Red Army Radio

Welcome to Red Army Radio — the official Tomlinson Group podcast celebrating the people, projects, and progress driving our business forward. In this year-in-review episode, host Francis Brazeau is joined by Adam Hendriks, Ryan Downing, and Ron Tomlinson to break down the biggest wins, toughest challenges, and most surprising moments in the past year.Together, they reflect on how Tomlinson teams responded to major external pressures — including the February tariff shock and unexpected technology setbacks — while still delivering standout results in construction, materials supply, environmental services, and logistics. The conversation highlights cross-divisional collaboration, frontline resilience, and innovations that are shaping the future of our operations.Ron shares a breakthrough sustainability milestone: producing green asphalt without natural gas or conventional fuels, a major step forward for low-carbon road building. Adam spotlights the Thunder Road project, a standout example of circular construction that used 100% recycled materials while maintaining performance standards.The group also dives into a fun and revealing “Myth vs. Reality” segment, clearing up common misconceptions in the industry — like the idea that Head Office only focuses on strategy, that winter is downtime, or that quality slows production. They also unpack the real story on AI in construction, emphasizing that artificial intelligence is being adopted as a productivity and decision-support tool, not a replacement for skilled people.To close, the team looks ahead to what’s next: expanding the salt business, launching a new conveyor system at Ontario Trap Rock, and exploring opportunities to offer Material Supply and Logistics (MSL) services to external customers.Episode HighlightsTariff Surprise & Industry ImpactHow February tariffs sent shockwaves through operations — and how Tomlinson teams rapidly adjusted forecasting and planning.Green Asphalt InnovationA sustainability win: creating asphalt without natural gas or conventional fuels, reducing emissions while maintaining quality.Thunder Road Recycled Materials A landmark construction project proving recycled materials can deliver top-tier results at full scale.Myth vs. Reality: Construction & Head OfficeDebunking myths about field vs. office roles, winter operations, and the connection between quality and productivity.AI in the Industry (Productivity, Not Replacement)Real examples of how AI supports contract evaluation, tendering, and data analysis to help teams work smarter.The Challenge Coin StoryThe origin of the core values challenge coin and how it reinforces recognition and appreciation across Tomlinson.Key Takeaways & QuotesResilience in Action“The thing I take away is that the Red Army just jumps right in and gets things done… it doesn't affect our business.”Innovation That Works“We were hoping it was going to work. We were happy when it did work.”Customer Strength Comes from the Field“The field is probably the greatest source of positive interactions with the customer side.”Quality Drives

Welcome to Red Army Radio! Today, Francis sits down with Rob Pierce and Rory Hughes from Tomlinson’s Marine Shipping and Logistics team. In this episode, we explore the massive world of shipping, dock development, and marine logistics from Ontario Trap Rock’s quarry operations in Bruce Mines to the evolving Universal Terminals site in Morrisburg. Rory shares how the team is transforming the Morrisburg dock property, remediating soils and preparing the six-acre dock and fifty acres of industrial land for full-scale development. Rob breaks down the complexities of moving thousands of tons of stone across the Great Lakes and the partnerships that make it possible, including Tomlinson’s joint vessel ownership with McKeil Marine. Together, they reveal what it takes to move millions of tons of material across North America’s waterways, the ingenuity behind new conveyor systems and dock expansions, and how teamwork and readiness turn unexpected opportunities into success stories. Episode Highlights Revitalizing the Site: How the team turned a fuel terminal into a modern marine logistics hub ready for large-scale development. The Power of Traprock: Why this dense, durable aggregate is in high demand for highways and rail lines across North America. Owning the Supply Chain: The strategic partnership with McKeil Marine that gives Tomlinson control from quarry to customer. Engineering Ingenuity: Installing a multi-kilometre conveyor under a highway to move material directly from the quarry to ships. Unexpected Opportunities: How the team helped deliver a massive grain dryer too large for road transport - proving readiness pays off. Smart Logistics: Using AI modeling to optimize shipping schedules, dock layouts, and product handling efficiency. Team Dedication: 24/7 coordination between quarry, docks, and marine carriers to keep shipments on schedule.  Key Takeaways “Sometimes it’s about touching the material less to ensure better quality.” “There’s not a whole bunch of stuff we can’t handle.” “Every time you talk to a grain farmer in eastern Ontario, they’re looking for more outlets for their product—and we want to be part of that solution.” “Never a dull day. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out, there’s another curveball that gets thrown your way.”  

