Nigel Nicholson

Background

About Nigel Nicholson

Over the past 20 years, my career in the electrical industry has been a journey of diverse experiences and continuous learning. It began with a four-year apprenticeship in Ireland, providing a solid foundation in electrical work within low-rise apartment complexes. A brief stint with Ireland's leading electrical utility company further broadened my initial skillset. The recession led me to Australia, a pivotal move that significantly shaped my career. The work there was incredibly varied, encompassing residential solar panel installations, high-rise construction, luxury hotel renovations, and ultimately, a transition into the industrial sector. Working on gas plants and algae plants provided invaluable experience, particularly in the critical areas of safety and quality—essential for successful construction. My journey continued to British Columbia, Canada, where I faced the challenge of re-establishing myself. This proved beneficial, as it allowed me to learn the intricacies of Canadian electrical practices, which differ considerably from those in Ireland and Australia. I initially worked on high-rise apartment and hotel projects, rebuilding my professional base. This led to a position with Houle Electric, focusing on commercial projects. My meticulous attention to detail at Houle was recognized, culminating in a transfer to the quality department. In this role, I leveraged my experience to ensure high standards were maintained. During my time in QA/QC, I contributed to major industrial projects like the Neptune Terminal upgrade and the Site C Dam, learning the importance of thorough documentation and record-keeping from my mentors. For family reasons, I relocated to Calgary, Alberta, joining Iconic Power Systems as a QA Coordinator. This role provided valuable insights into utility company specifications and standards. Although my time in the QA department was just over a year, I thoroughly enjoyed working with the team. An opportunity then arose to work directly under a project manager, gaining valuable experience and knowledge in leadership and organizational skills—an opportunity I couldn't refuse.