MacLean Engineering, a prominent manufacturer of mining equipment, has announced its expansion into North Bay, signaling a strategic move to bolster its manufacturing, engineering, and customer support capabilities. The company, headquartered in Collingwood, has acquired a 95,000-square-foot facility, a decision that underscores its commitment to the mining industry and its customers.
Kevin MacLean, owner and CEO, expressed the company’s dedication in a news release: “Opening a facility in North Bay is further cementing our message to the mining industry: we are here to stay, and we are expanding to better service your needs.” This expansion comes on the heels of significant growth for MacLean Engineering, marked by the introduction of new products, features, and markets. The company’s decision to expand in its “backyard” is a calculated move to enhance its capacity and proximity to key customers.
MacLean Engineering is renowned for its underground mining machinery, including personnel carriers, rock bolters, and shotcrete transporters. However, the company has been diversifying its portfolio. Earlier this year, it launched a surface mining division with the introduction of the battery electric-powered GR8 surface grader. This strategic shift reflects the evolving needs of the mining industry and MacLean’s adaptability.
The North Bay facility is strategically located, offering direct road access to customers in Ontario and Quebec, as well as direct access to high-capacity rail lines for customers elsewhere. Its proximity to MacLean’s existing manufacturing bases in Barrie, Collingwood, and Owen Sound further enhances operational efficiency.
Stella Holloway, MacLean’s president, highlighted the company’s commitment to local hiring. “We operate in a result-driven open culture and are confident we will find many good candidates within our organization and in the area.” The company plans to recruit a diverse range of skill sets, including welders, machinists, electricians, mechanical assemblers, engineers, supervisors, accountants, and human resource professionals. Recruitment and hiring efforts are expected to begin in the coming months, with a focus on vetting candidates from within the company, the community, and externally.
This expansion is poised to shape the development of the mining sector in several ways. Firstly, it underscores the growing demand for advanced mining equipment, both underground and on the surface. MacLean’s investment in a new facility and the launch of a surface mining division indicate a shift towards more versatile and sustainable mining solutions.
Secondly, the expansion highlights the importance of strategic location in the mining industry. By establishing a presence in North Bay, MacLean Engineering is not only enhancing its service capabilities but also positioning itself to better understand and respond to the unique needs of its customers in the region.
Lastly, the company’s commitment to local hiring and community engagement sets a positive precedent for the industry. As the mining sector continues to evolve, the role of local communities and their skilled workforce will become increasingly important. MacLean Engineering’s approach serves as a model for other companies looking to balance growth with community development.
In conclusion, MacLean Engineering’s expansion into North Bay is a significant development that reflects the company’s growth, adaptability, and commitment to the mining industry. It also offers valuable insights into the future of the sector, highlighting the importance of strategic location, advanced equipment, and community engagement. As the company embarks on this new chapter, it will be interesting to see how this move shapes the broader mining landscape.