Your future starts... where Canada begins - Windsor Essex Economic Development Corporation
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Perspe ctive Windsor-Essex | 2 0 1 9
TM
Your future starts...
where Canada begins…
Windsor-Essex, Ontario Canada
Elizabeth Moses, Windsor Mold Group Dr. Nadia Al-Aasm, Cabana Dental Adam Frye, WeTech Alliance
Passionate, Empowered, Rooted An entrepreneur discovers a reason to smile Designing solutions that helps tech businesses to grow
Perspective TM
3
Your Future Starts... Where Canada Begins
– Windsor-Essex, Ontario Canada PMS286 PMS432
C ities and regions are rarely static.
They’re fluid... they change... they
evolve. The great regions take the
world along with them. Great regions
inspire, they have a voice that is distinct.
And Windsor-Essex achieves. They
build the things that build things. It’s
the automation capital of Canada. That’s
why over 1,000 manufacturers in the
region have a particular expertise in
commercial Canada, U.S. border crossing,
handling one third of all Canada – US
trade. That’s over 300 million dollars per
day. And with the brand new Gordie Howe
International Bridge under construction,
So Windsor-Essex is busy... inspiring,
creating and achieving. That’s what sets
it apart. But for the moment, Windsor-
Essex is taking a break from being humble.
The stories you’ll read here celebrate
They become known to the world for automotive, aerospace, food processing, generating thousands of jobs, Windsor-Essex those talented individuals and companies
something. And a day in a great region, is pharmaceutical and medical devices. is ready for the future. Especially since ninety who have chosen Windsor-Essex as their
time well spent. Windsor-Essex checks Windsor-Essex achieves through percent of Windsor-Essex manufacturers home. Each one of them has the talent
all those boxes and more. Windsor- discovery. It’s home to the University of export globally – to the United States, and drive to be successful almost anywhere
Essex is one of those great regions. Windsor, St. Clair College and several Mexico, Europe, China, India and more. So else in the world and they’ve chosen
Windsor-Essex is known the world major research institutes, attracting it should come as no surprise that Windsor- Windsor-Essex. As you look forward to
over for its capabilities, but it doesn’t talent from all over the globe. And Essex is the expert in border logistics. a life of promise and opportunity, read
always stand on a soapbox to be heard. speaking of the globe, Windsor-Essex is Perhaps most astounding is that all this on to find out why your future could
It’s humble that way. But don’t let the begining of Canada, located at the growth is meaningful. With the arrival of very well start where Canada begins.
the modesty fool you. Windsor-Essex centre of the Great Lakes region, North major players like financial and tech giant
inspires – those that visit and those that America’s manufacturing heartland. Quicken Loans (and its 100+ jobs), the
live there. Windsor-Essex has talent – And for a mid-sized city / region, region’s infrastructure requires constant
world-class talent that attracts more of Windsor-Essex posts big city numbers. attention. The upcoming new regional
the same. And Windsor-Essex is focused, Half of North America’s population is hospital is one of the many proactive
embracing change and discovering within a days drive of Windsor-Essex. The measures ensuring Windsor-Essex is www.choosewindsoressex.com
new ways of achieving every day. Windsor-Essex Detroit border is the busiest an ideal place to live, work and play. youtube.com/windsoressex
Exploring Opportunities After completing six co-op placements
to earn his engineering degree in
Waterloo, Hubberstey chose Windsor —
given high-tech CenterLine provided
As a food and cycling fan, in Essex County, almost completely opportunity at the centre of the action.
Welding Engineer Sean surrounded as it is by water. “The automotive industry is very
“I’ve done a lot of cycling in centred in Michigan,” Hubberstey said.
Hubberstey has found his the county,” Hubberstey said. “So being across the river in Windsor
mecca. “Sometimes I just go out in random
directions. All of the waterfront is
is definitely the place to be.”
Of course, a great career wouldn’t
T he Waterloo native moved to
Windsor with his girlfriend Erin
after university to start his career,
and in the process discovered his calling.
“I like cooking and cycling the most after
really great. And, of course, there’s
across the river in Detroit.”
In order to enjoy the offerings on
both sides of the border, however,
Hubberstey has a career to thank.
be enough if it wasn’t paired like fine
wine with a great lifestyle. That’s why
Hubberstey gave Windsor a four-month
test run before deciding the cost of living,
landscape and cultural amenities north
Sean Hubberstey enjoys a great work-life
balance in Windsor
work,” said Hubberstey, a welding engineer Which brings him to his work in and south of the border made sense. a lot of character here. The people and
at CenterLine Windsor, an international research and development at CenterLine, “News reports today are all about how the community have been great to me.”
automation-process giant. “With all the with about 1,000 employees across nine housing prices in Toronto are insane,” cntrline.com/careers
farms and greenhouses in Essex County, we facilities at its world headquarters in he said. “Housing prices in Waterloo Youtube.com/WindsorEssex
have found local hookups for vegetables, Windsor. The company also boasts plants have also skyrocketed into something
and greenhouse vegetables through the in the United States, Mexico, Brazil, that doesn’t make sense for someone my
winter. And there are ethical meat farms Germany, Romania, India and China. In age. In Windsor, you can buy a house P e r s p e c t i v e TM
nearby, so there’s really good food.” business for more than 60 years, CenterLine for an attainable amount of money.” 1464 Cornwall Rd, Suite 5,
Besides cooking their own fare, delivers state-of-the-art technologies Better still, you can choose from Oakville, ON L6J 7W5
Hubberstey and his girlfriend Erin spend and processes that assist customers with liveable neighbourhoods, including 1-866-779-7712 info@perspective.ca
time enjoying the smorgasbord of restaurants manufacturing around the world. downtown Windsor and Old Walkerville. perspective.ca
locally — and across the river in Detroit. Hubberstey helps ensure the light- “People say, ‘Why did you move to Publisher, CeO Steve Montague
Part of the fun for Hubberstey is weight materials used for vehicle Windsor,’” Hubberstey explains. “And I ViCe-PresiDeNT Ed Martin
exploring — in urban landscapes or manufacturing have enough strength. say, ‘Have you been to Windsor?’ There’s
ADVANTAGE DELIVERED. CBRE delivers commercial real estate outcomes that drive business and bottom-line performance. Last year, CBRE completed US$338 billion of lease, sale and debt transactions globally, while our 22 Canadian offices completed over 5,300 successful engagements. With over 111.1 million square feet of commercial real estate under management in Canada, we help our valued clients leverage the full potential of their real estate. Transform your real estate into real advantage. +1 519 252 4095 www.cbre.ca CBRE Limited, Brokerage
Perspective TM
5
Cultivating Tech Talent and Planting Roots Windsor-Essex County
Entrepreneurial
Adam Frye has been to Ecosystem
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“There’s truly an opportunity to be part of business veterans who share their time
the middle class here, and that’s something and expertise. The culture of collaboration
Toronto and back. that isn’t always within reach in big cities,” runs deep in the region’s tech ecosystem.
