Preserving capacity, General Tom Lawson, Chief of the Defence Staff, Keys to Canadian SAR
Issue link: http://vanguardcanada.uberflip.com/i/1540397
I N N O V A T O R S & T R A I L B L A Z E R S W H AT I S T H E O N E T H I N G T H AT H A S YO U M O S T F I R E D U P TO DAY? I'm particularly excited about the pending momentum for change in our great country and renewed resolve to protect our national sovereignty. I believe we live in one of the best countries in the world. Canada is worth safeguarding, and I'm excited to see our government make responsible commitments to protect and enhance our identity and economy. I think there is the potential for strong unifying themes to emerge and for the construction industry to play a key role in that exciting future for Canada. H OW I S YO U R O RG A N I ZAT I O N C H A N G I N G T H E G A M E W I T H I N YO U R I N D U S T RY S E CTO R? Innovation and game-changing leadership have been ingrained in PCL's DNA from humble beginnings in 1906 under the leadership of Ernie Poole; to becoming 100% employee owned in 1977; to the defining culture of passion, innovation and collaboration that – in partnership with our clients – has helped shape the unique fabric of Canada from coast to coast to coast. PCL continues to drive innovation through Smart Construction technologies, advanced delivery models, and an accountable ownership culture that consistently exceeds client expectations. This leadership is evident in current defence projects like the Land Based Test Facility in Halifax and the Strategic Tanker Main Operating Base (East) in Trenton. W H AT I S T H E B E S T A DV I C E YO U R E C E I V E D? The best advice I received was from a trusted friend and advisor who emphasized to me the importance of one-of-a- kind moments and ensuring that when those opportunities present themselves (and aren't likely to materialize again), to lean-in and show up as you only get one chance to get it right. This applies to my personal life when I'm entertaining excuses to not be present for important events or life moments, and it also applies to business when those rare or unique opportunities materialize and there are competing priorities trying to distract you. The current opportunity for the construction industry to support Canada's defence and security priorities is one of those unique opportunities. SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND DISTRICT MANAGER, TORONTO PCL CONSTRUCTION GEOFF HOWE For the interview, see page 30

