News

By Catherine Lee August 18, 2026
Makwa Development, an established contractor focusing on residential and commercial renovations and new-builds, is seeking a licensed carpenter with 5 years of experience. Job Title: Licensed Carpenter Reports to: Construction Manager Job Location: Saugeen/Neyaashiinigmiing Start Date: TBD/ASAP Job Type: Full-time Hours/Week: 40 hours/week Wage: $28 - $35/ hour (depending on experience and qualifications) Responsibilities & Duties: - Direct daily crew activities, assign tasks and ensure project schedules are maintained - Read blueprints and specifications to lay out work, ensuring accuracy in construction tasks - Enforce company safety standards and OSHA/local regulations, including PPE compliance - Perform skilled tasks alongside the crew - Maintain daily logs, track materials and report progress to construction manager - Prepare job sites by removing debris, hazardous materials, set up barriers and safety signs - Take apart existing structures, remove walls or fixtures, and erect scaffolding, ramps or temporary partitions - Provide direct support to carpenters, electricians, or plumbers as needed - Load, unload, and transport construction materials to work areas - Operate tools such as, but not limited to jackhammers, drills, and saws - Clean and maintain tools and equipment - Adhere to safety regulations, wear personal PPE and ensure a clean and safe job - All other duties as assigned Qualifications/Skills: - Licensed carpenter - 3-5 years of experience - Experience in carpentry in both commercial and residential - Ability to read plans and measurements accurately - Valid drivers license - Strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn and take direction - Understanding of job safety and basic building code requirements Working and Physical Demands: - Ability to stand for long periods of time - Ability to lift heavy objects - Ability to climb ladders and work at heights - Knowledge of building materials and tools Asset - Working at heights - Experience with estimating/quoting - Any relevant qualifications You can expect - Health Spending Account (following 3 month probationary period) - Annual performance reviews - Company clothing - Clean and safe work environment - Teamwork
August 17, 2026
Makwa Development, an established contractor focusing on residential and commercial renovations and new-builds, is seeking a licensed carpenter with 5 years of experience.
By Trenton Chegahno March 26, 2026
Makwa Development is excited to join our partners at Nuclear Promise X as we’ve been selected by Bruce Power as the Project Management Partner for the early phase of the Bruce C Project. This is a major opportunity for our team and we are incredibly grateful for the chance to contribute to this initiative. We’re proud to bring Indigenous leadership, local knowledge, and deep community roots to a project that will help shape Ontario’s clean‑energy future. We’re energized, we’re ready, and we’re looking forward to rolling up our sleeves alongside NPX and Bruce Power as this next chapter begins! More information is available here; Bruce Power retains NPX and Makwa Development as Project Management Partner to support the early phase of the Bruce C Project - Bruce Power
Shane Chegano and worker with equipment
October 2, 2025
Makwa Development is proud to celebrate the launch of Makwa Leasing & Rentals, now in motion with Bruce Power, a milestone powered by strong collaboration and forward-thinking partnerships.
September 2, 2025
We pridefully recognize the graduation of our newest Quality Control Inspectors (QCIs) — all proud Saugeen Ojibway Nation band members.
September 2, 2025
We’re honoured to be part of this monumental milestone for the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation.
September 2, 2025
Our EVP, Shane Chegahno, was recently featured in Maclean’s magazine as part of their Canada’s Nuclear Future campaign, highlighting the changemakers driving innovation in clean energy. Shane’s leadership at Makwa Development is helping redefine how Indigenous communities engage with the nuclear sector. Through strategic partnerships, advocacy, and a deep commitment to reconciliation, Shane is ensuring that Indigenous voices are being heard. His work is paving the way for a more collaborative, sustainable, and equitable energy future for all Canadians. Here is the article from MediaPlanet: Mediaplanet connected with Shane Chegahno, Executive Vice-President of Makwa Development, to discuss the growing role of Indigenous leadership in Canada’s nuclear sector. From advancing participation in the supply chain to supporting workforce development and Small Modular Reactor deployment, he highlights how long-term partnerships can create lasting opportunities for Indigenous communities and the industry alike. From your perspective, how is the nuclear industry evolving in terms of meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities We’re beginning to see a slow but promising shift toward genuine inclusion and engagement from major players in the nuclear industry. It’s no longer just about checking boxes or hosting one-off consultations. One example I like to point to is the expansion of the Nawash Ice Rink in my community. With support from nuclear proponents, we’ve seen real investment in infrastructure that matters to us. These kinds of tangible contributions show that industry partners are starting to understand that meaningful engagement means listening, investing, and showing up consistently, not just when it’s convenient. What role do you see Indigenous-owned corporations playing in the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), especially in remote communities? Indigenous-owned corporations and Nations aren’t just participants in SMR deployment, they are the pilots, the proving grounds, and the high watermark by which the success of SMRs will be judged for the rest of their deployment and life cycle. Many remote communities in Canada are primarily populated by First Nations, which makes them the natural leaders in this space. These communities offer a unique opportunity to demonstrate how SMRs can be implemented