Welcome to Red Army Radio! Today, Francis sits down with Project Manager Chadwick Haines and Superintendent Robin Malyon to talk about life on one of their larger projects — the reconstruction of Bank Street from Riverside to Heron. In this episode, we get into what it’s really like managing an integrated road, sewer, and utility project in the heart of the city — where every day brings a new surprise underground. Chadwick and Robin share how their team has kept things running smoothly through unexpected conflicts, deep excavations, and constant pedestrian traffic, all while keeping morale high and the work moving forward. They also open up about teamwork, learning lessons, and what it means to lead a crew that truly cares. From hidden “duck banks” to late-night concrete pours, this one’s packed with humour, honesty, and heart from two of Tomlinsons team members. Episode Highlights How Chadwick and Robin got into the construction industry. A behind-the-scenes look at the Bank Street project When unexpected duck banks forced the team to dig twelve feet deeper than planned. How keeping the same crews on site built communication and trust. Navigating pedestrians, traffic pinball, and unexpected changes.  Shoutitng out all the team members that make this project run so smoothly. The stress of the first change order — and learning to stay calm through daily surprises. Robin’s lessons in patience and mentorship with new team members. The power of collaboration with Robinson Consultants and the City of Ottawa. The Chipotle wrap. Key Takeaways “Stuff comes up, we find a solution, we move on.” “On this job we have over one hundred and ten CRs so far… over one hundred and sixty changes.” “You can’t ask for more in a superintendent.” “It’s the most fun I’ve ever had before on a job… I’m gonna be sad when this job ends.” “I think patience — we deal with a lot of younger people these days and just taking time to sit down with them and explain stuff.” “We had maybe thirty meters of pipe in… and then there was another duck bank” “Any problem you need a solution to, we can find it.” 

Welcome to Red Army Radio! Today, Francis sits down with Andrew Karam, Kaylish Henry, and Matthew Young-Davies from Tomlinson’s engineering team. In this episode, we dive into the world of temporary and permanent structures, the challenges of shoring and piling, and what it’s really like to be the in-house engineers behind some of Tomlinson’s most complex projects. Andrew shares how the team has grown from a one-person operation into an internal consulting group serving bridge, shoring, and infrastructure projects across the company. Kaylish and Matt talk about their paths from summer students to engineers-in-training, and how they’re applying classroom knowledge in the real world. Together, they reveal why having an in-house engineering makes us more productive, while also driving innovation on site. From terrifying excavation rescues to creative re-use of bridge girders, this episode showcases the ingenuity, judgment, and teamwork that power Tomlinson’s engineering solutions. Episode Highlights: Andrew’s nine-year journey from sole engineer to team lead. Kaylish’s start as a summer student and her path toward her P.Eng. Matt’s move from survey to engineering and his first major design projects. The difference between formwork and falsework—explained simply. Why internal engineering saves time, money, and avoids costly revisions. A near-disaster excavation project and how underpinning saved the day. Designing a massive heated enclosure for winter canal rehabilitation in Kingston. Team insights on choosing steel vs. concrete  The most satisfying part of being an engineering Key Takeaways: “Eight hundred thousand to a million pounds of force down - which is terrifying because it’s supposed to be on rock, and it’s not.” “It was a really cool slash terrifying project… but we got it done.” “I just really love understanding how things work on a fundamental level.” “Just going to site and seeing everything that you’ve built… that’s what makes me tick.” “We do structural engineering for everyone… come to us with all your needs and we’ll get it done.”  

