Page 23 - Tomlinson Times - Fall + Winter 2016

HUMAN RESOURCES CONT’D
UNIQUE ROLES
Marc-André Lebel
As a Construc on Foreman with the City & Commercial Division, Marc-André is in the unique posi on of being the direct link between the o ce and the eld. His primary role is that of site supervisor. Being a team leader and communicator are crucial skills. Marc-Andre relies on his team to complete the construc on, be it excava on, back lling, or asphalt paving. So, he is in frequent contact with the asphalt division, the quarry, and the Sewer/Watermain Division. Not only does Marc-Andre have to manage the Tomlinson employees and divisions involved in the project, he also has to liaise with the sub-contractors and external stake holders.
As the main point of contact for all of these individuals, Marc-Andre acts as rst-hand problem solver. “This keeps me challenged on a daily basis,” he comments. “I have to make sure I get all the important informa on from the o ce, and ensure the scheduling works so that we meet the milestones set by the project managers and es mators.”
Some projects represent addi onal challenges such as high visibility involving major stake holders or media presence, ght schedules, or long hours.
Despite the challenges, Marc-Andre enjoys his role. When he visited his rst construc on site with his dad at age 5 he knew all he wanted to do was work in the eld. He started as a laborer at Tomlinson at age 16 before moving on to a grademan posi on. Within 5 years he was promoted to his current role of construc on foreman. He received all his work experience with the company and has found great teachers and mentors at Tomlinson. With the increased responsibility comes greater job sa sfac on. “I love what I do because people get to use what we build, whether it’s a new road or highway, a new building or an airport runway. I get to see the evolu on of the project every day, from the rst shovel taken out of the ground to the project comple on. Our work is visible for years a er comple on and we’re actually ge ng to build the city!”
FOUNDED ON GUIDED BY 23