responsibly, sustainably, and in alignment with Indigenous values. When Indigenous businesses and Nations lead these pilot projects, they set the standard for what meaningful engagement, environmental stewardship, and community benefit should look like. The rest of the industry will look to these projects as benchmarks. It’s not just about bringing power to remote areas; it’s about empowering communities to shape the future of energy on their own terms. This is where reconciliation meets innovation, and where Indigenous leadership becomes the cornerstone of Canada’s nuclear future. Makwa Development has been a leader in bridging Indigenous business with the nuclear supply chain. What progress have you seen in Indigenous participation in nuclear procurement and infrastructure development? We’ve seen a growing interest from Indigenous businesses trying to break into the nuclear space, but the path hasn’t always been smooth. Many have faced barriers, whether it’s navigating complex procurement systems, meeting stringent regulatory requirements, or simply being taken seriously by established players. At Makwa Development, we’ve worked hard to build those bridges, advocate for Indigenous inclusion, and create pathways that are accessible and sustainable. Progress is happening, but it requires ongoing support, mentorship, and a willingness from industry leaders to open doors and walk alongside us. What kinds of workforce development or training investments are most effective in preparing Indigenous workers for roles in Nuclear? The most effective training investments are those that meet people where they are. We’ve found success by working directly with the existing employment and training offices within local First Nations. These are trusted spaces, and when we collaborate with community employment officers, we’re able to connect with talent in a way that feels authentic and respectful. Right now, we’re running a Quality Control Inspector (QCI) training program for 10 Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON) band members. After 8 weeks of classroom instruction and 3 weeks of hands-on training, they’ll be certified and placed into meaningful career opportunities. It’s a model that works because it’s built on trust and community leadership. What do you believe are the key-elements of a long-term partnership between the nuclear sector and Indigenous communities? Understanding and respect, those are the pillars. Long-term partnerships must be rooted in reconciliation, not just economic opportunity. That means listening deeply, following the lead of each Indigenous Nation, and recognizing that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. A cookie-cutter engagement strategy is colonial by nature and risks alienating the very communities you’re trying to work with. Indigenous Nations are dealing with real crises. Poverty, addiction, housing shortages – and those issues take precedence. Be patient. Be present. And remember: engagement is not a transaction, it’s a relationship. Indigenous-led partnerships in the energy industry are not just possible – they’re essential. By empowering communities to lead, we ensure that development is rooted in respect, reconciliation, and real opportunity. As the original keepers of the land, we are committed to walking the good path in all aspects of energy development on Turtle Island. Makwa Development is proud to be at the forefront, building bridges between Indigenous talent and Canada’s nuclear future. Anything else you would like to add? Makwa Development is open for business and excited to continue making an impact in our local communities. We’re here to build, to collaborate, and to ensure that Indigenous voices are not just heard, but centered, in Canada’s nuclear future. The opportunities ahead are immense, and we’re ready to lead the way. Author Mediaplanet https://www.innovatingcanada.ca/canadas-nuclear-future-2025/a-conversation-with-shane-chegahno/
By Owen Smart July 6, 2024
Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s recent visit to the Makwa-Cahill fabrication facility marked a historic moment for Indigenous-led initiatives in the energy sector. As the first nuclear-qualified Indigenous fabrication centre in the region, Makwa-Cahill embodies resilience, collaboration, and economic empowerment. Premier Ford expressed support for the partnership and its benefits. He highlighted the importance of training and development opportunities for skilled tradespeople in the region’s nuclear industry. The Premier also congratulated Makwa-Cahill on their successes, emphasizing the positive impact of the facility on local families and communities. Thank you to Premier Ford for taking the time to tour our facility, learn about our business and meet members of our team.
June 18, 2024
Makwa Development's leadership and staff were joined by Mike Rencheck to celebrate Mike's retirement and the progress and success that Makwa Development has made in its business with Bruce Power over the last three years. The occasion was marked by Bruce Power's Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration, which featured a Pow Wow Dance, Indigenous Artisans' Market, and a powerful presentation on Truth and Reconciliation bestowed by Makwa's own Joselyn Keeshig. We would like to thank Mike for his support and leadership over the years. We are looking forward to continuing our journey with Mike in the future. Chi-Miigwetch Mike!
By Owen Smart April 27, 2023
We are excited to announce the formation of Makwa-Dewar Limited Partnership, a new Indigenous business partnering Makwa Development Corporation and Dewar Industrial Services Inc. This partnership combines decades of construction experience and expertise with a local First Nation perspective, creating a powerful combination of knowledge, experience and values. Makwa Development is a First Nation-owned business that specializes in a range of services, including construction, forestry management, and fabrication. With deep roots in the local community and a commitment to sustainable development, Makwa Development brings a unique perspective and set of values to the partnership.
Show More