Norda Stelo acquires CWA Engineers: a homegrown partnership poised for global leadership in smart “site-to-port” operations

Quebec-based independent engineering consulting firm Norda Stelo Inc. has reached a significant milestone in its journey with the strategic acquisition of Vancouver-based engineering powerhouse, CWA Engineers Inc. (CWA). This move reflects a thoughtful collaboration between Norda Stelo's forward-thinking expertise and CWA's distinguished leadership, recognized for their success in the execution of major projects, greenfield engineering and large capital project development and execution.

This acquisition is more than a joining of forces; it's a blending of strengths. The accomplished leadership team from CWA, known for their project proficiency, will seamlessly integrate into Norda Stelo, enhancing the collective capabilities of both firms. Rooted in a commitment to innovation and sustainability, this alliance is set to redefine engineering excellence globally.

Norda Stelo's established legacy in automation, port and rail infrastructure design, and liquid/gas material handling aligns seamlessly with CWA's deep knowledge in bulk material handling. This strategic alignment, supported by a robust ESG framework, positions the firm as a formidable force in engineering, dedicated to serving sectors with unprecedented growth potential in key global markets.

This acquisition is pivotal in harnessing synergies that leverage Norda Stelo's core strengths in ESG and asset management, harmonizing them with CWA's well-established legacy of engineering solutions catering to diverse terminal configurations and throughputs. Together, they will collaboratively shape an integrated "site-to-port" strategy for clients, fortifying their complete value chain, spanning from resource extraction to national and global distribution.

“Drawing from our complementary services, we are poised to become the global leader in smart "site-to-port" operations, tending to the ports and terminals sector, as well as in the mining, rail, construction aggregates, and wood product industries,” said Alex Brisson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Norda Stelo.  “With CWA, we have an opportunity to enhance our service offering to long-term client partnerships from both companies and to expand our reach with significant projects nationally and in foreign markets, focussing on the USA and beyond.”

The combined proficiency of both companies in brownfield engineering, asset management, and asset integrity establishes a distinctive collaborative strength, positioning the firm as a trailblazer in adeptly addressing a diverse range of intricate challenges and operational needs. Notably, Norda Stelo holds the distinction of being the first Canadian engineering consulting firm to achieve B-Corp certification. In addition, with the inclusion of STELAR, Norda Stelo's proprietary asset data management and strategic planning platform, this acquisition significantly enhances the company's capacity to protect and optimize its customers' current infrastructure and assets.

“Our new combined entity is as complementary as it is revolutionary for our companies,” said CWA Chief Executive Officer, Raymond Chu. “We are facilitating meaningful transformation together. We’re able to realize our vision of expanding into new, foreign markets and ensure a lasting legacy for both the company and its people through exciting career opportunities. We’re also cementing our growth strategy and vision to consolidate our value proposition and not only expand our reach from coast-to-coast but enhance the company’s offering in the mining and ports sectors globally.”

Operating under the Norda Stelo brand after the 6-month transition period concludes, the acquisition will incorporate over 100 engineers, technologists, designers, and support staff into the company’s existing 750 employees. Leadership and locations will remain consistent, with CWA’s CEO, Raymond Chu, assuming the role of Vice President, Western Canada and USA, and operating from the former CWA offices in Vancouver, BC. This strategic move ensures continuity and sets the stage for continued growth and success.

CDPQ contributes to this expansion

CDPQ is also participating in the transaction to merge Norda Stelo and CWA with a loan of $12 million.

“CDPQ is proud to support the expansion of this Québec company and support its entry in the Western Canadian engineering market,” said Kim Thomassin, Executive Vice-President and Head of Québec at CDPQ. “This initial investment by CDPQ in Norda Stelo will help drive the company’s activities to its next stage of growth. In addition to more broadly promoting its industrial engineering expertise, this transaction will also open international doors for the company with new contracts in various regions.”

This transaction is part of CDPQ's Ambition ME strategy, which involves supporting medium-sized companies with strong development potential and driving their next stage of growth.

AEC Advisors advised Norda Stelo in the transaction.