Welcome to Red Army Radio! Today, Francis sits down with Derek Thomas our Aggregates Sales Manager and Kevin Bowes, Scale Operator, who’s been part of the Tomlinson team for nearly three decades. In this episode, we explore how automation is transforming customer service, the logistics of getting products from quarry to job site, and the teamwork that keeps our projects running smoothly. Derek explains how the sales team works with everyone from homeowners to major contractors to match each job with the right products. Kevin walks us through life at the scale house, from streamlining truck turn-around times to some of the wildest things he’s seen in 18 years at the scales. Together, they highlight how Tomlinson is embracing technology, expanding product offerings, and keeping customer satisfaction at the heart of everything we do. From large-scale automation to interesting homeowner requests, this episode offers a behind the scenes look at how one of the region’s busiest aggregate operations delivers both speed and service. Tune in for real world stories, operational insights, and a few laughs. Episode Highlights: Kevin’s 28-year career path from loader operator to scale lead. Derek’s decade in aggregate sales and approach to building long-term client relationships. How scale automation has cut truck processing from minutes to seconds. New product offerings, from salt to specialty products and why they matter to customers. Real success stories – such as 873 trucks going through the scales in one day The role of Tomlinson’s quality control lab in keeping products up to spec. Creative problem-solving, from rush racetrack builds to multi-home stone deliveries. The future of scale tech: kiosks, cloud access, and improved customer data tools. Key Takeaways “How can we get our customers to their job quicker, efficiently, and safely? That’s the goal.” “Once the customer is set up, they just run all day, they don’t have to talk to anybody, they just go.” “Our lab… I’d eat my lunch in there.” “Same day deliveries - we’re trying to make sure we’re available and have the trucking to do that.” “Eight hundred seventy-three tickets in one day - and no lineup.” “It’s too easy, just make the call, and we can make it happen.” 

Welcome to Red Army Radio! In this episode, Rob Pierce hosts a special roundtable conversation with senior leaders across the Tomlinson Group to reflect on the first half of 2025. Joined by Adam Hendriks, Graziela Girardi, Francis Brazeau, and Ron Tomlinson, the group covers strategy, technology, market conditions, and what’s ahead for the Red Army. From AI and automation to project wins and cross-team collaboration, this town hall offers a clear snapshot of the pulse of the business and where we’re heading together as One Team.  Episode Highlights: Rob and Ron reflect on how internal alignment and better communication are driving performance. Graciela shares construction wins, including the Ottawa Hospital project and a record-setting winter for equipment utilization. The group talks AI, automation, and how new tools are saving time, boosting safety, and enhancing customer value. Francis spotlights innovations in concrete mix optimization  A  look at market conditions: interest rates, housing starts, and regional slowdowns. The importance of internal customer service and why breaking down silos is key to success. The group highlights the exceptional work of field teams, the energy of summer students, and the strong collaboration happening across divisions.   Key Takeaways: “We have lots of great teams. When they connect and collaborate, it multiplies the business. “If you touch a smartphone, tablet, or computer—AI will change how you work.” "The Aggregates team took a real leap forward in putting it [automation] on the most complicated plant first." “Utilization this winter was the highest we’ve seen in 10 years.” "You have to keep evolving and changing. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out—the game changes." “We're a longstanding business—but that doesn’t mean we don’t need to challenge our processes.”  “Strategy isn’t separate from the business—what you’re doing is the strategy." 

Welcome to Red Army Radio! Today, Francis sits down with Tyler Craig, AI Program Manager at Tomlinson. In this episode, the conversation takes a deep dive into the evolving role of artificial intelligence in construction and how Tomlinson is leading the charge. Tyler shares his unconventional journey into tech, the company’s early adoption of AI, and how it's transforming workflows across the business.From the risks of lagging behind to the practical applications of AI—from site safety to contract analysis—this episode offers a comprehensive look at how AI is reshaping one of the most traditional industries. Tune in to hear about what's possible now, what’s on the horizon, and how employees can be part of this exciting shift.Episode Highlights:Tyler shares his unconventional career path and how he ended up at Tomlinson.How Tomlinson supported his formal training in computer science while working full time.The company’s early and strategic implementation of ChatGPT and other AI tools.Five key AI focus areas in construction: computer vision, NLP, robotics, generative AI, and machine learning.Real use cases including jobsite safety monitoring, automated tender analysis, and digital twins.The growing importance of data maturity and governance.The balance between innovation and risk in an industry slow to adopt tech.The ethical and creative implications of AI in arts, media, and the workplace.Why employee ideas and engagement are vital to building effective AI solutions.Key Takeaways:"This company will help grow people that recognize they want to grow and prove it.""We immediately created an app in Teams so everyone could get on ChatGPT—seven months before copilot existed.""If we push an AI tool out into the field and it's adding steps to their day, then we failed.""We're now dealing with large amounts of data leaving the source system... and every large language model to date has been jailbroken.""We don't want to just push stuff out. We want to hear from people and co-create use cases.""I don’t want to get to a place where we’re hanging an AI-generated Mona Lisa in our house and pretending it’s the same.""Try it at home. Ask what you can cook with what's in your fridge. You’ll learn how these systems work."

