Duane Wade - Al-Terra

Edmonton
Team member since 2021

Department
Geomatics

What is your favourite thing about working at Al-Terra?
Without a doubt, my most favorite aspect of working here at Al-Terra is the fact that "there isn't a favorite aspect, just a whole bunch of really good parts". Honestly, experiencing the private sector and all it's dos and don'ts has been wonderful and an eye-opening experience. All the newly created acquaintances and job mates have been a new lease on life for me. At this stage in my career I certainly do notice the respect and appreciation given and shown to me by all. The diversity of our staff, our projects and of our modern facilities and equipment are second no none. The freedom to voice my opinions as well as all the privileges that have come my way. The trust extended to me by all has not gone unnoticed.

What is an interesting fact about you?
I am an auctioneer, I come from a line of family auctioneers. My background and expertise is in fine estate belongings and sales. I am so proud to have partnered and be mentored by my parents back in the day in co-ownership of the family store and business.

What achievement are you most proud of?
I was the winner and recipient of the "Ted Rudd Coach of the Year Award" which is presented by Baseball Alberta. The most honorable award in baseball in the Province of Alberta.

I bring a strong foundation of precision and dedication to my position as a roadways surveyor at Al-Terra. I believe in a no-nonsense approach, ensuring that every project is handled with the highest standards of integrity and attention to detail. I love to share my extensive knowledge by mentoring students and colleagues alike. Notably, I was the surveyor of choice for the recently completed four-year Yellowhead Trail West Freeway Expansion Project.

I joined Al-Terra in June 2021, during the second year of the Covid-19 pandemic and I quickly adapted to the challenges of the evolving work environment. As a retired 40-year veteran surveyor from the City of Edmonton, I am deeply committed to integrity, accuracy, clear communication, and respecting all individuals regardless of their backgrounds, abilities, or experiences. The opportunity to transition from a full term municipal career into the private sector is a dream come true.

A few career highlights and projects I’d like to share were working on the Fort Road and Yellowhead Trail grade separation, 170th Street and WMD Split Diamond grade separation, the original AHD development from Collingwood Road to Stony Plain Road and the Sherbrooke, McKernan and Glenora neighbourhood renewals, to name just a few.

I look forward to refocusing on the next challenge or stage that may come my way. Now that my weekends can hopefully free up, I wish to start enjoying the relaxation of pursuing my acquired and continued passions for antiquing, home renovating, and attending local sporting events—both professional and amateur—while relishing a more flexible lifestyle with reduced commitments. My children are grown and doing their own things, and I’m so proud to visit with them and hear their stories about day-to-day life and experiences. In the near future I plan on partaking in a 4-5 month drive across and around our beautiful Canada and select U.S. states.