The Accelerator: An entrepreneurial
Once a month, Adam and his wife Last year, WEtech partnered with the
ecosystem with co-working space
“I tell this to everybody I bring here Kristin invite a group of friends from WindsorEssex Economic Development
specifically designed to help accelerate
– come see what’s growing here. It’s new. out of town to show them around. Corporation to host the region’s first Tech
the growth of start-ups and emerging
It’s different. It’s not something that’s been “What blows their mind every single Mobility Day. It was a great success with
businesses.
built before. Come help me build it.” time is this amazing vineyard culture over one hundred attendees getting to
downtownaccelerator.com
He’s part of a growing group of young just fifteen minutes from Windsor,” Frye experience the region’s growing mobility
professionals that have cut their teeth in says, beaming with pride. “People don’t hub. Five startup companies competed Business Resource Centre of Essex
the business world in cities like Toronto realize we’ve got eighteen wineries, in the Mobility Pitch competition County: A not-for-profit organization
and Waterloo, and returned to Windsor- eleven breweries, three distilleries, and for a $10,000 prize offered by the dedicated to providing business financing
Essex to build careers and families. we’ve got eight coffee roasters. It’s like economic development corporation. and counseling to entrepreneurs in rural
Frye is the Director of Business going to Niagara in your backyard.” Optimotive Technologies, a four- Essex County.
Innovation at WEtech Alliance, a Regional Similarly, Windsor-Essex has a diverse person mobility start-up founded ec-businessresourcecentre.ca
Innovation Centre, and he understands and vibrant business landscape and an by CEO Scott Fairly, shared the top
the thriving tech ecosystem that exists entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports prize. Optimotive Technologies is EpiCentre/EpiGenesis: Located at the
in the region. Part of his role is to help all parts of business creation – from ideas ‘building one of the first camera based University of Windsor and St. Clair Collage
companies scale and grow global. and conception to testing, validation, localization systems able to function in campuses. Provides skills, tools and a
“Essentially my job here is to create commercialization and job creation. If harsh environments such as snow, sleet, network to entrepreneurs and professionals
systems of scale for companies. Whether you have an idea for a business start-up, rain, dirt roads, and no roads at all’ - to launch and grow economic and social
you’ve got an idea in your head that you’re Windsor-Essex is the place to make your and is a prime example of how the initiatives.
trying to bring to reality, whether you’ve idea a reality. Frye says his transition home technology ecosystem in Windsor- epicentreuwindsor.ca
got some early sales, or whether you’re a energized him, in part because of how Essex is expanding rapidly. stclaircollege.ca/genesis
corporation with 4000 employees, I help he was embraced by the community. Frye, Fairly and the myriad of tech
design solutions that help you grow.” “Talent is celebrated,” says Frye. “If companies in Windsor-Essex are part WEtech Alliance: A Regional Innovation
Though he grew up in Amherstburg, you’re motivated and have a purpose to of our region’s stay-and-play ecosystem Centre providing an extensive roster of
Frye left the region to study and grow something special, to do something dedicated to helping entrepreneurs programs, advisory services and training to
work in Waterloo and Toronto for new, there’s no better place to be than succeed in building a business and clients in the technology and innovation
8 years. When his wife got her right here.” When a tech business signs building a life. Come to Windsor-Essex sectors.
dream job in Windsor, they headed up as a WEtech client they receive what’s where the opportunities are endless wetech-alliance.com
home to a region budding with called a 30-60-90-day operational plan and where your talent is celebrated.
possibilities and a lifestyle they loved. that includes working with in-house Windsor Essex Capital Angel
“Coming back home, we bought a advisors and also a newly constituted wetech-alliance.com/jobs/ Network: A not-for-profit organization
house within three months,” says Frye. Venture Success Team of seasoned Youtube.com/WindsorEssex focused on funding opportunities for early
stage businesses by community investors.
weangelnetwork.com
WindsorEssex Small Business
Centre: A one-stop source that provides
professional advice, workshops and
seminars to entrepreneurs – from concept,
through start-up and early growth stages of
business.
windsoressexsmallbusiness.com
Workforce WindsorEssex: Plans,
facilitates, and advocates for regional
workforce development to meet the
current and future economic and social
development needs of the Region. WE Map
Jobs is their newest online tool to map job
postings, transit and key services.
Adam Frye, Director of Business Innovation at WEtech Alliance workforcewindsoressex.com
Perspective TM
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Startup with an APP-etite
Sirved has served hungry
PMS286 PMS432
We have great people. We have a lot Toronto to catch major connecting Plus, the place is more forgiving
of different talent pools. And most flights. And we have Detroit’s major in terms of expense.
customers around the importantly, our border city is Detroit.” international airport. Add those to “Operating a start-up company
world — all from its base in The Motor City, in fact, provides our Via Rail Station and easy access based in Windsor allows us to take
a welcome big American city flavour to Highway 401 and we’re all set.” bigger risks than we could in markets
Windsor. to a medium-sized Canadian city. “We have a great location to operate like Silicon Valley or New York or
As an avid boater, Brown skims out of. With global economies now, our even downtown Detroit. The rent
And why not? across Lake St. Clair, Lake Erie and business can operate from anywhere.” and cost of living is very economical
The world’s first menu-based restaurant the Detroit River throughout the But Brown gets more out of here,” Brown said. “And with St.
app was born in Windsor, which has long, warm summers of Essex County, his home base in Windsor than Clair College and the University of
a way of making business easier, with a region surrounded by water. easy travel and good prices — Windsor, we attract a young talent
great real estate prices and a lower cost Plus, the location makes travel he also enjoys local impact. pool. But we have also attracted people
of living generally. When it comes to easy. Windsor International Airport “If you start in Silicon Valley or a to Sirved from Toronto, where the
online technology, around the globe is a breeze to get in and out of major city, you’re just another start-up, cost of living is really expensive.” And
is the same as around the corner. and Detroit Metropolitan Airport another dot on the map,” said Brown, a the Sirved team is always looking
“The advantage of owning a company is less than a half hour away. University of Windsor sports management for motivated and driven people.
based in Windsor-Essex are many,” “Windsor allows us to be very mobile,” graduate who co-founded Sirved with “Besides, some people just like a small-
said Sirved co-founder Kyle Brown. said Brown, who has lived and travelled app developer Jonathan Leslie in 2015. city feel with a big-city atmosphere.”
