The Provincial Government is investing in a West Coast-based company as it makes important upgrades to its production line. The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced a $100,000 contribution from the Innovation and Business Development Fund for Western Steel Works Inc.
Western Steel Works has been supplying custom metal fabrication to the commercial, industrial, pulp and paper, forestry, fishing, energy and mining sectors in Newfoundland and Labrador for more than 30 years. The company has facilities in both Deer Lake and Corner Brook that provide welding, metal fabrication and machine shop services.
This investment will support the acquisition of a new arc cutting water table that will allow for the cutting of thicker steel with greater accuracy and at a much faster speed, while lowering wastage. The more efficient cutting table will also reduce gas usage and reduce emissions. The company is also investing in software that will provide 3-D modeling of project details, cutting down on the need to outsource project drafting and engineering.
The Provincial Government’s contribution will leverage $340,000 from other sources and a client investment of $110,895 for a total project cost of $550,895.
The Innovation and Business Development Fund is focused on investments to grow Newfoundland and Labrador’s energy sector supply and service capabilities, including opportunities to diversify capacities in other energy sectors. The program is a key mechanism to facilitate the necessary collaboration, investment and industry growth required to position Newfoundland and Labrador globally as a preferred location for energy development.
Quotes
“This investment in new technology and equipment will enhance and expand Western Steel Works’ current operations, improve the productivity and offer the opportunity to expand into new markets. The investment will also support market development opportunities for Newfoundland and Labrador metal fabrication. We are pleased to support Western Steel Works with this innovative upgrade.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“Western Steel Works continues to be a key player in our region’s industrial sector. This investment supports Western Steel Works’ expansion with new technology that boosts productivity, reduces emissions, and positions the company to compete in new markets while creating real economic value for our communities.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Jobs, Immigration and Growth and MHA for Corner Brook
“Our new arc cutting plasma table will be a game changer in the steel fabrication industry here in Newfoundland and Labrador. By bringing this advanced technology in-house, we can deliver our customers’ projects more efficiently and with greater accuracy. We expect to have it operational by mid-September and we know this investment will set a new standard for steel cutting in the region.”
Cameron Patey
General Manager, Western Steel Works Inc.
-30-
Learn more
Innovation and Business Development Fund
Follow us on X @IET_GovNL
Follow us on Bluesky
Like Industry, Energy and Technology NL on Facebook