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St. Mary’s Band signs joint venture agreement with ATCO
ATCO Structures & Logistics signed a joint-venture agreement with Aq’am (pronounced Ak-am) Community Enterprises to create economic opportunities related to camp construction projects. Workforce housing, capital infrastructure development, and urban infrastructure, the two sides announced Dec. 21 (2011).
Aq’am Community Enterprises is a development corporation wholly owned by the St. Mary’s Band in southeastern B.C.
“ATCO’s partnership with Aq’am Community Enterprises and the St. Mary’s Band will provide the foundation for many long-term, successful projects,” said Harry Wilmot, president and chief operating officer, ATCO Structures & Logistics. “Together we intend to create business and employment opportunities that will have a positive impact on the St. Mary’s community and its people.”
St. Mary’s Band, also known as the Aq’am Community, is a member of the Ktunaxa Nation Council of the Kootenay District. Located northeast of Cranbrook, the region is rich in natural resources.
“This strategic business relationship with ATCO was formed to increase our community’s ability to both compete in the marketplace and increase our capacity in both infrastructure and skills development,” said Cheryl Casimer, Chief of the St. Mary’s Band. “ATCO’s track record in working with First Nations was a natural fit for us as a community looking to increase internal capacity and gain access to the various natural resource opportunities within the region.”
Since 1981, ATCO has been collaborating with Aboriginal communities throughout Canada and Alaska. These relationships are based on a foundation of trust, respect, and equality, the company notes in its press release.
ATCO Structures & Logistics offers modular buildings, site services, and industrial noise control worldwide. With manufacturing facilities in North America, South America and Australia, and operations on five continents, the company has the expertise to deliver a rapid, turnkey solution anywhere it is needed.
Above photo: The whole St. Mary’s Band, Aq’am Community Enterprises, & Atco Structures & Logistics team
Photos courtesy Becky Pelkonen, Director, Community & Economic Development, St. Mary’s Band