Bird Construction is celebrating 100 years since its first job on March 29, 1920. Hubert John Bird founded the company in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan with two partners, after returning from World War I as a captain in the Canadian engineers.
Since then, Bird Construction has grown into one of the leading publicly traded builders in Canada, with offices coast-to-coast.
“Since our humble beginnings in 1920 to today, the company has persevered through times of war, economic downturn, natural disasters, and health crises”, said Teri McKibbon, president and CEO.
Today, Bird is one of Canada’s largest and most respected builders and has made significant contributions in the commercial, institutional, retail, multi-tenant residential, industrial, mining, water and wastewater, energy, renewables, nuclear, and civil sectors. The company credits its success to an innovative approach to project delivery, a strong and steadfast safety culture, and dedicated employees.
“The key ingredient to our continued success remains our employees and their commitment to the company”, explained McKibbon. “Throughout our history, talented and passionate employees have contributed immensely to our growth by operating with integrity and professionalism, creating a collaborative environment that fosters teamwork, collective stewardship, and a robust safety culture.”
In 1956, a 25 Year Club was established to recognize the employees who remained with the company during the challenging early years, weathering crises such as the Great Depression and the Second World War. Sixteen employees were inducted into the Club in the inaugural year, including Hubert Bird, and their names were the first to be etched on the plaques that hang in each of the 11 offices across the country. The Club has grown to include 220 members, and three 50 Year Club members.
Bird Construction will continue its longstanding tradition of delivering challenging projects for new and repeat clients across the country through strategic and forward-looking initiatives and the deployment of innovative technology.
The company’s projects are showcased on its new website, and in a commemorative book that documents Bird’s history.
“Our Bird family is strong and resilient, and we have demonstrated this consistently throughout our 100-year history”, said McKibbon. “It is a testament to any organization to grow and thrive as long as we have.”
