This year, three members of our team celebrated 25 years with KGS Group!

Their dedication to excellence has been invaluable, and we are proud to celebrate their achievement.

Cindy Cousin

Cindy has built an impressive career. Her work spans bridge and crossing structures, water control facilities, hydroelectric projects and municipal infrastructure. Today, as KGS Group’s Structural Infrastructure Lead, she continues to contribute technical expertise across projects company wide.

Cindy is a trusted mentor who gently guides those seeking advice. She listens, asks questions and offers guidance that helps others find their own path.

With 25 years at KGS, Cindy’s impact shows not only in the infrastructure she has helped build, but in the countless connections, conversations and careers she has helped shape along the way.

Jinny Ching

Jinny Ching has helped shape some of Canada’s most important infrastructure and flood protection projects. Her work has connected countless communities. Literally, when she helped with the installation of fibre optic networks early in her career, and more figuratively, when she supported major flood response efforts, mine developments and remote infrastructure projects across Canada.

Throughout her 25 years at KGS Group, one thing has remained remarkably consistent: Jinny’s ability to bring people together.

Jinny’s legacy is found not only in the projects she has helped deliver, but in the people she has supported, the teams she has strengthened and the connections she has built along the way.

Richard Biegler

Richard’s project experience spans industrial, municipal (water and wastewater), heavy commercial, commercial and institutional sectors, each presenting unique challenges.
As he reaches 25 years in electrical engineering consulting, he has begun reflecting on the path ahead, including the eventual transition toward retirement.

Richard has proven to be an effective manager, forming strong relationships with staff and clients and has significantly contributing to the growth of our electrical department. Willing to help wherever needed, Richard provided IT support to the Regina office for several years and has organized many staff BBQs. He has also challenged himself by joining the Regina Social Committee, contributing to the life and vitality of our office despite his self-proclaimed “not a very social person” temperament.

Success in engineering is built on solving complex challenges, adapting to evolving client needs, and bringing together the right expertise to deliver meaningful results. This philosophy has guided decades of growth and helped shape the multidisciplinary company we are today.

With expertise spanning hydropower and dams, infrastructure and water management, transportation, earth and environment, industrial, buildings and spaces, and project management, our experienced team has the knowledge and capability to bring a vision to life and the dedication to see it through.

Because every project and every site is unique, collaboration is essential. Our teams draw on expertise from across the organization to develop tailored solutions that meet each client’s specific needs, ensuring every aspect of a project is considered from planning through delivery.

This integrated approach gives clients the benefit of a true one-stop shop. By accessing multiple disciplines through a single partner, clients experience streamlined communication, coordinated project delivery, and comprehensive support throughout the project lifecycle.

The strongest measure of success is the trust our clients place in us. Many return with new projects, reflecting our commitment to quality, lasting relationships, and delivering results.

Watch the video below to learn more about our expertise and how our multidisciplinary approach helps deliver successful outcomes for clients across North America.

KGS is pleased to announce the appointment of Colin Siepman as Vice-President – Project Delivery.

With more than 30 years of experience, Colin has built a reputation for delivering successful projects and developing strong client relationships. In this role, he will provide leadership for project management and delivery across KGS, helping ensure clients continue to benefit from consistent execution, strong project governance and a focus on continuous improvement.

This appointment reflects KGS’s ongoing commitment to delivering quality, consistency and value to our clients. As client needs continue to evolve, Colin’s leadership will help ensure KGS continues to provide reliable project delivery and trusted technical expertise.

A winter of heavy snowfall, a late season storm and a rapid spring melt pushed Manitoba’s flood protection systems to their limits. Communities across southern Manitoba scrambled to prepare. Emergency response teams worked around the clock. Thousands of residents filled and placed sandbags in a race against the rising water.

For KGS Group, the flood was more than an engineering challenge. It was a defining moment in our history.