“We don’t have to battle traffic. We around the world. “We have Windsor “In Windsor, you can really make a sirved.com/careers
have really economical real estate. Airport, where you can fly quickly to difference in your community.” Youtube.com/WindsorEssex
Perspective TM
W i n d s o r - e s s e x 8
The ENWIN and WEtech Alliance ENnovation Catalyst Team.
ENnovation – ENWIN
and WEtech Alliance
Nurture Innovation
I t’s funny how one nagging little
problem at work – viewed in
the right light – can become the
seed of an idea worth sharing.
And it’s amazing how that little
ENWIN knows this, and
WEtech Alliance knows it, too.
It was this shared belief that
sparked an impromptu conversation
between Helga Reidel, the President
seed – given the right amount of and CEO of ENWIN Utilities Ltd.,
respect and attention – can spark Adam Frye, the Director of Business
innovation that benefits an entire Innovation at WEtech Alliance and
company. And if you plant enough seeds Dr. Irek Kusmierczyk, Director of
across your company, you can build Partnerships at WEtech, during a
a better work environment, stronger chance meeting in early 2018.
relationships, enthusiasm, engagement They talked about creativity,
and innovation – from the ground up. about tapping into the knowledge
But growing innovation takes more and passion of employees, and about
than planting a seed. It’s a nurturing building resiliency and sustainability
process – one that requires a road map, by transforming front-line staff
resources and the right partners. into engines of innovation.
“
“It was an informative and
thought-provoking conversation,”
G
rowing innovation said Frye, “between a utility known
takes more than for innovation and partnership, ENWIN ENnovation Leads: (from left) Barry Leavitt, Director Shared Services, Rosana
and a Regional Innovation Centre Kemsley, Manager Human Resources Services and Dragan Savic, Manager Project
planting a seed. dedicated to promoting both.” Management Office. Photos on this page by Mike Kovaliv, courtesy of snapd Windsor.
Perspective TM
W i n d s o r - e s s e x 9
“
“We learned that our Kemsley, Manager Human Resources
corporate goals Services; and Dragan Savic, Manager
Project Management Office – took
converged in a very on the role of Innovation Leads,
strategic way.“ working with Frye, to inspire, recruit,
guide and sustain 15 employee
“We learned that our corporate Catalysts, from departments across the
goals converged in a very strategic company. They named the project
way,” echoed Kusmierczyk. “ENWIN ENnovation – a play on ENWIN and
was looking for ways to develop the Innovation Catalyst program name.
employee potential, internal idea “We trained the Catalysts in
sharing and innovative thinking customer-centric design thinking
and WEtech had just received a and innovative solutions,” said
grant from the Ontario Trillium Leavitt. “Then it was their job
Foundation to fund a new program to go out into the company and
– Innovation Catalyst – designed to assess opportunities for change.”
encourage innovation by connecting In the process, they learned to
front-line staff with executives.” identify issues, develop and refine
In that moment, the seed was problem statements, test and validate
planted for a year-long partnership solutions and build solid business
to teach design thinking, innovation cases around their innovative ideas.
“
skills and a valuable lesson about ENWIN’s Justin Pulleyblank, Supervisor Water Distribution (second from right) joins
allowing voices to be heard. WEtech Alliance’s Dr. Irek Kusmierczyk, Director of Partnerships (left),Yvonne Pilon,
“
“I wondered what I had President and CEO, and Adam Frye, Director of Business Innovation (right).
“ “
signed on for and how I
“The timing was could GET out of it.“
amazing, and we “I learned so much.“ “I think differently now. “
couldn’t wait to “At first, I wondered what I had signed
get started.“ on for and how I could get out of it,” met. I learned that my little issue is The Catalysts brought forward
admitted ENWIN’s Justin Pulleyblank, also an issue for others, elsewhere in eight strong, viable business ideas,
“It was an incredible coincidence,” Supervisor Water Distribution and the company, and worth addressing.” which are now in varying stages of
said Reidel. “Some very talented a volunteer Catalyst. “It was a lot In the end, the Catalysts gained implementation. ENWIN’s CEO says
people at ENWIN had just shared to learn, and a lot of responsibility, the skills and opportunity to pitch the value extends beyond the obvious.
their unique ideas on engaging on top of our everyday work.” their concepts to the executive “We were very impressed with the
employees as innovators, and But, for Justin and the other catalysts, team and a chance to see their quality of our employees’ presentations
then I ran into Adam and Irek. the experience gave more than it asked. ideas supported by the company. and business cases,” Reidel said. “But I
The timing was amazing, and we “I learned so much,” said Justin. Justin is thankful. was most proud of the level of teamwork
couldn’t wait to get started.” “I crossed the line between my “I think differently now,” he concluded. across departments. This was truly a
The talented people – Barry Leavitt, department and others, to work with “This training and experience is a gift demonstration of the power of partnership
Director Shared Services; Rosana people I would never otherwise have that will help me throughout my career.” to effect corporate change. We are
grateful to WEtech for this experience.”
WEtech Alliance returns the praise.
“We chose ENWIN as our first partner
because we knew them to be an innovative
company,” Kusmierczyk concluded. “But
none of us knew at the outset, exactly
what this would become. Because of
the Leaders and Catalysts at ENWIN,
our first Innovation Catalyst class has
succeeded beyond all expectation.”
So, this is how an idea, spontaneously
shared, becomes the seed that grows
innovation and proves the value of
giving voice to front-line concerns.