Welcome to Red Army Radio! Today, Francis sits down with Joe Skrepnek and Stephane Dallaire, construction managers at Tomlinson. In this episode, the group dives into what it means to be a construction manager, exploring daily responsibilities, key aspects of the role, memorable moments, and much more.Joe and Stephane discuss essential skills for their role, their journey to becoming construction managers, the importance of teamwork, prioritizing tasks, and recognizing their team. They also highlight the significance of safety on job sites and how AI is being integrated into their field. Tune in to gain valuable insights and hear firsthand experiences from our experts.Episode Highlights:Joe Spreknek and Stephane Dallaire share their backgrounds and their roles as construction managers.The importance of problem-solving and quick thinking in their day-to-day work.Fun and memorable moments from their careers.The value of teamwork in construction management.The largest projects they’ve ever worked on.Utilizing the collective knowledge within the Tomlinson team.Promoting health and safety by being on-site with their teams.The role of AI in modern construction management.Key Takeaways:"Somebody jumped our fence, climbed into an 80-ton crawler crane.""It's difficult, but there are great rewards and lots of interesting stories.""You have to really build that team mentality.""We backed concrete right up through the entire sanitary line.""Usually I'd be looking after about 20 to 30 projects a year.""I was blown away at how committed the field staff is to getting the job done."

This week on Red Army Radio, Francis sits down with Brock Tipping and Jad Ziadat, summer students from Carleton University working in construction coordination at Tomlinson. They discuss their backgrounds, including Brock’s transition from landscaping and Jad’s initial experience with shoring and piling. Brock and Jad share insights on the importance of on-site experience and the problem-solving skills gained from their engineering degrees. Brock talks about estimation and what that role was like for him. They highlight the supportive onboarding experience at Tomlinson and the guidance from experienced colleagues. They also talk about managing priorities, exciting summer projects, and offer advice for future summer students. Finally, they discuss their future plans and the best lessons learned during their internships. Don't miss this episode packed with insights and experiences from our summer students. Tune in to Red Army Radio to get the inside scoop on what it's like to work at Tomlinson. Episode Highlights: Brock Tipping and Jad Ziadat, summer students from Carleton University, discuss their roles as construction coordination students at Tomlinson. Brock talks about his transition to construction coordination and the valuable lessons he has learned about production and job bidding. Jad emphasizes the importance of on-site experience to fully understand the scope of the work. The importance of problem-solving skills gained from their engineering degrees. Their onboarding experience at Tomlinson, where foremen and managers are always happy to answer questions and provide guidance. The wealth of experienced colleagues they can turn to for advice. Exciting projects they are currently working on this summer. Advice for other summer students coming to Tomlinson and the significance of teamwork in the company culture. Their plans after school and what they hope to achieve before finishing their internships. Key Takeaways  “You're not treated as a student; people actually take the time out of their day to explain things to you.” “Once I saw that you can be on site, manage, and have input on a project – this is definitely what I want to do.” “You can go on a sewer and water job, a paving job, shoring and piling, and it’s all different.” “Every day is different for a construction coordinator, with lots of tracking and keeping the job flowing.” “When I started university, I had no idea what I wanted to do or where I saw myself going.” “I went into engineering because I really enjoyed making things at home, seeing how things are made, and actually doing things yourself.” “You come here and see Tomlinson dumpsters, Tomlinson bins, trucks – that’s something that really jumped out at me. I want to be a part of the big show.”    

This week on Red Army Radio, Francis sits down with Scott Allen and Cody Stephens from our network and security team to dive deep into the world of cyber security. Our guests share their backgrounds and what inspired them to pursue careers in this critical field. Leveraging their extensive experience, Scott and Cody provide valuable insights into  ransomware, the myriad ways hackers can infiltrate your systems and even get into government-funded hacking.  They describe how security is like an onion, with multiple layers working together to keep us safe. They recount stories about the testing methods they employ, such as phishing tests, and discuss the consequences when these tests are failed. Throughout the conversation, Scott and Cody outline the various precautions that can be taken to protect data, offer practical tips, give shout-outs to team members who excel in cyber security and even share some of the crazy ways they’ve seen hackers try to get data. Don't miss this episode packed with "byte"-sized wisdom. Tune in to Red Army Radio to get the inside scoop on staying a step ahead of cyber threats! Episode Highlights: Scott and Cody share their backgrounds and why they decided to get into IT They touch on the different types of security tests conducted and precautions taken to protect teams. Insights into the consequences of ransomware attacks and what to do if you fall victim. The pair discuss the increasing sophistication of cyber-attacks and the need for robust defenses. They share safe practices for online activities such as “Don't access your banking apps at a Starbucks or a random motel" Layers of security and the importance of not blindly trusting vendor-provided solutions.  Key Takeaways "Our firewall sees over 1 million events a day"  "I could spend $20 and get 1,000 compromised computers" "That vape had a USB drive, giving an attacker remote access to their computer" “Even if you pay the ransom, it doesn't mean they're out of your network" "One of the big misconceptions of security is that we're here to hinder any production" "If you get a phone call and it's just dead air - hang up" "Gotta fight fire with fire, these attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated" "Users are really the front line" 

