Ron Deslippe, Superintendent for Alberici’s Canadian Division, shares some of his experiences with the firm.
Describe the path that brought you to your current role?
My first union construction job was with Alberici in 1999 as a Carpenter Apprentice. Since then I have moved from a Journeyman Carpenter to a Lead Hand, Foreman, General Foreman and now a Superintendent. I started out in the footings for Windsor’s Minivan Plant and learned, from the foundation up, how it was done. As a union worker I was not guaranteed a position, so I worked really hard to be chosen to stay on the team. On each job, I strive to be a good worker and teammate.
What do you enjoy most about your current role?
I love the challenge of making all the pieces come together in the scheduled timeline, as well as all the different people I work with. For me, the part I like the best is the puzzle of how to make the project come together. I have learned that given the right opportunity an individual can learn to develop professionally.
What do you like most about working at Alberici?
The culture that was built on hard work, honesty and integrity. The team we have is like no other, and I’m proud to be a part of it. With a strong sense of family, I feel like I belong here.
What are you most proud of in your time at Alberici and why?
The glass plant in Mexico was a communication challenge. I learned to speak Spanish so I could communicate clearly with the team there. The project was successful, and as the project Superintendent, it was a great accomplishment. When I look back at it now, it was a learning experience for me personally. I learned that communication is the most important element in construction. If everyone is able to communicate the message clearly to the intended recipients, then we are successful as a group.
You’ve been involved in a diverse group of projects ranging from automotive plants, to water treatment facilities and power plants. How has this diverse experience helped you?
As a Superintendent I learned that Alberici’s system is crafted to get you through whatever you are working on. Alberici has numerous resources that help us be successful. Having said that, I have never been in a situation where I felt I couldn’t do it. The wealth of knowledge and the diversity of our team means that we can reach out to any team member to help us in any situation.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your time at Alberici?
Alberici is a company that embraces you like family, and they are sensitive to our need to support our families. Alberici has enabled me to provide and care for my family, and that is what I’m thankful for. I believe that the primary goal of our company is to protect the family unit, and in doing that we have prospered. This building block element sets us apart from others in our markets. Our clients recognize this and Alberici has become a trusted name in the industry.