Keystone Environmental staff learning about the latest techniques at a drilling demonstration.Provided
Brent Olson worked at Keystone Environmental Ltd. for 10 years. After working at another company for seven years, it felt inevitable that he would return to Keystone Environmental.
“When it was time to think about leaving my other job, it really felt like the only choice was to come back to Keystone Environmental because of how great the people are to work with and the camaraderie we have as a team,” says Olson, senior technical manager, who has been back at the Burnaby, B.C.-based environmental consulting firm since 2021.
“There is a feeling here that everybody has your back. If you’re having a difficult day, there are people to pick you up. Also, the people at the top know you and care for you. They make sure you are supported in your work and in your life.”
To foster this supportive culture, the company’s social committee regularly plans events during and after work hours, including dinners and sports leagues. “This helps build trust and friendships outside of the work environment.” Olson says. “It solidifies the team environment. You know people care about you beyond just their job.”
Another way Keystone Environmental supports employees is through nurturing their career development and helping them to advance within the company. Keree Orso, co-department head of contaminated sites, started working part-time for Keystone Environmental right after university graduation. Over the past 19 years, she has held several roles leading to her current leadership position.
“Definitely the reasons I have stayed are the people, the management team and a real open-door atmosphere,” she says. “From day one, you’re working with some of the most experienced people and they’re giving you opportunities and support.”
In addition to an informal, open-door atmosphere, team leaders meet with employees to discuss their career paths and help create a plan to move them toward their goals. The company also covers costs for learning opportunities, including professional designations and associated training and exam fees.
Even as the company has expanded into Ontario and grown its team, management places a strong focus on maintaining the same close-knit work culture. Part of this is finding creative ways to keep team members with the company, even if they move or experience another lifestyle change, says president Raminder Grewal.
“It’s important to keep employees who have the knowledge and background, but it’s also important to have people who are excited to still be working in an organization by providing opportunities for them to make the choices they need to,” Grewal says. “We want to give them the flexibility to allow them to be happier. And then that’s just going to flow to the rest of the organization. I think it also promotes an environment where people feel supported. They’re willing to support and help their co-workers and their friends.” That is the reason Olson gives when people ask him why he returned to Keystone Environmental.
“That is the feeling I want to have when going to my job every day,” he says. “Even as the company is growing, and with hybrid work, Keystone Environmental spends a lot of time and resources ensuring we still have that camaraderie and social support.”
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Advertising feature produced by Canada’s Top 100 Employers, a division of Mediacorp Canada Inc. The Globe and Mail’s editorial department was not involved.