Welcome to a special edition of Red Army Radio! Usually, we bring you educational content and spotlight our amazing team members, but today we've got some exciting news that you won't want to miss! Stick around until the end for some awesome giveaway info!

This week on Red Army Radio, Francis sits down with Becky Gilmer and John Dwyer from our Industrial Waste team for an in-depth look at the essential work they do. Becky and John share their experiences and shed light on the operations of an industrial waste facility. They explain the types of materials they handle, how they treat hazardous waste, and the importance of proper disposal. You'll hear fascinating stories about some of the unique items they receive, including intriguing WWI relics, and learn about the types of waste they cannot accept. The conversation also covers the stringent regulations they follow and the critical role of compliance in their operations. Becky and John highlight the dedicated efforts of their 24/7 team and their collaboration with the Kingston division to serve the eastern portion of Ontario. They discuss innovative projects and the reasons behind their passion for this challenging yet rewarding field. Expect to be entertained by tales of unexpected encounters, including John’s memorable raccoon adventure. Episode highlights: Introduction to Becky and John and their roles within the Industrial Waste team Overview of the materials accepted and the treatment of hazardous waste Stories about unique and historical items that come through the facility Encounters with wildlife and other unexpected elements in their daily work (with video to prove it) The unpredictable and varied nature of their job Innovative projects and the dedication of their round-the-clock team Key takeaways: “Every time there's a new waste that comes in, we’re out taking a sample of it – we need to know what we’re dealing with.”“It’s a busy facility.” “Our team operates 24/7.”“With us and the Kingston division, we cover the entire eastern portion of Ontario.” “Every day is different – John has an amazing raccoon story he can share with us.” "It’s a dirty job, it’s a hard job, the guys have a lot of fun."“I turned around and started chasing it, because that's what you do.” 

This week on Red Army Radio, Francis sits down with Ryan Andre, Quality Control Manager at Tomlinson Ready Mix, to explore the world of concrete. Drawing from his 18 years of experience with the Tomlinson team, Ryan shares his journey in the industry, from his beginnings as a Quality Control Manager to the influence of his family on his passion for concrete. Throughout their conversation, Francis and Ryan discuss the past, present, and future of concrete, highlighting its ubiquitous presence and daily usage around the world. They delve into the durability and sustainability of concrete, examining its lifecycle and sustainable production with local materials. The discussion also covers the focus on low carbon-intensive mixes, exploring how they are created and how Tomlinson Ready Mix collaborates with customers to design mixes that meet specific project goals.  Episode Highlights: ·         Ryan’s introduction and extensive background in the concrete industry ·         The reasons why concrete is the preferred building material ·         The locally sourced materials used in our mixes; all sourced within 400 km or less ·         Sustainability in the concrete industry and Tomlinson Ready Mix's ongoing efforts to enhance sustainability ·         The evolution of concrete mix designs from past to present ·         An exploration of supplementary cementing materials   Key Takeaways:  “My families in it, my father was in concrete, my brothers in it, my wife's in construction” “It's a byproduct of the steal – it becomes a bonus product for our concrete industry” “Slag cement is the number one supplementary cementing material in Ontario”  “What we’re trying to do is lower that Global Warming Potential per cubic meter” “There are certain elements you're pouring in a project that we can make quite a bit greener” “You make an overall carbon budget to hit those targets, it’s the ideal way to do it” “Upfront if you were to just visually look at the mix, you’re not going to see any difference”  

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.” - RodLinks:Tomlinson Group: https://tomlinsongroup.com/