The CCI Group of Companies has grown from two to over two hundred over the past twenty years by offering intentional service to its clients and committing to a company culture of collaboration, innovation, and integrity. They emphasize providing a comprehensive package, from concept engineering through to the end of construction and final permit signoff requirements. Their diverse skill set is quite unique for a company of this size, often surprising clients with the breadth of knowledge possessed by their team.
The group of companies comprises:
• CCI Inc. – Canadian Engineering, Geotechnical, Environmental, Forestry, and Construction Management
• CCI and Associates Inc. – US Engineering, Geotechnical, Environmental, and Construction Management
• EPiC Solutions Inc. – Design Build Pipeline Construction
• Geoterra Integrated Resource Systems Inc. – Canadian Forestry and Construction Management in the Resource Sector
• Progress Drilling USA – Geotechnical and Environmental Drilling Contractor
They take pride in the diversity within their group and their capability to contribute to project scope, regardless of size, in the energy, infrastructure, or resource industries.
Journey Over the Past 20 Years
Founded in 2004, CCI has expanded its services and geographic reach over the past two decades. Initially practicing only in Alberta, the company has grown to have multiple offices and operations in nearly every province as well as throughout the USA. Key milestones include the acquisition of specialized companies that facilitated growth in new industries, the establishment of new divisions and companies, including their expansion into the USA, and the successful completion of major projects. Significant turning points involved diversifying service offerings to enter new markets and implementing innovative technologies or techniques to enhance work efficiency in existing industries.
Canada’s Best Managed Program Recognition
Established in 1993, Canada’s Best Managed Companies is the country’s leading business awards program, recognizing excellence in Canadian-headquartered companies with revenues of $50 million CA or greater. Every year, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies compete for this designation through a rigorous and independent evaluation process assessing their management abilities and practices.
What makes the Canada’s Best Managed Companies program unique?
• It focuses on Canadian-headquartered or Canadian-owned and managed companies.
• It recognizes overall business performance and sustained growth.
• It acknowledges the efforts of the entire organization.
• It measures more than just financial performance.
CCI’s consistent recognition as a platinum member of the Canada’s Best Managed Companies program is attributed to its commitment to quality, innovation, and client satisfaction. The company’s strong corporate culture, continuous improvement, and strategic growth initiatives have also played a crucial role in this achievement.
Evolution and Growth
Since its inception, CCI has evolved from a small engineering firm into a multidisciplinary organization with a broad range of services. The company has expanded its workforce, client base, and embraced new technologies to enhance service delivery and maintain high standards of excellence. However, the key to expanding services has been attentiveness to client needs and a genuine desire to serve them. This approach has fostered a company culture of “yes, we can help with that,” followed by problem-solving as needs arise. They have developed numerous professional relationships that enable effective scope sharing on larger projects to meet client expectations.
Looking toward the future is vital for CCI’s growth, with a focus on identifying emerging trends and understanding what may influence business decisions in the coming years. Realistic evaluations of the future, coupled with a strong strategic direction, have allowed CCI to make strategic acquisitions and enhance employee capabilities to handle complex niche work while continually delivering for clients.
Notable Projects
CCI has had numerous remarkable clients and experiences in the energy and resource sectors over the past 20 years, with a dedicated team striving to provide quality service across diverse projects. Some project summaries include:
Fraser River South Arm Crossing Upgrade Project (2009 Through 2011)
This project involved the installation of two pipelines, one NPS 20 and one NPS 24, located in the industrial area of Richmond, Greater Vancouver Area. CCI Inc. was retained by North American Pipelines Inc. (NAPI) to design both pipeline pull sections. The project faced various challenges related to pullback design and implementation, including navigating around nearby businesses and crossing roads and a railway. The pullback sections measured approximately 1400 m long, with significant overbend heights, and were successfully implemented in the field without major issues.
