Faces of Kelowna: Geo-Hydro

At the heart of Kelowna, Ecora Engineering & Environmental Ltd. is home to a dynamic team (Geo-Hydro Group) of young professionals specializing in providing integrated geotechnical and hydrotechnical engineering services, along with earth sciences, to the infrastructure sector.

The group was established in Kelowna less than 10 years ago by two seasoned engineering professionals. It has since grown to more than 50 professionals, with team members also in Vancouver, Penticton, Kamloops, and Nanaimo. They service a diverse portfolio of infrastructure projects across British Columbia, Alberta, and Yukon, including transmission lines, highways, pipelines, and dams.

The group is successfully executing large-scale infrastructure projects for clients like BC Hydro, Fortis BC, and the BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. This breadth of work offers emerging talent the opportunity to gain valuable, hands-on experience in a fast-paced environment.

Ecora Geo-Hydro Group is distinguished by its unique approach, blending geotechnical and hydrotechnical expertise to address complex challenges involving soil, rock, and water, as the physical behavior of these materials is commonly interrelated. Unlike traditional fields that deal with well-defined, man-made materials, Ecora’s work engages with the uncertainties and complexities of natural environments, drawing on billions of years of geological history. This requires a deep commitment to managing risk through experience, diligence, and adherence to industry best practices.

The team is driven by a passion for engineering and problem-solving. At Ecora, the focus is not just on technical skill but on building a cohesive and supportive community. The hiring philosophy emphasizes bringing in skilled professionals who are not only talented but also good-natured individuals, fostering a culture where team members not only succeed together but also enjoy spending time together outside of work.

Ecora’s commitment to innovation, combined with a strong sense of camaraderie, is helping to shape the future of geo-hydro engineering in British Columbia. Integral to Ecora’s ethos are its core values: People, Environment, Relationships, and Community (PERC). As a people-first company, Ecora places a high priority on the well-being and professional growth of its team members.