The Engineers and Geoscientists Manitoba’s Code of Ethics states engineers “hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public and the protection of the environment.” In 1997, that responsibility became a reality.

KGS deployed staff throughout Winnipeg and southern Manitoba to support flood response efforts, assess infrastructure and help communities prepare for what was coming. The experience provided a firsthand look at both the strengths and limitations of Manitoba’s flood protection systems.

As the floodwaters receded, one conclusion became clear: the Red River Floodway needed to be expanded.

What followed was one of the largest and most complex infrastructure projects in Manitoba’s history.

“KGS was the lead consultant on the Floodway Expansion Project. This was the largest assignment we had undertaken until that point, but we knew we had a good team for it,” says Dave MacMillan, Founding Principal. “This assignment followed the preliminary and concept designs undertaken by KGS Group.”

The scale was immense. The challenge was not simply about making the floodway larger; the team needed to determine how to achieve the greatest level of flood protection within a fixed budget, while minimizing impacts on communities, infrastructure, groundwater systems and the environment.

One of the project’s most significant decisions centered on what might seem like a simple question: should the floodway be deepened or widened?

Finding the answer to that question required years of study, extensive investigation into Manitoba’s unique subsurface conditions and modelling groundwater movement, aquifer behavior and potential impacts to hundreds of private wells found along the floodway corridor.

“As engineers, our responsibility is to protect the public,” says Bert Smith, Founding Principal. “The expansion wasn’t just about moving more water. It was about protecting homes, communities, and livelihoods for generations to come. We are very proud of the work we did on it.”

Widening the existing floodway channel to essentially double the flow capacity rather than deepening the base would reduce risks to regional groundwater systems while still delivering the desired flood protection benefits. The decision to widen the floodway influenced every aspect of the design.

More than 700 monitoring and pumping wells installed throughout the floodway corridor tracked groundwater levels and water quality before, during and after construction, while dedicated response plans ensured residents would continue to have access to safe water if issues arose. Monitoring programs continued for years after construction was complete, helping verify performance and build public confidence in the project.

“With the homes in the area having domestic well pumps at different levels, we had to be sure nobody was majorly affected,” adds Smith. “We had to raise the pump height on some installations, but overall we managed to keep everyone’s wells operating throughout the project.”

The project brought together expertise from every corner of KGS. Hydraulics specialists, geotechnical engineers, hydrogeologists, environmental scientists, municipal, transportation professionals and construction specialists all played a role. For many employees, it was a once-in-a-career opportunity to contribute to a project of such scale and significance.

Today, the expanded Red River Floodway offers much greater flood protection than it did in 1997. The project has helped safeguard homes, businesses, infrastructure and livelihoods against flood events, while reducing the economic and social consequences of major flooding.

It also transformed KGS into experts in emergency flood preparedness.

That expertise would be called upon during subsequent flood emergencies across Manitoba, Saskatchewan and beyond. It established KGS as a recognized leader in flood protection, emergency response and water resources engineering, opening doors to major projects across Canada. 

“The Floodway Expansion project put KGS on the map,” says MacMillan. “It brought together expertise that other places didn’t have at the time and showed what we could accomplish when we tackled a project of this scope.” 

Nearly three decades after the flood of the century, the lessons learned continue to influence how KGS approaches work. The project reinforced a core belief that has guided the company throughout its 40-year history: engineering is ultimately about the people. 

And sometimes that means helping protect an entire region and countless communities from disaster. 

The Floodway Expansion Project still stands as one of KGS Group’s proudest achievements. Not only because of its scale, but because of the lives and communities it continues to protect every day. Forty years after KGS was founded, the floodway stands as an example of what can happen when technical expertise, collaboration and commitment to public service come together in pursuit of a common goal. 

Forty years marks more than a milestone for us; it reflects the people, values and culture that have shaped who we are today. 

