RDH mining equipment: industry leader grooms talent from within.

AuthorRobinson, Nadine
PositionFive best places to work in Northern Ontario

As Tasha Kingsley drove into work, she noticed the 10 international flags representing major customers at RDH Mining Equipment (RDH) were barely fluttering. She knew it was going to be another scorcher of a day in Alban. In their newly expanded 15,000-square-foot facility, Kingsley would be cool in the air-conditioned office, but it would be a different story for shop workers.

Thankfully for those designing and fabricating the mining and underground mobile tunnelling equipment on site, 60 kilometres south of Sudbury at French River, the owner would soon arrive with frozen treats for everyone.

"Four employees bought RDH from the previous owner, so they know what it's like to work those hot summer days," said Kingsley. "The owners truly care about employees and want to do what they can to make them comfortable."

In 2013, RDH made the list in the Annual PROFIT 500 Ranking of Canada's Fastest-Growing Companies (by PROFIT Magazine). Established in 1984 with three employees, RDH has now grown to 56 employees.

Popsicles aren't the only advantage to working at RDH; fish fries are also common.

"We're a pretty social group," said Kingsley, executive assistant to the COO. "Partially out of necessity, since we are quite isolated, but we're now a big goofy family, and the company likes to celebrate accomplishments like the completion of a major order."

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Since RDH become an industry leader by creating the first fully independent battery-operated underground mining equipment in 2012, there have been a lot more fish fries.

"Being an innovative industry leader is a source of pride for our employees," said Kingsley.

RDH believes in nurturing the close-knit atmosphere, with activities like golf tournaments, where employees, owners, and key suppliers all vie for prizes, a trophy, and bragging rights.

"There's always a lot of joking, laughing, and fist-bumping ... And of course we round out the day with a chicken and fish fry," said Kingsley.

She states that the turnover is low and that RDH is a great source of employment for people from the community.

"Many employees are drawn to us for our reputation and competitive wages and benefits, but they stay because of the variety and complexity of the work," said Kingsley. "We also nurture staff who show the passion and fire to get full licences to become electricians and mechanics. We also pay...

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