“This partnership isn’t over,” predicted
Reidel. “The next ENnovation
ENWIN staff take part in ENnovation Forum at WEtech Alliance. Catalyst class is about to begin.”
Perspective TM
W i n d s o r - e s s e x 10
Farhi Holdings Corporation
– increasing footprint
in City of Windsor
W here others see challenges,
Farhi Holdings Corporation
(FHC) sees opportunity.
Founded in 1988, the London, Ontario
based real-estate development company
& Spa and the Idlewyld Inn & Spa in
London’s Old South neighbourhood.
FHC has been investing in Windsor
since 2004, when founder Shmuel
Farhi bought the Lear Seating factory
has a long track record for heritage and surrounding 110 acres of land.
restorations, design-build, and partnerships The factory is long gone – a victim
with federal, provincial, and municipal of the 2008 economic downturn –
governments. The company currently but the city-owned 40-acre WFCU
owns and manages more than 4 million Centre on part of the site is now home
square feet of office, retail, hospitality and to the OHL’s Windsor Spitfires.
residential space as well as over 2,500 acres Farhi Holdings is feeling very confident
of current and future land development in the Windsor market. Currently
in more than two dozen communities the company has a vast portfolio of Farhi Holding has plans to create a large mixed-use development that will
throughout Ontario. That includes two developments that are ongoing or in the include residential, commercial and some retail space.Townhomes, multi-units
historic inns: Ingersoll’s Elm Hurst Inn approval process across a variety of sectors and single detached homes will be available near Lauzon Parkway.
from hospitality, to residential, commercial, the Holiday Inn Express consisting of 156
mixed-use properties and subdivisions. rooms (4 suites) and the Hilton’s Double
“Windsor has done a great job of Tree housing 161 rooms including 46 suites.
transforming itself from Canada’s automobile In addition to the hotel expansion, Farhi
capital to a more diverse economy,” says Holding has plans to create a large mixed-use
Farhi. “There are a variety of reasons I felt development that will include residential,
this was the city in which to expand our commercial, and retail space. The plan is
holdings, but one of the most important to include 278 single-family residential
was the staff at the City of Windsor. From walk-up units over 9 acres near Lauzon
the early days to now the administration Parkway and also include 119 single family
and council at City Hall showed us they and detached homes over 14 acres. A variety
were very progressive and very open to of commercial spaces have been allocated
listening to our ideas. The bottom line for across 9 acres and further mixed-use spaces
them is job creation, expanding the tax base over an additional 6 acres on the same site.
and pushing the Region forward and we Farhi Holdings for some time has also
are on the same page with their goals.” been acquiring additional land in the
In addition to the ease in dealing with Windsor Region. One of the purchases
the City of Windsor, Farhi mentions includes 53-acres on County Road 42,
another key factor in his confidence in directly across from the proposed site of
the marketplace – the City of Detroit Windsor’s new mega-hospital and scheduled
just across the river, “you can see a very to begin construction within the next five
tangible turn around in Detroit. The billions years. Farhi says his land will provide an ideal
of dollars being poured into the city has location for commercial, retail, residential and
created a spillover effect for Windsor.” hospitality development needed to support
The Detroit effect is one of the reasons the state-of-the-art regional medical facility.
Farhi is expanding his hotel operations “We are long-term investors,” says
and focus into mixed-use development. Farhi. “We believe in Windsor and its
With tourist visits and long-term stays future and see a bright opportunity
continuing to increase, Farhi Holdings has ahead to grow and prosper as part of
three major hotels comprising 623 new the Windsor business community.”
Farhi Holdings has three major hotels under construction comprising suites in the city. The Best Western Plus To learn more about Farhi Holdings
over 600 new suites or bedrooms in the City. houses 306 rooms including 21 suites with Corporation visit www.fhc.caPerspective TM
11
Work and Life Balance Achieved
Ajit Saxena wants balance.
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combination of ultra-modern growing your dollar goes further yet urban nature emanating from the crops behind
technology and an ecosystem driven by amenities await just a short commute him. “The atmosphere is not the same here.
T he self-proclaimed foodie, who is a
music, travel and basketball fanatic
has lived and worked in the hustle
and bustle of Toronto, as well as the Sun
and fun of the Cayman Islands — and yet
Mother Nature. Mucci Farms employs
more than 1,200 people across 250-
plus acres of mouth-watering tomatoes,
peppers, lettuce, cucumbers and North
America’s largest indoor strawberry farm.
across the Detroit River?
“When you’re in a big city like
Toronto, you feel like you’re wrestling
through everything,” said
Saxena, sitting in the lush environment
“I get to have a career that
challenges me. But when I leave
work, I get to have a life.”
Balance achieved.
chose to make Essex County his home. And their team is always expanding. of a greenhouse the size of multiple muccifarms.com/careers/
“We wanted work-life balance,” Saxena Produce promotion is where Saxena football fields, with the fresh smell of Youtube.com/WindsorEssex
said of his and his wife’s decision to move comes in. Hired for his social media
to Amherstburg, where he works as the expertise, the communications expert helps
digital media co-ordinator at Mucci Farms, Mucci Farms market to an increasingly
a global leader in the Greenhouse sector. social media-savvy marketplace – all
“When we looked at the pros and cons it in a highly automated environment.
was obvious where we wanted to be.” “People don’t believe it until they walk
A number of factors influenced in the door,” Saxena said with a smile.
the Toronto native’s decision to “They’re blown away by the entire scale
call Essex County home. of the operation. But also, people have no
“The pro column is that we wanted idea how far farming has come and the
to have a family at some point,” he said. variety of career opportunities available.”
“And in a bigger-city environment, Mucci Farms automation starts
it’s a bit tougher to do — not just right at the moment the product is
from a cost perspective but from harvested by a worker wearing a glove.
a lifestyle perspective. A work-life It is then sorted, packaged, shipped and
balance is a lot more challenging in a sold in a process that means the next
bigger city. But in this environment, person to actually touch that fruit is
you get the best of both worlds.” the consumer. “When people think
Only minutes from downtown Detroit, of technology and automation, they
Saxena enjoys everything the big city has think about tech related industries, but
to offer: hip restaurants, diverse shopping, they certainly don’t think of farming,”
top-name concerts, and big-league said Saxena. “But farming, specifically
sports — including the Detroit Pistons, greenhouse farming is very high-tech
where he gets to take in his beloved and automated to increase efficiency,
Toronto Raptors a couple times a year. food safety and provide consumers
The buzz of a big American metropolis with premium quality vegetables.”
provides all the excitement he wants, yet Plus, these days the Mucci men
with a nearby safe Canadian small-town think a little like Mad Men: marketing
atmosphere to live in. Point, counterpoint. with an eye toward the future.
