Local people: Chris, Construction Planner, Operations, East

Oct 4, 2024, 16:29 PM

Serving more than 240 communities throughout Alberta, there’s a lot of opportunity to get to know our customers. But we also want you to get to know us. That’s why we’re excited to continue our look at those who keep the lights on.

Chris has been with FortisAlberta for nearly three years. He currently resides in Camrose. In addition to his role at FortisAlberta, Chris is an avid golfer and hockey player, as well as a father and husband. He knows the area he works very well as a fan of camping and boating on Buffalo Lake. Let's meet Chris.

Can you provide an example of the work a designer takes on in their day-to-day?

We regularly meet with customers and stakeholders to discuss their project needs. We then create prints for the construction crew, utilizing various programs and software to model the power line design.

Can you speak to a unique element of the job that people may not think about right away when considering the work of a FortisAlberta employee?

We engage with representatives from various towns, cities, municipalities and pipeline companies to obtain the necessary approvals to install our overhead and underground equipment as part of the construction process.   

What are some more notable ways that your work impacts or benefits the community?

Our team is continually upgrading and replacing old assets in our system to improve its reliability. Also, I am part of projects where we salvage assets and equipment that are no longer required. One key element here is that the removal of these unnecessary assets reduces copper theft. 

Can you talk about a highlight, success, or key memory from your time at FortisAlberta?

A highlight of my time at FortisAlberta would be getting to meet and connect with new and existing customers on the daily. Seeing them in the early stages of a project full of enthusiasm and excitement brings joy to my day.

Can you speak to your favourite part of your work?

I enjoy working outside and seeing so much of the countryside throughout our service territory. Also, I like seeing a project come to life and the happiness it brings to our customers.

What would you consider one of the more challenging parts of the job?

It's challenging completing a design that meets all the codes and standards of today, all while being cost effective, environmentally conscious and planning for the future.

How does the work of a designer ensure public safety throughout our service area?

We ensure safety by designing projects that have adequate clearance from overhead lines over farmland, roads and other terrain, as well as being structurally adequate to withstand both summer and winter storms we, as Albertans, face.

In your role, what stands out as a project or service improvement you’ve been a part of putting into practice?

As part of the twinning of the Dale Fisher Arena in Devon, we had to relocate the existing overhead lines to the west and north of the arena. Everything had to be moved underground. Due to other underground facilities in the area coupled with the tight timeline, it was great to see it completed.

When you’re not at work, what might your community members find you doing?

Golfing here in Camrose, playing hockey, spending time camping/boating out at Buffalo Lake, or playing at the park with my daughter.