Mikisew Group of Companies Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Mikisew Group of Companies is the distinct business entity of the Mikisew Cree First Nation, established in 1991 to drive sustainable economic development for its members. The company specializes in providing a range of services to the Alberta oil sands industry, including site services, maintenance, logistics, and construction. With a peak workforce of approximately 650 employees, Mikisew Group operates through two wholly owned companies and ten majority-owned partnerships, fostering responsible resource development and economic progress in its communities.

Mission and Vision

Mikisew Group's mission is to build diverse, sustainable companies that are recognized nationwide as reputable, strong, proud, and prosperous partners of industry. Guided by traditions and a deep understanding of their land, the company aims to deliver superior customer service, strong financial results, and position itself for a strong future.

Industry Significance

As a leading Indigenous-owned enterprise in the oil sands sector, Mikisew Group plays a pivotal role in integrating Indigenous communities into the resource development industry. Its operations not only contribute to the economic growth of the Mikisew Cree First Nation but also set a precedent for sustainable and responsible business practices within Indigenous communities.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Economic Development: Enhance the economic prosperity of the Mikisew Cree First Nation through strategic investments and partnerships.

Community Engagement: Foster strong relationships with community members and stakeholders to ensure mutual growth and success.

Sustainability: Implement environmentally responsible practices in all operations to protect traditional lands for future generations.

Areas of Specialization

Site Services: General labor, janitorial services, equipment operation, road and grounds maintenance, heavy lifting and transport, environmental management and monitoring, decommissioning and restoration, confined space and remote monitoring, integrated medical and emergency services, medical consulting, and telehealth clinical services.

Maintenance: Consolidated facilities management, fleet management, tool repair, electrical and instrumentation, crusher and conveyor repair, lifting installation and repair, field inspection and non-destructive examination (NDE), mechanical services utilizing rope access techniques, and ventilation.

Logistics: Camp and catering, emergency services, aerodrome services, and passenger transportation.

Construction: Heavy construction and mining, structural steel erection and fabrication, piping installation and fitting, electrical engineering and construction, and general contracting.

Key Technologies Utilized

Mikisew Group employs advanced technologies in its operations, including:

Rope Access Techniques: For efficient and safe mechanical services.

Non-Destructive Examination (NDE): For field inspection and maintenance services.

Telehealth Clinical Services: To provide integrated medical and emergency services.

Primary Markets and Conditions Targeted

The company primarily serves the Alberta oil sands industry, focusing on large-scale industrial clients requiring comprehensive site services, maintenance, logistics, and construction solutions. Mikisew Group also targets opportunities that align with its sustainability and community engagement objectives.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Mikisew Group is privately held by the Mikisew Cree First Nation, with funding primarily sourced from internal revenues and strategic partnerships. Specific details regarding total funds raised and recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

As a First Nation-owned enterprise, Mikisew Group's primary investor is the Mikisew Cree First Nation, which holds full ownership of the company.

Utilization of Capital

Capital is utilized for:

Operational Expansion: Enhancing service capabilities and workforce development.

Strategic Acquisitions: Integrating complementary businesses to broaden service offerings.

Community Development: Investing in education, training, and infrastructure to support community growth.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Mikisew Group's pipeline development focuses on:

Service Expansion: Broadening the range of services offered to existing and new clients.

Geographic Reach: Extending operations to new regions within the oil sands industry.

Stages of Development

The company is in the planning and early implementation stages for expanding its service offerings and geographic presence.

Target Conditions

Mikisew Group targets conditions that align with its expertise in site services, maintenance, logistics, and construction within the oil sands sector.

Anticipated Milestones

Specific timelines for anticipated milestones are not publicly disclosed.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Mikisew Group utilizes proprietary technologies such as rope access techniques and non-destructive examination methods to enhance service efficiency and safety.

Significant Scientific Methods

Rope Access Techniques: For mechanical services, providing safe and efficient access to challenging work areas.

Non-Destructive Examination (NDE): For field inspection and maintenance, ensuring structural integrity without causing damage.

Telehealth Clinical Services: Offering integrated medical and emergency services through advanced telecommunication technologies.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Jeff Epp: Interim Chief Executive Officer.

Bilal Abdu: Chief Financial Officer.

Dan Gallagher: Chief Operations Officer.

Doug Allen: Vice President of Shared Services.

Malek Eid, CPA, CA: Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Development.

Bill Fisher: Vice President of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) and Labour Relations.

Lorie Macko: Executive Assistant & Office Manager.

Gord Jonah: Director of Strategic Partnerships.

Doug Phibbs: Director of Business Development.

Jeff Shaughnessy: Director of Contracts Management.

Sterling Marcel: Director of Operations, Mikisew Fleet Maintenance.

Steve Jani: Director of Operations, Mikisew Guthrie Limited Partnership.

Leadership Changes

In July 2021, Edward Courtoreille retired from his position as Chief Executive Officer, and Dan Gallagher, previously the Chief Operations Officer, assumed the role of Interim CEO.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The Alberta oil sands industry is a significant sector within Canada's energy landscape, characterized by large-scale operations and a demand for comprehensive service providers. The market is competitive, with numerous companies offering similar services, but Mikisew Group's unique position as an Indigenous-owned enterprise provides distinct advantages.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

Closure: Specializes in oilfield asset retirement, focusing on well site assessments and abandonments.

Mammoet Canada Western Ltd.: Provides heavy lifting and transport services, with a focus on large-scale industrial projects.

Sodexo Canada: Offers facilities management and catering services, including a joint venture with Mikisew Group.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Mikisew Group has formed several strategic partnerships to enhance its service offerings and market presence:

Mikisew Guthrie Limited Partnership (MGLP): Acquired Guthrie Industrial Services Ltd. and Guthrie Mechanical Services Ltd. in 2019, expanding maintenance and repair capabilities.

Mikisew Sodexo Limited Partnership (MSLP): A joint venture with Sodexo Canada, focusing on facilities management and catering services.

Mikisew-ConeTec Limited Partnership: A collaboration with ConeTec, providing site characterization services in the Athabasca region.

Desika LP: A partnership with Fort McKay First Nation and Advisian, offering environmental services influenced by Indigenous knowledge.

Operational Insights

Mikisew Group's strategic collaborations enhance its service capabilities and market position, leveraging both local expertise and global resources to deliver comprehensive solutions to clients.