But for Saxena, small-town charm “With digital media, we now have
doesn’t mean small-time job. In fact, an opportunity to go directly to the
his work life requires the speed and consumer,” Saxena said, noting that the
savvy he grew up wanting as a career Internet-age pitch can isolate such things
in Toronto — all in a high-tech as postal code, gender, age groups, even
environment and a huge operation. likes and dislikes. “We now have direct
Mucci Farms may still be family access to the consumer and detailed
run — started by the Mucci family metrics to measure the results.”
who immigrated from Italy half a The point is, the high-tech digital
century ago, with nothing more than a media approach doesn’t matter if
passion to grow fresh, flavourful fruits you’re doing it from downtown
and vegetables. But the Leamington/ Toronto or in Leamington.
Kingsville-based operation is now From a marketing perspective, the
decidedly international, marketing tonnes Internet doesn’t discriminate.
of farm-fresh produce to locales across the So why not leave the long, chaotic
continent. They operate under an ideal commute behind in a place whereLiuna FP OHBA Gear 2018:Layout 1 8/3/18 10:31 PM Page 1
BUILDING
ONTARIO
SINCE
1903
WE Build Communities And Careers.
When a community is built from the ground up, there is no labour force on the planet, better skilled to get the job done right the
first time. LiUNA members and retirees made a commitment to their careers, which means a commitment to our communities.
A commitment to build the BEST schools, airports, hospitals, office buildings, pipelines, tunnels, power plants, roads, bridges,
low rise and high rise housing in the country. When the work is done, LiUNA members and retirees continue to live,
play and grow in their communities, with the guarantee of a pension that is also....simply the BEST!
Jack Oliveira Joseph S. Mancinelli
Business Manager President
Luigi Carrozzi Carmen Principato Robert Petroni Jim MacKinnon Mike Maitland
Secretary-Treasurer Vice President Recording Secretary Executive Board Member Executive Board Member
Ontario Provincial District Council
visit www.liunaopdc.ca todayPerspective TM
13
Powered by Community
W hen it comes to enjoying
life, Byron Thompson likes
easy access. And if you like
accessible amenities, you’ll love Windsor.
“The lifestyle in Windsor is very hard
professional
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sports in Windsor was actually
PMS432
easier and more economical than it was in
Toronto. Getting downtown to see a Leafs
game was hard and there was no (NFL)
football. As part of coming to Windsor we
for other areas of the province to challenge actually purchased season tickets to the
in terms of affordability and accessibility,” Detroit Lions. So, I’m an easy 25 minutes
Thompson says. “Accessibility is something to Ford Field. We’re there every other
you don’t think about until you’re in traffic Sunday in the Fall.” Plus, there’s the ease
in the GTA and you’re trying to get on a of commuting a few minutes to work.
flight.” “Work lifestyle is easier from a daily
Thompson, CFO of Enwin Utilities commute perspective,” he said.
Ltd. in Windsor, travels frequently for Funny thing, when Thompson worked at Byron Thompson, CFO of ENWIN Utilities Ltd.
business. Flying from Windsor is a breeze, a utility in Peterborough, not far along the
he says, though it’s the easy access to 401 from Toronto, driving through traffic options across the province but, on Add up costs and convenience,
other highlights that most attracted him to the big city for Ontario Energy Board balance, Windsor-Essex was the hands and the chief financial officer
to Windsor (and next-door Detroit): meetings was a nightmare. Now, a morning down winner. But they wanted a considers the calculation easy.
dining, shopping, entertainment and, Porter Airlines flight from easy-in-easy- balance of stress-free and fun-filled. “Quality of life is the big thing,”
especially, sports. After living for years in out Windsor International Airport makes “A relocation to Windsor started making Thompson said. “The combination of
the Greater Toronto Area, he and his wife commuting to downtown Toronto a dream. sense the more we thought about it, the affordability and accessibility is great. It’s
decided Windsor let them spend more Thompson, who hails from north more we looked at the advantages over just a little bit slower here than the big
time enjoying life than travelling for it. of London, discussed moving ahead of other areas in the province,” he said. “There’s city, but it still has everything to offer.”
“The big thing for me was the sports retirement with his wife. But where no question that a relocation to Windsor- enwin.com/career-opportunities/
opportunity,” he said. “The availability of to? The couple considered different Essex puts you in a better financial position.” Youtube.com/WindsorEssex
Pathway
to Success
odette.uwindsor.ca
Welcome to Odette, where it’s never
“business as usual.”
Odette fosters career development in an engaging student setting.Business excellence begins with world-class education. BE A PART OF IT. Learn more at stclaircollege.ca
Perspective TM
W i n d s o r - e s s e x 15
Excellence in Education Spurs Growth at St. Clair College
S t. Clair College’s impact as an
institute of higher learning continues
to grow! With more than 12,500
students at campuses in Windsor and
Chatham, the College specializes in
Health Sciences, Community Studies,
Engineering Technology & Skilled Trades,
Business and I.T., and Media Art & Design,
combining the best of a post-secondary
education with a rich campus life
experience that students really embrace.
The College provides state-of-
the-art technology in the Centre for
Applied Health Science. This 100,000
sq. ft. facility is designed to simulate
a real-world health care environment
featuring specialized labs for ultrasound,
cardiovascular technology, respiratory
therapy, fully equipped simulated patient-
care suites, a community dental clinic,
and a simulation retail pharmacy.
