Indigenous Relations

At Thurber Engineering Ltd. (Thurber), our purpose is to make a difference for people. As part of this commitment, we acknowledge the deep and often painful history, inherent rights, and enduring strength of Indigenous Peoples who have cared for lands where we live and work since time immemorial. We recognize that our ability to operate on these lands is made possible through treaties and other agreements to share the land, and we honour the responsibilities that come with this relationship. We commit to building respectful, collaborative relationships with our First Nations, Metis, and Inuit neighbours in the spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.

Our approach to Indigenous engagement is guided by respect, integrity, and a belief in the power of meaningful relationships. We understand that trust must be earned through listening, learning, and taking consistent, respectful action. This means engaging early, honouring Indigenous knowledge systems and cultural protocols, and creating space for Indigenous voices and participation in the planning and delivery of our work, where possible.

We value advancing environmental stewardship, cultural understanding, and economic opportunity in partnership with Indigenous Nations and Communities. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and increasing Indigenous participation across our workforce, supply chains, and the engineering industry.

Thurber is dedicated to pursuing Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations (PAIR) certification through the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB), as an intentional and concrete demonstration of our commitment to sustained progress in Indigenous inclusion.

We believe that authentic reconciliation begins with awareness and education. As such, we ensure that all Thurber employees complete Indigenous relations cultural awareness training to promote a foundational level of Indigenous cultural competency across our organization.

Our journey is ongoing. We are aligning our actions with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action - particularly Call to Action 92 regarding the role of industry in advancing Indigenous inclusion. Thurber is also dedicated to supporting the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Where possible, we seek to learn from Indigenous leaders, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers, and we recognize that true reconciliation requires humility, accountability, and long-term commitment.

Thurber Engineering Ltd. stands with Indigenous Nations and Communities in building a shared future together - one grounded in mutual respect, meaningful relationships, and shared success.