KGS Group’s culture is rooted in the character and vision of the four engineers – Demetrios Kontzamanis, Helmut Graumann, J. Bert Smith and Dave MacMillan – who founded the company in 1986. Their drive, determination and commitment to collaboration built the foundation for our success. Today, with more than 700 employees across North America, those same values continue to guide us. 

One of our greatest accomplishments is the longevity of our team. Many employees have been with KGS Group for over 20 years – some for their entire careers. That kind of loyalty doesn’t happen by chance. It’s a testament to a culture that values people, recognizes contributions and creates opportunities for growth, development and ownership. 

As we continue celebrating 40 years, we are proud of the workplace we have built together, a place where people feel valued, careers flourish and passion aligns with purpose.  

Watch the video below to learn more about our culture and why people choose to build their careers with us.

At KGS Group, supporting mental health is an important part of how we care for our people. We believe a healthy workplace is one where employees feel supported, respected and connected, and where well-being is recognized as essential to both individual and organizational success.

Throughout the year, we create opportunities that encourage connection, reduce stress and support overall well-being. From team activities and wellness events to educational sessions and informal moments of connection, we aim to foster an environment where people can bring their whole selves to work and feel supported in doing so.

This May we recognized Mental Health Awareness Month, reflecting our ongoing commitment to building a workplace culture that prioritizes mental health, connection and balance. Take a look at some of the activities our team participated in!

This year marks an incredible milestone for KGS Group. Forty years ago, in the summer of 1986, four engineers – Demetrios Kontzamanis, Helmut Graumann, J. Bert Smith and Dave MacMillan – took a leap of faith to create an engineering firm like no other. While many questioned the move, our Founders were driven by a singular, shared conviction: that excellence is custom-made, and custom-made is personal. 

What began as a team of four in a small downtown Winnipeg office has grown into a multidisciplinary firm with nine offices across Canada and the U.S. Today, more than 700 engineers, scientists, technologists and support staff bring our founders’ vision to life every day, applying their expertise to complex challenges in communities across North America and beyond. 

Over the past 40 years, we’ve had the privilege of working alongside clients in nearly every market, completing thousands of projects shaped by collaboration and a commitment to doing things the right way. Whether supporting hydropower, infrastructure, environmental, industrial or building projects, our focus has always been on delivering quality solutions and building lasting relationships along the way. As we move into our next chapter, that same mindset will continue to guide us. 

Watch our story below. 

Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation (WLON) and KGS Group have established Ganawendan Aki Environmental Limited Partnership, a new environmental services firm built on cultural integrity and technical excellence.

Ganawendan Aki was created to ensure projects within WLON territory are guided by Anishinaabe values and deep respect for the land. By combining WLON’s cultural leadership with KGS Group’s technical expertise, the firm offers a unique approach to environmental consulting.

“Ganawendan Aki is more than a business,” said Annie Dietrich, President of Ganawendan Aki. “We’re building a future where Indigenous knowledge leads the way in environmental decision-making, supported by rigorous science and engineering.”

“Our Nation’s role as guardian of the land is sacred,” said Chief Clayton Wetelainen of WLON. “Ganawendan Aki will help ensure we are not just involved in projects happening on the land but are steering them in the right direction, in a way that protects Anishinaabe value and contributes to the growth and sovereignty of our Nation.”

The company is rooted in a shared commitment to honour and protect the land through environmental services that are both scientifically sound and culturally informed, including:

• Baseline environmental data collection
• Site assessments
• Environmental and cultural monitoring
• Remediation
• Community engagement

“This partnership is a meaningful step in our reconciliation journey and gives us a chance to contribute to impactful work alongside Wabigoon,” said Jason Mann, Principal at KGS Group and Board Member of Ganawendan Aki. “We look forward to the positive impact Ganawendan Aki will have on the environment and the future of our industry.”

For more information, visit: www.GanawendanAki.com

KGS Group has acquired MORR Transportation Consulting Ltd. – a respected Manitoba-based firm specializing in transportation engineering and planning. The MORR team brings with them a wealth of knowledge and expertise that will create new opportunities for our clients, our teams and the communities we serve. 

