At a glance
- Project Administrator Cliff Edwards shares his experience working on OPG's Frederick House Lake Dam Rehabilitation Project in northern Ontario.
- As part of his role, the community member of Taykwa Tagamou Nation engages in various duties, from procurement of equipment to flying drones.
- The project will ensure the Frederick House Lake Dam continues to operate with the highest integrity. It is set to be completed in Fall 2025.
From driving a rock truck at a Timmins-area mine, to environmental work with his community of Taykwa Tagamou Nation (TTN), to working on the ramp crew at an airport, Cliff Edwards knows the importance of being open to new experiences.
Cliff Edwards is Project Administrator on OPG's Frederick House Lake Dam Rehabilitation Project in northern Ontario.
"I like to try everything, and see what fits from there," said Edwards, who is currently working as a Project Administrator on OPG's Frederick House Lake Dam Rehabilitation Project in northern Ontario.
Although he has enjoyed all of his experiences, it's the collaboration and open conversations he has had on this current project that sets the work apart from other jobs.
"It's pretty fun," he said of his experience working with the project's contractor, Stuart Olson. "This is my first time working on a construction project. Getting to know my colleagues has been great."
The work currently taking place at the Frederick House Lake Dam, which was built in 1938, includes concrete repairs and replacement of other flow control equipment. Rehabilitation work was required at the 85-year-old structure to extend its operating life by about 50 years and ensure it upholds the highest standards of dam and public safety. Frederick House Lake Dam is located about 50 km northeast of Timmins.
As part of his Project Administrator role, Edwards' daily activities are varied, ranging from procurement of equipment and tools to drone work, document control, and water quality testing. He says the regular work schedule is a perk, but even more rewarding is being able to see the project's progress happening in real-time.
It's great to see how my contributions to the team are going toward the bigger goal. It's a great environment to work in as well. Hydroelectric projects like this allow you to work close to the water, surrounded by nature.Cliff EdwardsProject Administrator
"It's great to see how my contributions to the team are going toward the bigger goal. It's a great environment to work in as well," he said. "Hydroelectric projects like this allow you to work close to the water, surrounded by nature."
Edwards also enjoys the work-life balance that working close to home allows. When he's not on site, he enjoys staying active through hockey, baseball, and softball, as well as ice fishing.
Of particular interest is being able to take progress photos on site using a drone.
"It's so interesting, when you're able to see the progress over the course of the project," he said. "I like to challenge myself to get the best angle for the shot that will really capture that.
"That's been one of the best things about working on this project," he said. "Learning from a great group, improving my skills, and being part of a great team."
Edwards added that he hopes to continue working on similar projects after the Frederick House Lake Dam Rehabilitation Project is complete in Fall 2025.
"For other people, young people from my community, I would say don't be hesitant. Take that leap, get out of your comfort zone, try different things and hopefully you'll find something that you love to do."
For more information about the Frederick House Lake Dam Project, visit www.opg.com/frederick.
