Hatch and the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council (NSMTC) announced the exploration of a joint venture (JV) opportunity for Canada’s clean energy and infrastructure sectors. Unlike other engagements, the NSMTC and Hatch are bringing an Indigenous-led approach to sustainable development for the betterment of the next seven generations.
Hatch and the NSMTC have a long history of working together successfully on various engagements over the past 25 years. This JV would solidify our relationship to provide professional services that leverage our capabilities in:
- Feasibility/front end studies
- Civil site development – geotechnical, design/CAD, site survey, traffic studies, laboratory analysis
- Environmental, sustainability and community engagement services
- Project management
- Business advisory services – market studies and development agreements
The JV, Wellugwet Technical Services, would be underpinned by the responsible development of lands and resources. Wullugwet is a Mi’kmaq word meaning “do good work, do well, or succeed” and was selected through consultation with NSMTC Chiefs, Elders, and leadership.
The NSMTC is interested in building capacity and capability in the energy sector, and this aligns well with Hatch’s demonstrated expertise, while providing Hatch with access to new markets and the opportunity to advance reconciliation with the Indigenous Peoples of Canada.
“This intended joint venture will combine Indigenous vision and leadership with technical capacity, leveraging the collective strengths of the NSMTC and Hatch. Our Tribal Council strives to create opportunities for our young people, and we value the chance to collaborate with partners like Hatch. Together, we are embarking on a journey of shared success for the next seven generations,” said Jim Ward, general manager, North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council.
“We are thrilled to announce the intention of establishing a JV which will formalize our long-standing, mutually beneficial relationship with the NSMTC. We believe that plurality of thought creates sustainable outcomes for the communities where we live and work and enhances our ability to deliver reliable, innovative solutions for our clients across Canada,” said Mario Pieries, global director, Nuclear, Hatch.
The proposed NSMTC-Hatch JV mission statement is “we offer an Indigenous-led approach to engineering, environmental, engagement and advisory services. Our Indigenous and non-Indigenous staff work together in partnership with our clients to develop projects within the clean energy and infrastructure sectors. We provide the opportunity to increase the representation of Indigenous youth in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, through Indigenous ownership and Indigenous staffing. We strive to further the economic self-determination of our member communities by providing professional services in the pursuit of responsible and sustainable development of lands and resources.”
Featured image: A signing ceremony and celebration took place on July 22, 2024, at the Natoaganeg Band Office Assembly Hall. (L to R)Jim Ward, general manager, NSMTC; Mario Pieries, global director, Nuclear, Hatch (Hatch)
