DUSTIN THOMSON
Undoubtingly a leader on the Coastal GasLink (CGL) Section 8 West project, Dustin Thomson, Assistant Project Engineer, is building a respected reputation for himself within the pipeline industry.
Getting his start in the industry through the Registered Apprentice Program (RAP), Dustin Thomson started working for Ledcor in 2005 and has not looked back. Becoming a Red Seal Heavy Equipment Technician (HET) in 2009, Dustin spent several years working in the field before pursuing and obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2018. Crediting his early managers and his wife, Erica, for supporting his development, Dustin is currently an Assistant Project Engineer on the CGL project.
The CGL Section 8 West Project is arguably one of North America’s most challenging pipeline spreads ever. The 54 km section consists of elevation changes, watercourse crossings, intense weather, and slopes angled at up to 60 degrees. With Dustin’s combined years of experience in both the field and engineering training, he merges practical thinking with technology to provide solutions for a demanding project.
“The fast-paced environment and ever-changing challenges; terrain, weather, schedule, technical challenges, no two days are alike, making it an exciting project to work on.”
Dustin manages an engineering team of project coordinators, where he leverages his humor to unite the group. Working remotely can be challenging to find a work-life balance, so Dustin strives to ease that strain for his peers by making the project an enjoyable place to work.
“I like to have fun when warranted, which is a balancing act as it’s a professional workplace, but it still needs to be an enjoyable place to spend as much time as we do.”
When asked how he defines a successful project, Dustin responded, “I would say that a project is truly successful when all personnel go home safely, the client and employees are satisfied with the work completed, and everyone has developed through experiences and lessons learned.”
Excited where his career might take him next, he remains grounded by acknowledging the importance of his support network, “Ensure you have a good support network who’s mutually invested in your successes. Canada’s energy industry is fast-paced and fast-growing, buckle up and enjoy the ride!”
