A Healthy Balance
July 18, 2013 12:22 pm Leave your thoughts
Hello once again readers. Since my last blog, not much has changed regarding my work, so I chose to write this particular post on something else. I am going to write a brief account of what it has been like working for Millar Western so far this summer.
First off, I would like to say that Millar Western is an amazing company to work for. Everything, including their reputation for environmental accountability, is widely recognized. I have noticed that a great deal of effort is put into not only meeting the company and regulatory standards but in exceeding them – a mission that everyone, including management, shares. For example, the effluent that is being fed back into the river must be at or below certain levels, as per government regulation. Millar Western not only adheres to those requirements but is typically under the maximum value by more than 50-60%! Another example of its environmental commitment is the massive bio-energy project that is currently being installed. These are both demonstrations of the company’s determination to protecting the environment.
A view from the roof of the Pulp Mill that shows the Bio-energy project under construction (Left side) and the huge wood chip piles (Right side).
Secondly, a healthy work-life balance is heavily emphasized for all the employees. The employees are allowed plenty of holidays and are encouraged to take them. Millar Western also has a very active social club for entertainment purposes, with activities such as golf tournaments, football games and, every so often, fancy restaurant dining in Edmonton. Another point I have noticed is that micromanagement is kept at a minimum. This can be attractive, depending on your own personal opinion and preference.
Millar Western also happens to operate out of beautiful communities, encompassed by forests (who would have guessed right?). Whitecourt, Fox Creek and Boyle all are surrounded by amazing natural areas, with stunning landscapes. Having the chance to live in such amazing places that offer excellent recreational opportunities and quality of life is another bonus of working for a forest products company.
The Northwestern view from the roof of the Pulp Mill. The river seen in this picture is the McLeod River, one of two rivers that run through Whitecourt.
Lastly, another general vibe that emanates in the Millar Western workplace is a lower feeling of stress than one would imagine finding in a large manufacturing environment. People are genuinely friendly and approachable; scenarios can be tackled and solved without large amounts of anxiety; and everyone is generally calm and collected when dealing with issues and making plans – not something you would expect to find at every company on the scale of Millar Western.
I suppose what I am trying to explain with this blog is that Millar Western has been a great employment experience, and I would bet that almost all forestry related companies would be similar in nature. If you have ever considered working for a forestry related company or, in particular, Millar Western, I would highly recommend that you give it a try, as it is likely to be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience for you.
This has been a smaller post, but I feel fairly satisfied with it, so I’ll catch you next time.
Patrick Pickard