“The MORR Transportation team will enhance our ability to deliver integrated, end-to-end transportation solutions to our clients across Canada,” said KGS Group President Rick Martin. “With established relationships in Manitoba, Alberta and British Columbia, MORR’s reach and capabilities will support our growth in the transportation market.” 

MORR is widely recognized for its work in road safety, active transportation, traffic operations, traffic and travel monitoring, and freight systems. Like KGS Group, they share the same commitment to delivering high-quality services and pursuing engineering excellence. 

“Our journey, which began with a commitment to research-based solutions, continues today with KGS Group,” said Dr. Jeannette Montufar-MacKay, Founding Partner & CEO at MORR. “We are excited to combine our expertise to tackle increasingly complex challenges while continuing to provide exceptional value for our clients.” 

Winnipeg, Manitoba, March 4, 2025 — KGS International, a leading provider of hydropower engineering solutions, is proud to announce the continued growth of its U.S. operations, with an expanding presence in Sacramento, California, and Seattle, Washington. These strategic expansions reinforce the company’s commitment to supporting the nation’s renewable energy infrastructure.

In the fall of 2023, KGS International opened its second U.S. office in Sacramento, California. Just over a year later, under the leadership of Phillip Cantarinha, Regional Director of Power and Energy and Amy Deakyne, Regional Director of Hydro Structures and Dams, the office has grown to over 20 employees and established more than a dozen master service agreements (MSAs) with local hydropower clients. Sacramento, a key hydropower and water resource management hub, offers an ideal location for KGS International to provide responsive and custom engineering solutions to California’s energy sector.

KGS International’s expansion is not limited to California. The company’s Seattle office, initially established in 2017 under the leadership of Andi Bogdanovic, has also experienced significant growth. KGS recently relocated its Seattle operations to a larger office space to better serve the increasing demand for hydropower engineering services in Washington and Oregon. Adding Nathan Rockwood as a co-leader alongside Bogdanovic further strengthens KGS’s position as a key player in the Pacific Northwest’s energy market.

“KGS International is committed to supporting the hydropower industry with innovative engineering solutions that enhance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of energy infrastructure,” said Adam Pawlikewich, Principal at KGS. “Our growing teams in Sacramento and Seattle are well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of our clients and contribute to the long-term success of renewable energy initiatives.”

Hydropower Engineering Expertise

KGS International specializes in a comprehensive range of hydropower engineering services, including:

• Hydropower Plant Design and Upgrades – Enhancing efficiency and reliability in existing facilities.
• Dam Safety and Rehabilitation – Ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations while improving infrastructure resilience
• Structural Inspections and Assessments – Providing detailed evaluations to support maintenance and long-term planning.
• Power and Energy Solutions – Delivering innovative strategies for optimizing power generation and grid integration.
• Construction Material Testing and Oversight – Providing quality assurance and compliance oversight, particularly for FERC-regulated projects.

With California’s goal of achieving 100% clean energy by 2045 and the increasing demand for renewable energy in the Pacific Northwest, KGS International remains dedicated to partnering with utilities, government agencies, and private sector clients to ensure the efficiency and longevity of hydropower assets.

Our KGS Seattle team is growing, so we have to say goodbye to our old office space.

But, that means we get to say hello to our new space that will better fit our growing team, and allow us to better serve our clients.

You can find us here:
Suite 320 – 40 Lake Bellevue Drive
Bellevue, WA 98005, USA

Click here for our complete contact information.

Our Mississauga office has a new home!

We must be eating our vegetables, because our team keeps on growing. Our Mississauga office has moved into a new home, one that will better hold their expanding team, and allow them to continue providing KGS quality work for our clients.

Our new Mississauga office can be found at:
14th Floor – 2 Robert Speck Parkway
Mississauga, ON L4Z 1H8

Click here for our complete contact information.