needs. At the heart of the company’s offerings is a commitment to ensuring that all aspects of a client’s operational requirements are met efficiently and effectively. KPIC’s services include routine repairs, ongoing maintenance, preventative measures, and troubleshooting—each designed to minimize downtime and maximize clients’ operational efficiency.
One of KPIC’s key strengths lies in its ability to manage both brownfield and greenfield projects. Brownfield projects involve retrofitting and upgrading existing facilities, often requiring a deep understanding of the current infrastructure and the ability to enhance it without disrupting ongoing operations. On the other hand, greenfield projects, which are brand new constructions, allow KPIC to showcase its expertise in building from the ground up. This dual capability is particularly beneficial for clients who need a versatile partner capable of handling diverse project types.
As a member of the FWS Group of Companies, KPIC benefits from the resources and support of a larger organization. This affiliation allows the firm to take on projects of varying scopes. For larger, more complex projects that exceed KPIC’s internal thresholds, the FWS Group steps in as general contractor, with KPIC providing specialized services. This seamless integration ensures that clients receive the best possible service, regardless of project size.
One of the primary benefits of working with KPIC is the extensive experience the company brings to every project. The team at KPIC is composed of seasoned professionals, many of whom have been in the industry for over 25 years, a depth of experience that translates into a high level of expertise that is invaluable to clients. Whether it’s troubleshooting a complex issue or implementing a preventative maintenance plan, KPIC’s team has likely encountered a similar challenge before and knows how to address it efficiently.
KPIC is not just about delivering services; it is about sharing knowledge, as Director Operations Tim Robertson explains. The company places a strong emphasis on mentoring and continuous improvement. Veteran employees actively mentor younger team members, ensuring that the next generation of workers is well prepared to uphold KPIC’s high standards. This mentorship is more than just a transfer of skills; it’s about instilling a deep understanding of the industry’s nuances and teaching the “tricks of the trade” that can only be learned through years of experience.
Open communication is another cornerstone of KPIC’s client relationships. By maintaining clear and ongoing dialogue with its clients, KPIC ensures that all parties are aligned throughout the project lifecycle. This transparency helps in managing expectations, addressing concerns promptly, and ensuring that the outcome meets or exceeds client expectations.
The true strength of KPIC lies in its people, and the company’s workforce is a well-balanced mix of experienced professionals and younger workers who bring energy and new perspectives to the team. Currently, KPIC employs approximately 90 field workers, supported by 12 to 14 management and administrative staff. This team is primarily composed of millwrights, welders, and electricians—skilled tradespeople who are essential to the successful execution of KPIC’s projects.
What sets KPIC’s team apart is its collective commitment to working together toward common goals, says Robertson. This team-oriented approach is evident in the way projects are handled—each team member plays a crucial role, and everyone’s contributions are valued. The experienced journeymen not only lead by example but also take on the responsibility of mentoring apprentices. KPIC’s apprenticeship program is an integral part of this process, ensuring that apprentices receive the training they need to progress in their careers while contributing to the company’s success.
The mentorship culture at KPIC goes beyond technical training. It also involves teaching younger employees how to manage and facilitate projects, navigate client relationships, and develop a problem-solving mindset. This holistic approach to employee development ensures that KPIC’s workforce remains strong, skilled, and capable of meeting future challenges.
KPIC’s company culture is shaped by its affiliation with the larger FWS Group of Companies, which provides several advantages, particularly in terms of employee benefits. Indeed, one of the standout aspects of KPIC’s culture is its commitment to employee well-being. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes group benefits, an employee ownership program, and a pension plan. These benefits are designed to attract and retain top talent, ensuring that KPIC’s team remains motivated and engaged.
In addition to these traditional benefits, KPIC has implemented innovative programs that promote employee wellness. One such program reimburses employees for personal fitness expenses. Whether it’s purchasing running shoes or maintaining a gym membership, KPIC supports its employees in staying healthy and active. This not only improves employee morale but also contributes to a more productive and focused workforce.
KPIC’s commitment to employee development is also evident in its approach to training and safety. The company offers a wide range of training programs designed to ensure that all employees are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to perform their jobs safely and effectively. This includes training in areas such as rigging, confined spaces, fall arrest systems, and more. Safety is a top priority at KPIC, and this focus is reflected in the company’s rigorous training protocols and ongoing safety initiatives.
Naturally, safety is also a fundamental aspect of KPIC’s operations. The company employs a dual approach to safety, combining the corporate safety guidelines of the FWS Group with its internal safety protocols, and this comprehensive safety framework ensures that all employees are well-prepared to handle the challenges they face in the field.
Training, of course, is the cornerstone of KPIC’s safety strategy. Before any project begins, employees undergo job hazard analysis and pre-job hazard assessments to identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them. Additionally, KPIC conducts weekly toolbox talks, which are essential for keeping safety top of mind. These talks are not limited to the field; even office staff participate in them, reinforcing the idea that safety is everyone’s responsibility.
“One of the ways KPIC promotes a proactive safety culture is through our ‘good catch’ program,” says Robertson. “In this program, near-misses are referred to as ‘good catches,’ emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing potential hazards before they result in incidents.” These good catches are reviewed and discussed openly, allowing the entire team to learn from them and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
KPIC’s operations are not confined to a single region. The company’s geographical reach extends from the Vancouver port in British Columbia to Eastern Ontario, with ongoing projects in regions such as Hamilton and Southern Alberta. KPIC’s ability to operate across such a wide area is a testament to its logistical capabilities and its understanding of different regional markets.
In recent years, KPIC has also begun expanding into the U.S. market, particularly in the Upper Midwest. This expansion into states like North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Montana represents a significant growth opportunity for the company. However, KPIC recognizes that doing business in the U.S. presents unique challenges, including different regulatory environments and business practices. KPIC is committed to overcoming these hurdles by taking a thoughtful and strategic approach to its U.S. expansion, ensuring that the firm maintains its high standards of safety and service.
Success at KPIC is measured not only in terms of financial performance but in the safety and satisfaction of employees and clients. One of the company’s significant achievements, as part of the FWS Group, is reaching 200 million hours of no lost time injuries in 2021. This milestone is a powerful indicator of KPIC’s commitment to safety and ability to execute projects without compromising the well-being of the workforce.
For KPIC, success is also about client satisfaction. The company takes pride in completing projects on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality. Every successful project is a testament to KPIC’s dedication to clients and the team’s ability to deliver on its promises. This client-centered approach has earned KPIC a reputation for reliability and excellence in the maintenance and construction industry.
The industry itself is undergoing significant changes, and KPIC is at the forefront of adapting to these shifts. One of the most pressing challenges is the loss of “tribal knowledge” as experienced workers retire—knowledge, often gained over decades, that is invaluable and difficult to replace. KPIC is addressing this challenge by actively mentoring younger employees and ensuring that critical knowledge is passed down through structured training programs. Another challenge is the generational shift in the workforce; younger workers may approach their roles differently than their predecessors, often relying on technology and new methodologies. While these changes can lead to greater efficiency, they can also result in gaps in fundamental knowledge and skills. KPIC is working to bridge these gaps by providing comprehensive training that combines traditional methods with modern techniques, ensuring that its workforce is well rounded and capable of meeting the demands of the industry.
Looking ahead, KPIC’s plans for the future are centred around continuous growth and development. The company is focused on expanding its operations, particularly in regions like Southern Alberta and Northwestern Ontario, where there is strong demand for its services. KPIC is also committed to investing in the future of the workforce, ensuring that it continues to build on both its wealth of knowledge and its legacy of success.