World-class education in business and
information technology has attracted more
and more students to the College, making
the new Zekelman School of Business and In the Engineering Technology construction of a new Sports Park. scholarships for both varsity athletics and
I.T. the largest school on campus. Students and Skilled Trades schools, the Power This multi-year project will include for scholastic achievement. With more
become engaged in competition, learn a Engineering Technology program a new softball stadium, soccer than $1.5 million dollars in scholarships
wide variety of life and entrepreneurial now offers students the opportunity stadium, beach volleyball courts, and bursaries, the College is committed
skills in our Epic Genesis Centre, and to achieve their certification for 2nd and future indoor tennis courts. to helping students achieve their goals.
experience outstanding work-integrated Class Operating Engineer under The College’s rich history of With outstanding world-class education,
learning opportunities thanks to our the Technical Standards and Safety achievement in athletics is well-known in an active campus life, and support from
partners in business and industry. Authority (TSSA) and Standardized the province with multiple provincial and our partners in business in industry, it
The Zekelman School of Business Interprovincial Certification (SOPEEC). national championships to their credit. is no wonder that St. Clair College can
and I.T. launched the first-of-its-kind St. Clair College is only one of two Students also have the chance to receive help students “start here go anywhere”!
eSports program in January 2019 to institutions in Canada able to help
rave reviews from students. Focusing on students achieve this designation.
Administration & Entrepreneurship, this At the Chatham Campus, the College
two year diploma program will teach just completed construction of its new
the business side of this burgeoning National Powerline Training Centre,
industry, preparing graduates for providing classrooms and facilities to
careers as marketing and promotion support the very popular Powerline
specialists, live-stream technicians, and Technician program. This program is
event management professionals. well supported by numerous industry
St. Clair College is also committed to partners who benefit from the quality of
providing numerous pathway opportunities graduates coming from this program.
for students who are looking to combine College is also more than what
their diploma with a degree. Launching transpires in the classroom. Providing
in September 2019, the College will start an abundance of opportunities
its first Honours Bachelor of Applied Arts for sports, intramural activities,
degree in Social Justice and Legal Studies. competitions, community projects
In 2020, a second Honours Bachelor and student life helps to round
Degree in Business Administration will out the college experience!
launch, with a focus on Information With this in mind, St. Clair College
and Communication Technology. is expanding its facilities with thePerspective TM
W i n d s o r - e s s e x 16
So Much to See and Do in Windsor
I f you haven’t been to Canada’s
southernmost city, Windsor and
the surrounding Essex County
offers plenty to see and do, rich history,
beautiful waterfront and friendly people.
“The welcome mat is out, and our
region is ready to be explored. Enjoy
what we have to offer, and our goal
is for you to come back often,” said
Gordon Orr, CEO of Tourism Windsor Ford City Murals,Windsor
Essex Pelee Island. “When you’re here,
you’ll enjoy our culturally diverse food
Ford City
and drink experiences or our famous Ford City is the hip, historical and
festivals and events, a world-class Caesars unpolished central neighbourhood of
Windsor Casino & Resort, and an outdoor Windsor. The resurgence of the area is
adventure seeker’s paradise, or dive into built on creative entrepreneurs, artisans
our rich history and so much more.” Walkerville Night Market and artists who are transforming the
Here is a snapshot of three district into a distinctive destination.
districts that are not to be missed. Willistead Manor, designed by which offers a twist on comfort food, a Ford City grew quickly in the early
renowned architect Albert Kahn, was popular brunch; and cooking classes. 1900s to accommodate the large number of
Walkerville home to Walker’s son and is now a
heritage-protected property, featuring
The work of 33 local artisans is
available at the Urban Art Market and
workers needed for the new assembly lines
at Ford Motor Company in neighbouring
Walkerville is a heritage precinct in an art gallery and event space. a visit to vintage boutique Jones & Walkerville. It was officially incorporated
Windsor that offers cool food options, The Old Walkerville Theatre is an Co. is like stepping back in time. as a village of 850 people in 1923 and
a historic streetscape, and unique stores, ornate 1920s art-deco masterpiece. The The district’s BIA hosts two signature became part of Windsor in 1935.
all in a walkable neighbourhood of large line dividing Walkerville and Windsor, events – the Walkerville Art Walk The neighbourhood hit hard times
homes and wide, tree-canopied streets. before the two were amalgamated in 1935, in July and the Walkerville Holiday when Ford moved its head office and
The district dates back to the mid- used to run right through the theatre. Walk in November. There are also production to Oakville but has been
1850s when Hiram Walker, maker Walkerville features great eating options, numerous walking tours available. enjoying a rebirth in recent years. It’s
of Canadian Club Whisky, founded including: F&B Walkerville, known for Visitors can stay right in the eclectic, authentic and exciting. Look
Walkerville for his employees. It was a its inventive cocktails and small plates; neighbourhood at A Hidden Gem no further than the Grand Cantina, a
model 19th-century town, and now boasts Vito’s Pizzeria, serving authentic pasta and Bed and Breakfast and Ye Olde loud, fun open concept kitchen serving
a rich history steeped in Prohibition, wood-fired pizza; and The Twisted Apron, Walkerville Bed & Breakfast. tacos, along with Asian and American
gangsters and booze smugglers. street food in a two-storey brick building
Now Hiram Walker & Sons is with high ceilings and big windows.
North America’s largest distillery, “Ford City is known for its murals.
producing J.P. Wiser’s Canadian Whisky. There are more than 40 of them,” says
It was named Canadian Distillery Bridget Scheuerman, Ford City BIA
of the Year in 2018. The J.P. Wiser’s executive director. “They are all historic
Experience offers tours of the operation, and most of them are concentrated
complete with whisky tastings. on the Ford Motor Company and
The Walkerville Brewery also dates back the blue-collar roots of the area.”
to Hiram Walker, operating in an original Ford City is also a close-knit
building that is open to public tours. community with a lot of pride, she says.
Walkerville is also the birthplace of The district hosts a summer farmers’
the Canadian auto industry, with the market, and an urban street festival in
Ford Motor Company of Canada, and September called Dropped on Drouillard
later Chrysler Canada and General that features a low-rider car show, graffiti
Motors, building assembly plants there. artists in action, food trucks, a skateboarding
“Walkerville is very neighbourhood competition, a beer tent, and live music.
and community-minded,” says Walkerville Drop in to Michael Difazio Reclaim
BIA coordinator Joan Charette. Artistry to witness the transformation
“We are respectful of history of old materials into fantastic furniture.
but also very trend forward.” Merch Runners offers unique apparel
Willistead Manor,Windsor and custom screen-printing.Perspective TM
W i n d s o r - e s s e x 17
Grand Cantina The Grove Hotel, Kingsville
Kingsville
Tourists have been flocking to Kingsville is home to four wineries
Kingsville, Canada’s southern-most and is in the heart of Windsor-
town, since the 1880s. The bustling Essex wine country, a historic
lakeside community is about 25 minutes region of 18 wineries. The town also
southeast of Windsor in Essex County. features several craft breweries.
