Valuable connections were once again made at the Bonnyville and District Oil and Gas Show. Well over 100 exhibitors from around the oil and gas industry filled the Centennial Centre June 21-22.
Valuable connections were once again made at the Bonnyville and District Oil and Gas Show.
Well over 100 exhibitors from around the oil and gas industry filled the Centennial Centre June 21-22.
Hosted by the Bonnyville Chamber of Commerce, the event was a great opportunity to spark conversation, and find the next innovation.
"I think our exhibitors made some really good quality contacts, we're really happy with that," said Tanya Oliver, Executive Director of the Chamber of commerce.
Exhibitors were in agreement, the show was a much needed breath of fresh air during an economic downturn.
"Its good to see the new technology that's been developed. Every year there's something bigger, stronger, better, or faster. Product awareness is good for everyone involved in the industry" said Darrell Whitford, Outside Sales representative for Alta Valve Ltd.
Rain over the course of the two days slowed traffic to the event slightly, but local residents and businesses still turned out in large numbers to show their support.
B&R Eckles Transportation has participated in every Oil and Gas show in Bonnyville, Larry Ringuette explained why it's important for the company to keep coming back.
"We've been in this community since 1965, so this is a very worthwhile event for us to come to. This is a pretty big show, It let's people know that Bonnyville is an active and vibrant community. We have a lot here people in the big city don't see," said Ringuette.
In addition to supporting for the community, Ringuette said the show is a chance to showcase all that B&R Eckles does.
"Even though we've been here so long, people might not know the extent of our services. It's a great opportunity for us to display that we are a full service transportation company. We don't just move freight and oil rigs," Informed Ringuette.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, company brand new to Bonnyville used the event to make their debut.
After spending eight months building and planning, Jace Angell brought Canadian Drone Solutions public at the oil and gas show.
"We're the only local drone operating company. I had some work with some local realtors and farmers but I was waiting for the show to announce myself to the world," expressed Angell
His company will focus on keeping infrastructure in the industry environmentally safe. Angell was grateful for the exposure and the hospitality the oil and gas show provided him.
"As a first time exhibitor I have to say its a great layout. They have been really accommodating in giving me everything I need and on the first day it was so bust I almost lost my voice" laughed Angell.
The real winners as always were STARS air rescue, and really the people they help through them. With proceeds from the door going directly to stars, they were on hand to show their appreciation.
"The reality is we can't do our business without the support of these communities. Hearing the stories of people we have helped really cements what we do, and we wanted to come out and say thank you," said Kaz Matsuoto, emergency and safety services lead with STARS.
When the dust settled, everybody gained a little bit from another successful oil and gas show.
