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For generations, Indigenous communities have relied on frozen waterways for travel, hunting, and cultural practices. In 2002, when the mining development in Voisey’s Bay began, Inuit community leaders in Nain, Labrador, expressed concern that winter shipping had the potential to impact the way they traditionally travelled across sea ice; this problem required an innovative solution.
Through the formation of Sikumiut Environmental Management, Nain residents Ron Webb and Gus Dicker partnered with Bevin LeDrew to lead efforts to ensure winter shipping in Voisey’s Bay honored cultural traditions. This included the development of ship track markings, allowing the Umiak icebreaker to navigate frozen waterways without disturbing Indigenous hunters and travelers. A key innovation was the development of pontoon “ice bridges” for snowmobiles to safely cross the ship’s track.
This initiative, one of the first major projects undertaken by SEM, helped establish the company’s approach to balancing industry needs with community well-being. More than 20 years later, SEM continues to prioritize collaborative decision-making, sustainable development, and cultural preservation across our work.For more than two decades, the Winter Shipping Program in Voisey’s Bay has been a model of safety and cultural respect. SEM’s founding partners Ron, Gus, and Bevin, joined later by Leroy Metcalfe, played a crucial role in the development of this initiative.
This traditional tool has been an essential part of Arctic Indigenous life for over 5,000 years, used for food preparation, crafting, and ceremonies. The distinctive crescent-shaped blade embodies resilience and cultural legacy.
At SEM, this legacy has shaped our environmental consultancy. When opening our first office in Nain in 2003, co-founder Ron Webb honoured tradition by using his mother’s ulu to cut a seal skin ribbon at the opening ceremony. As we grow, the ulu remains a powerful symbol of our commitment to responsible stewardship.
Grant Vivian
President, CEO
Stephen Rowe
Executive VP
Innovation & Growth
Stefan Cahill
Executive VP
Operations
Amy Copeland
VP
Mining and Sustainable Development
Steve Gullage
VP
Environment & Climate Change
Our company offers fulfilling work, broad exposure, and unique experiences that foster both professional and personal growth. We believe that diversity fuels innovation and strengthens our collective ability to solve complex challenges. Our inclusive workplace embraces diverse backgrounds, expertise, and viewpoints, creating a collaborative and dynamic environment where every voice is valued. Beyond our work, we are deeply committed to the communities we serve.
Whether through local engagement, environmental stewardship, or supporting community initiatives, we recognize that our success is tied to the well-being of those around us. We actively foster connections, give back, and contribute to meaningful causes that align with our values.