It features plenty to see and do, and eat There are eight kilometres of
and drink, along with beautiful heritage green space along the waterfront,
architecture and walking history tours. the beautiful Lakeside Park, three
Christina Bedal, coordinator of the championship golf courses, beaches
Kingsville BIA, encourages guests to and conservation areas, and 32
wander side streets to find hidden gems. outdoor sculptures. The Chrysler
“We see visitors from all over and they Canada Greenway is a former
are pleasantly delighted by their experience railway track that connects to
here. We show great hospitality. It comes Windsor for walkers and bikers.
naturally to the people of Kingsville.” Upcoming events include the
There are two interesting boutique Highland Games June 22, the Kingsville
hotels, seven bed and breakfasts, Folk Music Festival from Aug. 9
and plenty of cafes, bakeries and to 11 and the Tall Ships Challenge Jacks Gastropub & Distinctive Inns of Kingsville
restaurants, including Elite Steakhouse, from Aug. 16 to 18. The Kingsville
Wineology, Mettawas Station (set Community Farmers’ Market runs
in an 1880s train station), Beach each Saturday in the summer and fall.
House Grill, and Jack’s Gastro Pub. “Kingsville has always been a
Kingsville also offers the renowned very prosperous and loyal town but
music venue Kingsville Migration recently it’s almost like the cat’s out of
Hall, the Jack Miner Migratory Bird the bag and we’ve been discovered,”
Sanctuary, Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens, said Beth Riddiford, chair of the
the Kingsville Historical Park, the Kingsville BIA and owner of women’s
Canadian Transportation Museum & boutique My Cousin’s Closet.
Heritage Village, plenty of farm and “Kingsville is the entire package.
orchard markets, and a marina. We have great restaurants and
In terms of authentic experiences, don’t coffee shops, award-winning
miss Dutch Boys Chocolates, Butcher of wineries, hip breweries, fantastic
Kingsville, The Chop Shop, Annabelle’s Tea accommodations, beautiful boutiques,
Room, and Cindy’s Home and Garden. funky art galleries ... it’s all here.” Lakeside Park, KingsvilleAmal, President of Women in Engineering, chose Windsor. uwindsor.ca
Photo: JonesFoto, inc.
Creative: STCstorytellers.comPerspective TM
W i n d s o r - e s s e x 19
New company born of
UWindsor research
By Sarah Sacheli, industry,” said Douglas Kneale, UWindsor’s
interim president. “We are building
University of Windsor research writer bridges with the local community….
How exciting it is that this particular
R ust never sleeps, so neither
does University of Windsor
physicist Roman Maev.
Dr. Maev, founder of UWindsor’s
Institute for Diagnostic Imaging
collaboration has yielded outcomes that
are translatable to the real world.”
The technology uses compressed gas to
propel fine metal, ceramic or composite
particles at supersonic speeds, forming a
Research (IDIR) and local ultrasonic dense coating on materials. Unlike other
imaging manufacturer Tessonics Inc., coatings which use heated particles, this
has developed a new way of applying spray can be used at low temperatures,
powder coatings that cleans, coats, and reducing environmental impacts. It can
works metal in a single operation. be used for field repairs using portable
The technology has been used for equipment, or at the manufacturing
several years on Enwin equipment stage, giving new products a longer life.
— transformers, transformer stations, Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens said
switching equipment, connectors, pipes, Maev’s research has led to the creation
and the welded joints on the Hanna of a “strong, new business” for the city.
Street water tower — prolonging the “Through your scientific and
life of equipment and causing fewer technological expertise and your
service disruptions to customers. dedication to partnership, Dr. Maev,
The application is now on the market you and your team have offered a great
through a new company, unveiled gift to our local utility and our city.”
Tuesday, called ONtech Rapid Coatings. ONTech will be led by John
A collaboration between Tessonics and Wladarski, Enwin’s chief operating
Enwin Energy, ONtech will market the officer. He said he remembers the
technology across North America to utility day six years ago when Maev pitched
companies, pipeline repair companies, the technology to him and proposed
automotive parts manufacturers and using Enwin equipment for testing.
shipbuilding and aerospace industries. “Thanks to several years of using
“This demonstrates a great example this technology in the field, we have a
of how initial collaboration between wealth of real-world success stories. We’ve
the University and Windsor and repaired transformer stations without
Enwin can be translated to a new, de-energizing the station. We’ve restored
high-tech startup,” Maev said. transformer cabinets, repaired oil leaks and
The technology was born in 2012 with fixed cooling fins… The list goes on.”
a grant from the Natural Sciences and Helga Reidel, Enwin’s president
Engineering Research Council of Canada. and CEO, said the utility will
NSERC gave Enwin and the University continue to use the technology.
of Windsor a further $5.5 million last year “Expanding the lifespan of our
to get the technology ready for market. infrastructure helps us reduce costs. We
“The commercialization of research look forward to continuing to enjoy these
and the creation of start-up companies benefits and savings as a customer of
are a sign of a good, collaborative ONtech Rapid Coatings, and to watching
relationship between academia and this new company as it grows and expands.”Perspective TM
20
Technology + Opportunity = Your Future
T he rest of the country may
only now be jumping on the
automation bandwagon, but
businesses in Windsor-Essex have been
blazing this path and holding the reins for
terms
PMS286
of making
PMS432
a tangible impact on
manufacturing, we chose to come back
to Windsor-Essex. We could have gone
anywhere – but we chose to come here.”