Capital Regional District (CRD) Core Area Wastewater Treatment Program (2012 through 2014)
For the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant by CRD, Michels Canada was the prime contractor tasked with constructing a submarine force main using Horizontal Directional Drilling. CCI Inc. completed all detailed engineering design for the HDD construction component. This project involved a nearly 1000 m long HDD crossing that installed a NPS 42 pipeline within Victoria. Various challenges included complex geotechnical conditions and proximity to populated areas. CCI’s scope included engineering design services and support during construction.
Praire Creek Mine, Winter Road & All Season Road (2023 through 2026)
NorZinc Ltd. aims to reactivate the Prairie Creek Mine in traditional Dene territory, with current access limited to air travel. Phase 1 – Winter Road construction is underway to support the subsequent design and construction of Phase II – All Season Road. CCI has provided support for both phases, focusing on road and terrain stability. Their work has involved geotechnical engineering and inspections, with approvals obtained from an Independent Technical Review Panel (ITRP) for the Winter Road design and construction plans.
EDML Expansion (2019 through 2022)
The EDML expansion involved installing two additional NPS 48 pipelines parallel to sections of the Edson Mainline system in Alberta. This project consisted of approximately 85 km of pipeline to enhance capacity between two compressor stations. CCI was responsible for route terrain analysis, geotechnical investigations, detailed trenchless design, and HDD construction management.
Dawson – Groundbirch Pipeline Project (2020 through 2021)
This project involved the engineering, procurement, and construction of a NPS 36 natural gas pipeline and associated facilities in Blueberry Rivers First Nation Territory. The project scope included extensive pipeline installations and directional drill bores.
Role of Innovation
Innovation is a cornerstone of CCI’s success. The company invests in its people and the development of strategies and techniques to enhance knowledge and service offerings. Continuous evaluation of internal processes ensures that the best tools are available to provide nimble service. CCI’s willingness to adapt quickly and its commitment to improving offerings have significantly contributed to the company’s growth, allowing them to remain at the forefront of the industry and deliver high-quality, efficient services.
Community Contribution and Future Goals
CCI contributes to local communities by creating employment opportunities, supporting community initiatives, and implementing sustainable practices. Over the next five years, their goals include expanding service offerings, enhancing sustainability efforts, and maintaining a focus on innovation to drive growth and remain competitive. The company actively participates in and sponsors various community initiatives, such as running and biking events, and other charitable contributions.
Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility
The CCI Group of Companies is committed to being environmentally conscientious. The organization leverages its expertise in the forestry industry and carbon budget modeling to calculate its carbon footprint. To offset this footprint, CCI plans to plant trees near each office, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability as an example for employees and clients. The company promotes environmental awareness at all offices and worksites, emphasizing recycling and the use of reusable materials.
In August 2021, CCI partnered with the Tsuut’ina Nation, Natural Resources Canada, and Wild & Pine BioPrism to plant 10,000 trees on Tsuut’ina lands, effectively removing the equivalent of 112 passenger vehicles from the road. The company believes that contributions in the forestry sector are crucial for environmental safety and sustainable practices, significantly reducing fire risks while efficiently managing resource harvesting and replanting.
Indigenous Engagement and Relationships
CCI believes that collaboration and meaningful engagement foster long-term trusted relationships. The company operates under principles of integrity, respect, honesty, and open communication. As part of its approach to Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, CCI aims to build awareness of Indigenous cultures and traditions among its employees. All new employees and contractors undergo Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation Orientation, with ongoing cultural awareness training required.
CCI is dedicated to maximizing the participation of local Indigenous businesses and workforce, working with clients and communities to integrate steps that enhance Indigenous community interests. The company tracks and reports its activities to ensure fair consideration of local Indigenous businesses and workers.
20th Anniversary Milestone
The 20th anniversary is a significant milestone for CCI, symbolizing its journey of growth, resilience, and success. When the company was founded, the current leadership team had yet to understand the complexities of the industry. After joining the company post-university, they discovered a passion for the industries served, recognizing innovation and commitment to growth as key operational factors. The 20-year milestone serves as a testament to CCI’s dedication to excellence and innovation, motivating the team to continue striving for future achievements.
For more information, please visit www.ccisolutions.ca
