And just like that, 25 years have passed.
During the 1990’s, John O’Farrell and I worked for rival firms; me with Ellis-Don and John with PCL.
We spoke occasionally at construction-related events such as seminars, Hope Beach Volleyball, and the Smoker (if you have never heard of the Smoker, ask some old construction veterans, and they will explain).
We both wanted to eventually start our own construction business, so we decided to join forces and launch TOFCON Construction on March 7, 2000. Starting a construction business from scratch is exciting, terrifying, bonkers, stressful, rewarding and most of all – fun.
The High Tech boom of the early 2000s provided abundant work for the construction industry, so we focused on picking up government contracts that other contractors were not interested in bidding.
Over time, we started picking up larger projects, adding staff and getting shortlisted on major projects. We have built countless schools for all four Ottawa-based school boards, including work at Carleton University and University of Ottawa, corporate head offices, sports, entertainment and hospitality venues, Supreme Court, Federal Court of Appeal, Parliament Hill, Department of National Defence and Classified Government Buildings.
We are very proud of the projects we have completed – but we are most proud of the fact that we have zero lost time injuries in our 25 years of operations. This is a testament to our project superintendents and field staff. Kudos to you for doing an exceptional job running safe sites and having everyone return home safely after a hard day’s work.
Over the past 25 years, we have worked with an outstanding group of owners, architects, engineers and subcontractors. You are valued partners, and we are grateful for your support and your friendship.
Over the past 25 years, we have been supported by HSBC (now RBC), Welch LLP, Rasmussen Starr Ruddy LLP and Petrela, Winter & Associates. Your support, guidance and mentorship have been invaluable and has contributed greatly to our success.
And finally, our staff.
As we mark 25 years of excellence, innovation and growth, we want to take a moment to extend our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Your dedication, hard work and unwavering commitment have been the foundation of TOFCON’s success over the past quarter century.
From the ground up – literally and figuratively – you have helped shape not only the projects we’ve built but also the values and reputation that define who we are today. Whether you’ve been with us since the early days or joined along the way, your contribution has made a lasting impact.
Thank you for your loyalty, your craftsmanship and your belief in what we do. Here’s to 25 years of building together – and to the future.
And now, on to the next 25 years.
— Jim Tsarouhas, Executive Vice President