The factors that led to the founding
decades. There are over 380 automation of Radix Inc. in Windsor-Essex and
companies in the Windsor-Essex region. that are attributed to its grand success
It is a hotbed of innovation, capacity and include the proximity to the US/Mexico
talent. Southwestern Ontario is number market, access to talent and family
two in the IT sector cluster (with jobs roots. “We have educational institutions
nearing 300,000), second only to Silicon that are graduating tremendously
Valley. Overlaying the automotive sector qualified engineers, software developers,
cluster, you can see that the central technicians, robot programmers,”says
place where these two major industries Fellows. “We’re able to bring those
intersect is Windsor-Essex. This region individuals who have the right capacity,
has been making the things that make the right attitude, and the right training
things for over a hundred years – it’s no to be part of the team. It’s that team that’s
wonder companies like Radix Inc. are at really driven the success of Radix Inc.”
the top of their game in the industry. Radix Inc. creates technology that
Founded in 1994,Vice President solves problems for manufacturers.
for AIS Technologies Group, Shelley Producing products like machine vision,
Fellows shares the story of why she and robotics, advanced controls, and custom
her husband set their business roots in software. “The technologies we deliver to
Windsor-Essex. “We went to Europe manufacturers help them produce higher
to live after university, but when we quality goods with more efficiency, with
decided we wanted to start a company, more information. We’re about data
that we wanted to achieve the vision in for manufacturing,” Fellows explains. Shelley Fellows,VP for AIS Technologies Group, parent company of RADIX
“That data is used in ways to improve
the quality of the cars we drive, the
candy we eat, the airplanes we fly in.”
Beyond business, however, Fellows
knows that ‘work’ is only one part of
experiencing the good life. Windsor-
Essex is a special place to build a
family and the many opportunities
for play and relaxation are all part of
the attraction of living and working
in this extraordinary region.
“We’ve got a region that is a great
place to grow a family. I live right in the
centre of Essex County, and one of our
favourite things to do is tour around.
We love to visit the wineries. We can
go to Amherstburg and experience the
history and the waterfront. Down into
Windsor, we have all of the benefits of
living in a really big metropolitan area,
yet we’re able to know our neighbours,
to get to know the schools that our
children attend, and really have a
presence and a place in our communities.
That’s really important,” says Fellows.
radixinc.ca/about-us/careers
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greenshield.ca
CANADA’S
FASTEST GROWING
HEALTH BENEFITS
PROVIDER
LIVES RIGHT HERE IN WINDSORPerspective TM
W i n d s o r - e s s e x 23
WE Are All In
W indsor-Essex knows how to build
things, and as the home for over
one-thousand manufacturing
companies generating $3.3 billion worth
of goods we’ve gotten good at it.
But if you want to know our secret –
how we help our companies attain global
reach – you have to start by taking a look
at how we treat our smallest start-ups.
Innovation and entrepreneurship is a
community affair in Windsor-Essex.
It’s one reason our organization –
WEtech Alliance – was able to call together
a Venture Success Team of seasoned
entrepreneurs and global subject matter
experts who are available at the drop-
of-a-hat to help start-ups find targeted
solutions to specific business challenges.
Where else can an entrepreneur dial up
one of our twenty-four business champions
that includes the founders of local tech
companies like Splice Digital, IT directors
of global manufacturers Ground Effects,
successful entrepreneur investor Mike
Labiak, and boutique designers and
developers Spotvin and Blab Media?
The low cost of accessing office space
is a great competitive advantage for
start-ups locating in our region – but it
is the low barrier to accessing tried-and- 2018 Tech Award Winners:Tech Company of the Year – Aphria;Tech CEO of the Year – Janice Kaffer, Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare;Tech Researcher
true advice from seasoned entrepreneurs of the Year – Dr. Tricia Carmichael, University of Windsor;Tech Professional of the Year – Renee Pare, Next Dimension;Young Tech Professional
who are personally invested in your of the Year – Noah Campbell;Tech Teacher of the Year – Fouada Hamzeh, Greater Essex County District School Board;Tech Mentor of the
venture that sets Windsor-Essex apart. Year – Sheri Lynn Koscielski;Technology Adoption – Orangeline Farms;Technology Innovation – Scribendi; Tech Startup of the Year – Deliverbae;
When our growth-stage start-ups asked WEtech Choice Award (Individual) – Paul Riser, TechTown Detroit;WEtech Choice Award (Organization/Company) Libro Credit Union
for business coaching tailored specifically
to help them scale, community-focused
Libro Credit Union stepped forward start-up based in New Hamburg, go-kart racing, archery, rock climbing, President and CEO of WEtech Alliance.
and with support from the Ontario Ontario that designs smart technology bubble soccer and escape room. “The tech companies compete, for sure, but
Trillium Foundation helped fund solutions to feed mill operators. It’s one more thread that builds everyone is rooting for each other here.”
the launch of ScaleUP – the first tech He reached out to WEtech’s Adam camaraderie within companies That was the vision of the tech
accelerator in Windsor-Essex geared Castle, Director of Venture Services, who and between companies. entrepreneurs who propelled WEtech
towards helping companies to scale. came highly recommended after several Noting that every region is in a fierce Alliance ten years ago – Stuart Sutton
As a member of the Ontario Network years building up his skills and networks competition to attract talent, executives (Sylectus), Adam Davis (Next
of Entrepreneurs and one of seventeen at the WindsorEssex Economic and co-founders of three local companies – Dimension), Frank Abbruzzese
Regional Innovation Centres funded by Development Corporation. CenterLine, Next Dimension and Brave (AlphaKOR Group), Rakesh Naidu,
the Government of Ontario, WEtech “I was impressed with the number Controls – recently banded together to co- Saverio Rinaldi (HP), Ross Rawlings and
Alliance is also able to pull in the vast of programs and resources Adam passed produce a #yourWindsor series of videos Shelley Fellows (Radix Inc.), and Rob
network of resources, investors and along,” says Schwartzentruber. “Especially aimed at attracting young professionals. Courteaux (Progressive Software).
partners to support entrepreneurs. in the early stages, he was incredible. The videos were unbranded – meaning In Windsor-Essex we build great
This vast network is a two-way highway You can see that spirit of no-one felt the need to affix their things, because we build together.
and we know the word is spreading because collaboration during our Nerd names to it. The videos belonged to the When it comes to the success of
more and more exciting tech companies are Olympics, which pits sixteen tech community, and people could share them. your tech start-up, WE are all in.
connecting with us from outside our region. companies – large and small – against Whatever helped get the word out.
Randall Schwartzentruber is the each other in an Olympic style “You kind of take your ego and throw Learn more about WEtech Alliance at
co-founder of BinSentry, a tech competition, featuring events such as it in the river,” says Yvonne Pilon, the wetech-alliance.comYou can also read
