In 2013, Barry joined Ontario Excavac (“OE”) as an investor and CEO. OE is the largest and leading provider of hydro-excavation, site support and restoration services to utilities in the Greater Toronto Area. Hydro-excavation uses purpose-built “hydrovac” trucks that apply high pressure water to safely remove soil around underground utilities, then vacuums the dislodged soil/water slurry into an on-board tank for disposal.
With a successful background of over 30 years starting and acquiring businesses ranging from manufacturing to sales distribution and services, Barry is a recognized leader in implementing continuous improvement (“CI”) and LEAN enterprise practices. Always putting customers first, Barry has introduced numerous CI initiatives focused on delivering better, more cost-effective, safe and sustainable services to customers.
An innovator by nature, Barry spearheaded the launch of the first and only hydrovac slurry processing and recycling facility in Ontario, located right on OE’s premises. This state-of-the-art facility significantly reduces environmental impact and carbon footprint, drives sustainable development while concurrently generating considerable cost savings for customers. The hydrovac slurry, comprising water, aggregate, sand and silts/clay fractions, are all separated and re-used.
Barry recognizes that his employees are the driving force behind OE’s continued success. His mentorship and commitment to a high-performance culture and continuous learning ensures that customers have the most dedicated, highly trained, and responsive team working for them. Barry is a Director of the Utility Contractors Association and was the founding chair of the Hydrovac Alliance of Ontario. In July 2021, OE was purchased by Enbridge Inc. to help propel OE’s growth based on the pillars of safety, savings and sustainability.
Barry and his family of outdoor enthusiasts are passionate downhill and Nordic skiers, enjoy mountain biking, tennis, wake surfing, hiking…. pretty much all things that are sporty. Barry is also a Masters Ontario competitive swimmer.